Noah B.
Yelp
An Angel works at Starbucks in Brooklyn
On the morning of Friday, March 1 I decided I would work from this Starbucks following an errand I had to run across the street. Fridays are my work from home day, and I decided that for a change of pace, I'd work here instead.
This it would turn out would be a most fortuitous visit, thanks to the entire team at this store but in particular, due to your Partner, Charmaine, who I have come to feel is an angel here on Earth (which I do not mean in the religious sense, but the broader spiritual sense). I cannot fully express how much joy she brought to me yesterday, and for many many days to come.
I wanted to share it with you because of how strongly and positively I have been affected by Charmaine and by extension the entire team at the store yesterday. The story does not even contain our continued interactions over the next few hours when I asked her a question, and then later when she came to check if I needed anything else. Even as I write this on my phone as I ride the subway my eyes are filled with joyful tears, there's a lump in my throat, and immense love in my heart.
When I entered the store there was a wonderful energy in this location. I approached the cash registers and was called over with a "good morning sweetie, how can I help you?"
Charmaine had a smile on her face and she started dancing to the music a bit. "I love your dancing," I exclaim, and joined her in dancing to the music. She told me I could call her "charming" and she totally was/is, so I did and will. She took my order, wishes me a wonderful day, and says "let's walk it out" and we continued dancing as I leave the register.
As I sat there with my coffee, working away, she continued to welcome everyone with similar joy and enthusiasm, but conscious of each person's energy which she met appropriately. She also brings this to all her colleagues behind the registers and counter.
I couldn't help but smile and feel warm fuzzies. Of course, so many Starbucks employees are joyful and welcoming, but she certainly rises to the top.
Charmaine made my day!
I have shared this story with my friends, family, and colleagues, and am encouraging them to start each day with joy, a spring in their step, and a smile on their face. Of course, I know it not always easy, but I hope everyone finds their own Charmaine when they need them.
Starbucks is, of course, a business with a strong brand, and a company that must ultimately be concerned with the bottom line, but I sincerely hope that you will always treasure your Partners in your stores who are the reason so many loyal customers come back over and over. I know you are a company that provides great benefits for your entire team, and it is evident in how Partners treat customers every day.
As an aside, I have always worked in youth and education nonprofits and institutions. While I love my career and typically really enjoy it, as you might imagine it can be challenging and heartbreaking at times. Finding angels in unexpected places can really make a huge difference, as it can for anyone just having a bad day or dealing with tough, challenging situations.