Ashanti Mayfield and Creamy Cone Cafe at a Crossroads

By Omari Salisbury 

Creamy Cone Cafe, a vibrant hub of joy and deliciousness in Rainier Beach, is facing a pivotal moment. Ashanti Mayfield, the heart and soul behind the beloved ice cream shop, recently opened up about her uncertainties in an Instagram post, leaving the community both concerned and eager to support. In the post, Ashanti shared her contemplation of four potential paths forward: selling the business, finding a new location (potentially partnering with another small business), transitioning into catering and events exclusively, or opening a GoFundMe to fund necessary building improvements.

Stepping into Creamy Cone Cafe is an experience that engages all the senses. From the vibrant colors and uplifting messages that adorn the walls to the tantalizing aroma of freshly made waffle cones, every detail is designed to create a sense of warmth and welcome. And then there's the ice cream – a delightful array of flavors made with care and attention to quality. Ashanti's commitment to providing excellent customer service and high-quality, affordable ice cream shines through in every scoop. In her own words, Creamy Cone Cafe is a place where "people could come in and just be a bright and cheery spot." It's a space filled with bright colors, affirmations on the walls, and an atmosphere of love and appreciation.

VIDEO: We very first visited Creamy Cone Cafe and met Ashanti in February 2023. (Converge Media Presents)

Seasonal Struggles: The Sweet and Sour of Ice Cream Economics

"It's a seasonal type of business," Ashanti explains, highlighting the inherent challenge of running an ice cream shop. The summer months bring a delightful frenzy of customers and booming sales, but the colder seasons paint a starkly different picture. The stark drop in income during fall and winter makes covering overhead costs like rent, utilities, and employee wages a constant juggling act, forcing Ashanti to adjust store hours during the slower winter months.

The overall cost of doing business and the ever-rising cost of supplies have only exacerbated these financial pressures. Ashanti candidly admits to reflecting on past decisions, recognizing the importance of prudent financial management during peak seasons to weather the lean times. While she's always eager to provide employment opportunities for local youth, she's also learning the tough lesson of balancing community support with business sustainability.

Building Woes and the Landlord's Reluctance

Ashanti's challenges extend beyond the financial realm. The building itself poses significant hurdles, with its outdated electrical system and lack of air conditioning. "If I plug in one more thing, everything will blow, literally," she reveals, painting a vivid picture of the precarious situation. The absence of AC during Seattle summers creates an uncomfortable environment for both customers and staff. Ashanti's frustration with the landlord's unwillingness to address these issues is evident: "They don't want to budge and pay for nothing." She mentioned that the space upgrade to proper electrical and HVAC would be the key driver for the potential GoFundMe campaign. 

VIDEO: Deaunte Damper caught up with Ashanti and Creamy Cone Cafe during the summer of 2024. (Back2Besa)

Community Love: A Source of Hope

Amidst these challenges, Ashanti has been deeply touched by the overwhelming support from the community since her Instagram post. "People want me to do what I need to do to stay here in this neighborhood," she says, her voice filled with gratitude. Many have rallied behind her, suggesting she opt for the GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the much-needed building upgrades and keep her doors open.

Catering: A Sweet Opportunity for Growth

One potential avenue for expansion and stability lies in Creamy Cone Cafe's catering business. "We've been successful with catering," Ashanti proudly states. "We get calls from the same corporations that are calling us back for their events." This recurring business from satisfied clients highlights the potential for growth in this area, offering a more consistent revenue stream throughout the year to buffer the cold and wet Seattle seasons. (Note to readers: See how your company can hire Creamy Cone to cater deserts at your next company function!)

A Flavorful Future: Rooted in Community and Representation

Ashanti's commitment to her community is unwavering. She expresses a deep desire to remain a Black-owned business in Rainier Beach, recognizing the importance of representation and the shifting demographics of the neighborhood. "I don't want to leave because I know I'll be replaced by something that's not for us," she asserts, highlighting the significance of maintaining spaces that cater to and celebrate the Black community.

A Call for Sweet Support

Creamy Cone Cafe is more than just an ice cream shop; it's a community gathering place, a source of joy, and a symbol of Ashanti's entrepreneurial spirit. As she navigates these challenges and contemplates the future, community support is paramount. By visiting the shop, spreading the word about its catering services, or contributing to a potential GoFundMe campaign, you can play a role in ensuring that Creamy Cone Cafe continues to be a sweet part of Rainier Beach for years to come.

A Sweet Future: Hope and Determination

Ashanti's journey with Creamy Cone Cafe symbolizes the resilience and determination of small business owners. Despite the challenges, her passion for her business and community remains strong. Hopefully, with continued support and a little ingenuity, Creamy Cone Cafe can weather this storm and continue to be a beloved fixture in Rainier Beach.

Creamy Cone Cafe

9433 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118

Hours: Wed - Sunday 3pm - 6pm

@CreamyConeCafe  

This article is part of Converge Media’s Support Black Business Campaign. Please click here to learn more and support!