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In less than a year, Fort Wayne Coffee Club has transformed from a grassroots idea into a rapidly growing local business with events, a mobile café, and plans for a permanent location. Founded by Ally and Cameron Youngblood, The Fort Wayne Coffee Club is redefining what it means to build community; one event, one conversation, and one cup of coffee at a time. Like many parents, the Youngbloods found that building meaningful friendships as adults wasn’t always easy, especially while navigating life with young children. What started as a personal challenge soon turned into a larger vision: creating a space where people could show up exactly as they are and feel a sense of belonging. As Ally puts it, “Creating friendships as adults is hard—and it’s even harder when you have kids. My goal was to create a group that left judgment and worries at the door and allowed people to show up fully as themselves, then leave a little less lonely.” That vision became reality on August 17, 2025, when they hosted their very first playdate. What they expected to be a small, casual gathering quickly turned into something much more meaningful. At Buckner Park, they showed up with coffee and donuts, unsure if anyone would come. “We expected at least a couple people to show—or at the least, we could pretend those already at the park were there for the coffee club,” Ally said. Instead, more than 80 people attended, many sharing the same sentiment: “we’ve needed this.” For the Youngbloods, it was a powerful confirmation that what they had created was more than just an event, it was something their community had been waiting for. From that moment, it was clear the Coffee Club was filling a real need in the community. While the early focus was on playdates for parents, demand quickly expanded beyond that audience. Messages started coming in from people without children who were also looking for connection, prompting the couple to broaden their events into something more inclusive. As the community grew, so did the business. What began as gatherings funded out of pocket soon evolved into a multi-faceted operation centered around both events and coffee. Ally describes the brand today as “a community of change makers,” noting that while it started with playdates, it has grown into “general community events centered around friendship, kindness, and coffee.” Coffee itself has always been part of the vision. After years of talking about opening a coffee shop, the couple decided to take a step in that direction by launching a mobile café. “My husband and I have always wanted to own a coffee shop and have talked about it weekly for the last 8+ years. It just felt really natural to who we are,” Ally said, explaining that creating their own drinks gave them a fun, creative outlet while serving their growing audience. From there, new ideas continued to take shape, many of them rooted in the same mission of connection and care. One of the most meaningful expansions came from a simple desire to give back. Ally shared, “We decided to offer an essential worker giveaway program where the community could nominate anyone they wanted—teachers, hospital staff, firefighters, police officers, etc—and every month we’d pick one to deliver 10 drinks free of charge.” What began as a small gesture quickly became something much bigger. “This is still one of my favorite things that we do because it’s such a small gesture to give back to those that give so much to us,” she said, adding that each delivery is intentionally personalized. “We personalize all the bottles with names and ribbons because we want every person to feel seen and like we did spend the extra couple minutes making that drink specifically for them.” As those deliveries gained traction online, the response from the community naturally expanded beyond the giveaway itself. Schools and local businesses began placing regular purchase orders, turning what started as a giveback initiative into another way the Fort Wayne Coffee Club could show up consistently for the people around them. That same mindset, prioritizing connection over competition, also shapes how they approach other local businesses. Rather than positioning themselves against other coffee shops, Ally says collaboration has always been a core value. “We believe full heartedly there is room for everyone at the table and we are all so much better together,” she explained, pointing to partnerships with local favorites like The Hive Coffee House and Mocha Lounge Dupont. It was that belief in supporting one another that opened the door to one of their most meaningful milestones, a partnership with Icing for Izaac. “Grayce [owner and founder of Icing for Izaac] feels very in sync with the Coffee Club, and our goal is similar in making our community better while supporting moms and parents,” Ally shared. The collaboration gave Fort Wayne Coffee Club a place to put down roots, creating a consistent presence within the bakery Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., while deepening their connection to the community. For Ally, it was more than just a business opportunity, it was a turning point. “This partnership feels like the foundation of the Coffee Club and when we really started to take it seriously and consider if I should leave my full-time job.” As the business continued to grow, so did the demands on Ally’s time. Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and the rapidly expanding Coffee Club eventually led to a major decision, stepping away from her career to focus fully on the business. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was one rooted in passion. “We knew we’d have to make the coffee club a hobby… or go all in,” she said. “It’s very scary and the riskier option but, for me, it brings me more joy than any set paycheck.” That leap has paved the way for the next chapter: the Fort Wayne Coffee Club’s first brick-and-mortar café, opening in Huntington, Indiana. The space is designed to reflect everything the brand stands for; connection, inclusivity, and community. “You can expect the standard coffee shop with the local ingredients, including our beloved Hyde Away beans, and some fun Huntington specific menu items. You’ll see an elevated play space. Think storefronts that kids can actually go into and play with a heavy focus on cleaning and sanitizing. We will have spaces to read and relax, coffee club merch that also highlights local businesses, and a kindness corner for purchasing coffee for strangers, affirmations, and free friendship bracelets/ keychains.” Ally’s vision is clear: “Whether you’re a 17-year-old high school student… a mom in the trenches of motherhood, or someone who has just preferred black drip coffee for the last 65 years, you find a place in our space and feel welcome.” Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. From early logistical hurdles, like figuring out equipment and transportation, to the complexities of hiring staff and opening a physical location, each step has required learning on the fly. Still, Ally views those challenges as part of the process. “We have learned SO much and I know this will continue to be the case - forever.”  As the Fort Wayne Coffee Club continues to grow, its foundation remains rooted in something simple but powerful; connection. What began as a small gathering has become a space where people feel seen, supported, and welcomed, no matter their stage of life. For Ally and her family, that purpose is what makes every challenge and leap of faith worth it. “Life is too short to not chase the things that bring you joy, no matter how scary they may seem,” she said. “It’s beautiful chaos, but I’ve never felt more sure that this is what my family is meant to do for the greater Fort Wayne area.” And behind it all is a deeper foundation that continues to guide them forward. As Ally shared, “Rooted in the love and example of our parents and family—who taught us to always do what’s right and pour endless love into our community and girls—we’re here because they believed in us first.”

In a world where first impressions are often made online, having a strong, intentional brand is more important than ever. That’s exactly where Salt & Sand comes in, a design studio focused on helping women-owned businesses create websites and brands that are not only visually striking, but deeply personal and built to last. Founded by Audra Leverson, Salt & Sand has grown into a nationwide brand and web design studio known for its fully custom approach. Rather than relying on templates or one-size-fits-all solutions, Audra works closely with each client to create something entirely unique. As she describes it, “Salt and Sand is a brand and web design studio that works with small to medium sized women-owned businesses nationwide… I take pride in the fact that I have never built the same website twice and I have never used a template, ensuring every single business I work with stands out from the crowd and is authentically themselves.” That commitment to originality didn’t happen overnight, it’s rooted in a journey that began much closer to home. Audra, a native of Garrett, Indiana, first discovered web design in an unexpected way. What started as a simple blog to document post-graduation travel quickly turned into something more. “During my senior year I built my first blog to document some traveling I did after graduation, which ended up being my first introduction to building websites.” she said. That early curiosity eventually led her to an entrepreneurial program in South Carolina, where her interest in branding and design took shape. By 2021, while still in college, she officially launched Salt & Sand, an ambitious move for someone just 20 years old. But for Audra, entrepreneurship never felt out of reach. Growing up surrounded by business owners and leaders, she was immersed in that mindset from an early age. “To put it simply, I never really had a reason to doubt myself,” she said, crediting generations of entrepreneurs in her family who encouraged her to think bigger and supported her along the way. Even with that strong foundation, the early version of Salt & Sand looked very different from what it is today. Initially, Audra tried to be everything for everyone, offering a wide range of design services without a clear niche. While that approach brought in work, it didn’t always reflect the level of creativity she knew she was capable of. Over time, she realized that trying to serve too many audiences made it difficult to create the storytelling-driven designs she cared most about. That realization led to one of the most important shifts in her business, narrowing her focus to serve women-owned businesses and building brands that feel both strategic and expressive. Today, every project is intentionally crafted, blending editorial-style design with thoughtful layouts that highlight each client’s individuality. Along the way, however, not every pivot