Originally hailing from Virginia, AJ loves traveling and has lived all over the country, most recently moving from Los Angeles before opening Spruce. When not steaming milk, he enjoys pickleball, working out, reading, and playing his Switch. 

Katie is originally from Vermont and moved to Arizona for college, but has called New Haven home since 2021. When not at Spruce, she enjoys playing pickleball, crafting at MakeHaven, and doting over her two perfect angel baby cats, Piper and Minnow.

Theo has over 7 years of barista experience and working at Spruce has been the highlight of his time in coffee shops. His hobbies include reading horror/thriller novels, needle felting, drawing, and attending Trivaoke nights at Spruce! 

CJ joined the barista world in September and now runs almost entirely on caffeine and vibes. When not making drinks (especially the CJ’s Cinnamon Swirl 😉), CJ enjoys hiking, working out, reading, cooking, and traveling. 

Erin hails from the Connecticut shoreline and is in her rookie barista year. In her spare time, she loves starting a new book, tending to her houseplants, and spending hours on the phone with her long distance best friends. She could not be more excited to start this chapter at Spruce with so many welcoming and wonderful people.

Lars has been a barista for over 4 years! They're so excited to bring their love of coffee and the craft to such a wonderful community space. When they're not behind the bar, they like making music, crocheting, rock climbing, and hanging out with their cat. 

Liv is a jack of many trades, master of one. With a masters degree in public health, they view the role of barista as more than just a service providing coffee, but rather an integral component of community building and a critical third space for people to connect and maintain social wellness. Liv values the craft of putting love and care into food and drink while getting to know the regulars and participating in the local queer artist community here in New Haven. Originally from Louisiana, Liv loves to cook Cajun food, connect with people over traditions, and discuss cultural diversity and how it impacts our community. 

Quiana is a multidisciplinary artist who resides in New Haven. They currently enjoy upcycling clothes with custom linoleum block prints and patches. Their hobbies include jamming with their housemates, crocheting and practicing Mario Kart in hopes of one day beating their partner. 

Rory is an artist and barista in New Haven, CT. She loves music, tattoos, skating/rollerblading, and making new friends! New Haven’s been such a welcoming place for her, helping her find herself and her community, and she hopes to bring that same joy to Spruce! She can’t wait to help make you feel at home.