Sacred Circle of Life - Herbs Make Scents
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Terri Michaelson, owner of Herbs Make Scents, located in Mendon, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My company is Herbs Make Scents, and I blend teas and herbs selling on our website at our tea shop and wholesale to stores, cafes, and restaurants. My tea brand is called HMS Tea, short for Herbs Make Scents.
My passion is to help others find ways to be inspired to live healthier and happier through tea. With all my customers, I like to show how they can select a tea just right for them and how to steep without using a teabag. Offering a true experience.
My customers are of all ages, from young children trying herbal tea for the first time right up to a fun-loving 90-year-old who I taught how to use a tea ball! Our signature tea is the lavender-blue mix that we steep pour-over lemonade. This is a drink that instantly gets smiles and melts my heart.
Tell us about yourself
About 20 years ago, I was enjoying a pot of tea with my mother, mother-in-law, and children. I knew I wanted to sell tea and teach others how to steep tea without using a teabag. Having tea with loved ones or celebrating with tea sandwiches and treats is such a special time.
I have had the sheer pleasure of sharing tea over the years with my friends, family, and customers. Recommending tea for better health, sharing new tea blends, recipes, and, more importantly, spending precious time together. It just never gets old.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
For me, it is being able to do more for my community. Having a tea shop where many meet up or meet one another for the first time provides a comfortable atmosphere for people to connect and network. Many of our customers talk with each other, and the next thing I know, they have gone on to fundraise, teach and make a difference in our community. Every day is a big accomplishment when I touch someone's heart or help to make a day a bit better.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being patient and being ok with failing forward!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The first tip is to write a business plan. Next, talk with others who are successful in your business industry. Tip 3 Listen to your customer's needs and serve as it will serve you!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Never give up! It took me over 20 years to open my tea shop, and it was worth the wait.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.herbsmakescents.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/herbsmakescents/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herbsmakescents_/
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.