Siblings brewing up success at Cambria County’s James Leigh Coffee
The mobile trailer is taking reservations for your next event or party
In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, a passion-driven venture can often yield the most satisfying results. James Leigh Coffee, a unique coffee business, is a testament to this concept. Siblings and co-owners, Jesse Uncapher and Moriah Zybura, shared how the business got started and on its path to success.
Brother and sister duo are chasing their dreams, teaming up to launch James Leigh Coffee
Vision meets business plan
James Leigh Coffee’s journey began with a vision to create something unique. “We wanted to work for ourselves, start small and grow ourselves,” Uncapher said. “We were mature enough and ready to venture out on our own.”
Our coach, Blake Fleegle, has been awesome, I knew nothing about writing a business plan or financial projections, but Blake helped us walk through and guided us
With a solid background in the restaurant business spanning 17 years, the duo felt equipped to tackle a new challenge. “Jesse knows the ins and outs of the industry and is very instrumental in getting this going,” Zybura added. “He has community connections, which our families could benefit from.”
Startup Alleghenies’ help in the opening of James Leigh Coffee was invaluable. “Our coach, Blake Fleegle, has been awesome,” Zybura said. “I knew nothing about writing a business plan or financial projections, but Blake helped us walk through and guided us.”
Passion for the American dream
Freedom and happiness are the motivators behind the pair’s interest in entrepreneurship. “The American dream is still there; it just takes a little more work,” Uncapher said.
For Zybura, the goal was to provide their families with an opportunity to escape the struggles they had faced. “I work full-time as an Occupational Therapist,” she said. “This opportunity will benefit our families and provide financially as we build and grow it.”
Launching a business always comes with uncertainty, and James Leigh Coffee was no exception. “We didn’t know… but we knew this was a way to get into entrepreneurship,” Uncapher confessed. “Coffee costs are low, and profit margins are high.”
“Plus, coffee is in demand and makes people happy,” Zybura added. “The desire for quality coffee was evident, and the market was in our favor. Our fresh, quality roasts set us apart from other coffee shops.”
Specialty drinks made with hand-selected coffee roasts are the secret sauce for James Leigh
The secret sauce—quality roasts and sibling bond
The secret sauce behind their business success lies in their commitment to quality. “Hand-selected roasts, crafted with care, set us apart from big corporations or store-bought coffee,” Uncapher stated. “We believe it’s better than all our competition. We get excellent feedback and there’s nothing like us here.”
Zybura said it’s not just the quality of the roasts but also the process of making each cup. “Consistency and craftsmanship ensure that each drink is made the best it can be,” she said.
The partnership between the siblings is another distinction. Uncapher and Zybura work seamlessly together and provide mutual support, which they believe will be a key factor in their success. “I am happy to be doing this with my brother,” Zybura said. “We complement each other well and support each other. It will be what helps make us successful.”
“The brother and sister duo brings a unique dynamic,” Fleegle said. “Both Jesse and Moriah bring their unique skillsets to contribute to the success of their business.”
Success and future forecast
Since opening in August 2023, James Leigh Coffee has been on a steady climb to success. “In just a few short months, it has started to take off,” Zybura shared. “We’ve been recognized, attended staff appreciation events and received positive feedback.”
After planning for eight long months and the quick success they’ve seen, they are excited about what’s next. “The future holds exciting plans, including getting a trailer approved for Allegheny County and eventually establishing a brick-and-mortar store in Pittsburgh,” Uncapher shared.
For those considering their own entrepreneurial journey, they offered this advice: “Just do it. Don’t be afraid. Trust in God, have faith, and put one foot forward every day,” Uncapher said.
Zybura added, “As long as you have passion, there is never a reason not to start.”
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
