New York's Most Whimsical Tea House - Alice's Tea Cup

Team Subkit -

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Haley Fox, co-founder of Alice's Tea Cup, located in New York City, NY, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Alice's Tea Cup. We have two full-service locations and a bakery/cafe in Brooklyn heights. Our customers really range from children to grandparents as we appeal to every age group!

Tell us about yourself

My sister Lauren and I used to talk about owning a teahouse one day, sorta as a way to reflect on our upbringing and our father's love of tea, and our mother's love of baking. We never thought we'd actually follow the daydream, but one day I saw a for rent sign on 73rd street, and I was between jobs and thought, "what if..." It's been 21 years now!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Opening in the first place was a huge accomplishment! We signed our lease on September 15th, 2001 - people thought we were insane to invest in NYC at the time, but we knew (because of September 11th) it was actually the perfect time to build a whimsical place that offered an escape from the city. Since then? I'd say our biggest accomplishment was expanding to our eastside location and taking that very expensive and fast risk!

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Daily surprises are the hardest thing for every business owner. You never know what the day will bring, and every time your phone rings or buzzes, you wonder if something broke!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. First off, make sure you like your landlord and super! It is essential for your growth.
  2. Secondly, add 10% on top of any cost projection you have, as surprises are a sure thing.
  3. Third, go with your gut if you want to see a change, then most likely others do, too. So build what YOU like, not just what you think hasn't done before.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.alicesteacup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alicesteacup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alicesteacupnyc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/alicesteacup

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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