Gallery-themed Home Decor

In my second to last About the Author post, I talked about my love for art and my being a fine art collector. I also said I would do a whole separate post on it, so here we are! Aside from this being more on how to get to know the Writer behind this website, what does this have to do with Tea…? Well to make the connection: one of my draws to Afternoon Tea Culture was the interior design you find in most tea rooms. There, I made it work haha.

I thought I was going to start with one of the first pieces I bought… But actually, it goes further back. So I’ll start there.

When I followed my old Old Navy Manager (she was a proxy mom to me) to work at Michaels Craft Stores, she put me in Custom Framing. Which was perfect for me as I’ve always loved art. I learned really fast and I got really good. One of my favorite jobs to date! In no time, I became the Senior Certified Framer. But the best part of my days was when I got to listen to people’s stories of their beloved pieces and help them come up with a mat + frame that would complement their art. Again because of my tetrachromat eyes, I would put together unexpected combinations that would highlight their paintings or tapestries or posters. I slowly started framing my own pieces, then our friends would come in to see me…it became a passion. Before this, I would visit art galleries and just observe and admire. But now I was going to art shows and buying pieces! A loved show the Huz + I attended was by artists that created cover art and promo posters for musicians. We have original pieces for concerts of Bob Marley, 311, and the Gorillaz.

I got busy with motherhood and parenting, so the art purchasing kinda stopped. Now I was putting up family pictures and kids’ art on the fridge. But when my babies got older and I had the time for home decor again, I started to get my feet a little bit wet. I even started an Instagram account dedicated to my decor ideas, a ‘diary’ if you will.

May 2019 – I remember walking through a food truck event with my family. Yes, I’m there for the food. But my favorite part of those things are the booths! I love seeing all the independent vendors and small business shops of crafts + art. One in particular caught my eye. It was of a woman with really exaggerated long hair. I bought 3 pieces of his!! Haha.

July 2019 – My Sister dropped off a bunch of extra art supplies she had lying around the house, including some canvases. All different sizes. When I started my trauma recovery and started painting, it was mostly objects. I had never tried my hand at canvas before… I created my first piece on 7/18/19. There were some tiny ones from that box too, a 3-inch by 3-inch. I had been painting abstract seascapes and wanted to keep with the coastal theme. I was obsessed with Mexican blankets. They just reminded me so much of our time spent with the ocean, and that brought me so much comfort. I love their pattern and thought I would try and paint one! Something about creating those lines over and over, calmed me. I painted more. Then more. Didn’t know what to do with them, until someone suggested I try to sell them online. What? No one cares about these! I tried. They sold out. I kept creating more and people kept buying more. One customer commissioned TWENTY to be made!! When I moved onto serape blankets, oh everyone wanted those. These were tiny canvases. Intricate pieces. Some took me HOURS to finish. The first time I felt “successful” was when I sold one of my 3″x3″ paintings for $125.00 and someone was actually EXCITED to pay me that much money for my art!!?! Yeah. Talk about brain explosion emojis! After I made my first couple hundred bucks, I went back to that artist (Chris Ouk of Wikid Canvas) I found at the food truck event- and commissioned my own piece. What a full circle moment.

We were deep into the Pandemic now. Stimulus checks were coming in. We have always lived a simple life, the 4 of us (5 including the dog). We don’t travel, we don’t eat out much. Once needs were taken care of, we were allowed to each spend on whatever brought us joy…especially since we were just ALWAYS HOME. I chose art. I had a finsta where I followed all my favorite artists. David Garibaldi, Tim Okamura, Erin Yoshi… Camilla West, Robert Roth, Stephen Magsig… Classic favorites: Norman Rockwell, Margaret Keane, Rothko… New favorites: Loui Jover, Lindsay Rapp, Leslie Weaver, Jessica Durant, Claudia Tremblay, Amanda Ryan Tucker… I was heavily tapping into my Hawaiian side at the time, so I fancied Punkyaloha, Aloha de Mele, Mayan Llanera, Kat Reeder… Coastal art of course: Chilvers, Abel Arts, Courtney Mixed… I honestly could go on and on. And on. And on and on and on.

