If you’re looking for somewhere to see cool cars, get a free show or maybe step up your photography game, Cars and Coffee is the place for you. Hosted by FastLane on the second Saturday of every month, this popular car show contains a bunch of unique and customized cars and bikes that you may not normally see on the road. From classics to exotics, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
“The thing I love about it is that there’s old people, young people, people with families,” Jameson Leavell, FastLane’s marketing manager said. “And everyone gets along.”
Cars and Coffee itself is held once a month in the parking lot of FastLane, though there are other locations hosted weekly. It is an opportunity for those in the car scene to show off their builds, or for people looking to get into the community to introduce themselves and meet new people with similar interests. There are often bike shows and rides that anyone is allowed to participate in. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., and can be expected to have anywhere from two to 500 people.
“My favorite part is definitely the community that’s built,” junior Brandon Kaiman said. “Everybody’s just there to have fun.”
Cars and Coffee is active on multiple social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram, where videos of those who went can
be found. There are no registrations or requirements. Founder Ben Schneide encourages people to simply show up, be respectful and have fun. FastLane allows people to book their own events for celebrations, which can be found on their website. They also host charity events every season, helping with gathering school supplies, food drives and Christmas toys. It’s not necessary to bring in items to donate, but it is always welcomed and encouraged.
“They can pick up toys to take back to have for families that they know of in their communities,” Leavell said. “Or whatever they are in need for.”
The events started 10 years ago, when Ben Schneider bought his first car, and was looking for meets he could attend. When he couldn’t find much, he was inspired to make his own.
“I went through different car clubs,” said Schneider. “But they weren’t very accessible.”
The FastLane company themselves started in 1944. FastLane is a family-owned business with the focus of showing off classic and unique cars. There is only one location, located on Little Hills Industrial Road in St. Charles, MO. The company started after David Williams, the owner, sold a classic mustang to one of his friends. That interaction sparked his passion for cars, and after a motorcycle accident, he decided to make his own company surrounding his passion. FastLane includes three showrooms with over 180 cars and trucks, and is the Midwest’s largest Backdraft dealership. They even have a dog named Halley, who is titled the client relation’s coach.
“We don’t judge, we let you bring anything,” Schneider said. “[We try to] to create a culture where everybody feels like they belong.”
