Today we’d like to introduce you to Lucero Marti.
Hi Lucero, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Seven years ago, I moved to Burlington, NC. One crisp fall day, I visited a small coffee shop I had discovered online. As I sat outside, sipping my coffee and reflecting with God, I quietly prayed: “Lord, I wish this coffee shop could be mine one day.”
Life moved on, and I became involved with the Rotarians, eventually being asked to lead the first Hispanic Rotary Club in North Carolina. That experience inspired me deeply—the Rotarians lead with service and compassion, and it motivated me to do the same.
Our club began meeting regularly at that same coffee shop—The Blend. Over time, I built a friendship with the owner, offering support as he shared his journey. What started as mentorship blossomed into an unexpected opportunity. When he asked if I’d like to take over the shop, I knew it was an answer to the prayer I had whispered years before. After much prayer and trust in God’s plan, I became the new owner of The Blend.
Now, after eleven months of navigating the unknown, I’ve learned the ins and outs of coffee, the challenges of running a brick-and-mortar business, and the joy of community connection. To me, The Blend is more than a coffee shop—it’s a place where everyone belongs, where we support local businesses, craft every cup with care, and nurture kindness in every interaction.
Being an entrepreneur isn’t easy, but with faith, commitment, and love, I believe anything is possible.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Some of the biggest struggles I’ve faced along the way have been stepping into an industry I knew nothing about, learning the world of coffee from scratch, and navigating the challenges of working with both employees and customers. In this business, you have to lead with excellence, compassion, and empathy. Every day brings new faces—customers you must connect with and learn how to serve in a way that makes them feel seen and valued.
On the other side, managing employees has been our greatest challenge, especially with retention. This industry often attracts young adults balancing college life or single mothers working hard to make ends meet during times of inflation. It requires patience, understanding, and flexibility to build a supportive environment where they feel encouraged and motivated to grow.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At The Blend Burlington, we are more than just a coffee shop—we are a community hub where connection, quality, and hospitality come first. What sets us apart is our commitment to excellence in everything we do, from carefully crafted coffee to the way we greet every guest who walks through our doors.
We specialize in creating handcrafted beverages and unique pastries, but our true passion is creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. We support local businesses by sourcing and showcasing local products, and we take pride in nurturing every customer interaction with kindness and care.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of the culture we are building. The Blend is a place where relationships are fostered, where diversity is celebrated, and where community thrives over a shared cup of coffee. We believe in excellence, compassion, and dedication—not just in our products, but in the way we serve people every day.
For your readers, we want them to know that The Blend Burlington isn’t just a stop for coffee—it’s a destination for connection, inspiration, and belonging. Every cup we serve is crafted with purpose, every customer is welcomed with warmth, and every experience is meant to leave a lasting impression.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned on this journey is that running a business is about so much more than coffee—it’s about people. Leading with faith, excellence, and compassion has taught me that true success comes from building genuine connections, nurturing relationships, and creating a space where others feel valued and seen. Coffee may be what brings people through our doors, but it’s the sense of belonging and community that keeps them coming back.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theblendburlington.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BHDsvyCC7/?mibextid=wwXIfr