I began purchasing and collecting. Our walls started to fill up. There is not a room in our entire house that doesn’t have art in it. I always say our home decor is like Art Gallery meets Beachy VW Van hahah! (cuz I also wanted comfort right, so we have these huge ugly dark brown cozy couches with serape blankets hanging on the back of them) But, I was able to acquire quite the collection and have vignettes carefully created all throughout the house. I love it here.

In my imagination while planning this post, I visualized taking gorgeous shots of all the corners of our home and sharing them here. That, or maybe tediously looking up each and every piece I have bought over the years and linking them. However, some things have to be kept private and/or left to the imagination or interpretation. It’s more fun that way! So I encourage you to look up these artists! I didn’t link them so you could have the honor and excitement of doing that part yourselves. I hope you find a new favorite and start a collection of your own! (if you haven’t already got one) Thank you for taking an interest in my interests!! Next one I think will be about music…so leave your email with us, so you don’t miss out!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

Spot #51 :: Grove 45

Our 51st Spot:

Grove 45

965 Silverado Trail North Calistoga, CA 94515

www.grove45.com

I took way more pictures of the building and signs and beautifully muraled office…but this entrance with the painted cow and view of the mountains was just so much better!

When I am curating my Tours, sometimes I am researching places to go to and sometimes places just fall into my lap. I always say I should take notes on how I find my Spots, just for personal records. Cuz I also have said I am not willing to give away those secrets! (wink) In any event, I couldn’t even tell you how I found myself booking in Calistoga…because, I forgot!! Hahah. But what are the chances, when scheduling this Leg, that there would be Afternoon Tea being offered in the same exact city that our dear friends just moved to!? Super. Duper. Cool. They had just moved last summer. And even tho the wife and I have been keeping in contact every few weeks or so through Phone Dates, we really haven’t seen them since. So what a treat for the Huz + I to meet them for Tea.

[Disclaimer: Since we were catching up with friends, I was more present with them than pouring myself into my work. I took a few shots/took minimal notes, because I wanted to fully enjoy their company.]

An intimate setting, my favorite. I think I counted maybe 7 or 8 tables. Also, this is an Olive Oil Tasting place! Something completely different, another favorite.

Comfortable seating. Tasteful decor. And something new I’ve never seen before… (honestly, I didn’t mean for that to rhyme!)

At this tea service, they allow you to make your own tea blend!! Whaaat!? An interactive Tea?? What a fun idea! I loved this. And as a Gourmet Tea Boutique Owner, I applauded this activity so much and was so excited for our party! I especially adored that one of the bases were Olive Leaves. It had been on my Tea To-Buy list from 2 different brands, but I just never got to it… I was so happy I finally got to try. I have heard there are so many good benefits too. The other base was Black Tea, another excellent choice. Then they had Orange Peel, Chamomile, Mint, and Cinnamon to create your own personal tea blends. There were fillable tea bags at the table (that they replenished if you wanted more), and they came around and refilled our teapot with fresh hot water often. It was so cute seeing our boys (the chefs) create their special tea recipes!

I went with a plain Olive Leaf only tea. It was very fragrant and had a bold flavor that was unexpected. Enjoyed it! I had every intention of making more blends, but I only had this one cup because I was preoccupied with my delicious glass of Sauvignon Blanc! (Thanks again dear friend.) Another new experience I loved. I can’t remember ever having wine with my tea service…? Champagne sure, but wine elevates the entire experience.

Grandmother’s Scones – These are the recipe from one of the sweet girls that works there’s gramma! They came cold and already precut. Something I’m not used to, but devoured just the same! I don’t usually have space to finish my whole scone, but these were the perfect size.

Each of these items were made with one of their extra virgin olive oils and/or balsamic vinegars. I appreciated that it was lightly introduced and not in-your-face. It kept you guessing and wanting more!

Cucumber Sandwich – I love when they make their cucumber sandwich set apart from the rest. When there’s a little something in there that you’re not sure what, but you know it’s good. Nice execution on this one, Grove 45!

