Java & Clay Earns 'Business Success Story' Award

, a locally owned pottery painting studio and coffee lounge in Gig Harbor, and owners Randy and Kelly Blue have been recognized as a “Business Success Story” at Washington Main Street’s Excellence on Main Awards Ceremony in Chelan on Wednesday. The ceremony was held in conjunction with RevitalizeWA, Washington State’s Preservation and Main Street Conference.

The Blues bought Java & Clay Café in June 2010 and immediately began work to stabilize and expand the well-recognized business. This included extending their hours until 8 p.m. and expanding their offerings to and live music in the lounge. They also purchased several electric bikes and began offering bike rentals in the downtown area.

Mary DesMarais, Executive Director of the , credits the success of Java & Clay Café to the Blues’ mantra of providing relevant products and excellent service. The Blues have focused on maintaining consistent hours, high quality staff and being relevant to their customers by increasing and expanding their offerings. This has paid off with a dramatic and impressive increase in sales over the past two years. 

“Randy and Kelly truly understand and support the concept of the ‘big picture’ by actively investing in the community and participating in local community events,” says DesMarais. “We are very excited to have one of our waterfront businesses receive this prestigious recognition from the Washington State Main Street Program.”

“We are delighted to recognize Java & Clay Café and owners Randy and Kelly Blue for their continued success and commitment to Gig Harbor,” said Sarah Hansen, Washington State Main Street Coordinator. “Randy and Kelly’s energy, attitude and business savvy are vital to the success of the Gig Harbor waterfront.  Their commitment to being involved with the Main Street program, local schools and clubs illustrates their broad dedication to the success and vitality of Gig Harbor.”