Opening a Main Street hospitality-based business in an uncertain economic environment might seem daunting to some, but Grounded owner Olivia Ogston remains undaunted.

She remains passionate about offering in-house pastries baked fresh every day, coffee and a wide variety of specialty beverages and gifts.

Last November, Ogston opened the coffee shop and bakery on West Main Street in downtown Marshalltown. The 2023 Marshalltown High School (MHS) graduate and local resident also intends to use her business to help develop connections for its customers.

“The name Grounded comes from the play on words associated with coffee grounds and the idea being rooted in something,” she said. “We all long for connection. I want my coffee shop to provide that for Marshalltown … in a world where there is a lot of uncertainty and a drift toward isolation, I want to create a place for people to experience connection and relationships.”

On any given day one sees customers in groups of two or more engaged in conversations while enjoying Grounded’s fare. It is also common to see people busy on laptops or reading a book.

“The top three pastries are … chocolate chip espresso scones, blueberry scones, and cinnamon rolls,” she said. “My gluten-free scones and cinnamon rolls have also gained a lot of traction and popularity.”

Grounded also serves specialty beverages.

“The top three drink specials right now are … Lucky Leprechaun – a honey and toasted marshmallow latte with marshmallow cold foam topped with lucky marshmallows – an Irish Cream latte, and Lavender Matcha with purple lavender cold foam,” she said.

Ogston, 21, said Grounded is unique because it offers a different atmosphere than numerous other coffee shops in the Marshalltown area.

“In my opinion, I stand out because I offer a different atmosphere than any of the other coffee shops,” she said. “I offer a place for people to gather and connect. Another difference is that I offer in-house-made pastries baked fresh every day! I also source my coffee beans from a roaster in Ames – Windmill. I try my best to locally source everything that I can,” she said.

The business has received many positive comments from customers on social media, commending its atmosphere, pastries, beverages, and service. One of Ogston’s employees places regular posts on Facebook promoting the business.

Ogston said a typical day begins at 5 a.m. or 5:30 a.m., when she begins baking pastries and other tasks in preparation for the day’s business.

“It is busy from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and continues throughout the morning,” she said. “We have a lull during the noon hour. We close at 2 p.m. I then begin preparations for the next day.”

Ogston is supported by six staff who work part-time. Additionally, her brother works two days a week. Ogston decided to open on a busy corner location — First Street and West Main Street — after a conversation with John Hall, CEO of the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce.

Ogston also received advice from a former employer, Aimee Deimerly-Snyder of Lillie Mae Chocolates, and Janelle Carter, the owner of the building.

The building previously housed Willard’s Furs and Fashions for decades, and the exterior sign remains. Her path to becoming a business owner began at age 13, she said.

“I would take walks downtown with my parents and other family and thought it would be neat to be part of that, “she said.

She also developed a strong interest in baking as a youth. After graduating from MHS, she attended Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids and studied culinary arts. That was followed by studying pastry-making in Italy last June and August.

“We are so proud of you, Olivia,” posted the Snyders on Facebook after Grounded opened.

Grounded, located at 36 W. Main St. in Marshalltown, is open 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Closed Sunday. For more information contact 641-654-8451 or via email groundedmtn@gmail.com or Groundedmtown on Facebook.