In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we sit down with Kelly Langley Cook, owner of The Ambry, to talk about how a former 1920s church became one of Greeley’s most creative community spaces. From zoning surprises to late-night renovation work, Kelly shares how she and her family transformed the building into a hub for artists, entrepreneurs, healers, and small businesses. We discuss what it takes to revive a historic space, the importance of supporting local talent, and why Greeley’s sense of community keeps The Ambry thriving.

Key Highlights: 

  • [00:01:56] From Teacher to Creative Builder
    Kelly talks about her roots in Greeley, her background in education, and how teaching led her to creative work, community building, and eventually The Ambry.

  • [00:03:00] Buying a Church with No Plan
    Kelly shares the moment she and her husband said yes to buying the old church, even though they had no idea what they would do with it at the time.

  • [00:05:00] A Zoning Surprise and a Crash Course in Building Codes
    Kelly recounts discovering the building was still zoned residential low, which meant they could not legally operate anything. She dives into the long process of updating every safety standard and bringing the building into 2023.

  • [00:10:05] Giving Back Through Space, Art, and Access
    Kelly explains how The Ambry supports community groups, including offering free meeting space and hosting events for UNC and Rocky Mountain Equality.

  • [00:17:52] Advice for New Entrepreneurs
    Kelly encourages future business owners to take the leap. She shares practical advice about planning, building relationships, and embracing Greeley’s supportive community.

Rapid Fire Questions: 

  • Winter or Summer? Winter, especially for skiing.

  • Coffee or Tea? Coffee, always.

  • Morning or Night? Morning. Once a teacher, always a teacher.

  • Favorite place in Greeley (besides The Ambry)? Dinner at Luna’s, book browsing at Midnight Oil, then a drink downtown.

  • Favorite thing about Greeley? The generosity, warmth, and small-town feel within a growing city.

About The Ambry: Located in a beautifully restored 1920s church, The Ambry is a creative co-working and retail space that brings together small businesses, artists, healers, and entrepreneurs. With affordable memberships, private offices, and a welcoming atmosphere, The Ambry offers room to grow, collaborate, and connect in the heart of Greeley.

Learn more: Visit The Ambry online or stop by to explore the space and meet its community of makers and creators.

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The Greeley Business Beat is brought to you by the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative. Learn more about what makes Greeley a vibrant and welcoming community at VisitGreeley.com. 

Thank you for tuning in and stay connected to the heart of Greeley!