Rebecca Wills: The Equestrian Barista

When Rebecca Wills’ family moved to Grandview from New Jersey 14 years ago, she was 12 years old. Now, she has been primary owner of The Hard Bean Café for over four years.

As a teen, she had dreams of conquering the world, becoming an Olympic equestrian athlete and winning countless Gold Medals. She saw herself eventually owning “a massive stable filled with beautiful horses and imparting wisdom to young children” who visited her horse farm/education center. Those dreams are not yet realized, but she has many years to accomplish them if she chooses.

“I have discovered that I do not want to conquer the world, that I can be happy in the small world I live in. I can have true friendships and a good life without massive statements and shiny toys. I’ve learned that everyday your life is a success no matter how small the day may seem. It’s a success because of the fact that you are living it. I’ve learned to take steps back and look at situations from different angles. I don’t have any more wisdom than anyone else. ” These are some of the life lessons of this young entrepreneur.

Memories of starting the business include learning to a use a floor sander – a back breaking experience. Pulling all-nighters to make 500 sandwiches for local events stand out as on-going memory makers. And she’s certain that customers could tell funny stories about the mother/daughter bicker banter behind the bar, which is usually in jest. Becca’s parents own a small portion of the business. Her mother often works for Becca, making for an interesting role twist that’s been good for both.

“Sometimes,” she said, “owning a business is scary.” But there are priceless times that make it worth the effort.

“When the 11 year old boy, who has been coming into the shop since age 7, gave me a Star Wars valentine. When a customer gave me a book for Christmas so I could have a wonderful adventure. When an engaged couple’s first date was at The Hard Bean. When passionate blues groupies from New Zealand, Grandview and D.C. run into each other here and sit for hours conversing about music. When wedding photos are taken here. When newborn babies are brought in to meet me. That’s when it’s worth it.”

Becca’s friends say she imparts love into the dishes she cooks. That’s impressive since cooking is like therapy for her. It helps her keep a positive attitude. She loves good people, good food and good wine. And her greatest joys come from cooking, riding horses, and reading. She believes in, “doing at least a little of what you love as often as possible. Do everything with your whole heart.”

Customers like the relaxed, friendly atmosphere coupled with good coffee. The only thing she would change at The Hard Bean would be to add a kitchen. Each day she would cook whatever Greek or Italian dish she fancied and serve it for lunch. Likely her customers would be pleased.

Her advice to small business owners is to get involved in the community.

“Be a name and a face out there. The more sense of community created, the more small businesses will succeed. We have something very unique in Grandview. How many small towns have raised $5,000 to save the life of a neighbor’s donkey? We could be a great small town where everyone knows everyone, in a big metro area.”

Has this business journey changed Becca?

“I learned who I am, to be more assertive, to be comfortable with myself and to be proud of myself. All of that is invaluable to me. And, yes, I would do it over again.”

“I’ve also learned that the choices we make in life, regardless of the place they bring us, teach us to love and to be better people in the end.”

Stop in at The Hard Bean Café, 801 Main Street, Grandview, for a great cup of coffee or a latté and even a sandwich or salad, seven days a week. Rebecca and her baristas are sure to make you feel welcome because this is the “Cheers” of coffee shops.