Tea Business Dreams

Sipping Tea and Planning the Future

HI Tea Family-

Kansas is longing for spring and so am I!  It seems we get peeks of it now and then but nothing too serious.  Today it is cold, dark and dreary.  I am assured by everyone I meet that this is one unusual weather pattern.  I sure hope so!

In the meantime, I am working away in my office sipping tea. Today I am sampling a new company who has sent me a series of samples.  So far I give it two thumbs up. Legacy Tea Blends offers an interesting array of hand blended teas.  You can check them out for yourself at www.NaturalChoicesBotanica.com  Today I am tasting their House Blend which is actually an herbal tisane.  It includes Orange peel, rose hips, chamomile, spearmint, peppermint, hibiscus, lemongrass & red raspberry leaf.  Contains no artificial flavors, colors or caffeine.  A GREAT choice when you are looking for a bit of "calm" in the midst of your day.

Our tea business class was packed this April and we are already taking new students for May.  May will be a super month to take the online class because every new student will be getting a special World Tea Expo bonus.  Watch my blog for upcoming details.

I have been busy hiring new people and training staff for new positions.  I am also LOVING the plans we are putting together for the 2009 Tea Cruise. All the details will be available next month.  In addition I am sorting out one last trek across the Rocky Mountains.   1 last Uhaul  and we will be finished.  I can't wait to get everything in one place.  That will feel great.  The cross country trip will probably happen later in the month.

I was reflecting on what I wanted to share with you this month on the tea business.  The only thought that came to mind is this "there is no better time than the present." 

I am not saying that to sell you on a product I am telling you the truth.  Getting started is the hardest part. Committing to moving forward is the best way to get unstuck. Take a leap of faith and see where it takes you.  I would have never guessed that when I jumped into tea (in 1997) I would end up owning 2 tea rooms, an internet company, a tea based camp program an online radio station and a whole lot more...

Who knows what tea has for you?  It's time to move forward and the best way to do that is close your eyes and leap. Enroll in the Start A Tea Business online school for May 4th.  You will be glad you took the plunge.

More Soon,

Lady Dawnya

Unpacking A Tea Business

HI Tea Family,

Finally got a chance to sit down and write you a proper hello.  How are you?  I hope this blog finds you well. I have been busy in the last month moving back to Kansas from the west coast.  As many of you know our new main office has been in process in Kansas for sometime.  I am happy to say that while the office building is not fully complete, my loft apartment is now done!  Oh, happy day.  Finally a place to live.  :) I no longer have to commute back and forth 1600 miles.

I am loving this new home and am busy unpacking boxes, ordering furniture, arranging and re-arranging the closets, etc. The speed of construction is a bit slower in this part of the country but the final product is delightful. I just LOVE sitting at my tea table and drinking a hot cup of Yunnan with my sourdough toast in the mornings.  I will be sure to post photos along the way.

My biggest personal triumph was moving my cat Tea' (pronounced Tia) from Vancouver, Washington to rural Kansas on a plane.  WOW.  Talk about things I do not plan on repeating EVER in my life! 

In the midst of all the new life projects I am pleased to tell you that we have several new business ideas up our sleeves at Tea Events.  We will be rolling them out one by one over the course of 2008 and 2009.  These are exciting times... which leads me to ask you this question;

Have you been watching the news?  If so, you might be thinking that the economy is terrible and now is the worse time ever to start a business.  I am here to tell you that life is what you make of it and actually NOW is the BEST time to start a tea business of your dreams.  I talk to people daily who are prospering whether they are selling tea, starting a shop, blending tea or creating an online store. 

So here is the challenge.. instead of taking your tax refund and buying a TV.. think about investing in yourself.  You are worth the effort.  Your dreams are important. Tea is hot and only getting hotter.  As this 7 billion dollar industry continues to grow there is room for your company and your vision.

