The shops opened last week.

“We love having the opportunity to serve the hospital staff as well as patients and families at the hospital,” Mary Dowling, Beacon House CEO, said in a press release. “Everyone needs a place to refresh, and these two shops are designed to do just that.”

Amy Denman, manager of Coffee for a Cause is elated by the new location and high-profile corridor.

“It’s been a huge success since day one,” she said in the release. “We’re so proud of our baristas for the constant hustle to make everything from caramel macchiatos to iced cappuccinos. We are also delighted to feature local pastries and snacks from Huron Mountain, Babycakes and Towners and provide a variety of choices for break time refreshments.”

Pictured from left: Hugh Miller, Beacon House board member; Todd Horton, Beacon House board member; the Rev. Marlin Kilpatrick, UPHS spiritual care coordinator; Mary Tavernini Dowling, Beacon House CEO; Brian Sinotte, UPHS market president and UPHS-Marquette CEO; Amy Denman, Coffee for a Cause manager; Margaret Parker, Beacon House program manager; Renee Prince, Beacon House board president; Sue LeGalley, Beacon House board vice president; and Mary VanTilburg, LSCP director of business development.

In the gift shop, manager Patricia Wolff has created a blend of whimsical, practical and inspirational items for both the décor and merchandise offerings.

“We love featuring Michigan products as well as U.P.-crafted items,” she said. “Our fun and affordable clothing has been flying off the racks as well. We couldn’t be more delighted by our location and how easily accessible we are for both hospital staff and patients’ families, right on the main corridor. The public is invited to stop in and view our unique offerings, too!”

Both shops were just built, with custom cabinetry and layouts provided by UP Health System designers and architects.

“Today is a great day to say thank you to Brian Sinotte and UPHS for giving us the opportunity to create this entertaining way of fundraising every day for our cause,” Dowling said. “Our goal is to add a little excitement, beauty or fun to the day, and we’re grateful that our proceeds from our efforts have another positive impact: helping to build our new Beacon House.”