Egg Salad Sandwich – For my longtime Readers that knew me as a Green Onion Hater…well, I’ve changed! After having a friend’s incredible potato soup (that had green onions) and exploring the world of Caviar (with chips and [vegan] sour cream and chives/green onions), I have become an official Lover of it. Not just that, but like- can’t get enough!! I know, who am I right? Anyway, their Egg Salad had em and I was the happiest girl! Again, I felt like there may have been a splash of one of their vinegars…cuz the egg mixture was just exquisite. (no, not egguisite)

Curry Chicken Sandwich – I’ve had many curry chicken salad sandwiches touring Tea Spots for the last 10 years. There are ones you love, and ones you don’t love. This one was good! There were crunchy apples in there and juicy grapes, yum.

Winter Harvest Quiche – Don’t let the size of it fool you. This exploded with flavor, quite literally. Like it was so juicy with tender egg and veggies. I think this was a table favorite.

French Onion Crostini – Didn’t even write a note on this one, cuz I ate it so fast. Hehe. If you are a Textures Girl like me, you’ll enjoy this one! So much flavor in it too.

Burnt Orange Caramel Panna Cotta – Okay (whiny face emoji), yall know Panna Cotta is my jam. And how I love a thick one. (crying face emoji) This was the beginning of where I think Grove 45 shines. THIS WAS SO GOOD. A generous amount of caramel, just a hint of that burnt orange. My mouth is watering typing this and remembering it! I would make the drive back there again for this one shot glass of panna cotta, no question.

Chocolate Cherry Balsamic Cookie – They just do their sweets so right!! This little cookie packed such a punch! More please?!

We legit had the absolute best time. The customer service at Grove 45 is outstanding. They took really good care of us and made us feel at home. The food was scrumptious, desserts even better. The attention to detail was not just in appearance, but in flavor. And making your own teas?! So awesome, what a fun experience! My girlfriend and I laughed at the top of our lungs and just thoroughly enjoyed ourselves (as per usual, huh sweets?!). Honestly, I think our husbands had an even better time!? Haha. Made me feel good that everyone was so happy to be there. Our friends said it had been about 30 years since they last went to Tea together, and they remembered how much it delighted them. He says (and I asked permission to quote), “My hopes were pretty high, but this is exceeding my hopes.” Nice job, Grove 45!! They already made plans to come back for olive oil tasting…and Tea again, of course! We spent the rest of the afternoon being shown stunning architecture around town and admiring our friends’ breathtaking property. Thank you Calistoga! We love you!

I hope you all try the tea service at Grove 45. It’s usually every 3rd Sunday of the month, so go and make your reservations!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

Random Fun Facts About Me

Some reasons why I always hear “You should write a book!” (that I could share here):

1. I skipped kindergarten.

2. I won my 3rd grade Math-a-Thon’s Grand Prize and took home a 10-speed bike.

3. I sang the National Anthem for my high school graduation.

3b. The girl who was partnered to sing with me, turned off my mic but I was still louder than her without it.

4. I met Robin Williams.

5. Someone wrote a song about me.

6. I was on a TV show in Japan.

7. I worked for DreamWorks twice.

8. Wanya Morris from Boyz II Men serenaded me.

9. I am a Tetrachromat, which means I have a 4th color receptor in my eyes.

10. I am part of the 2% of the population that carries the gene that doesn’t produce odor in my armpits or feet.

11. I am fascinated with names, know most everyone around me’s middle name, and have had the honor of naming/spelling quite a few friends’ baby’s names.

12. I used to be a foot model.

Submit your questions or requests for more context on each of these in the comments or in my DMs heheh. Thank you for reading!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

Spot #50 :: Mints & Honey

Our 50th Spot:

Mints & Honey

1524 El Camino Real San Carlos, CA 2024

www.mintsandhoney.com

So, this place was on my radar when I first started the Tour. But as I understood it, it was only an event space then. I tried to ask when they started serving afternoon tea exactly, but I couldn’t get a legit answer from anyone. I scheduled it early in the Leg, since this was on the list a long time ago… This place was also the first on the Tour where they didn’t do reservations. They could just make us some tiers on the fly like that!? I called to confirm, their answer was yes. I made sure our party was small, so we didn’t have to wait a long time to find seats. Originally supposed to be 6, but ended up being 4 of us. Perfect, cuz things were about to get hectic.

