Shelter the Dream - Sound Cafe

Thank you for inquiring. This fundraiser is to assist and support Cole Huffer, the owner and operator of Enlightened Studios Sound Cafe and his team.

 Cole began this business with the vision of doing something he loves. Told throughout  his life that he could not
make a living through arts and music,  he created a space that offers opportunities to all of the artists, musicians, comedians, poets and writers in the community. What makes The Sound Cafe at Enlightened Studios special is that all of the decor and most of the events here are created by our local artisans. Clearly, you can see how beautiful that is.

 

The Sound Cafe is an inclusive, safe, family friendly environment that serves all walks of life. All ages, races, religions, orientations, genders, sizes and capabilities are welcome. Within this supportive,  judgment free zone, there lies a coffee shop, a bar, an event venue and a local art gallery all in one.  A breath of fresh air for any family or friends looking to have another fun activity they can enjoy together. Between the food, the drinks, board games, art center, library and even a video game station, there’s plenty for everyone to take part in.

 

Dedicated to bringing live and local music and art to local schools, nursing homes, and the community as a whole, this studio/coffee house received the Mattie Kelly Arts Center volunteer of the year award within the first year of opening. Creating a way to bring original music to the area while offering them marketing material as a form of compensation for performing at the cafe. Establishing a barter system with many local small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

 

Within this creative safe space, an opportunity for artisans to showcase their offerings  doing what they are passionate about. Many have gone on to establish careers in their modalities of expression. This is the fuel that keeps the passion for the arts and music alive.

 

As with any new, family business, it takes time to work out the kinks, learn, grow and get in the flow.  Almost at the four year mark and what a roller coaster it has been. The pandemic made it challenging as you can imagine, but he has managed to keep this dream alive,  enabling the artists to continue to do the same at this unique establishment. He and his team are grateful for every single person that has become part of the Enlightened family. Whether it was over a mocha latte, a mimosa, a piece of art, a marketing video, an event space rental or even a live musical performance, it’s those of you who crossed our path that shaped The Sound Cafe into what it is today. They’re so thankful  for the friendships and family made in the past couple years, being the “Cheer’s” of Fort Walton Beach, where they know your name when you walk in and you’re greeted like a long time friend.

 

With a strong desire to continue to support the community diligently, the business must continue to provide these opportunities for growth.

Each and every food and drink purchase is highly appreciated, as it supports more than just keeping the light bill paid. It supports the dreams of artists of all walks of life.

Guests come visit and support their local artists, every video marketing project provided to assist in marketing our artisans, every space rental opportunity so guests can have their seminar, baby shower, wedding, graduation party, and other special events in an affordable and prime location. This is what keeps the doors open. Due to the pandemic, it has taken over a year and half to bounce back, but they need our support. Cole has spent so much time giving to our local community that it’s our turn to support this dream back. We support with our dollar. 

 

I want to thank each and everyone of you who took a moment to read this as well as each of you who have chosen to support The Sound Cafe at Enlightened Studios over the years, allowing a family business to be a second home for you to meet, gather with friends, experience new things, network with others, think, dream and create! Thank you to those of you who choose to share your special events with your friends, loved ones and work teams, with Enlightened Studios. They know the value of connection and community and are so thankful for trusting them to entertain you and bring you joy! They love you!

 

They most certainly could not have gotten this far without your support. If you can find it in your heart to help during this time of growth, here are some ways you can support:

 

    ◦    If you have X amount of dollars that you need to donate before the end of the year for tax purposes or would simply like to make a contribution to either their  GoFund me or Patreon, here are the links to do so:

 

     For PATREON: Enlightened Studios

 

    ◦    If you have any video marketing projects or event space that you know you will need this year, it would greatly help them during this slower time of the year to go ahead and get those things booked and funded.

 

    ◦    You can also simply stop in the café and purchase some food or drinks, branded sound café merchandise or even gift cards for your friends and family.

 

Thank you all in advance for your love, support and your contribution in efforts to help them continue to grow.

 

— On behalf of Cole Huffer (Owner) and all the friendly staff at Enlightened Studios + Sound Cafe