I want to personally invite you to invest in yourself and enroll in our April 6th 2008 Start A Tea Business Class.  www.StartATeaBusiness.com  There is no better time than the present to change your world. 

And now.. back to unpacking.

Warmly,

Lady Dawnya

Happy New Year - Start A Tea Business (TM)

Dear Tea Business Family-

Happy 2008!  I have just returned from two sunny weeks in Indiatlantic, Florida.  It was fun to spend the holiday season relaxing at the beach.  Kansas and Oregon (where I have residents) are cold this time of year.  I hope your holiday was grand.  Here is a picture of my husband, Brian, and I celebrating Christmas in the Melbourne Crowne Plaza ballroom.

Now I am back to work and boy is it busy here.

First off, the new Start A Tea Business 2008 classes are in full swing.  Our next class will be offered February 3rd 2008 and class enrollment just opened.  I finished the 2008 updates on Saturday and I have to say tea is "hotter now than ever!"  www.StartATeaBusiness.com 

My big project of the new year is writing my latest online class which teaches my hush, hush, step by step guide to creating a successful web based tea company.  This program is only open to students who have already completed the original Start A Tea Business class.    My new advanced program takes what you learned in the first class and then kicks it into HIGH GEAR. The first day of the new training begins January 8th and I am happy to say every seat is taken! 

If web tea business is your heart's desire consider taking the Start A Tea Business class now so that you will qualify for the summer session of my advanced web class.  I love my internet company and the freedom it provides me. 

Last but not least, February 11th is our TeaCruise to Belize! (notice the countdown widget in the left column?) This year we are offering hands on tea blending workshops.  You can learn to blend tea with the experts PLUS learn to use the new Affinitea Brewer live.  There are still a couple of cabins so call us at 888-225-0252 to register and join us.

Wow~ this year promises to be full of activity.  Won't you join me in the fun?

Warmly
Lady Dawnya

Me, Tea and Start A Tea Business (TM)

Hi Tea Family-

Today I took myself to tea.  It was a glorious November day.  The sun was shining , the leaves were falling but still I needed a little lift.   So, I decided to be proactive! I threw on a favorite dress and took  my little VW Eos out for a spin.   After a 40 minute drive I ended up at the Pomeroy Living History Farm and British Tea Rooms just outside of Yacolt, Washington.  (yep, I am in Washington right now.)

What a pleasant surprise!!

 

This tearoom is jam packed with one of the most wonderful British gift shops I have ever seen.  I spent an hour looking at all the lovely china, stationary and English foods.  At 2:30 the friendly staff ushered me up to their quaint tea room where I dined on Pumpkin Soup, a variety of tea sandwiches and traditional English scones.  I had a wonderful time of respite just me and me alone.

If you have never had a solitude tea time I encourage you to give it a spin.  If you feel uncomfortable sitting at the table alone pack a great book or magazine.  There is something healing about sipping hot tea in a delightful setting.  It lifts your spirit and fills your cup with joy.  I returned refreshed and ready to work again!

Speaking of work... Dorothy (my office manager extraordinaire) and I just returned from Phoenix Arizona where we attended a fantastic business workshop presented by Dr. Lance Wallnau.  Here is a picture of Dorothy working hard over breakfast.   

Now onto the latest Tea Events opportunities:

#1 Start A Tea Business (TM) - January 6th 2008 online school is now open for registration.  January is always our busiest class so hurry and act now to assure yourself a spot.  Register online at www.StartATeaBusiness.com  or call the office at 888-225-0252

#2 Victorian Days - 1 Day Sale - November 15th 2007

This amazing historic day camp program is offered for sale once a year only in super limited quantity.  Snag one of the step by step manuals and launch your own tea camp summer program.  Here are all the
details.  Remember this is a 1 day sale!  Click Here for More Info

#3 Set to Sail To Belize - February 11th 2008

Sail the seas and discover tea with TeaCruise.com  Unlock the secret world of tea blending in our amazing hands on workshop.  Join us as we sail from Ft. Lauderdale to Belize on the Royal Caribbean.  Limited Space Still Available.  Click Here for More Info

#4 Coming Soon! January 2008
Creating a Successful Internet Tea Business my new online training course

Details are TBA and this class will have very limited space.  Interested in getting on the waiting list?
Email tea@teaevents.com  Some pre-requisites may be required.