As you know, I don’t look at websites or social media accounts before visiting a place. I like to have a clean slate, so everything is fresh when I am reviewing. Needless to say, I was not familiar with how to order when we got there. I should’ve done some homework first tho! That was the MOST CHAOTIC ordering I’ve ever dealt with on this Tour!!

First, you find your own seat. Thankfully, there was a couple that just left an area that seated 4. Waited for that to be wiped up, then claimed our tables.

There are menus by the register. You pick out what you want, order + pay, then take a number to your seat. In terms of their Afternoon Tea Service offering, they have a tea tower for 2. If you want tea, you order that separate. Except, this spot didn’t have tea pots. Ohhkaay… We went up to order and at the register, we didn’t know we had to make quite a few decisions. We sat back down. (Attempt #1)

I guess for these towers, you have the option of either Toast or Waffle bases. She showed us the flavor options. Back at the register and I’m telling her all my choices. But then we find out we need to COMPROMISE (between the two of us) which 4 flavors we want. We sat back down. (Attempt #2)

At the register ooonce agaaain, and now we’re ready! We thought. We come prepared with our shared flavors, aaand- we did it wrong again! Apparently, we chose the TOAST flavors but needed to choose from the WAFFLE flavors if we wanted waffle bases. We quickly figured out what 4 waffle flavors we were going to share while in line (cuz we weren’t about to come up for a FOURTH time), and finally did it right! Then, you choose between a scone or quiche. And when you choose either of those, there are then flavors of THOSE to choose from. [SIGHHH]

When I got to my seat I says to my friends, “I wanna cry!” Man, that was so stressful!! There’s gotta be an easier way! Put specific steps on the menu or don’t have that many choices. It gets worse guys, just wait.

My only cup of tea was already waiting for me while I spent those 45-minutes at the register ordering. The bag was overfilled and it was steeped too long. I chose a Caramelized Pear Tea. There’s a sign up and it’s plastered on their menu that says they proudly serve Art of Tea teas. I know Art of Tea (they serve that at the Four Seasons), and this was not a good representation of how good that brand is.

We seriously didn’t know what to do with ourselves when the tiers (excuse me, Towers) came. I think we sat stunned for a few, before accepting what was in front of us. So, me + my Tower Partner chose waffle bases right. Already having to compromise our 4 flavors, we thought we were going to get TEA FOR TWO!!?! It was Tea for ONE yall. There were 4 waffles, with the 4 flavors, only. That meant: if we wanted to try each of the 4, we had to cut the pre-perforated waffle iron waffle QUARTERS in HALF!!?! This what I had to work with yall-

Go ahead, take your moment. I’ll wait.

I couldn’t even take individual photos of each item (not that I even felt like it), so I got quick pics of each level…

It took me several bites, before I could even take notes on what I was tasting. I chose the waffle base since that was a first for me for afternoon tea. It was a good waffle batter, fluffy + light, almost melts in your mouth.

Prosciutto + Ricotta – My eighth had whipped cream on it, so there’s that. My notes say: “a lot of cream, had lots of cream.” I guess there was a lot of cream… It was a nice start, promising.

Applewood Smoked Salmon – This was good! But again, a lot of the ricotta cream. I scraped most of mine off.

Churro – Lightly scented cinnamon flavor, mostly whipped cream.

Rose + Berry – No rose present. The girls said they could make these at home.

Cranberry Scone – ONE TO SHARE. I took one bite and left it alone after that. Way too crumbly, don’t taste any cranberry, so dry.

The “salad” was not dressed. My girl put some leaves on her plate, then put them right back on the tower haha!

I was excited to hear we were getting Beignets on the tower! Those wasn’t no beignets. Stale donut hole, at best. Barely any glaze. Again, the dryest of the dry.

