#United States #Hampton #Crimson Cup #Drip 'n Sip

Welcome to Drip 'n Sip Coffee & Tea

A vibrant new café, Drip 'n Sip Coffee & Tea, has officially opened its doors to the public in Hampton, Virginia, featuring a delicious array of coffee and tea options alongside an inviting 90s throwback atmosphere. Located at 1146 Big Bethel Road, this cozy establishment is the brainchild of Melanie King, who draws inspiration from her love for the 1990s and a deep commitment to building community connections through shared experiences.

Grand Opening Celebration

Following its soft launch on September 29, 2025, Drip 'n Sip will host its grand opening celebration on November 19. Festivities will include drink specials, giveaways, and a celebration filled with nostalgic 90s-themed decor. The café aims to create a welcoming space for everyone, from students to retirees, where they can enjoy delightful beverages and engage in meaningful conversations.

A Heartfelt Tribute

The inception of Drip 'n Sip is rooted in a personal tragedy for Melanie; she dedicated this café as a tribute to her late brother, who unexpectedly passed away in 2024. Melanie shares, _“He loved everything about the 90s, and we both believed in creating spaces where people feel welcome. That's what Drip 'n Sip is about — coffee, comfort, and community.”_

This heartfelt mission is reflected in the shop's ambiance where customers often find themselves gathering at the communal table, lounging with a book, or chatting with friendly baristas about their favorite drinks. Melanie describes the café as a _“super inclusive space”_ designed to cater to everyone’s needs and preferences.

Expert Guidance from Crimson Cup

Entering the coffee business was a dream for Melanie, who previously worked in real estate for 15 years. However, she envisioned not navigating this path alone. Through Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea’s acclaimed 7 Steps to Success program, she gained valuable insights and support, enabling her to realize her vision of opening a unique coffee shop.

Crimson Cup, an award-winning coffee roaster that has assisted over 300 entrepreneurs in launching independent cafés, connected with Melanie when she sought expertise online. The 7 Steps program includes a comprehensive coffee shop business plan, hands-on training, and ongoing consulting.

Melanie flew to Columbus, Ohio to experience the company’s roasting and training facilities. She was impressed by the transparency and the eagerness of the team to help her succeed. _“I truly feel like they all care about my success,”_ she said of her experience.

Saving Time and Money

One of Melanie's significant takeaways from the partnership with Crimson Cup was the realization that she did not require excessive equipment to get started. Initially, she anticipated needing $120,000 worth of equipment, but was pleased to discover a much more economical solution. _“I’m so happy with how my setup turned out,”_ she noted, emphasizing the importance of guidance from industry professionals.

Her advice to future coffee shop owners is simple: _“Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Ask for help.”_ Without the support of Crimson Cup, she believes the journey would have been immensely more challenging, and she is grateful for their assistance in opening her café promptly and confidently.

A Taste of the 90s

Drip 'n Sip offers a tantalizing menu of drinks that echo the nostalgia of the 1990s. Customers can enjoy everything from classic coffee options to unique, creative beverages inspired by the trends of the decade. The warm, inviting atmosphere invites patrons not only to savor their drinks but also to form connections with others in the community. Melanie beams with pride when her customers express how much they love the shop, saying, _“Oh, y’all just stole me from the big corporate franchise,”_ highlighting the café's appeal and commitment to quality.

Conclusion

The grand opening of Drip 'n Sip Coffee & Tea is not just about a new café but a vibrant addition to the Hampton community, where coffee, nostalgia, and connection thrive. As Melanie King continues to blend her past experiences with her new passion, Drip 'n Sip stands as a testament to community spirit and the power of heartfelt connections through coffee.

For those keen to join in the opening festivities or to learn more about the café's offerings, visit Drip 'n Sip on Facebook or stop by in person to experience the warmth and flavor that awaits.