Meet Jennifer Kuhar | Founder & Owner of Mission Proper

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jennifer Kuhar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, how does your business help the community?
At Mission Proper, we’re all about creating a space where people feel connected, valued, and inspired. Yes, we serve great coffee and delicious food, but it’s more than that—it’s about being a part of something bigger. Whether we’re sourcing ingredients from local farmers, supporting other small businesses, or just offering a cozy spot for folks to gather, we’re all in on contributing to the well-being of our community.

We’ve put a lot of love into building a positive, healthy work environment for our team. When our crew feels good, that energy naturally spreads to our customers, making Mission Proper a place where everyone can feel at home. It’s amazing how something as simple as a cup of coffee or a shared meal can create those special, meaningful moments.

We’re also big on giving back to the community that’s shown us so much love. Whether it’s partnering with local organizations or hosting events that bring people together, we’re always looking for ways to make a positive impact. It’s all about doing our part, however small, to help make the world a little more connected and a lot more joyful.

What should our readers know about your business?
My journey to where I am today with Mission Proper is one that’s been full of twists, turns, and a lot of heart. I’ve always been a creative at heart, but with an equal appreciation for science and nature. I started out studying pre-med in college because it felt like the sensible path, but I was always naturally drawn to design and the creative process. After college, I found myself in various business roles, particularly in healthcare and science, where I could balance my analytical side with my creative instincts.

Throughout my career, I kept coming back to challenging the status quo—whether it was integrating a new creative approach or finding ways to innovate within traditional roles. This theme of creativity and innovation stuck with me, even as I navigated through my professional life.

As I started my family, my creative side found a new outlet. I began experimenting with my love for cooking and design, which led to launching a food blog. It was a fun, creative project that opened up a whole new world for me. But the real turning point came when we moved our family back to Traverse City in 2020. That move sparked the idea for Mission Proper—a place that could fill a gap I saw in our community. I wanted to create a space where people could gather over a cup of coffee, fostering connections in a creative and meaningful way.

Getting Mission Proper off the ground wasn’t easy. There were plenty of challenges along the way—like balancing the demands of a new business with raising three children and other personal commitments. But each challenge was also an opportunity to learn and grow. I’ve learned that perseverance, creativity, and a willingness to take risks are key to overcoming obstacles.

What sets Mission Proper apart is our deep commitment to quality and community. We’re not just a coffee shop; we’re a place where people come to connect, relax, and feel at home. I’m incredibly proud of the space we’ve created and the positive impact we’re having on our community. It’s a place where creativity meets connection, and that’s something I’m excited to keep building on.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and Mission Proper, it’s that our story is about more than just business—it’s about passion, creativity, and making a difference in the lives of others. Every cup of coffee, every meal, and every interaction is a chance to create something special.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I absolutely LOVE showing people the Grand Traverse Region—it’s truly one of the most special places! There are so many hidden gems to explore in Traverse City and on both the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. The turquoise waters, gorgeous beaches, and the blend of entrepreneurial spirit and creative energy in Traverse City make it such a vibrant place to be.

Here’s how I’d plan the perfect week-long trip:

Day 1:
Start the day with a delicious brunch at Sugar to Salt or Red Spire at the Commons—both spots are fantastic for kicking off the day with great food. After brunch, we’d head to Old Mission Peninsula for some fresh seasonal berry picking. There’s nothing like picking your own berries with a view of the bay! When finished, we would go u-pick flower picking at Moondance Farms and plan out the perfect dessert to bake with our delicious haulf.

Day 2:
We’d spend the day exploring a couple of my favorite wineries on Old Mission. Mari Vineyards is a must, with its stunning views and incredible wines. Bonobo & 2 Lad’s would always be a great stop along the way. Last but not least, a necessary stop by Brys Estate, where we can’t miss snagging a Frosé with a red wine topper at the lawn bar. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of the peninsula. In the evening, we’d enjoy appetizers at the Boathouse to catch the sunset or take a boat ride on East Bay to take in the cotton candy sky at dusk.

Day 3:
A day dedicated to the beaches! We’d pack a picnic and head to one of the many beautiful beaches in the area. Folgarelli’s has the best picnic Sammies in town! The turquoise waters are simply irresistible.

Day 4:
A day to explore the Leelanau Peninsula! We’d start with a morning hike at Pyramid Point for breathtaking views, followed by a stroll through Glen Arbor and a visit to Fishtown in Leland would be next on the list—such a charming spot with history and character. We’d wrap up the day with Village Cheese Shanty delicious eats and stroll Van’s Beach.

Day 5:
Another adventure day, this time heading out to Empire, Michigan. We’d take a hike and see Sleeping Bear Dunes in all its splendor—truly a sight to behold! Afterward, we’d stop at Grocer’s Daughter for some well-deserved gelato or chocolates. To top it off, we’d head up to Good Harbor for a swim, followed by an evening bonfire on the beach while grilling out. It’s the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Day 6:
A day in downtown Traverse City! We’d stroll through the local shops, maybe catch a matinee at the historic State Theatre. For dinner, we’d enjoy a deliciously curated meal at The Cook’s House or Modern Bird.

Day 7:
To wrap up the week, we’d take it easy with a leisurely brunch at Mission Proper, followed by a visit at Tinker Art Studio. We’d head out to the Lighthouse at the end of Old Mission and walk the beautiful trails then finish out the day with a toast at The Alexandria Inn’s rooftop Blush bar.

Each day would be filled with the best of what this region has to offer—great food, amazing views, and unforgettable experiences. Traverse City and the surrounding areas have so much to explore, and every time I share it with someone, I’m reminded of just how lucky we are to live here!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
‘ve been incredibly fortunate to have been influenced by many wonderful, inspiring women throughout my life. One person who truly stands out is my dear friend, Monica Johnsonbaugh. Monica has always been a fearless supporter of chasing your inspiration and talents, even when it means taking calculated risks and pushing yourself to raise the bar. She’s not only a powerhouse in her own right but also a devoted mother who never sells herself short.

Monica has inspired me to challenge myself while staying grounded, finding that delicate balance between shining with my personal talents and navigating the journey of motherhood. Her resilience and can-do attitude continually encourage me to push forward, even when the road gets tough. Monica’s influence has been a guiding light for me, and I’m so grateful for her unwavering support and friendship.

Website: https://missionproper.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missionproper/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Mission-Proper-100087066906669/

Image Credits
Jennifer Kuhar & Raquel Lauren