RHIANNA BROWN

On the second anniversary of The Cove’s opening, children’s laughter and soft music fill the bright room as employees work quickly through a line of orders. Among the crew is Laura Jones, the director of operations, whose arms are adorned with blue dye spots from making Bluey refreshers: a popular kids’ drink. Laura’s husband, Tyler,  greets every customer and takes their order at the register. Even with the large turnout, the two of them efficiently completed every order before taking time to enjoy the celebration. 

The Jones opened The Cove to the Coal City community in September 2022. Originally located near the intersection of Broadway and Division, The Cove is a local franchise that serves different types of drinks with various health benefits, depending on what consumers are searching for. Above all, they believe in helping people teach themselves about body health and that a strong community connection is vital.

“I don’t ever think the job is done,” said Laura. 

Laura was inspired to bring a family-friendly, social gathering space to the town in hopes of providing a new multipurpose hub. Throughout the week, The Cove hosts community events such as Tabletop Tuesdays, monthly puzzle races, murder mystery dinners, and more. All events are announced on The Cove’s social media pages, and customers must sign up online to register for each event. 

“We want to make our events affordable and fun for everyone,” said Laura.

Laura also provides a helpful hand to local small businesses. She utilizes The Cove’s space for pop-up events for businesses to grow together. One popular collaboration has been working with Beans and Bites; a non-profit coffee cafe that is building awareness and reducing the unemployment rate of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Customers have come up with new ways to enjoy supporting both these businesses, such as combining oatmeal sold by Beans and Bites and adding protein packs sold by The Cove. These events occur organically and can be found easily on their social media platforms.

In the latter half of 2024, The Cove relocated to a new building next to the elementary school where an old family health center had been located. The new location provides a bigger gathering space, more parking lot spaces with two spots designated for mobile orders, and visibility which has brought in more foot traffic.

“It feels so much more like home,” said Laura. 

Opportunities to collaborate with the community have shown up in many ways. The Cove has been ever more present at the local high school for homecoming, sports games, and more. Additionally, they have become a staple in leading the annual Coal City Fall Fest Makers Court. At the Makers Court, Laura first introduced herself to each business and let them know that if they had any questions or concerns to reach out to her. 

As the Fall Fest started, The Cove had the longest lines of customers waiting for drinks to cool down on a hot fall day and customers enjoyed the mist fan located nearby. Festival attendees continued to stop by as products ran low, drinking straws were stocked out and customers stayed well past the ending time for the festival. 

Coal City community members have welcomed the Jones with open arms since their business first opened. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Cove’s new location, local businesses of all kinds showed up in support and customers congratulated them throughout the day. Furthermore, the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce and Industry honored The Cove as the recipient of the Entrepreneurs of the Year award.

“We can’t do it without our customers,” said Laura. “I wish there was something more than thank you because those words aren’t ever enough.”

If you have yet to stop by The Cove look forward to being welcomed with open arms and a seasonal rotating selection of nutritious drinks. Typically, Thursdays and Fridays are their busiest days but the new location has brought in more daily business. Any questions or recommendations about the drinks can be easily answered by Laura who is guaranteed to help find the best option for your day.

I am deeply grateful to Tyler and Laura for working with me through multiple months on this story. Their generosity and compassion knows no bounds and I hope to continue to see The Cove reach new heights.