Big Ben’s Blends, based in Laurel, Mississippi, was inspired by the beloved and larger-than-life Ben Napier — known to millions as “Big Ben” on HGTV’s Home Town. Together with his wife, Erin, Ben co-owns Laurel Mercantile Co., a proudly American-made brand and retail shop (think of it as a Southern cousin to Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia empire).

I had the unique opportunity to be part of the Napier brand’s earliest chapters, building marketing campaigns and creating content for their growing lineup of products. Big Ben’s Blends was one of the first products to launch in the early days of Laurel Mercantile — a time when the brand was brimming with homegrown charm and grassroots energy.

With its playful tagline, “Dang Good Coffee!”, Big Ben’s was designed to deliver a simple, approachable roast with a premium aesthetic — think everyday comfort with an elevated feel. And from day one, people couldn’t get enough of it.

As Home Town gained a national following, our goal was to make Big Ben’s Blends a familiar presence on fans’ countertops — a daily dose of Laurel’s warmth and hospitality.

Today, Laurel Mercantile Co. has expanded its product lines and refined its signature look, but the heart behind Big Ben’s Blends remains the same: a dang good cup of coffee, crafted with pride and a whole lot of Southern spirit.