Coffee shop opens in tough economy

MARSHALL, Ill. (WTHI) - A new coffee shop in Marshall Illinois opened Friday afternoon.

Folks living in Marshall, Ill. didn't have a gourmet coffee and bakery shop until now.

A week before Christmas, in the middle of the holiday season, Stephanie Neibarger took a leap.

“It was just the right time. Things fell into place, and here I am,” owner Stephanie Neibarger said.

It's been a long time coming for the shop.

“Two years [ago], I first contacted the city to see what buildings were available,” she said. “I've researched this for two years now.”

The research she found may be surprising to many.

“I've also learned that companies that started in a recessional period actually strived.”

For the town of Marshall, the growth means a lot.

“It's really exciting to see a new business open up in Marshall,” Marshall Chamber member Jennifer Bishop said.

The city chamber of commerce saw three total ribbon cuttings in 2011, and they already have others on the docket for the coming year.

“Anyone willing to invest in any community is a major positive, but to see it in Marshall, it's a great opportunity,” Bishop explained.

Investing is just what Neibarger did.

“I've invested just about everything of me: financially, emotionally, physically, everything,” she explained.

Like many others starting shop in an economy like this, it's more than a financial jump.

“ It’s been a life long dream. The baking part is a life long dream. The coffee came later,” Neibarger added. “I've made many friends over a cup of coffee and that's what I want for these people.”

The Latte Dough Coffee Shop is opened Monday through Saturday until 2 p-m, and they serve lunch. It’s at 1206 Archer Avenue.