Growing up in Whitehaven in the ‘90s, Mary Olds used the term “muggin” to explain a particular attitude or air — a Memphis vibe filled with energy. When she and her husband decided to open a coffee house, the slang term immediately sprang to mind. Plus, it fits perfectly with the concept of a mug of coffee! Meet the coffee-brewing, fun-loving new FACE of Memphis — Muggin Coffeehouse co-owner, Mary Olds.
Tell us a little about your background.
I have four brothers and no sisters; my mom was a homemaker, and my dad worked full-time at the U.S. Postal Service Bulk Mail Center. As a kid, I always wanted to hang out with my brothers, play in the ditch, ride our bikes, and go to the woods behind our neighbor’s house. I was a good student in school, just “talked too much” (that’s what my teachers told my parents all the time!).
I met my then-boyfriend and now husband, Ken Olds, in junior high at John P. Freeman Optional School. We went to separate high schools in Memphis but joined back up at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in Chattanooga.
What brought you back to Memphis?
I had a desire for our children to grow up with family around them. At the same time, I wanted the work I did in my career and my volunteer work to go toward the city I loved — Memphis.
Why did you and your husband decide to open a coffee shop?
When we moved back to Memphis, we were both working in our home community of Whitehaven. We both loved coffee and faced the same problem every day: no access to coffee anywhere nearby. Now, I know there are bigger problems in the community than getting my 2 p.m. caffeine fix, but it was more than that. Coffee is more than just a beverage; it represents a way for people to connect.
Can you tell us more about that?
There is something communal and ritualistic about coffee. I love the familiarity of it and how it makes you feel like you’re “home” wherever you experience it. I wanted to be able to share that with people time and time again.
What do you love most about working in the restaurant/hospitality industry?
I love it when people try us for the first time, and we make their day. The standards in hospitality are pretty high but simple … be nice and don’t disappoint. I love it when we nail both.
How has the Memphis community supported you?
The independent coffee shop community here in Memphis is so supportive. I believe that support is a reflection of what coffee is — its community. Everyone has been so helpful, from roasters to distributors to shop owners. I hope we can do the same for the next local coffee shop to open.
How do you feel your business reflects Memphis culture?
Well, for one, it’s in the name. There is nothing more Memphis than Muggin. We wanted to ingrain elements of our childhood in the names of the drinks and roasts. Going beyond that, music is a big part of Memphis culture, so you will always hear tunes and songs playing that will send good vibes when you walk into the store.
How have you grown your business since opening?
In September 2023, we opened our second location in Uptown. We have also signed on to open a third store in the new Northside Square project in North Memphis. Our goal is to increase our reach in communities throughout Memphis and strengthen where we are.
What has been your biggest challenge in opening or running Muggin?
Starting out, the biggest challenge was funding. Fortunately, we were able to connect with River City Capital; they took a chance on our vision and helped us realize the dream with us. The biggest challenge in maintaining Muggin is finding the balance between meeting customer demand and staying true to the vision of Muggin. Coffee should not be ordered through a speaker and handed through a window; however, that is the world we have become accustomed to.
What is your all-time favorite Muggin concoction?
My all-time favorite is the Bourbon Macchiato. I love the layers. It is aesthetically pleasing, and the espresso on top hits just right.
What are a few of your favorite go-to spots in Memphis?
I love anything local, so here are a few of my faves: Trap Fusion for the Oxtails or the Fish Sandwich Plate, TacoNganas for the Shrimp Taco and the Barbacoa Taco, and The Public Bistro for their Chicken Sandwich.
How do you make time for yourself?
I’ll let you know when I find it!
I enjoy the simple things like sitting at the table together to eat with my family, drinking my coffee at home instead of in the car on the way to work, and listening to music during wind-down time.
What is your best piece of advice?
Live life with no Plan B. I say that from the aspect of going after your dreams with everything you have. If you fail, take the lesson and regroup.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
Obviously coffee! But also cozy socks and Spotify.
**********
For more inspiring FACES from Memphis and beyond, check out our archives!
Your StyleBlueprint AI Companion
