When Christie took a job at The Big Bean in Severna Park in her college days, she knew somehow this job was so much more than just a place to earn money and gain work experience. Somehow it struck a cord in her, in her heart in fact. It’s a feeling that stayed with her for the next 19 years, and followed her across many miles. While she had a gut feeling (and a dream) that one day her road would lead her back to The BIg Bean, she never imagined it would actually come true!
In fact, that’s exactly what happened in January 2019. Christie, with her beloved husband Greg by her side, jumped on the opportunity to buy the business from the owner who had once hired Christie as her first barista!
So what was it about The Big Bean that drew her back? As a local coffee shop where Christie grew up, it provide a sense of community spirit that she loved, and that exudes personally. Located in Old Severna Park, right outside of Annapolis, Maryland, The Big Bean is a relaxed yet bustling scene for locals to “grab a cup” and so much more. Be it the drinks and yummy treats it has been known for, or some “new offerings” that Christie has introduced including some vegan pastries from local vendors. From adults to high school kids to families, not to mention those biking or walking the B&A Trail that runs directly behind the shop and greets them with their outside rear patio, all who come enjoy refreshments and conversation!
As a wonderful twist of fate that Christie met her future husband when she returned to work at The Big Bean after returning to the area. She reflects that Greg had recognized her warm and engaging personality as a customer, but didn’t realize that she had an interest beyond being a customer until a co-worker suggested he reach out to her! And so, The Big Bean played another BIG role in Christies life …. leading her to her eventual marriage!
Through the years, Christie maintained contact with the owner as a friend. So when she learned that The Big Bean was going to be sold, it presented the opportunity for Christie (and now husband Greg) to realize a dream come true. They jumped at the chance in January 2019, and life is good! Christie’s interest in returning to The Big Bean as the owner, satisfied her strong love of community which is apparent when you walk in the door.
Girl Scouts “Take the Lead” in Community Service
I recently went to The Big Bean to see one of the adoption events held there that is organized by Severna Park Girl Scout Troop #10300 . The young ladies were there handling adoptable dogs from MAS Rescue, and shared details about the pups, along with information about how they came to provide this type of adoption event, along with other wonderful community service efforts they have undertaken. In addition to proposing and carrying out the MAS adoption events at The Big Bean, they have organized Quarter Auctions for Senior Dog Sanctuary in Severn, Maryland.
Their dedicated community service work is moving them closer to achieving their Girl Scout Silver Award. Talking to the girls, it was evident that their Scouting experience has, and continues to provide them, with valuable community service, organization, and leadership skills .
Troop Leader Maria Garland was on hand, along with Troop Silver Award Project Leader Elaine who shared with me about how the girls have been together in Scouts since elementary school! As they enter High School, their comradery, life skills, and shared interest in serving their community was evident at this event.
The girls have also created a Haunted House before Halloween where all proceeds benefited MAS Rescue and had a table at the Severna Park Community Earth Day to spread the word to “Adopt, Don’t Shop” and provide information on low cost spaying and neutering in the county.
First photo: Raquel Sobczak and Elaine Reed Second Photo: Amelia Garland Third Photo: Abby Reed Fourth Photo: Kara Hartley
MAS Rescue … Finding Furever Homes
Severna Park Resident Jen, a Volunteer Adoption Coordinator and foster Mom with MAS joined the scouts at the adoption event and shared a hug with this adorable pup!
Meanwhile, The Big Bean owner Christie popped outside to the event and enjoyed some tummy rubs with adoptable Eddie who was oh too happy to accept the attention.
An active part of the Severna Park community in a number of ways, Jen’s efforts to give adoptable pups visibility at The Big Bean, along with other area events involves lots of coordination with MAS fosters and with the Scouts for this adoption opportunity.
Current dogs available for adoption through MAS can be found on their website www.MASRescue.org . In addition to finding adopters for their pups, they are ALWAYS looking for fosters to assist as soft spots for their rescues to land to receive the love and care they need as they await their FUREVER homes. If you’re interested in fostering contact the rescue by email at http://www.masrescue.org/contact.html.
A Cup of Joe. A Cup of Kindness and Community!
Clearly The Big Bean is so much more than another coffee shop. It’s a community hub, both inside and out!
This past 4th of July, while remaining open to literally “serve” their community members, they also collaborated with their fellow merchant a few doors down Pedal Pushers Bicycle Shop, to sponsor the decoration contest held for neighborhood children participating in the parade/event! This same collaborative spirit with other neighboring merchants is also underway.
Christie’s interest in and knack for being “in touch” with the community that she has returned to is evident as she brings her own vision to The Big Bean. While she started with a solid and beloved base, she is already beginning to make it “her own” in a variety of ways, from food and beverage offerings to expanded hours to accommodate after school drop ins by neighborhood high schoolers.
If you’re fortunate to be in the area, stop by often! You’ll discover that The Big Bean is a doorway to a “Cup of Joe”, and a place for the amazing community of Severna Park to congregate, converse, and so much more.
Harttening News Indeed!
I hope you agree that this story is indeed wonderful and Harttening News!
I applaud The Big Bean for providing such an amazing community-minded business. Christie and Greg continue the legacy of a local business, while fully embracing the spirit of what it means for the community it serves and expanding partnerships. Bravo!
