Your Event Coffee Experts

Our Origin Story

As former digital nomads, our travels weren't just about seeing the world; they were about discovering the unique soul of each city through its coffee shops. We found these spots to be vibrant hubs, offering both comfort and connection.

Returning to Tampa, our goal was clear: to contribute to our community's coffee culture. A mobile coffee cart emerged as the perfect solution – bringing the craft directly to you. The hurdle? No prior coffee business experience!

Serendipity struck during a family destination wedding to Italy. In Florence, we seized the opportunity to take an intensive barista course, mastering the authentic Italian techniques for specialty coffee. This hands-on learning was a game-changer, giving us the foundational skills and confidence we needed.

Upon our return, we connected with many amazing people to help us navigate the business, and in Fall of 2024, Bendecido Coffee was officially open! Now, nearly two years later, we're proud to boast two state-of-the-art coffee carts and a dedicated team of 8 professional baristas, all passionate about delivering exceptional service.

Our expertise lies in creating an authentic coffee shop atmosphere, no matter the venue. Whether you're planning a sophisticated wedding, a dynamic corporate event, a heartfelt gender reveal, a busy conference, or any special gathering, our on-demand coffee service is designed to impress your guests. We bring everything needed, transforming your space into a true coffee destination.

Curious about how Bendecido Coffee can elevate your upcoming event? Explore our site for more details and photos, or simply reach out – we'd love to chat about your needs and bring our passion for coffee directly to you.

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Meet the Team

  • Man smiling outdoors wearing a floral shirt with greenery in the background.

    πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§πŸ‡΅πŸ‡­ Matt Ashwood

    An Anglo-Filipino who earned his US citizenship in 2011. Matt co-founded Bendecido with the dream of elevating Tampa’s coffee culture and connecting unique communities.

  • Smiling woman with short hair, wearing a light-colored blouse and gold hoop earrings, outdoors.

    πŸ‡¨πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Nataly Ashwood

    As a cuban co-founder of Bendecido, Nataly loves making every individual feel special. And when that’s not with handcrafted coffee, it’s as a writer or a counselor.

  • A barista holding a cup at a coffee event, surrounded by attendees. A coffee grinder with beans is visible on the counter.

    πŸ‡΅πŸ‡·πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Robert Bradley

    A devoted father with Puerto Rican roots. Robert has a soft spot for animal documentaries and soulful 90s R&B.

  • Smiling person with glasses and long hair, wearing a navy blouse and a necklace, standing outdoors with a leafy background.

    πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡¨πŸ‡΅πŸ‡­ Kim Soria

    Proudly identifying as an Ecuadorian-Filipina, Kim brings a unique blend of cultures to her role as a young mother, violinist, and preschool teacher.

  • Man in a black shirt and baseball cap smiling outdoors.

    πŸ‡΅πŸ‡·πŸ‡¨πŸ‡Ί Julio "Jay" Suarez

    A future dermatologist with a sweet tooth. When Jay’s not day trading or perfecting his microfoam, this Cuban-Puerto Rican can be found reeling in his next big fish.

  • A woman smiling with arms crossed, wearing a light blue shirt and gold hoop earrings.

    πŸ‡―πŸ‡²πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Victoria

    Proudly American with Jamaican roots, Victoria was once a coffee skeptic but now considers herself a connoisseur. You can find her immersed in music, breaking a sweat with exercise, or expressing herself through dance.

  • Person wearing glasses and a sweater, standing on a sunlit path.

    πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΈπŸ‡΅πŸ‡· Jackie Ellis

    A Boricua at heart that’s been mainlining coffee since toddlerhood. When not behind the bar, she channels her creative talents through a camera lens, grooving on her six-string or chasing after her feline companions.