A young Fayette business is expanding in a big way. Fireside Bakes and Brews, a mobile coffee trailer, is opening a brick-and-mortar location on Church Street in Fayette.

Owners Nichole and Ryan Atkins last week purchased the building formerly occupied by Thrive Coffee and Creamery, a half block from downtown near the corner of Church and Davis Streets. They hope to open in mid-October.

The business has been selling espresso drinks and teas, along with smoothies and energy drinks, from a mobile trailer since it launched in May. It is often located in the parking lot of Paisley BowTique & Floral Design on South Church Street. 

While the couple hails from Moberly, Nichole grew up in rural Armstrong and wanted to bring the idea of a mobile coffee shop to a small town. Nichole has a culinary background and was recently a school food service director. She saw the opportunity to go into business during the summer months when school is not in session. 

“I knew I wanted to start my own business,” she said. “I saw that you could convert a cool retro camper into a coffee shop, because you don’t need a lot of space.”

She said it took about a year to find the trailer and go into business.

“We’re setting up here in Fayette because I knew there was a need for coffee. We were received so well and I’ve just fallen in love with the community and the customers.”

Nichole said the leap to a permanent building was made possible by strong customer support and a well-timed opportunity. “We’re just blessed. It was so fast. I expected it to take a couple of years.”

The larger location will allow the business to expand its menu options; most notably the “bakes.” Despite the name, the trailer has not provided the necessary space to prepare baked goods. Now with a commercial kitchen, Nichole will be able to serve muffins, scones, and other breakfast items. She also plans to serve grab-and-go items for lunch, such as soups and sandwiches.

Starting out, Nichole and her sister Sarah Miller will operate the business. Ryan works full time with Veterans United. Fireside expects to hire part-time employees as well.

While the business is moving out from the trailer and into a building, the Atkins are not shelving their mobile unit. When the couple announced the news with a Facebook video September 10, Nichole added that they will keep the trailer so they will be able to serve coffee at festivals and events throughout the community. 

In the meantime, before the permanent location opens, Fireside will continue to operate from the trailer in their usual location on South Church Street.