This is my first blog as Barista Trainer. My name is Kendra and I just finished teaching my first training class. Sharing my love and passion for all things coffee for three hours with three amazing and receptive baristi from Stone Creek Coffee in Delafield and Oconomowoc just wasn't enough, so I decided to blog.

First, let me say that for a class starting at 7am with staff who drove 30 minutes to get here - the energy was amazing. Clearly a passion for learning overrides any lack of sleep.

In this class we focused on the basic skills it takes to craft latte art. To pour latte art a few things must be absolutely perfect - the espresso, the textured milk and quantity and quality of foam. After that, its all technique and commitment from the barista. The baristi today have homework: practice, practice, practice. Each barista will pass a practical test in the coming months that will assess their skill, speed, quality and overall beauty in the final cup.

I will frequently post snapshots from the training classes happening here at the Factory. Follow us on this journey.