The Journey to Creating the Perfect Tea Room: A Recipe for Success

Melissa's passion for tea dates back to her childhood, when her mom would always have a pot brewing in their home. Growing up without coffee as an option, tea became her go-to drink of choice. This love affair with tea only grew stronger as she ventured into entrepreneurship and eventually opened the doors to Drink Me! Tea Room.

Before embarking on this journey, Melissa had already perfected around 70% of her recipes at home, with the help of her chef and kitchen team. When it came time to plan the afternoon tea menu, her unique perspective on a gluten-free and vegan diet proved to be an invaluable resource. Her own coach provided valuable guidance and progress checks along the way.

Melissa's path to opening a tea room was also influenced by her experience with SCORE, an organization that connects entrepreneurs with volunteer mentors. This support network helped her navigate the challenges of starting a new business. Additionally, attending the World Tea Expo in 2019 proved to be a game-changer, providing her with educational sessions, suppliers, and valuable networking opportunities.

The catalyst for Melissa's decision to start her own tea room was an afternoon tea experience in London that left her inspired. This newfound passion led her to seek out supportive communities and resources online, including the obligatory Googling session (an essential part of any entrepreneur's toolkit!).

As she delved deeper into the world of tea, Melissa found herself gravitating towards hot tea, a departure from her usual iced black tea. In fact, during her pregnancy, iced black tea was all she craved. Despite this newfound love for hot tea, Drink Me! Tea Room has become a haven for tea lovers of all stripes, offering a unique and delicious experience that is sure to delight.

Melissa's journey from corporate background to successful tea room owner is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and community support. As she continues to perfect her recipes and menu offerings, Drink Me! Tea Room remains a beloved destination for those seeking a truly special tea room experience.

Tea room