• < Previous Event
• Next Event >

Comment

Comment by NUCOFFEE on April 14, 2011 at 3:04pm

We're looking forward to seeing everyone this year! We're bringing quite a few Brazilian coffee farmers with us - seeking to create a vibrant village with roasters and baristas.

Comment by Dan Streetman on March 2, 2011 at 11:48am

Michael,

 

exciting news! Welcome to the SCAA family. 

 

as on where to stay, I always find it most convenient to stay in the event hotel, because it is attached to the convention and makes life easy.

 

Depending on what part of the industry you will be entering, retail, roasting, or other.  You should look for classes that pertain specifically to what you will be building your business on.

 

If you are planning to open a cafe I would suggest looking at the Barista Guild level 1 certification.  It will give you a good basic overview of everything you need to know to prepare specialty coffee.  The classes are very centered on learning fundamentals that you can build on.  

 

These Classes include

Intro to Espresso

Fundamentals of Coffee Brewing

Intro to Customer Service

Intro to Cupping

 

I would also look to find some lectures that interest you.  Usually there are good lectures on business fundamentals, and how to build a menu or price products etc.

 

Most importantly, attend the after hour events.  This is the best place to meet experienced professionals who have businesses like yours and have a chance to ask them questions.  The best part of the Event is that everyone is there to share, and build community.

 

hope you have a great time!

Comment by Tara Shenson on March 2, 2011 at 8:49am

Hi Michael!  I wanted to help answer some of your questions and say welcome and thank you for attending this year's Event!  The best way to book your hotel is through our agency since we have special discounts for our attendees on local hotels.  Here is a link to the page with all hotels, prices, and how to contact our hotel booking agency: http://www.scaaevent.org/?p=travel

 

you should also stop by the First Time Attendee Coffee Break too to connect with other first-timers!  It's Friday, April 29, 8:00-9:00AM
in Room 330AB.   Also, if you have any questions about education and certification, please contact Ellie, our Director of Professional Development at elliem@scaa.org.  She'd be happy to help!

Comment by Micha Cameron-Lattek on March 2, 2011 at 6:38am

Hey everyone,

 

This will be my first SCAA event and my first time down south. Help! 

 

I would welcome any advice for first time attendees and especially advice on what classes to take if you're just starting out in the specialty coffee industry.

 

Also, does anyone know a good place to stay during the event?

 

Thanks in advance

 

Michael