TACOMA, Wash — It may look like a coffee shop but for Tina Sidorko, this is a dream come true.
"I named it Common Ground because I believe that we all have common ground in being human, and even more so in our desire to be seen known and loved," Sidorko said.
Like Tacoma itself, Common Ground is packed with people of all races and from all walks of life. Some are busy working remotely, but many are talking to each other.
"I always wanted to open a coffee shop," Sidorko said. "I wanted a space where people can gather, meet new people, find a place for community for the first time over a great cup of coffee."
Whatever she's selling, people are buying. Monday morning and Common Ground is packed with people here for great coffee and good vibes.
"When people come in I want them to experience that they are loved and that we truly want to serve them and provide them with a great time," Sidorko said.
When they have a moment to spare, baristas like Jessie Griffin write messages on the lids of to-go cups.
"So this one's gonna say 'You are Needed' and the other ones say things like 'You Are Loved', 'You Matter' and things like that," Griffin said. "People actually do say something to us when they notice them so it's been really cool, but I think people who don't say anything really need them more."
It's those personal touches that has made connections Sidorko never could have imagined. Two customers even got married here.
"It feels amazing," she said. "It feels like the dream is my reality now. It feels really really good especially to know that people love it here as I do."
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