Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melissa Harlan, owner of Drink Me! Tea Room, located in Tempe, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Drink Me! Tea Room is a modern take on traditional Afternoon Tea. We focus on organic, plant-based, gluten-free sweets, savories, and scones, as well as offering over 30 different teas to choose from. We also have a fantastic Special-Tea Cocktail menu! Our tea room is adorable and modern and incorporates subtle nods to our favorite book, Alice in Wonderland. It's the perfect place to spend time with your favorite people.
Tell us about yourself
I came from a position in corporate America but was inspired to change direction while on a trip to London. Afternoon tea was so memorable and fun that I wanted to bring that same experience to my own neighborhood. The ideas just kept coming, and Drink Me! Tea Room became a reality. I love seeing our guests come in to celebrate, spend time and connect with each other. The world needs more genuine human connections!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel that my biggest accomplishment so far is getting Drink Me! Tea Room open and operating. I have never owned a business before, and this has all been the most tremendous learning experience. Fostering this idea, creating a business plan, figuring out how to make it a reality, and getting the doors open during a pandemic all happened within 18 months.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is never being done with work or getting much downtime. It is a 7-days a week, 12-14 hours-per-day commitment. However, it is rewarding knowing the business is growing and it's able to support my amazing team of employees.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, persistence is a requirement. Knowing what your goals are and staying focused on them is imperative. Second, ask questions all the time. Learn from other business owners, friends, family, the internet, books, workshops, or any other source of information that inspires you to be great. Everything is a learning experience to improve and grow. Last, hone your problem-solving skills. There is always something that needs to be addressed, fixed, or cared for. Being able to pivot and look at a problem from multiple angles so you can keep moving forward is a required skill for sure.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Drink Me! Tea Room has been such a wonderful to connect with others. I've been able to meet so many lovely people who have been so supportive all through this journey. Whether it is other small business owners, the vegan community, our amazing guests, or the Drink Me! Team. It's really embodied the importance of connection, kindness, and supporting each other.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://drinkmetearoom.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drinkmetearoom/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkmetearoom/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.