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That's the latest from my desk to yours.

Warmly,

Lady Dawnya

 

3 Top Secret Ways To Build Your Tea Business

Lessons I Learned In The Tea Room

by Dawnya Sasse


Take two parts training and three parts hard knocks. Shake them together and you get a lifetime of lessons learned on the front line in the tea business. 9 years of ups and downs have taught me a few simple steps that can save you hours of heartache if applied now.


Here are the top 3 lessons that I have learned in the tea business:


Lesson #1 A Consistent Atmosphere Creates Loyalty

What does the public library and Starbucks have in common? I would venture to guess it is a consistent atmosphere. Before you enter the doors of these establishments you know what atmosphere to expect. Inwardly you are relieved that is just as you left it last.

Expectations met can be soothing especially in an era of constant change. Be it the old fashion "silence" of the library or the wafting smells of grinding beans, knowing what's coming cannot be beat.

So, ask yourself...What type of atmosphere am I creating for my customers and how will I keep it consistent?

Consider your types of tea, food and services which all contribute to the overall impression and ultimate experience your guest will look forward to . The key comes in presenting that same experience again and again and again like clockwork.

achieve that and your customers will look to you as a refuge from life's storms and keep coming back for more.




Lesson #2 The "Show" Must Go On


A tea business is a "show" and the "show must always go on. Just at a consistent atmosphere will keep your customer returning, a sense that someone else is in charge will extend a comforting blanket to a ragged and weary public.

If you plan to run a tea business think of it as a play. The audience need not be aware of the chaos behind the stage. They do not need to know that the lead actress has the flu or that the set has a hole in the wall. (which you carefully covered with a large mirror.)

The audience wants is to be entertained and kept blissfully unaware of the dangers that lurk in the night. They long to enjoy themselves and get away from their day to day drudgery.

A successful tea business owner is like a great stage manager. He or she will make sure that customers are not aware of fires in the kitchen or the staff that didn't show up. The smart owner recognizes that customers want the "show" to go on.

Think about this: Have you ever been to a small business where the owner told you all about their cares and woes? Did you feel relaxed? Not likely. Customers have their own set of problems. Give them a break and don't share what goes on behind the magic curtain.



Lesson #3 A Dash of Mystery Keeps Them Coming Back For More


In the 1930- 1940's serial mysteries played daily on radio and in movie theaters. These short episodes left audiences hanging in suspense compelled to return for next week's installment.

So too, a tea business owner must project a sense of mystery and intrigue to keep clients enthralled. In today's society, competition for one's time is fierce. A creative entrepreneur knows how to keep their customers involved in their tea business.

Consider daily menu's,themed events, costumes,festive holiday decor or even contests as part of the mystery your customers crave. A mix of consistency with the great unknown makes for phenomenal stage productions and unimaginable customer loyalty.

In summary, your mission, should you choose to accept it is simple. Provide a consistent, care free environment that sparks creativity and delight. Your clients will thank you with their money time and time again.


(C) Dawnya Sasse

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Dawnya Sasse is the creator of the ultimate tea business training school allowing students to discover the secrets of the tea industy,"quickly and easily" without ever leaving home.

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Why do some people succeed in the tea business? Discover how to "Unlock the Secrets of the Billion Dollar Tea Industry from the Comfort of Your Own Computer" and make your tea dream a reality. Free audio mini course http://www.StartATeaBusiness.com

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This article may be distributed freely on your website, as long as this entire article, including links and this resource box are unchanged.
Copyright 2006 Dawnya Sasse All Rights Reserved. Tea Events http://www.TeaEvents.com

Who You Going To Call?

