Downtown Annapolis just got a little bit better. Right now, I’m sitting in the newest business to open here: a craft coffee house. During this visit I have witnessed more joyous interactions with staff than at any other coffee shop. It is different, on purpose. People are asking questions, learning and growing. Bitty & Beau’s, I am proud that you opened your fifth set of doors in Maryland… thank you.
Bitty & Beau’s is a coffee shop, community, grassroots movement and organization creating opportunity for those in a marginalized population. The first store in Wilmington NC started with a family wanting to create an everyday work environment for their children with down syndrome, their daughter Bitty and their son Beau. Employment is a long-standing issue within this community. Rather than waiting for the culture to change these parents created the space and invited us to participate. According to their website, ‘as advocates for the value, inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Wrights have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place for their children and others living with disabilities.’
With over 80% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities unemployed nationwide, Beau’s Coffee created a path for people with disabilities to become more valued, accepted and included in every community.
-Bitty & Beau, website here
Both the playlists and coffee are on point! Navy and white decor with a splash of gold as a special nod to the nautical culture of Annapolis made it easy to settle in. I do recommend this spot as a place to meet friends or work for a few hours. Beyond that, the location itself has a view of the Downtown Harbor, so feel free to come to a place like this to day dream or read a good book.
Coffee is communal. As a part of normal day-to-day life, it’s time to make the experience more welcoming. The Wright family and Beau’s staff have created a culture of inclusion, acceptance, respect and joy; nothing less. Make sure you visit the next time you are near Annapolis and follow them as they open around the country!
So…you scrolled to the bottom for a synopsis.
- There is a new coffee shop in Annapolis on Dock Street
- Bitty & Beau’s was opened by a loving family wanting to create a workspace for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- They value the dignity of each person who works there
- Great coffee and a great backdrop
- 80% of people with a intellectual/developmental disability are unemployed, Bitty & Beau’s have taken about 100+ people out of that shocking statistic
