The Wakery has experienced some major changes over the past year. Owner Elizabeth Wake completed her master's degree in public administration from University of Illinois Springfield and has a new job with NPR Illinois. The brick-and-mortar location in downtown Springfield closed in August and will soon be occupied again by the tenant that preceded The Wakery, Long Nine Junction. But one thing that has not changed is our readers' love for the business.
The Wakery opened in April 2023 as a new concept for downtown, a late night coffeeshop and non-alcoholic bar. It was recognized as the best new business downtown and best new bar in the Best of Springfield readers' poll later that year. However, Wake said the business did not prove to be sustainable, despite a strong public reception and winning several awards.
"A lot of times a business closes and people say, 'I didn't even know that place existed,' so then you know it's more of a marketing issue," Wake told Springfield Business Journal shortly before the closure. "But when a business as well-known and well-loved as ours can't make it, that should be a catalyst for change."
Wake has continued to attend public forums and advocate for downtown redevelopment efforts, saying she hopes the closure of her business will serve as a "wake-up call" for "the city, Downtown Springfield, Inc. and any organizations that care about and support downtown."
She has also continued to make the specialty non-alcoholic drinks The Wakery became known for, working with other businesses such as The Railyard, The Cat's Pyjamas and Fluid Lounge, which now offer her products. Wake said she has catered a couple of weddings since the closure and will be providing NA options for events, including the Nov. 11 book signing at Erin's Pavillion with Springfield native and restauranteur Kevin Boehm.
Wake plans to continue the tradition of offering bottled NA drinks for Thanksgiving, ranging from single servings to gallon-sized portions so that hosts can provide options for guests who don't drink. She also prepares mix kits with recipes that bartenders can use for hosts who will have someone else serving drinks at their event.
"My motto is: every seat has something special to sip," said Wake. Springfield clearly appreciates that she continues to bring her special touches to the area drink scene.