Dear Tea Family-

In life there are lots of challenges.  I have been facing a few myself in recent months and it has gotten me to think.  Who do you call when you need help?  Often times you call your friends or family perhaps even a professional counselor for insight and direction. Yet, in the tea business when you have a problem... who ya gonna call?

One of the huge holes in the tea industry has been education and support... until now.  In the next couple of months a new web based organization will be launched to support and educate tea professionals.  It will supply them with the latest information on trends, marketing, recipes and ideas but more than that it will offer friendship and coaching.  (keep your eyes peeled... more info soon!)

There has never ever been a better time to enter the tea industry than today. 

Why?

Because America LOVES tea and everyone is getting involved:

• Celestial Seasonings "Tea Dreams" Ice Cream
• Green Tea Nail Strengthener
• Psychology Today: Tea and Brain Health (in the Sept issue)

In addition new education and support will allow you to SUCCEED!

I am learning that when things are tough you need someone who has been there and done that.  I would love to be there for you as you launch into your new tea business. 

Make November your month to soar!

Lady Dawnya

Creating A Tea Business From Scratch

  HI Tea Family-

Every month I receive questions about creating a tea business from scratch.  The number one question is how much is it going to cost? 

Costs to create a new business can vary as much as the contents of a 21 by 21 inch box.  Think of it this way... if I ship 2 boxes via UPS the charge will depend on the size and weight.  If both boxes are the same size and weight they will cost the same.  However, when I go to insure the boxes the cost can vary greatly depending on the value.  Box #1 has jewelry and is valued at $3,000 while Box #2 has old shoes and is valued at $50. 

This silly example is exactly like figuring the overall start up costs on a tea business. No two boxes are alike.  Another words, there is no simple formula as each business is completely different.

Each month I work hand in hand with new students and help them determine which type of tea business is right for their personal lifestyle at this point in their journey.  Some find they are not ready to commit to a full time retail space but a home based business works well with their present needs.  Other students discover ways to create additional revenue to pay for their retail location and better cover their costs.

There are tons of options if you are ready to get creative and work with a coach who has been there and done it.

Is now a good time to start a tea business?  YOU BET!  Now is a GREAT time to make your tea dreams a reality and start on your journey to success.

Looking forward to helping you,

Lady Dawnya

World Tea Expo and Beyond

 

Dear Tea Family-

Greetings from the road. I have on the road this last few weeks and haven't had a chance to tell you about the World Tea Expo back in June.

The expo kept me very busy as I spent my hours doing Tea Radio interviews, student consultations and checking out the latest in "Tea Trends." Wow, I am convinced more now than ever that tea is here to stay. I have never seen such a great time to get involved in this industry. Education is now easier than ever (as close as your home computer) and corporations are only sniffing at the tea concept. That means, there is still time for the little guy to make his or her mark. Is that you?

My favorite new product at the World Tea Expo would have to be the Tea Basket from www.TSalon.com I bought one, brought it back to my office and have enjoyed playing with it ever since. Picture summer days lounging with the perfect picnic tea.

" Teatime to the English is really a picnic indoors" - Alice Walker.

Well, enough about me. How are you doing? Are you fulfilling your tea dream or are you still kicking the tires wondering if you should dive in?

Believe me, the time to jump in is now. The water is just right :)

Swimming in happy ponds of tea!

Lady Dawnya

Meet Victorian House Scones

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to produce your favorite recipe as a mix?  Meet Debbie Anderson founder of Victorian House Scones.  Let this excerpt from her recent Tea Radio interview bring you inspiration.

DS: “Hi, everyone. Welcome to another addition of Tea Radio. I am always thrilled to be bringing you some new and exciting things to do with tea and today we’re not actually focusing on tea itself we’re focusing on a companion article. A companion item that often goes hand in hand, and it’s not toast. So I would like to introduce you to The Scone Lady, from Victorian House Scones this is Debbie Anderson. And Debbie, welcome to the broadcast!

