Coffee and clothing. Espresso and style. Caffeine and design. They are simple things that permeate my daily life and they nourish my soul as much as they are just my everyday fuel. I might sound like a narcissistic hipster when I say these kinds of things, but it’s really the truth. Sipping a smooth latte is like zipping up a well-tailored dress; you stand a little straighter, you hold your chin up, and you are ready to face the day. Jim Chambers and Camryn Park (with the support of veteran barista Daniel Mueller) have tapped into this poetic alignment and presented this pairing at Henry & June, their brand-spanking-new coffee and clothing gallery in the Virginia Highland neighborhood.
I’ve been on the edge of my seat for months waiting for this dreamy duo to bring their cafe boutique hybrid to life, and I must say that they definitely did not disappoint. When you step into the space, it’s evident that you’re stepping into something special. Their collection of curated goods is an obvious representation of their personal style; modern, playful, at times retro, and always with a strong and elegant sense of self.
Combing through their products becomes a series of finding one treasure right after the other. There are no filler tees and tanks here, no random tchotchkes to divert your attention. With a well-brewed Crema drink in hand (for those hot summer days, be sure to try the new arabica palmer!), it’s really quite easy to stay a while.
And really, that’s what makes Henry & June so near and dear to me already. Aside from being the closest quality brew to my house, the experience is quite unique for this city. Getting coffee and going shopping are activities that people try to rush through, usually as they’re on the run and trying to get to the next thing or the next sale. Jim and Camryn have managed to create a concept that defies the standard of contemporary commerce. It is seductive, inviting you to indulge, to slow it down and experience the care and integrity of the well-crafted things before you.
