Brewing success: Camellia Coffee blends flavor, friendship and business

Photos by Rachel Howard 

It is said that a good friend and a hot cup of coffee can make any day better. For best friends and coffee enthusiasts, Meagan Deese and Brianna Wilbanks, this belief was more than just a mantra; it was the driving force behind their entrepreneurial journey. Together, they embarked on a delightful venture, Camellia Coffee, a mobile coffee trailer named after the Alabama state flower.
The two met while working together at Hartselle Family Dentistry. With their enthusiasm running high, Meagan and Brianna wasted no time in turning their dream into reality. They researched extensively, sought advice from local entrepreneurs and fine-tuned their business plan: a process that took the better part of a year. 

The Camellia Coffee experience
Camellia Coffee’s mobile trailer, adorned with rustic charm and images of the delicate Alabama state flower, stands as a testament to the founders’ unwavering commitment to their roots.  

Initially inspired by a coffee truck in Oxford, Ala. called Southern Girl Coffee, their product is locally sourced from Shine on Coffee Roasters in Decatur. 

The Camellia, which is the bestseller, is a white chocolate toffeenut latte blends together both Meagan and Brianna’s favorite flavors and is served either iced or hot. Other specialty drinks include the Marble Mocha, Southern Pecan, Bama Blackberry, Honeysuckle and Caramel Cookie Macchiato.  

Camellia Coffee also offers classics with cold brews, lattes, both flavored and regular, Mochas, Americanos and Cappuccinos. For tea lovers, they offer several Piper and Leaf flavors including Briar Patch Brew, Pipermint Blues, Front Porch Special, Orchard Peach and Sassafras Strawberry.  

A unique blend  

One of the secrets behind Camellia Coffee’s success is undoubtedly the strong bond between Meagan and Brianna. They bring their individual strengths and personalities to the business, creating a harmonious blend that transcends mere friendship. While Meagan, a seasoned barista, works her magic behind the espresso machine, Brianna uses her flair for marketing to attract coffee aficionados from all walks of life. Meagan worked at Starbucks for 10 years before joining forces with Brianna to open the coffee trailer.

Community connection 

Camellia Coffee has quickly become more than just a coffee stop; it’s a community gathering spot. Meagan and Brianna strongly believe in giving back to the community that has embraced them wholeheartedly.   

The duo says that’s the beauty of a mobile coffee trailer. Camellia Coffee pops up at various events, farmers’ markets and even local festivals, spreading the joy of coffee wherever it goes. 

Camellia Coffee can be hired for corporate events, weddings showers, parties and pop ups. For their full menu, scheduling an event or more information, find the business on Instagram at @camelliacoffee.co