hi! I’m Carlee!

I’ve dreamed of owning a coffee company as long as I can remember. Since college, I’ve worked on and off as a barista, learning the ins and outs of coffee and what makes a great cup. I’m the type who jumps at any chance to check out a new coffee shop—always tasting, always learning, and always inspired. I love how a good cup can bring people together, and nothing makes me happier than seeing someone’s face light up with that first sip.

At the start of this year, I was burnt out—just not dreaming anymore. Someone asked me, “Carlee, what’s a dream you’ve always had?” Without hesitation, I said, “I’ve always wanted my own coffee company.” Her response? “Okay… then what’s stopping you?” (Fair point.)

I started sketching out a budget for a small coffee cart and saving what I could. Meanwhile, I kept driving past this quirky little blue Kei truck that seemed to wink at me every time I passed. One morning, she finally popped up on Facebook Marketplace, and an idea hit me: what if I built my coffee cart on the bed of that truck? Two weeks later, she was mine. I named her Lil Blu—and together we’ve been rolling ever since.

This journey has stretched and challenged me in the best ways, but God keeps showing me the next right step, especially when I feel like giving up. Kei Coffee Co is more than just a business—it’s the dream I thought I’d lost, brought back to life one cup at a time.

My goal is simple: serve up drinks that taste as good as they look and create moments that make people smile. Whether it’s at a neighborhood pop-up, a local market, or your special event, Lil Blu and I are here to share a little joy in every cup.