Inside Colfax and Cream: Community is Oh-So-Sweet

Colfax and Cream resides in the heart of LGBTQ+ life on Colfax. The colors seep out from the windows, coaxing passers-by into its vibrant walls for a cold treat. The brainchild of couple Senait and Tullie Bailey, CandC opened May 24, and it is already proving to be a hallmark of community support. From showcasing local artists to providing a space for queer creativity, there’s nothing sweeter than some ice cream in a safe space.

Colfax and Cream was born out of intersectionality, inclusion, and a love for sweet treats. Founder Senait, a longtime ice cream lover, comes from an immigrant family. Growing up, she saw a lack of spaces open to all, like herself and her queer friends. “I remember in high school just feeling completely left out,” she says. “When we opened this location, especially where we’re located, it was important to get everybody.”

And get everybody they did. Located just across from the Center on Colfax, CandC joined with their program Rainbow Alley to provide a creative outlet for LGBTQ+ youth in August. The kids, ages 10-15, worked together in groups to brainstorm their own refreshers, from flavor design to poster design. The teams voted amongst themselves for the winner. The winners had their creations run as limited edition refreshers sold in the shop.

“Working with Rainbow Alley was spectacular,” Marketing coordinator Percie Powell says. ” The kids (are of) all different backgrounds, all different types. We love them. They did great. They were enjoying creating their own flavor and having that freedom to do whatever they want.”

Colfax and Cream goes above and beyond to support all facets of Denver’s community. They ran a clothing drive with Network Coffee House, a local nonprofit and a school supply drive/ice cream party with SafeHouse Denver, a center helping victims of domestic abuse.

Artist like Denver graffiti artist Chris Haven and Patrick McGregor made their marks on the walls of the flagship store to create a vibrant atmosphere. “What we struck out to do was create a culturally driven ice cream cafe that people want to experience,” Tullie Bailey says. They made pastels feel like neon colors as paint drips from the walls.

“We wanted to create a space that people can come and hang out with their friends that not necessarily had to deal with alcohol,” Powell adds. The LGBTQ+ community sorely needs more exciting, sober spaces in the nightlife. Colfax and Cream adds one more space where all ages can come to experience community and a sweet treat.

Photos courtesy of Colfax and Cream via social media