We had talked about how most French macarons all taste the same…unless they’re really good quality ones. I took a bite of the Chocolate Macaron, and was so surprised. It was good!? It had a nice bite/chew to it, almost brownie like. Best thing on the tier.

The Yogurt Parfait was another pleasant surprise. It was Greek, and the tart was welcome. I did my own Remy Ratatouille situation and had a bite of macaron + bite of yogurt together to end my meal.

Before we were even done eating, the overpowering smell of disinfectant polluted our lungs and tastebuds. They started packing up and washing the floors in the front room, chairs were being stacked all around us. Excuse my language, but it was hella rude. We had to go out the back and figure out how to get to where we parked.

Here are my only positives- the cashier was patient with us when ordering and coming up there 3 times, there were some step-above-mediocre items on the tier, and I was so sterile after being surrounded by clouds of cleaning agent I didn’t feel like I needed to wash my hair when I got home. Will I come back? For tea? Absolutely not. To try more of their food items? Maybe.

THANK GOODNESS for good company!! I was with my husband’s honorary big sister (so my Big Sis), a longtime girlfriend that we have a blast any time we’re together, and then we had a Firstie with us too! The laughs and Girl Time made this tea visit so much better. But now I can’t wait to take them to someplace better next time!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Winter Woodland Wonderland

New Menu Visit:

Muir’s Tea Room

330 S Main Street Sebastopol, CA 94572

www.muirstearoomandcafe.com

How fortunate am I that I get to try Muir’s Tea Room’s NEW Winter Woodland Wonderland Tea Service on the first weekend it comes out!? What a privilege to be invited and what an honor to get to tell you guys all about it!

If you’ve been here awhile, you’ll know that Muir’s is my number one Tea Spot and has been since I first visited them in 2018. Since then I’ve been able to come back for leisure tea times and collab moments, and every. Single. Time. They outdo themselves. On the way over, the Huz asked since I’ve been quite a few times…what was something I was looking for today. I mentioned how their Alice Tea had this amazing sausage sandwich that I’ve never forgotten. They must’ve heard me…

The Huz’s first time inside today. A sweet + cozy table by a window. Perfect lighting for each item’s photoshoot!

Enchanted Forest (A delightful and enchanting blend of mellow sencha and spicy green mate, paired with a black forest cherry cake and almonds.) – I could definitely taste the cherry and almonds. And I have been in a sencha state of mind lately. So good.

Barry’s of Ireland (Blended for the Irish palate, this national tea of Ireland has a brisk refreshing flavor and a bright golden color.) – This tasted like a restaurant tea in the best possible way, but had more depth to it.

Hunca Munca Prosecco Cocktail (apple essence with bubbly prosecco) – I have been in my Luxury Era and was really looking forward to that champagne taste…and the apple didn’t overpower so hooray. Finished.

Bramble Blossom Prosecco Cocktail (strawberry lemonade with bubbly prosecco) – The strawberry and lemonade were definitely there. Such a good drink!

Wintertide Seasonal Salad with Muir’s Signature Dressing – This was me: “I don’t know why but it tasted wintery! One of the fronds is really herby, and the only way I could describe it is ‘winter’ hahah!” They always do a good job with the salad. He said- the lentils at the bottom were really nice.

Muir’s will always have the fullest tiers! (I probably wrote that already in one of my posts of theirs) I had to take both sides, cuz each showcased all the beautiful goodies. And then I threw in another one for good measure!

Orange Zest Scone with Currants (imported English preserves, “clotted cream” & house made lemon curd) – That was the best bite of scone I’ve ever had! Muir’s scones are always good, no question. But today’s (whiny face), today’s was just exceptional. So soft, chewy, warm still. I could lick that cream container, and their house lemon curd is addicting.

Cucumber & Chive Tea Sandwich – Always in disbelief that that’s not real cream. I look forward to their cucumber sandwich every time. I feel like they always select the crunchiest, crispiest cucumbers only! And no one else packs em with as many chives as Muir’s does, which I love.

Mock Turkey & Cranberry Finger Sandwich – That tastes like real mayo in there! And whatever they used for turkey had me, cuz I swear it was stringy just like shredded turkey hehe. And looved aaall the celery.

