We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika Flannery and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Planning and research! Because this was my first venture into opening a cafe, outsourcing professionals such as coffee consultants, financial advisors, and building architects played a key role in allowing me to fully realize every aspect of the business. After many hours of consultation and research, I could confidently shape Cafe La Jefa into the vision I had since day one.

Risktaking: how do you think about risk? What role has taking risk played in your life and career?
I took a big risk opening my business in February 2021 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the future felt intimidating and uncertain at times, I knew the community needed a place like Cafe La Jefa. People were so ready to come together again in a safe environment after so many months of isolation. It was beautiful to see the joy on people’s faces when the discovered the cafe for the first time! I continue to approach risk taking by being confident in my decision making and always trusting the process.

Other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
Maintaining my connections with my community. I knew if I continued to be an active participant & listener that I would be successful in creating a space where the community feels comfortable to work, socialize, drink coffee, and relax. I believe as long as my community is happy, then I made it!

What is the most important factor behind your success and brand?
The attention to detail that is considered before every decision.

What is the most difficult decision you ever had to make?
Again, deciding to open my business early 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. I went from real estate to chasing my dream that had to happen when it did. In hindsight- while one of the most difficult decisions— it’s also my most gratifying!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First I would take my best friend to my coffee shop “Cafe La Jefa” in the design district here in Palm Springs! We would sip coffee, shop inside the Flannery Exchange and browse the selection of small business vendors selling jewelry, art, vintage luxury items, floral arrangements. After shopping, I would take them to my favorite restaurant, Eight4Nine! We could stay in the uptown design district of Palm Springs and check out some other amazing shops like Elizabeth & Prince, Super Simple, The Frippery, & Preloved.

Following our shopping spree, I would treat my friend for ice cream at the ” Ice Cream and Shop(e)” where we can find unique ice cream flavours like Mexican chocolate, sweet corn, black sesame— of course not forgetting to add their most colourful sprinkles!

In the afternoon I would take them to the art museum where they always have the most amazing exhibitions & art showcases. To finish our day we would grab sushi and the best Old Fashion in town at Sand Fish!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shout out to my husband Michael Flannery, who has been an incredible mentor in my small business journey. Not only has he mentored & encouraged me to open a business during a difficult time, he has also contributed so much to our community by building beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy!

Website: www.cafelajefa.com

Instagram: @cafelajefa , @erikaflannery1

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/erika-flannery-9326956b

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