About Sweet Science Coffee
Sweet Science: Contemplation over Coffee
Sweet Science Coffee began as a humble pop-up shop in Washington, D.C., in 2015. From the start, the business was more than just a coffee service - it was a place to explore and celebrate the art of craft. Alongside serving expertly brewed specialty coffee, Sweet Science offered classes on brewing techniques, coffee history, and “slow bar” pour-overs, emphasizing the philosophy of experiencing coffee consciously. The motto, Enjoy. Being. Awake., was painted on the back wall, embodying the business’s dedication to taking breaks and engage in Human Contact over Coffee (HCOC) - with others and with oneself. 
Sweet Science Coffee 2015
The founder of Sweet Science, Sandra Wolter, comes from a fifth-generation German coffee family, bringing a deep appreciation for the rituals of coffee-making to the business. However, her journey into coffee was anything but linear. Starting her career as a journalist with Germany’s NDR television network, she thrived in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, relying on her morning coffee ritual as a grounding practice. When she transitioned to entrepreneurship, she channeled her focus and passion into building Sweet Science, transforming it from a one-woman pop-up into a highly rated destination for coffee enthusiasts.
Sweet Science, DC, 2022
Over five years, Sweet Science gained recognition from food critics and partners, expanding into two brick-and-mortar locations. However, the intense demands of running the business took a toll. By 2021, Sandra faced severe burnout, leading to a health crisis that forced her to reevaluate her approach to work and life. These challenges became a turning point, inspiring her to reconnect with the values that first drew her to coffee - its ability to create moments of stillness and connection via a craft that requires focus and knowledge of chemistry.
During this time of reflection, Sandra returned to university to study Coffee Excellence and the effects of caffeine and other compounds on the brain and body. She combined this scientific knowledge with a renewed focus on the therapeutic and contemplative aspects of coffee preparation.
Today, Sweet Science operates as an online school dedicated to coffee lovers who value a quality-over-quantity lifestyle. The school blends science, brewing techniques, and mindfulness to create a holistic coffee experience. Home Baristas learn the chemistry and art of crafting exceptional coffee, while aspiring founders can book consulting and concept creation services.
Personally, Sandra now combines her media training with her coffee knowledge and personal experience. She does public speaking on change, how to decondition a fear-based mind and the power of embracing uncertainty.
She assists female founders and those wanting to transition into entrepreneurship in one-on-one Contemplation over Coffee Sessions. These combine coffee craft with a guided contemplation practice. The result is mental clarity, the ability to act with intention, and shift from fear-based thinking to embracing change and challenges with Grace.
Sweet Science remains committed to the idea that crafting coffee by hand is more than a method - it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the present, and enrich life one cup at a time.
To learn more about Contemplation over Coffee Sessions or request a speaking engagement please visit Sandra's website.
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