Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Amari
Hi Alex, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
From Brooklyn NY. Moved out to LA in 2017 after college working at Goldman Sachs, then a startup video game company and finally a production studio in Burbank. I had realized that I wasn’t fit working corporate and wanted to work for myself. I always wanted to start my own business since college (after winning the business schools Shark Tank competition) and thought this was the time to take a risk. I thought to myself what do I love? I love connecting with people, building relationships and creating spaces for people to thrive along with my coffee addiction. Thus the idea to open up a cafe came to mind. I started my journey working as a barista in Burbank for two years while I raised money, built out the concept and sourced the best ingredients. In year 2 of my journey I had two failed deals for brick/mortar locations for various reasons. I realized the market in LA for these spaces was too risky and costly for a first time business (I wanted to avoid getting into a bad deal as that could be a downfall later on). So I pivoted to doing a truck. It took about 8 months to find the right people to bring my vision to life and get it up/running. Right now we are operating in Venice and Silverlake while continuing to grow our online brand and partnerships. We are heading into month 4 and excited for our future.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has been extremely difficult to get to where I am today. I started with nothing other than determination to open up a business. The search for brick/mortar spaces was extensive. Even when I found two locations worth doing, the logistics of those deals ended up being a deal breaker. The first one was supposed to be on Canon Drive in Beverly Hills. The rent was too high and my partner at the time ended up getting cold feet (the space was too big for me to start alone). The second space in prime WeHo ended up failing because of the asks of the landlords and how litigious their attorney was. Even once I narrowed my search to a mobile truck it was hard to find people to build it, design it while fitting into a budget. Since our grand open on 4/20/24 the day to day operations have been challenging. From electrical issues, plumbing problems and vendor relations, the list goes on with having to do everything by yourself and wearing a lot of hats. the biggest challenge thought was fighting through the uncertainty of this whole process, taking a step back from high paying corporate jobs to minimum wage ones as well as opening a business in the post covid era.
As you know, we’re big fans of Drip Daddy. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Drip Daddy, we seamlessly blend the artistry of premium coffee culture with the allure of high-end streetwear, crafting an exclusive experience where every sip and stitch embody sophistication and style.
Rooted in Los Angeles, our mission is to redefine the intersection of coffee and culture.
Over the course of 2 years, we carefully curated and perfected the luxury coffee experience by sourcing the finest coffee beans and formulating incredible in-house made syrups.
Through partnerships and events, we create an immersive and elevated coffee experience with both our customers and our partners.
We are most proud of our concept to bring fashion and coffee together. People like to dress up, get coffee, be seen in LA, but no place highlights that intersection. We want your readers to know that along with our high end cafe offerings we will be doing our signature “DripDrops” where we will be selling limited time clothing/merch every 4 months that will be very different each time.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see our industry partnering with high brands in the clothing space to bring cafes into traditional brick/mortar clothing stores. Creating multi use spaces for people to shop and collaborate. Additionally I see a shift from people wanting to meet at bars/clubs to cafes as it is more genuine and lighthearted. People want real connection and places that cultivate those experiences. At Drip Daddy we aim to bring a sense of community to the people of LA.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dripdaddyla.com
- Instagram: dripdaddyla
- Facebook: Drip Daddy
Image Credits
Alex Campos
