Lisa Shek-Munro opened Little Things Café in Dundee after “escaping” the stresses of corporate life.
She was determined to create a space where people could slow down, connect with others and bond over coffee and cake.
Now, to celebrate its 6th birthday, the popular Reform Street café is having a relaunch.
Why Little Things owner craved slower pace of life
Mum-of-two Lisa was keen to incorporate more of her Asian heritage into Little Things’ food and drink menu.
The tasty new creations include matcha and strawberry cupcakes, black sesame and peanut butter cookies and ube cheesecake cookies.
Chai and matcha green teas are also on the menu.
Six years on, Lisa revealed she wanted to take stock and make sure she was fully realising the business’ potential.
Lisa, 39, who owns the café with business consultant husband Lindsay, said: “I spent a number of years climbing the corporate ladder and working long hours.
“I was burnt out and found I was really craving slower moments with loved ones.
“So, I decided to create a space for just that. A space where people can enjoy the little things that matter the most in life.
“I stepped off the corporate treadmill and opened Little Things.”
Sadly, a few days before the cafe opened in 2019, Lisa suffered a miscarriage.
She admits that throwing herself into the business was a distraction from the heartache but she was in “survival mode” for a number of years.
Now that her son Mason is four and daughter Emily is two, she finally feels able to give more of herself to Little Things.
Hong Kong and Vietnam roots
Lisa, who lives in Perth, continued: “The reason for the relaunch is partly because I am now in a place where my family life is not quite as hectic.
“I have a bit of space to think about what I want for Little Things going forward.
“This is my second shot and I am confident it will be great.
“I want to be able to offer more than I was able to offer to begin with in this new chapter.
“My father was from Hong Kong and my mum is Vietnamese and I want my Asian heritage to be more of an influence.
“We will be including more Asian-inspired bakes and drinks and the café environment has been revamped.
“In Asian culture, preparing food and eating with family and friends is so important.”
She added: “I turn 40 next month and it definitely feels like a period of positive change for me.
“It has always been about creating a business I am passionate about and providing people with something a bit different.
“We have a great team of staff who understand my vision and work very hard.
“Dundee is a great place to have a café and we have lots of regulars who will hopefully like the changes.”
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