Laura Wills has seen a doubling of the number of customers for Jupiter Coffee at the new location, 5490 Cameron Road in Freeland. There are still a substantial number of regulars who come by for their favorite expresso drinks and delicious baked goods, but many new folks are discovering Jupiter Coffee and becoming regulars as well.
Previously her Freeland business was at 18205 State Route 525, behind the Chevron gas station. When she learned that the Mutiny Bay Distillery was closing and that the space would be available for her coffee shop, she was pleased to have this new location that provides more kitchen space, outdoor seating, and parking spaces, and is in a better location.
Laura Wills spent much of her youth on Whidbey, moved away for a several years, and then moved back to the island with her husband three years ago to be close to their families. In the mid to late 80’s and early 90’s, Laura worked for Sydney and Mike at the Island Bakery in Freeland, which, in her words, was the most incredible bakery she has ever experienced. That is where she developed her passion for baking.
Prior to becoming a business owner on Whidbey, Laura worked as a medical administrator for an osteopath, at Virginia Mason Cancer Institute, and at a clinic for multiple sclerosis. Laura brings that caring spirit into everything she bakes and with all of her interactions with her customers. In 2018 when Laura and her husband Bryce were preparing to move back to the island after nearly 20 years in the medical field, she knew that what she really wanted to do was return to her island roots in baking and espresso.
Besides the traditional range of espresso drinks, Laura is known for the high quality of baked goods she produces. Word has gotten around that her scones (more than 20 varieties) are fabulous. There are several types including marionberry, blueberry, cinnamon swirl, pie cherry, and raspberry almond. She also offers other varieties including gluten free, that she rotates, often responding to requests from a customer. In addition, she offers many sweet and savory items. She takes special orders as she is able to.
Laura now has two part-time helpers, Vickie Berry who does kitchen prep, and Aniela Perry who is an experienced barista. Laura loves what she is doing: “I love the space that I am creating. The baking is a passion for me, and the connections I have with my amazing customers makes it feel like I have the best job ever. The space feels like my second home. I am grateful every day to be here!"
There is space in the new location for musicians, and most Saturday mornings between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m., and sometimes in the afternoons, there are people performing (see the schedule posted on social media).
Jupiter Coffee’s business hours are Wednesday – Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Friday 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Hours may be more limited in July.) You can call or text Laura at 206-354-1982.
Check out Instagram: jupitercoffeewhidbey and Facebook: Jupitercoffee
