Aerial Coffee Co.
Interactive 3D website
2025
Arizona's standout local coffee shop
If you're from Mesa, Arizona, or you've visited, you've likely driven past that small, standalone drive-through at the corner of Power Rd. & Main St. For nearly two decades, it was a shaved ice stand. Then, a brave business owner kickstarted their dream.
Meet the owner
Thorne, a former bartender turned barista, wants to infuse the craft and precision of cocktail making into coffee. He's a one-man operation with a distinct style, always playing great music and prioritizing genuine human connection.
Growing the business
After years in the small drive-through, Thorne was ready for a change. He wanted to level-up and move his business to a larger spot in a growing part of Apache Junction, AZ. I reached out to offer my help promoting his work, and while he wasn't ready for a full e-commerce website, he was keen to boost his online presence.
How could I help promote Aerial Coffee's new location and maintain customer engagement?
Capturing the brand
After a few conversations with Thorne, it became clear his interest in space wasn't just a casual hobby. Every item on his menu is thoughtfully crafted around UFO and cosmic themes, perfectly explaining the unique name, 'Aerial.'
Creating a storyline
I proposed creating a temporary "be right back" website for Aerial Coffee, paying homage to the original coffee shack. The concept: a UFO abducting the little building and stealing all the coffee, making it clear their location was on the move. As users scroll, they'd see the actual menu, alongside a little sign declaring, "BRB, we're moving to Apache Junction!"
Developing the concept
Given my experience with React and Three.js (a 3D graphics library for the web built on WebGL), I wanted to combine their capabilities. That's why I chose React Three Fiber. It offered a much faster and more concise way to create 3D scenes within components, unlike Three.js, which required significantly more code.
Visit this link to try out the website:
Visit the new location
If your adventures ever take you through Mesa on the way to a hike near the stunning Superstition Mountains, make sure your journey includes a stop at Aerial Coffee Co.'s new home. You'll find their fantastic coffee conveniently located at 185 N Apache Trail, making it a can't-miss destination for a refreshing pick-me-up.