happy cup coffee
people with potential
We feel strongly, that important and serious subject matters need to be presented in a way that is charming, endearing, approachable, and shareable. When we crafted the idea of having folks with developmental disabilities pack and sell coffee we had no idea it would get this big, this fast. It has been a number one selling coffee product at several Portland area Whole Foods Markets, and that is something to be happy about.
Brand Conception
Art Direction
Copywriting
Graphic Design
Video & Content Production
Website Design
Every bag of Happy Cup Coffee improves the lives of those with developmental disabilities.
People with disabilities, are people with potential. From the beginning this project was framed as an opportunity to illustrate their capabilities and enthusiasm to work, contribute, find meaning and have pride. After 10 years, and tens of thousands of bags, that message is shared and reinforced every day.
What’s in a name?
Happy Cup employees chose the names for the original blends, adding to the DNA of the brand and their participation at every level:
A brand of positivity was further reinforced with an attitude that the cup was half full. It felt refreshing to have whimsy and joy applied to a serious subject. Employees participate in all aspects of the process. Bags were labeled with employees names and date of creation.
We explored retail treatments for Happy Cup, their first café opened in City Hall in 2014.
Happy Cup enjoyed a fantastic amount of earned media without any professional PR help. Local and national news helped propel them to the 10 years of success that they continue to enjoy.
