In 2020, Amber Gordon walked away from her corporate 9-to-5 with a vision that felt bold, personal, and wildly ambitious—to create a space that blended elevated hospitality with everyday comfort. Fueled by creativity, grit, and an eye for design, she brought Wake Coffee Co. to life as a boutique coffee and cocktail bar where community and intention take center stage.

Her husband, Tan Gordon, plays a vital role behind the scenes as co-founder and VP. With a background in tech and entrepreneurship, Tan handles all things technology and security. His operational support helps keep Wake running seamlessly while Amber leads the heart and vision of the brand.

Wake Coffee Co. has grown into more than just a coffee bar—it’s a curated experience. From trendsetting lattes and cocktails to thoughtful charcuterie, boutique co-working and private events, Wake is where creativity meets connection.

Now, with the launch of their fully branded mobile coffee trailer, Amber and Tan are taking Wake on the road—bringing their signature drinks, snacks, and charm to events across Charlotte and beyond—building a brand that wakes people up to what’s possible.

With Gratitude,

The Gordon's

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AMBER GORDON

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Amber Gordon is the founder and creative force behind Wake Coffee Co., Charlotte’s award-winning coffee and cocktail bar known for its elevated hospitality, curated drinks, boutique co-working space, and refined events. With a passion for design, intentional service, and building community, Amber has turned Wake into a vibrant local destination where connection, creativity, and quality come first.

Prior to launching Wake, Amber spent over a decade working in leadership roles across retail, hospitality, and brand development, giving her a sharp eye for operations, guest experience, and culture-building. In 2022, she brought her long-time dream to life by creating a multi-use space that blends café culture with champagne flair — all rooted in faith, excellence, and community.

In addition to running Wake Coffee Co., Amber mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through the process of launching brick-and-mortar businesses and building brands with purpose. She is passionate about helping others pursue their calling while navigating the realities of entrepreneurship and motherhood with grit, grace, and bold vision.

Amber lives in Charlotte with her husband and their two daughters. When she’s not behind the bar or leading a strategy session, you’ll likely find her at CrossFit, treasure hunting at local thrift shops, or out on the lake soaking in the sun with her family. She finds joy in cultivating community, curating unforgettable experiences, and building spaces where people feel welcomed, inspired, and fully themselves.

Fun facts about Amber: She launched Wake Coffee Co. and had a baby in the same season, they're just days apart (because doing just one major life thing wasn’t enough). And despite owning a coffee bar, she won’t let a single sip of coffee touch her lips until she’s had at least 40 oz. of water—hydration first, always.

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TAN GORDON

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Tan Gordon is the behind the scenes at Wake Coffee Co.—the one making sure everything runs smoothly, reliably, and on point. That lightning-fast internet you love? That’s Tan. The security systems that make you feel safe without even realizing it? Also Tan. The reason your Zoom call doesn’t drop while you co-work under chandeliers? Yep—still Tan.

Born and raised in Jamaica, Tan brings a deep-rooted work ethic, sharp systems thinking, and calm leadership to every project he touches. With years of experience in telecommunications, systems integration, and tech infrastructure, he’s known for anticipating problems before they happen and building solutions that scale.

Outside of Wake, he runs a successful tech business in Charlotte, NC, and is deeply connected in the world of networking specialists and systems integrators. He’s all about building strong partnerships, designing smart systems, and ensuring the backbone of every business is just as polished as the front of house.

Tan lives in Charlotte with his wife and two daughters and loves calling Mountain Island Lake home—where lake days, quiet mornings, and family time are part of the rhythm. He’s deeply rooted in his faith and meets with his men’s group twice a month, a space he values for connection, growth, and pouring into others. A natural connector, Tan is always gathering people and creating authentic community wherever he goes.

Fun fact about Tan: He once played on Jamaica’s national water polo team—so he’s just as comfortable in deep water as he is troubleshooting complex systems. Calm, driven, and fiercely loyal, Tan brings the same energy to fatherhood and friendship as he does to every business he helps build.