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The Team
Running a business is, of course, a lot more than making a fine espresso. As I have often said the
personal characteristics that allow me (require me?) to be focused entirely on coffee quality and
training are weaknesses when it comes to the meat and potatoes of running a business. My eyes
cross and I get a headache if I try to look too hard at "the numbers". The same if I get too close
to the daily grind of bar management. So I want to introduce the two people that have been by my side
the longest offering this support.
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Geneva Sullivan
My wife and the other owner of Espresso Vivace is an unusual lady. When we started Espresso Vivace
in 1988 she was still a field service technician repairing computers full time for Digital
Equipment Corporation. It was her salary that saw Vivace through the beginning stages. Geneva had
amassed a stellar record in computer repair for Unisys, Sperry and finally DEC, but it was her
dream to own her own business. Her strength and wisdom got us both through the "night sweats" of not
knowing if we would survive or not. Her grace and compassion got us through our biggest challenge,
making the transition from coffee carts to indoor stores in 1992. Right from the start she has had sole
responsibility for accounting, payroll, taxes, and inventory. In business we are perfectly matched partners.
Each filling in the weaknesses and limitations of the other. And, after fourteen years we stay out of each
others way quite nicely.
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Brian Fairbrother
King manager of 321 since before it was a store. (he managed the cart at 301 Broadway before
that.) Brian, besides being a very unique soul, is our third leg on our decision stool. Brian,
Geneva and I are the "board of directors" for Vivace Inc.. We know that if all three of us endorse
a course of action for Espresso Vivace, it is the right course of action. He has earned our respect
countless times. He was very crucial to holding the company together during our horrendous transition
from carts to stores in 1992. And he has earned the respect of his staff for fair, but tough standards.
It is Brian that is the principal architect for our customer service philosophy: compassion for the
foibles of humanity. Brian practices his compassionate service, and considerable skills as a master
barista for Espresso Vivace four days a week at 321 Broadway as he has for over ten years.
If a problem pops up on his watch he is fond of telling me "not to worry my artistic little head
over it." Thank you Brian
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