came easily. One of the most challenging moments in her journey came when she followed advice that pushed her brand in a more corporate, conventional direction. While it initially seemed like a step toward growth, it ultimately left her feeling disconnected from her own work. “I slowly realized I had lost the very thing that made my work distinctive in the first place,” she said, explaining how her brand began to feel more focused on conversions than creativity. Stepping away from that path required both reflection and confidence. Audra ultimately chose to rebuild her brand in a way that felt authentic again, leaning back into the expressive, custom design style that originally defined her work. That decision reshaped not only her business, but also her perspective. As she puts it, “Just because you choose the prettier path rather than the quickest doesn’t mean you won’t reach your destination.” Those seasons of rebuilding became some of the most defining moments in her career. They taught her to trust her instincts, even when outside advice suggested otherwise. “When you’re young in business, it’s very easy to assume that someone more experienced must automatically know the right path for you. What I eventually realized is that advice, even when it comes from very successful people, still has to align with who you are and what you are trying to build.” She explained, emphasizing the importance of protecting the creative vision behind her work. Today, Salt & Sand reflects that clarity. With more than 50 businesses served nationwide and recognition as a Wix Studio Design Partner at “Legend Status,” Audra has built a portfolio that showcases not only her design expertise, but also the creativity and strength of the women she works with. Her journey has also taken on new meaning in recent years with the addition of motherhood. Becoming a mom has shifted how she approaches both her time and her business, bringing a deeper level of intention to everything she does. It’s no longer just about building beautiful brands, it’s about creating a sustainable career that supports her life and her family. At the same time, she hopes her work encourages other women to pursue their own paths, believing it’s important to have “creative pursuits, skills, and sources of independence alongside motherhood.” Through all of her experiences, Audra has gained a clear perspective on what sets successful brands apart, and where many new entrepreneurs go wrong. One of the most common mistakes she sees is rushing the process and skipping foundational steps in pursuit of quick results. As she explains, many entrepreneurs “see the destination without giving any thought to how they are going to get there,” often ending up with something that feels generic rather than intentional. Looking ahead, Audra has no plans of slowing down. She’s exploring new ways to expand Salt & Sand, including launching custom website templates, offering educational resources, and continuing to share her journey through storytelling and community engagement. With new tools and technologies shaping the future of design, she’s especially excited to explore how innovation, like AI, can enhance the creative process. Still, when asked what she’s most proud of, her answer is simple. “What I’m most proud of is simply staying with it,” she said, reflecting on the ups and downs of building a business from a young age. From uncertain seasons to complete rebuilds, the journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. Because at its core, entrepreneurship isn’t just about success, it’s about resilience. It’s about navigating both the highs and the lows, learning in real time, and continuing forward even when the path isn’t clear. As Audra puts it, “It’s an extremely emotional journey because the highs are just as real as the lows, and both are where the drive comes from to keep going.”   To end our conversation we asked Audra if she’s had anyone in her life that’s influenced her entrepreneurial journey, she said, “Absolutely, and I have been blessed beyond measure with an entire family of well known entrepreneurs in the Fort Wayne area. Daryle Doden (grandfather, founder of Ambassador Enterprises), Eric Doden (uncle, politician and owner of PAGO), Brian Best (father, business counselor, personal motivator), Tami Best (mother, owner of Best Yet Design), Kara Bishop (aunt, owner of Gen-D LLC), Jared Doden (uncle, licensed lawyer), and even a couple of my in-laws - Paul Leverson (father-in-law, physical therapist), Brianna Schilling (sister-in-law, co-owner of Leinen & Liebe), and Aunnah Leverson (sister-in-law, owner of Leinen & Liebe). I mention them by name because it would be a disservice not to. These are the people I grew up watching, learning from, and turning to for guidance. Having access to their experience, advice, and encouragement has been an incredible gift as I’ve navigated my own path in entrepreneurship.” As Salt & Sand continues to grow, Audra’s journey serves as a reminder that building something meaningful rarely follows a straight path. What started as a simple curiosity for web design has evolved into a business that not only reflects her creativity, but also empowers other women to step confidently into their own. Through every pivot, lesson, and season of growth, one thing has remained constant, her commitment to creating work that feels both intentional and authentic. And in doing so, she’s not just building brands, but helping shape the stories behind them.

