A Small Starbucks Moment in Culver City That Inspired a Better Idea

This morning in Culver City, I walked into Starbucks for a simple coffee.
Nothing dramatic — just a quiet Sunday moment.

But something interesting happened: the line moved slowly, and a lot of drinks were being made for customers who weren’t there yet. People waiting in-store had to hang out for a while, including me.

And instead of getting frustrated, it sparked something in me — a really good idea.

It made me think:

What if we could make this experience smoother for everyone — customers and baristas — with just a small improvement?

That’s the energy I want to share today.

Mobile Orders Are Great — But They Can Be Improved

Mobile ordering is one of the best things Starbucks has ever done.

It helps busy parents, people rushing to work, and anyone with a packed schedule.
The convenience is real, and it’s part of why Starbucks feels so reliable.

But this morning, as I stood in line for a little longer than expected, I realized something:

In-store customers and mobile customers aren’t always balanced in the queue.

Not out of neglect.
Not out of poor service.
Just because the system is doing its best with the tools it has.

And like all systems — sometimes they evolve.

A Simple, Uplifting Idea: A More Balanced Queue

What if Starbucks introduced a very gentle, friendly improvement?

Something that helps baristas feel less rushed…
Keeps the in-store experience feeling good…
And still honors mobile orders…

A “presence-aware” priority system.

Not a rule.
Not a penalty.
Just a helpful adjustment where:

— People physically in the store get a little extra priority
— Mobile orders flow in at a steady, manageable pace
— Orders for customers who aren’t nearby wait for them to get closer

This would make everyone’s day better.

Baristas would feel less overwhelmed.
In-store customers would feel more appreciated.
Mobile customers would still get convenience — but in a way that fits naturally with real-time demand.

It’s a win for everybody.

How It Could Work (In a Simple, Kind Way)

Nothing complicated — just thoughtful sequencing:

1. In-store customers get a small priority boost

Because they’re already there and ready.

2. Mobile orders start when the customer is close

Maybe through geofencing or a simple “I’m here!” button.

3. The system gently balances mobile and walk-in flow

So baristas aren’t hit with 15 drinks at once.

4. Everyone gets a smoother, more human experience

And that’s really what this is about — humans helping humans.

Why I Felt Inspired Instead of Annoyed

Because today reminded me of something important:

Every inconvenience holds a solution waiting to be discovered.

And this one is simple, practical, and uplifting.

Culver City is full of creators, builders, and problem-solvers.
It’s why I’m here during this chapter of my life.
And mornings like this — even small ones — remind me that innovation can show up anywhere.

Even in line at Starbucks.

A Gentle Note to Starbucks ❤️

If anyone at Starbucks ever sees this:

This isn’t a complaint.
It’s encouragement.

Your team works hard. Your baristas work so hard.
Mobile ordering changed the industry.

This is just one idea — born from a slow Sunday morning — that could make the experience even more joyful for everyone.

If you’d ever like help mapping it out, I’d be happy to share more.

Culver City is my home for now, and I love seeing businesses and communities thrive together.