By Brandy Centolanza

Contributing writer

A Hampton coffee shop recently expanded with the opening of a second location in Carrollton. 

A ribbon cutting and grand opening was held Jan. 27 for Sweet Beans Coffee & Roasting, which took over the space formerly occupied by 54 Beans at 13478 Carrollton Blvd.

Sweet Beans is co-owned by Mallory Rugg and Heather Amodeo, friends who first met years ago through their ties with the Navy. Rugg first became interested in the coffee industry while working as a barista in Georgia during her time with the Navy.

“I’ve always had a love for coffee and couldn’t wait to own my own coffeehouse someday,” she said. 

After Rugg left the military, she approached Amodeo about joining her in opening Sweet Beans. The pair opened their first location along Commander Shepard Boulevard in Hampton in the spring of 2019.

“I thought if we can make it through our first year during a pandemic, we were going to be successful,” Rugg said.

Sweet Beans specializes in a variety of coffees, teas, hot cocoa and smoothies, as well as sandwiches, baked goods and other treats, all made in house. In December, the coffee shop began roasting its own coffee beans.

“It’s been a lovely addition that we think makes us different from everywhere else,” Amodeo said. “We also make our own flavored syrups for our coffees.”

The company employs 11 baristas between both locations who enjoy getting to know their guests.

“We go above and beyond when it comes to customer service,” Rugg said. “Our baristas always greet everyone with a smile. We want customers to feel welcomed and valued for however long they stay.”

The duo looks forward to developing relationships with their new patrons in Carrollton.

“That’s been my favorite part, meeting people from all over the place,” Amodeo said. “We’ve met people from France and from elsewhere who are in the military. I love seeing the variety of people who walk through our doors.”

Amodeo and Rugg are also planning numerous events for the community, including trivia nights, karaoke nights, paint nights and book clubs. 

“We’ve heard from people that this is something that they feel is needed in Carrollton, and we are excited that we are able to provide it,” Rugg said. “Everyone in Carrollton has been so warm, welcoming, and supportive. We are excited to be a part of the community.”

For information on Sweet Beans, visit https://www.facebook.com/sweetbeanscs/.