On a recent trip to Oregon, I met friends in an urban tea cafe. The cafe was filled with fresh faced, tattooed, music loving young people. It was also filled with skiers, bikers, business professionals and more. Men, women and dogs were all gathered together to enjoy tea.
What was this tea room doing right?
Obviously, this tearoom was connecting with it's clientele. Vintage, thrift store furniture and painted cement floors attest to the fact that this customer is not too picky. What they want is a warm, inviting place to "hang" with a cup of great tea. (they also want wi-fi)
The urban tea cafe was providing great light, a relaxed setting and a large selection of tea in a downtown, highly trafficed location.
What was this tea room doing wrong?
When it comes to food, this tearoom was missing the boat. Except for a few gluten free scones there was very little to munch on. In addition, the service was slow and the choices to0 vast for the average person to easily choose tea. I noticed several people who were waiting in line looked completely overwhelmed with no idea of what to order.
Do you have a tea dream? Here's what I suggest:
If you have a tea dream and want to own an urban style tea room your best bet is to grow your audience from home. Save the rent money and start by educating your clientele through farmers markets, bazaars and home shows. Build your list and spread your tea knowledge. When it's time to lease a space you will be ready.
There are many things you can do from home to prepare your tea business unfortunately, most people jump the gun losing thousands of dollars in the process. Smart tea entrepreneurs utilize the opportunities they have before investing their life savings.
Choose to educate yourself first. A firm tea business foundation will help you go far! Grab my free video series on the topic at http://www.StartATeaBusiness.com
I have not visited a place where it is only for a tea room. I was intrigue with this tea room. Let me check a local tea room or place and will share my experience then.
Posted by: How to Start a Business | November 18, 2011 at 05:38 PM
Great advice. Tea Rooms in my vicinity have all closed. Most were too expensive and too formal. The lifestyle today is fast and casual.
Maxine
www.mysteryteaparties.com
Posted by: Maxine Holmgren | January 03, 2012 at 09:04 AM
Love the idea and your advice. Still haven't taken the plunge into my tea business. It's only been 6 years since your class. Someday!
Posted by: Dawn Pardinas | January 26, 2012 at 07:24 PM