I took some donut photographs yesterday for a small coffee shop in Geneva, NY. As a freelance creative it’s always fun to help shine some light on a great business, individual, or event. When Empire Coffee & Donuts asked for my help with photography, graphic design, and social media I felt honored to get involved. Check out their facebook page for the “Donuts of the Week” content I have created for them. I’m working on an update to their website too. So stay tuned for an update on that soon too.
About ECD
Empire Coffee & Donuts has quickly become a gem of the Finger Lakes in only about eighteen months. The proprietor Dan Godwin saw a potential niche for an independent coffee shop and cafe…that made truly fresh donuts. The nearest place to get a real donut made with freshly proofed dough, hand-cut, and fried each morning was an hour away. So he set out to create Empire Coffee & Donuts.
But here’s the brilliant part…
They built a solid business without their “featured product”. It would be nearly a year after opening before they could make a single donut. A year to invest in all the equipment, satisfy building code requirements, make renovations, then refine the recipe and method.
They built a community inside those walls. Empire Coffee & Donuts sourced the freshest small batch roasted coffee beans (from just across the road). They worked with local bakers to provide fresh pastries and treats for the display case. Dan leaned into his past experience as a barista to refine the drink recipes and menu. Including making most of the flavor syrups in house. They opened their space to community organizations to use as a meeting place and for clubs to gather. They embraced local arts and schools with support. Plus they built a collection of board games, vinyl records, and cool recurring themes each week like Craft Night.
Then came the donuts…
My name is Michael Gonzalez, but my friends call me Gonzo. I’m a trained composer, musician, and teacher. But I have also spent the past 25 years as a freelance creative professional. I have experience in graphic design, print production, copywriting/editing, photography, audio/video production, marketing and social media management. I’ve also worked as an Art Director, Event Producer, Workshop Facilitator, Marketing Coordinator, Project Manager, and Emcee/Event Host. Contact me to discover how we can collaborate on your next project.