Our Team

We’re picky about our location. We’re picky about what we serve. And we’re just as picky about the people who make Picky what it is.

Our small team brings together different skills, experiences, and perspectives, but we share one goal: making sure every customer finds exactly what they’re looking for—and perhaps discovers something they didn’t know they wanted.

After nearly 30 years working with nonprofits, Erin decided to embrace her “picky” and pursue a long-held dream of opening a business focused on her favorite things: family, baking, gardening, yummy food and Lafayette Square. With help from her husband, Rich, a very large family, and many talented vendors and contractors, Picky owes its success to a thoughtful collaboration with SqWires Restaurant & Annex, the 25-year-old neighborhood favorite that was founded by Erin’s sister, Bethany Budde Cohen. While Picky started with Erin’s “picky”, she’s looking forward to welcoming you, hearing what you like and any suggestions you have. It’s good to be picky!

Justin is here to guide your coffee experience at Picky. He brings with him a variety of specialty coffee knowledge, having worked in roles as a barista, roaster, and quality evaluator. He loves learning about the evolving world of coffee and is passionate about offering the most welcoming and memorable service to the community. Between his years teaching English in Thailand and his ever-changing reading list, there’s plenty to bend his ear about as he makes you a pour over or cortado and feel free to let him know just how you like your drink or if you want to try something new.

Joe has spent the last few years exploring the country, discovering its diverse foods and communities while capturing those experiences through film and digital photography. With a background in food and beverage, he’s returned to St. Louis to share his passion for travel, locally sourced quality foods, and the arts. Whether you’re looking for a great local product we don’t currently stock, want to talk food or art, or simply want to connect with the community, Joe is always happy to start a conversation.

Chuck returned to St. Louis after years away to help launch Picky, bringing years of experience creating memorable events and productions for nonprofits. At Picky, he’s your go-to guy for making the details work—and making sure you have a great experience. Planning a catered event and not sure where to start? Looking for the right spot to host a brainstorming lunch? Need a comfortable place to focus on your next writing project? Chuck can help you figure it out.