MANSFIELD — When Paul and Tammy Kemerling opened Relax, It’s Just Coffee at 105 N. Main St., Mansfield didn’t have a true independent coffee shop. A few had tried, but none had lasted.
That challenge became his inspiration. A longtime fan of indie coffee culture, the couple saw where others had stumbled and believed he could create something different — a shop that was never just about the coffee.
Instead, Relax has grown into a neighborhood hub. Students, professionals, artists and neighbors gather daily in what Kemerling calls an “all access atmosphere.” Customers come to work, study, create and of course, relax. Locally roasted coffee and tea are just the start. Local art and live entertainment help make the shop feel like part café, part living room.
Kemerling’s vision reflects his background. Raised in Columbus, he studied at Ohio Dominican University and Miami University before spending more than 20 years in nonprofit leadership. That experience in community building carried into the coffee shop.
“We serve the whole community, middle school to senior living, students to professionals,” Kemerling said.
This fall, Relax will roll out seasonal drink specials, a reminder that while the coffee brings people in, the community keeps them coming back.
For more information and to order Relax coffee to your door, visit relaxitsjustcoffee.com or follow @relaxitsjustcoffee on social media.
This Neighbors Helping Neighbors business spotlight is a collaborative effort to make sure downtown Mansfield businesses don’t just survive Main Street construction — they thrive!
We encourage you to make an extra effort to support the heart of our community — small businesses.
Before you head downtown — check the Neighbors Helping Neighbors page for exclusive downtown deals and discounts you can enjoy right now! 👇