McKenzie, Tenn. – Sweet Jordan’s Coffee Co. has announced it is opening a second location–in McKenzie. Sweet Jordan’s has been operating in Paris for several years.
Sweet Jordan’s will bring its mission to Carroll County in the first quarter of 2022 in their 2500 square foot renovated facility. The new location will be located at 15172 Highland Dr, Suite 1, McKenzie, TN 3820. Some of their menu items to offer will be lattes, cappuccinos, blended espresso, fruit smoothies, cookies, scones, and many other items.
Sweet Jordan’s Coffee Shop was created by Jordan, a young man with Down Syndrome, and is
staffed by workers with special needs. The coffee company values inclusive employment and is
raising awareness throughout the community by showing the capabilities of “differently-abled”
individuals.
“We know that God is leading us to open Sweet Jordan’s Coffee Co. in McKenzie,” according to Tommie
St. John (Jordan’s Mom), “There is a special needs community that we believe will benefit from the
mission of Sweet Jordan’s by focusing on abilities not disabilities.” The Paris location is located at 849 Volunteer Drive.
Sweet Jordan’s Coffee Co. is more than just a coffee shop; the special team members are the heart and soul of their company. The St. John family’s hope is that by visiting one of Sweet Jordan’s locations, that one would feel blessed
by each of their special team members.
“We are so excited about Sweet Jordan’s decision to locate in McKenzie. So many people here are
regulars at their shop in Paris, and we are delighted they have chosen McKenzie as another home
for their successful business. We are looking forward to their opening, and welcome them with
open arms into our community.” according to McKenzie Mayor Jill Holland.
The St. John family’s goal is that one’s sweet tooth is satisfied and one’s spirit is filled after leaving Sweet
Jordan’s.
Carroll County Mayor Joseph Butler said, ““It is with great excitement that we welcome the Sweet Jordan’s family into McKenzie and Carroll County! For years in Paris, we have been able to enjoy their great food, fun environment, and have
been able to support their special mission. It is a blessing to now be able to support this great local
business in both sweet treats and in their important mission as they grow into Carroll County.”
Jordan’s Story (from his perspective):
“I was given less than 5% chance of living. That’s what the doctor told my mom and dad when my
mom was just 4 months pregnant with me. Looking back now it is so evident to my family and I that
God had other plans for me. You see, not only did I have major medical issues going on with me
that would need special attention, but my parents were also told that I had Downs Syndrome.
“Several people advised my young parents that I should just be aborted, after all what kind of life
did I have to look forward to right? Perhaps that’s what the world thinks but thank God, my parents
knew better. They knew that God has a special plan for ALL His children…even me. God used my
life to change their minds and hearts and I believe that 26 years later, He is using my life again to
change something else…my community. I believe I and others like me can do anything if given the
chance.
“I love hugging people. I also love cooking with my dad. I make some of the best chocolate chip
cookies you’ll ever put in your mouth, and just wait until you taste my ice cream. I am so excited to
tell you that I’m opening a Baked Goodies and Ice Cream Shop. This Baked Goodies and Ice
Cream Shop is none like you’ve probably ever seen before because most employees will be just
like me…special. I’m going to enlist some of my friends who are just like me in some ways, but we
are very much the same in the fact that we have something to contribute to society and our lives
have value and meaning, just like everybody else. So that’s what we’re going to be doing at Sweet
Jordan’s, cuz you see “sweetness” comes in all forms and fashions and shapes and sizes. I dare
you not to smile after getting a big ole’ bear hug from me and others like me and we serve you
some of our cookies, breads and ice creams. So, it is my prayer that you will come see me and all
of our special team members at one of our now two locations.”
Photo: Jordan St. John, middle, with McKenzie Mayor Jill Holland and Carroll County Mayor Joseph Butler.