About Us
Get to know us
Welcome to The White Elk Coffee House! We are excited to share our story with you. Originally known as the Northwoods Gallery, this space has been a cherished part of our community for decades under the ownership of John Zollars. His dedication to fostering creativity and connection has laid a strong foundation for what we have envisioned
In the spring of 2022, the Brinker family, led by Nina and Ben Brinker, took the reins of this beloved property. With a passion for community and a vision for transformation, they set out to create a unique experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
By 2024, The White Elk Coffee House evolved into a vibrant hub, featuring not just our cozy coffee shop but also three beautifully updated cabins on the property. One cabin is dedicated to retail, where you can find unique local goods, while another serves as our roasting space, allowing us to bring you the freshest coffee possible. The third cabin is home to our special line of White Owl Candles, lovingly handmade by Nina Brinker herself
At The White Elk, we are committed to providing a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can relax, enjoy quality coffee, and discover local treasures. Join us in celebrating community, creativity, and the warmth of connection. We can’t wait to welcome you into our space!
Our Story
Welcome to The White Elk Coffee, where every cup tells a story! Ben and Nina Brinker's journey began in the city of Ann Arbor, Michigan, where they first crossed paths in elementary school. Little did they know that this friendship would blossom into a lifelong partnership
After navigating the adventures of education and life, they found themselves reunited and ready to start a family. Their son, Andrew Brinker, became the heart of the family, and as they watched him grow, they dreamed of a life filled with nature, community, and connection. Their dreams led them to the serene beauty of Northern Michigan, where fate smiled upon them, and they discovered the perfect place in Atlanta Michigan.
As Andrew proudly embraced his role as an "Atlanta Husky," Ben and Nina reflected on their extensive experiences in the retail, service and food industry. Inspired by a desire to create something special for their town, they embarked on a new adventure: opening their very own coffeehouse. The White Elk Coffeehouse was born out of a love for quality brews and a commitment to their community.
Situated on the 45th parallel, The White Elk Coffee pays homage to the past while embracing fresh ideas and innovations. With each cup of coffee, they strive to create a warm and welcoming space where friends can gather, stories can be shared, and memories can be made
As they continue to grow and evolve, Ben and Nina are excited about the many possibilities that lie ahead. Join them on this journey at The White Elk Coffeehouse, where every sip is a celebration of family, community, and the simple joys of life. Welcome to their little coffeehouse!