In the picturesque Village of Hartland, Mackenzie Edinger, a spirited young woman, held a dream close to her heart — the dream of creating a space that not only served exceptional coffee but also embodied love and inclusivity. At the age of 23, Mackenzie found herself standing before the threshold of her dream-turned-reality, holding the keys to her very own coffee shop. The magnitude of her achievement hit her like a wave of excitement and disbelief, marking the beginning of a heartwarming journey.
Meet Mackenzie Edinger
Mackenzie’s vision for Inclusion Coffee Co. was nothing short of extraordinary. Fueled by her passion for working with individuals with special needs, she sought to establish more than just a coffee shop. Her goal was to create a haven that provided employment opportunities and training for those who often face challenges in the workforce. Graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a degree in early childhood and special education, Mackenzie made a deliberate choice to deviate from the conventional path of teaching. Instead, she saw an opportunity to merge her education with her dreams, contributing to a cause she deeply cared about.
The idea for Inclusion Coffee Co. materialized unexpectedly. Scrolling through Facebook one day, Mackenzie stumbled upon a listing for an available space. Recognizing this as the chance of a lifetime, she reached out to the leasing agent, driven by the belief that this might be her only opportunity to turn her dream into reality. Her vision goes beyond serving coffee. It is about creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, feels valued and included. Inclusion Coffee Co. opened its doors in March 2022, and it symbolizes more than just a coffee shop. It is a testament to Mackenzie’s journey from dream to reality, promising a story filled with warmth, inspiration, and the aromatic essence of a community coming together.
About Mackenzie Edinger
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Family has been the cornerstone of support for my coffee shop venture from the very beginning. My parents and brother have been unwavering champions since day one, cheering me on as I embarked on the journey of bringing Inclusion Coffee Co. to life. My brother, Zach, pursues his education at MSOE. His encouragement has been a driving force in navigating the challenges and triumphs of this entrepreneurial path.
Amidst the hustle of my coffee shop dreams, coming home is a cherished moment made even more special by the presence of my two-year-old puppy, Nash. His boundless energy and affection create the perfect counterbalance to the demands of my day. Nash isn’t just a pet; he’s an integral part of my support system, bringing joy and warmth to my homecoming.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
I’m the proud owner of Inclusion Coffee Company in Hartland. My journey started with a degree in special education, a field I was passionate about. However, my path took a unique turn, as I realized that I wanted to make a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs in a different way. Rather than pursuing a career in teaching, I decided to channel my education into creating a space that would provide long-term support and opportunities for these individuals within the community.
Inclusion Coffee Company is more than just a coffee shop to me. It’s a tangible representation of my commitment to fostering inclusivity and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those with special needs. Every cup served is a step toward creating a space where individuals can thrive, learn, and contribute to the community. This journey has been incredibly rewarding. I’m excited to continue making a positive difference with the support of our community at Inclusion Coffee Company.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
One of the most rewarding aspects of owning Inclusion Coffee Company is witnessing the positive impact we make in the lives of our employees. Creating an environment where individuals with special needs can thrive, learn, and contribute has been at the core of our mission. It brings me immense joy to see their smiles when they come to work and accomplish something new.
In each accomplishment, big or small, there’s a sense of pride and fulfillment that radiates through our team. It’s not just about serving coffee. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered to reach their full potential. These moments of growth and achievement are a testament to the transformative power of providing meaningful opportunities and a supportive community.
As we continue this journey at Inclusion Coffee Company, my heart is filled with gratitude for the positive impact we’re making together. Every smile is a reflection of the inclusive and thriving community we’re building. I look forward to many more moments of shared success and happiness.
Q: What was the most difficult challenge in getting to where you are now or in your life?
Opening a business is a formidable endeavor, not for the faint of heart. The journey has been a profound learning experience, pushing me to adapt and embrace flexibility, especially when it comes to our incredible team of employees. Each day presents a new challenge and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
The true magic of Inclusion Coffee Company lies in the smiles that light up the room when our employees walk in the door, eager and excited to be at work. Witnessing this genuine enthusiasm is a testament to the inclusive and supportive environment we’ve cultivated. It goes beyond serving coffee; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued, included, and genuinely excited to contribute.
Equally heartening is the sight of our community coming together to support our team. The camaraderie and encouragement from the community add a layer of warmth to our space. It’s a beautiful manifestation of the inclusive vision we had in mind when creating Inclusion Coffee Company.
Q: What are some of your future goals? Do you have anything exciting coming up that you would like to share?
We are hoping to have another shop opening in Wisconsin within the next year or so!
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
Embrace the opportunity, take the risk—it never hurts to try! Life is an adventure filled with unexplored possibilities, and taking that leap of faith can lead to incredible outcomes.
Mackenzie Edinger & Our Community
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do, or something unique about our community that you love?
My favorite thing about Lake Country is how supportive they are and how welcoming they have been! My favorite thing to do is take my puppy Nash for walks downtown Hartland!
Q: Who is an interesting person you’ve met here in our community, and how have they inspired you?
I can’t just pick one person. Every customer who takes time to talk to me or our employees inspires me to be a better person and business owner!
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
Inclusion Coffee Company is my favorite coffee shop, duh! My favorite restaurant is Zin.
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Supportive, understanding and AMAZING!
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I own a coffee shop but don’t like coffee.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
The Lake Country community.
Q: If you were a drink (can be a coffee drink, alcoholic, non-alcoholic, etc.), what would you be?
A glass of Pink Moscato – sweet and bubbly plus pink is my favorite color!
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be with? Why?
Taylor Swift or TJ Watt.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Skydive & Travel to Europe – hopefully this year!
Q: What makes you the happiest?
My family, my puppy Nash, seeing people I love happy, traveling, and the beach!
Q: Any general life advice you would like to share?
Keep doing your best and take the risk!
Where to Find Mackenzie Edinger
Email: inclusioncoffeecompany@gmail.com
Phone: (262) 361-0657
