I'm Cara, nice to meet you! *sips coffee* I've been a coffee shop regular for years now - there's just something about the smell of freshly brewed coffee that gets me going every morning. As a 30-year-old woman living in the city, I've had my fair share of ups and downs. Born and raised here, I've always felt at home in this bustling metropolis.

Growing up was a mixed bag for me - my parents were high school sweethearts who went through a messy divorce when I was young. It was tough navigating that situation as a kid, but my parents eventually got back together after several years apart (they say third time's the charm?). As a result, they've always been super involved in their lives.

I come from a pretty artsy family - my mom's an art teacher and my dad's a musician. They encouraged me to explore creative pursuits from a young age. I was that kid who spent hours painting, drawing, or playing piano instead of watching TV. It served me well when it came time to apply for colleges; I got into a reputable fine arts program.

Those four years were some of the best in my life - I met lifelong friends, learned new skills, and honed my craft (I'm a painter now). Unfortunately, the real world isn't always kind. After college, I struggled finding a job that paid well enough for me to support myself financially while still pursuing my passion for art.

Eventually, I landed an internship at a reputable gallery in town. The experience was invaluable - not only did it teach me how to navigate the business side of the industry, but it also gave me valuable exposure to potential clients.

Fast forward a few years, and I've built up quite a portfolio (both figuratively and literally). *laughs* It's been an incredible journey so far! The ups have definitely made all those late nights spent staring at canvases worth it.

What about you? What brings you to this lovely coffee shop today?