When Tristan Burns opened The Corner Perk on July 9, 2025, she was not just starting a business. She felt like she was following God’s plan.
From Meansville to Main Street
“I grew up in Meansville and graduated from Pike County High School in 2020,” Tristan said. “I loved drinking coffee growing up. My mom and grandmother both loved it, too.”
That love for coffee would eventually put her on the path to owning her own coffee shop. As her passion for coffee was beginning, another story was brewing at a little church in a small town.
Her faith journey began just down the road from her childhood home. “I didn’t grow up in church,” she explained. “But I had friends who went to Meansville Baptist Church. The church family was so welcoming. We would walk there every week until the church bought a van so we didn’t have to walk anymore.”
It was there that Tristan was introduced to Christ and gave her life to him.
Now attending Rock Springs Church, she says her faith continues to grow alongside her business, and she’s grateful for the people who help keep her grounded. “My boyfriend, Evan, really encourages me,” she said. “We actually met at a Bible study hosted at the Corner Perk.”
Faith and Coffee
That intentional focus on faith isn’t just something she talks about; it’s interwoven into her day-to-day life at the coffee shop.
Visitors to The Corner Perk can expect worship music playing softly beyond the sound of conversations and espresso machines. “Before the workday begins,” Tristan said, “I pray for every customer who will come in that day.”
These prayers serve as a reminder of the same faith that carried her through the process of opening the Corner Perk.
“When my faith was at a standstill, opening this store was at a standstill,” she reflected. “Once I learned to trust in the Lord rather than my own understanding, everything fell into place.”
Business Background
Why the name Corner Perk, you may ask? Well, for one, it is located on the corner of the historic Swatts Building on Main Street—the one by the fountain with the Barnesville mural. The name Corner Perk was inspired by the famous Friends coffee shop, Central Perk, and Tristan’s love for coffee culture.
“I’ve always been a fan of Friends and Gilmore Girls,” she laughed. “I loved the idea of coffee and hosting people. Even growing up, my house was the one where everyone hung out.”
The idea of opening her own coffee shop was born after moving back from Florida. “My mom randomly called me about a vacant spot in Barnesville,” she said. “And I realized Barnesville didn’t have a hometown coffee shop. I wanted to fill that need.”
So far, she says business has been “very good! It has been better than I expected, actually.”
The success has come with its share of surprises, especially in those first few days serving customers.
One of her favorite early memories came from the Corner Perk’s opening weekend. “My first Saturday, I was running the store all by myself and had a line out the door,” she recalled with a grin. “I looked at my customers and said, ‘We’re going to get through this!'”
Things really got complicated that day when Tristan ran out of maple syrup. Her bible study leader, Jeff, came in to save the day and jumped behind the counter to help at the register. Tristan said it created a very memorable moment.
Tristan also hosts monthly worship nights next door at the Depot Plaza by the fountain. “It’s been amazing to share God’s love in that way.”
Coffee Anyone?
Tristan’s personal favorites include the French Toast Latte with Pumpkin Cold Foam, Butter Beer Latte, and Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Latte. Each of these options is available iced or hot. For those looking for a Buzz-approved pick, there’s the Editor’s choice: the Pecan Pie Latte (pronounced puh-KAHN, by the way).
Through October 31, guests can enjoy a special Halloween–themed menu, followed by a Holiday menu featuring classic seasonal drinks like Peppermint Mocha.
A Heart for the Community
But this place is not just about espresso for Tristan.
“I want The Corner Perk to be a safe space for the community,” Tristan said. “Somewhere you can come, get good coffee, and truly feel welcomed.” Behind the counter, Tristan juggles more than espresso. She’s learning to balance the role of a barista with the responsibilities of an entrepreneur. “Bella has been a huge help! She helps me step away when I need to handle the business side of things. I am thankful that I can count on her,” she said. “And my sister-in-law Emma stops by in the mornings to talk while I’m getting things going. That means a lot.”
Facing and Overcoming Challenges
Opening a new business comes with plenty of hurdles to jump. “Sleep deprivation,” she admitted. “That first month, I had a lot of mental breakdowns. I just needed sleep! So now I limit myself to two coffees a day and go to bed early.” She’s also learned the hidden and practical side of commerce, like restocking on time.
Even though there have been challenges, she feels like God would not have put her where she is today if she could not handle it.
Coming Up at the Corner Perk
The Corner Perk will be rolling out loyalty cards and gift cards just in time for the Christmas season. Customers can also expect some breakfast options, including bagels and avocado toast.
Tristan hopes every customer leaves feeling “heard and welcomed.”
You can find the Corner Perk at 105 Main Street in downtown Barnesville.
Hours:
- Monday–Friday 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Closed Sunday
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
