Nyshaun Harvey, founder and owner of Latté Lounge, never imagined she would one day own a coffee shop, let alone during one of the most challenging times for small businesses. A lifelong coffee drinker but with no prior barista experience, Harvey opened the first Latté Lounge location in November 2020, in the midst of a global health crisis and on the heels of widespread small business closures. What was originally a six-month timeline turned into 14 months of navigating supply chain delays and permit approvals. Despite the obstacles, Harvey pressed forward, opening her coffee shop at just 23 years old—while already running another successful small business, Kingdom Kids Learning Center (KKLC), a faith-based childcare facility she founded at the age of 19.

Born and raised in Florissant, Missouri, Harvey chose to plant the first Latté Lounge location in the community she has always called home. Determined to learn the art of coffee making, she enrolled in barista courses and immersed herself in the craft. While it was initially difficult to gain traction in the local coffee scene, Kaldi’s Coffee Roasting Co. believed in her vision and became an enthusiastic partner, supplying high-quality beans to help bring her dream to life.
 
For Harvey, coffee represents more than just a morning ritual—it’s a deeply personal part of her journey. At 14, she experienced the devastating loss of her father, a trauma that brought on severe migraines, making everyday activities unbearable. During this time, a caramel macchiato with an extra shot from Starbucks unexpectedly provided relief, with the caffeine helping to manage her migraines. Coffee became both a comfort and a necessity. Years later, when she opened Latté Lounge, she created a warm, community-focused space where others could find peace, fellowship, and a sense of God's presence—just as coffee and faith had once brought her comfort.
 
In addition to running two thriving businesses, Harvey is also an author and innovator. In 2017, the same year KKLC opened, she published a children’s book titled I Am, filled with affirmations that promote self-worth and self-love. She also introduced a complementary line of I Am Dolls, each designed to inspire confidence in young children. Both the book and dolls are available at KKLC, Latté Lounge locations, and online, further spreading Harvey’s mission of empowerment and positivity.

Through Latté Lounge, Harvey has created not just a coffee shop, but a safe, welcoming space where her community can gather, share, and grow. Her journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of dreams realized in service to others.