Located at 6211 Stoney Creek Dr, 46825 Fort Wayne, Serenity + Sage Spa offers a tranquil escape for those seeking rejuvenation and self-care. Owned by Felicia Phomsoupha, a seasoned esthetician with over 25 years of experience, this spa is more than just a place to enjoy beauty treatments; it’s a space designed to foster confidence, relaxation, and wellness. Felicia's journey into the world of esthetics began over two decades ago. As a registered nurse, she has always combined her clinical knowledge with her passion for skincare. "I’ve spent the last 25 years working in the esthetics industry, primarily as a solo provider, building relationships with clients and helping them feel confident in their skin. In addition to my work in esthetics, I’m also a registered nurse, which has allowed me to bring a more clinical understanding of skin health and overall wellness into the services I provide." She shares. Her commitment to continuing education has kept her at the forefront of skincare advancements, allowing her to offer clients the best and most innovative treatments available. Inspiration for Serenity + Sage Spa was born from Felicia’s desire to create a welcoming and peaceful environment, rooted in her personal journey. Reflecting on her past, she shares, “One of the biggest inspirations for me was my own experience growing up with skin issues. I understand firsthand how much our skin can affect our confidence and how we feel about ourselves. Because of that, I always knew I wanted to help others feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.” This passion for empowering others, combined with her interest in skincare and wellness, naturally led her into the aesthetics industry. Felicia explains, "Much of the inspiration behind Serenity + Sage Spa comes from wanting to create a peaceful space where people can slow down, take care of themselves, and feel supported." She finds it incredibly rewarding to help clients improve their skin while providing a nurturing atmosphere. The idea to start Serenity + Sage didn’t come from a single moment; it was a gradual realization over time. "I began to envision something bigger, a space where I could not only continue serving my clients but also create an environment where other talented estheticians could grow and work together as a team. Serenity + Sage Spa is the realization of that vision, and it’s exciting to finally see it come to life after years of dedication to the industry." Felicia recalls. She recognized a unique opportunity to combine results-driven skincare with relaxation, leading to the birth of Serenity + Sage Spa in January of this year. At Serenity + Sage Spa, clients can indulge in a wide range of services designed for both beauty and overall wellness. From zero gravity pedicures, waxing services, and lash extensions to brow tattooing, skin care, and facial services, the spa aims to cater to every client’s needs. Since the launch of Serenity + Sage Spa Felicia has added several new experiences, including infrared saunas and Korean lash lifts to her service offerings. Today some of the most popular services include Brazilian waxing, dermaplaning, microneedling, and lash extensions, all aimed at helping clients feel refreshed and empowered. Walking into Serenity + Sage Spa, clients can anticipate an immediate sense of calm. "Life can be busy and stressful, and my goal with Serenity + Sage Spa is to create a space where people can slow down, take a break from their daily routine, and focus on themselves for a little while," Felicia expresses. “Whether someone is coming in for a treatment, skincare guidance, or simply a moment to relax, I want every client to leave feeling refreshed, cared for, and more confident.” Serenity + Sage Spa is a testament to Felicia Phomsoupha’s journey and commitment to the esthetics industry. It’s a sanctuary where clients can learn, unwind, and empower themselves through better skin health and wellness practices. If you're in Fort Wayne and looking for a place to rejuvenate your mind and body, Serenity + Sage Spa awaits you at 6211 Stoney Creek Dr. Discover the perfect blend of results-driven skincare and true relaxation.

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