I get to hear "Thank You" every day.

My name is Kaori Suzuki from Tochigi. I went to a hair styling school, and used to work as a hair stylist. I love drinking, and now I'm studying wine.

Q: Your relationship to hospitality?

Everyone likes to be thanked, and I get to hear "Thank You" every day. The customer is right in front of you, so you can immediately see the fruits of your labor.

Q: How did you come to join Cafe Company?

I used to work as a hair stylist while going to styling school. However, one day I decided to quit and got a part-time job at WIRED CAFE Omiya. That a was a big turning point in my life.

Hair dressers practice for years to perfect their craft, and that craft is mainly what the customers come for. But for a cafe, it's more your personality and feelings for service that are the main point. With just a small gesture or smile, you can make the customer happy, and turn them into regulars.

One day I had a customer that looked a bit chilly, and so I brought her a blanket to keep her warm. Later as she was leaving she told me that she was having a bad day, but my kindness had brought her spirits up. I didn't think much of bringing her the blanket, but then I realized the power of one act of kindness!

I used to work as a hair stylist.

Q: What are you doing now?

Currently, I'm working at Shibuya's MOJA in the HOUSE. We get a businessmen, creators, university student, mother's with young children, and all types of people coming in every day. I always learn a lot from all of the different people that I get to meet!

Q: What does community mean to you?

It's something that we can't live without and something that has infinate possibilities. By creating a community, you can turn a simply space into someone's home. It always amazes me that I get to work and take part in being part of a place that means so much to so many people. It feels like a miracle. I want to always continue building community.

Q: A word for those thinking of joining Cafe Company?

There are going to be a lot of hard and tough times. I've had my fair share myself! But at Cafe Company, when those times come, there'll always be someone next to you to help you through. A coworker, or even a customer. It's a tough job, but I hope that you can join us soon!