We founded Monarch several years after graduating from The University of Alabama. A year prior, we created a Kickstarter to help fund some of the costs. In 30 days, the goal was exceeded and three months later we moved back to Tuscaloosa to open this community-powered coffee shop, Monarch.

We created Monarch to be a place that unreservedly embraces everybody and to be the excuse we all need to get out of the house, read a book for pleasure, play a board game or sip coffee with a friend. We hope the richness of Tuscaloosa and the individuality of people are appreciated here. We desire for all the dimensions of this town to be represented in this space.

From day one, you’ve made this endeavor to open Monarch the most rewarding adventure we’ve ever pursued. See you next time. 

Paul + Audrey Vermilyea