DA: Thank you. I’m happy to be here.

DS: It’s great to have you. Victorian House Scones is the name of your company, right?

DA: Right.

DS: And where are you guys located?

DA: We are located in Lafayette, Indiana.

DS: Okay, Indiana. And are you a retail location or, I know were going to talk a little about your website, so you do have a website if people are listening to this and are in Indiana is that a place they can actually drop by or what?

DA: We do not actually have a retail location. Our retail presence so to speak is our website. What we are primarily is wholesalers and manufactures of the scone mix and then we sell to tea rooms, gift shops, B&B’s and so on. So that they can either go ahead and retail our mixes or we also sell commercial size bags for them alone so that they can go ahead and serve scones to their guests.

DS: Fabulous, okay so let’s step back here because Debbie has agreed to let us in on a secret. Now some of you may actually be listening to this broadcast and have this question on your mind and that is “What is a scone?” Now Debbie do you ever get that question? What is a scone?

DA: I get this question all the time and of course if I say to someone “Would you like a sample of a scone?” they look at me like "Why would I want to eat rocks?" because they assume I said stone. A scone actually as I tell them is a biscuit, primarily; it’s more a biscuit than a cookie or a cake. Its origins lie in the British Isles, be it Scotland, be it England.

And where I first found them is I had father who when he was doing traveling he would pick up books at airports. He tended to pick up Miss Marple mysteries. And then he would hand then to me when he got back so I grew up reading Miss Marple. And if you ever read British mysteries they solve everything over tea and scones. I still never knew what a scone actually tasted like. But I knew they were very cool and obviously enlightening.

DS: So now that you not only eat them but manufacture them do you find that you’re solving a great deal of mysteries?

DA: Don’t I wish!

DS: Like a natural something that came to you after.

DA: Exactly. I became all wise and all knowing. Uh, no!

DS: That would be a good selling point right there! Well, let’s talk a little bit about your scone story because, how did you get from eating scones and reading Miss Marple mysteries to deciding to actually manufacture scones? What was that like? ......

(C) Dawnya Sasse 2007

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Want to hear the whole interview?  Sign up at www.TeaRadio.com and we will email you the link to the whole audio interview.

Atlanta Here I Come!

Dear Tea Family-

I am busy packing my bags and checking them twice.  In just a few days I will arrive at tea's premier industry event... the World Tea Expo. ( Do you have any idea how hard it is to travel with my collection of hats?) 

Dorothy my assistant (who oversees the Oregon operation) will be meeting me in Atlanta for the week.  I really look forward to seeing her and am so glad I will have someone there to run my life and tell me where I need to be and when.

What will I be doing there?

Take a peek:

10 Private Consultations

10 Private Tea Radio Interviews

Dinner with Tea Ambassadors (part of my upcoming Tea Business Network website)

Visiting 9 classes and writing reviews

Meeting New Vendors and Shopping for Pertinent Information for my Tea Business Students

Working with Anthony of Affinitea Brewing Technologies

Working with Gail of The Tea House Times (she sells my tea seminar cd's)

Meeting and Greeting Former Alumni from Around the World

Promoting my upcoming TeaCruise to Belize  (more info at www.TeaCruise.com )

As you can imagine it is going to be one busy week.  While I am away things will be progressing here in Kansas.  Right now awnings are being put on the front of my building and our new loft apartment is bring prepared for paint (I am up to my chin in paint samples).  Expect to see some photos in the near future.

Last but not least, I need to tell you about the fully updated Start A Tea Business online tea school.  I have been hinting for a while that big changes were in store and I wasn't kidding. My new program is going to give students the best tea education possible from the comfort of their own home.  Be sure to read about our updated services below.  (we have been online with this class since 2003 and this is our BEST update ever.)

Well, I had better get to it.  I have clients arriving here in an hour.

Best of Tea,

Lady Dawnya