By Armando “BUTZ” Bartolome
In the bustling streets of Malolos, where the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sounds of daily life, a bright and inviting spot stands as a testament to resilience and passion. Daylight Cafe, founded by Marifel, is more than just a coffee shop. It is a story of ambition, perseverance, and a commitment to uplifting the community, one cup of coffee at a time.
Humble Beginnings: A Garage Dream
Marifel’s journey into entrepreneurship began in the unlikeliest of places: her garage. A registered pharmacist by profession, Marifel found herself drawn to the art of coffee during her sleepless nights preparing for board exams. “I tried many coffees, and I realized I wanted to create something unique,” she shared. Inspired by the traditional methods of roasting she had witnessed in the Cordillera region, Marifel decided to pursue her passion.
During the pandemic, when the world seemed to stand still, Marifel’s vision began to take shape. “I started selling coffee in front of my house,” she recalled. Though small in scale, this initial venture laid the foundation for what would become Daylight Cafe.
Brightening Days, One Cup at a Time
Daylight Cafe officially opened its doors in June 2022, transitioning from a small kiosk to a vibrant inline store. The cafe’s name reflects its mission: to bring delight and light into people’s lives. “We wanted to create a space where people could enjoy not just great coffee but also a warm and joyful atmosphere,” Marifel explained.
The cafe’s signature drink, the Sea Salt Coffee, quickly became a customer favorite. Combining a delicate balance of sweetness, saltiness, and bold coffee flavors, it exemplifies Marifel’s dedication to quality and innovation. “Every cup is freshly made, and our blends are exclusive to Daylight Cafe,” she added.
A Purpose-Driven Business
For Marifel, Daylight Cafe is more than a business; it is a platform for advocacy. From sourcing sustainable coffee beans to supporting local farmers, every aspect of the cafe’s operations reflects a commitment to community and environmental stewardship. “It’s not just about making money,” she emphasized. “We want to ensure that what customers pay for is truly value for money.”
Her approach to business is rooted in collaboration. From partnering with chefs to develop unique food offerings to encouraging team members to contribute ideas, Marifel fosters a culture of shared growth. “No man is an island,” she said. “Together, we can create something extraordinary.”
From Challenges to Opportunities
Starting a business during a pandemic came with its share of challenges. “In the beginning, I did everything—from serving to cleaning,” Marifel recounted. Yet, these struggles only strengthened her resolve. As Daylight Cafe grew, so did its team, expanding from three initial members to nine dedicated individuals.
The cafe’s journey also included adapting to new opportunities. Moving from a residential garage to a location on MacArthur Highway allowed Marifel to expand the menu, adding pasta, rice meals, and more pastries. Each step forward has been thoughtfully planned and executed with the help of experts and a commitment to learning.
Lighting the Way for Franchising
With its growing success, Daylight Cafe is now ready to expand through franchising. “We want to bring delight to every city in the Philippines and, hopefully, abroad,” Marifel shared. However, she remains selective about franchisees, ensuring they share her vision and passion. “Franchising should be a two-way street,” she explained. “It’s about finding partners who believe in the brand as much as we do.”
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Marifel’s story is a treasure trove of insights for those dreaming of starting their own ventures:
- Start Small, Dream Big: “Great things can start in the simplest of places, even a garage,” she said.
- Stay Resilient: Challenges are inevitable, but with perseverance and adaptability, they can become stepping stones to success.
- Build for the Community: By prioritizing sustainability and collaboration, businesses can create lasting impact and loyalty.
Looking to the Future
As Daylight Cafe continues to grow, Marifel remains grounded in her mission to spread light and delight. Whether through innovative drinks, a warm ambiance, or meaningful partnerships, Daylight Cafe shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
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