Goose Creek Coffee

For Tilly Dillehay, Goose Creek Coffee was always more than just a business idea—it was a way to create a space where her Hartsville community could come together. Nestled in the town’s historic square, her vision was clear: a coffee shop that wasn’t just about great drinks and food, but also about connection, warmth, and a sense of belonging. 

Turning that vision into reality wasn’t easy, though. In early 2022, Tilly reached out to the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Volunteer State Community College. She came with big dreams but knew she needed guidance to make it all happen. That’s where TSBDC Center Director Charles Alexander stepped in. 

Tilly dove into TSBDC’s Starting a Small Business workshops and worked hand-in-hand with Charles to build a strong foundation for Goose Creek Coffee. Together, they tackled everything from identifying startup capital to refining cash flow projections and crafting a business plan that was practical and sustainable. 

By mid-2023, Tilly, her husband, and a group of close friends pulled their resources together to bring Goose Creek Coffee to life. As managing partner, Tilly took charge, with her friend Annie Martin stepping in as on-site manager. They hired seven employees, prepared the team with documented barista training, and handled critical operational details like OSHA compliance and marketing strategies. 

When Goose Creek Coffee officially opened its doors in July 2023, it quickly became a local favorite. The shop has transformed into a gathering place for Hartsville residents, reflecting Tilly’s and Annie’s passion for fostering community. Whether customers stop in for expertly brewed coffee, a freshly baked pastry, or simply a warm smile, Goose Creek Coffee is now a vibrant part of the local economy. 

“Charles was a great help to us!” Tilly shared. “The courses and worksheets he sent me were a huge part of what set us up to make it through our first year in the black! You just don’t know what you don’t know when you’re starting a business, and it was great to have someone to go to with my questions. If he didn’t know the answer, he knew where to send me.” 

The TSBDC continues to follow up with Tilly every few months to ensure Goose Creek Coffee’s ongoing success. For Tilly, the future is all about giving back—supporting her community while growing her business into something even more impactful. 

Goose Creek Coffee isn’t just a shop. It’s a cornerstone for Hartsville, where every cup served brings the town a little closer together.