House-made “Cheddar” Bread with Tomato, Greens & Scallions Tea Sandwich – Okay. [takes deep breath] That sauce made it. A little spice in there was wonderful. That tastes like cheese!! It was even a little smokey AND I even ate the green onion! (who am I?) Favorite of the afternoon.

Mushroom Tart with Chestnuts – Mushroom? Yes. Chestnuts? YES. Perfect pair. Want more.

“Sausage” Roll in Puff Pastry with Herbs & Caramelized Onions – That pastry was everything. The maple! I could just eat the pastry, empty! Gosh this was so good.

Gingerbread – Spiced perfectly, nice bite, SO chewy, almost like a brownie. This was my favorite! I realized there was a hint of ‘burnt’ in there (like a creme brulee topping) that was making me continue to take bite after bite…after bite. After. Bite.

After.

Bite.

(haha, okay I’m done)

Russian Tea Cake Cookie – Melts in your mouth, so flaky, love the extra powdered sugar.

Eggnog Cupcake – Loove all the crunchies!! Such a moist + dense cake altogether. He said- there was a comforting spice to it.

Peppermint Patty with crushed Candy Cane – That’s a THICK patty. Not overpowering mint, so it won’t take away from anything you’re still having bites of.

Alice who? Haha, just kidding. This New Menu definitely pulled out all the stops. Their savories today really made me forget I was at a plant-based tea room. I’m always so fully taken care of here. Lots of visits + hugs from the Owner and Chef, and our Server today was thee coolest. I’m just so grateful to have met them and become friends, and can’t believe they host me and show me (and whoever I take) to such an incredible afternoon tea. Like, pinch me somebody!! I seriously need to just move in haha. THANK YOU MUIR’S!!!

Yall- you only have til January 1st to experience this special Tea Service, so make your reservations like yesterday!!

All Muir’s Tea Room related posts:

Spot #28 :: Muir’s Tea Room

Spot Revisit :: Muir’s Tea Room (#28) – Best Overall

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Alice in Wonderland

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Holoholo Tiki Tea

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

About the Author

If you’re new around here, well first- Hello! Welcome! But if you’re new around here: I started sharing ‘About the Author’ posts in between every Spot Visit, so yall would have something else to munch on until my next review. For someone who hates talking about herself or having ANY kind of attention on herself whatsoever, they have been fun to write despite all that. For the most part, they have been about my history with tea and writing credentials. But I realized that I never really wrote an actual About Me post. On our Instagram account, I have about a handful of posts with some tidbits about me here + there. But nothing really formal. Thought I would do that here. I’ll incorporate what I’ve already shared and fill in some blanks. Through the suggestion of the Huz, I also posted a Question Sticker in our IG Stories asking if you had any questions for me. So I’ll answer those here too! Here goes…

My name is Olyve Rose. I am a 43-year-old married mom of 2 teenagers, with a puppy. The Huz + I have been married for almost 22 years. We have a 17-year-old son who is a drummer (just like his father) and plays in a band, and a 13-year-old daughter who is an artist (she sells her art) and dancer. Our dog Nova (who is a purebred shih tzu) just turned 6, and you can follow her here @newshihtzuontheblock

I was born in San Francisco (St. Luke’s Hospital) and have lived in the Bay all my life. My bio parents liked to move a lot, so I’ve lived in many different cities/houses and have attended (let’s see…) 6 different schools. I was able to attend 2 years of college at City College of San Francisco while majoring in Juvenile Criminology (being born into a gang affiliated family, this was a passion of mine; I have always had a soft spot for inmates + reform), and minoring in Education as I wanted to be a high school Human Sexuality teacher. (I only understood this later in life…but that interest came from my sexual abuse.) School was always important to me because that’s the only place I felt safe. Before and after school, I was being abused.

But even tho I was at school in the City, the longest I’ve stayed anywhere (home-wise) was in Richmond, CA. So yeah, we commuted for 12 years. Richmond was were we lived, Richmond was where we went grocery shopping, and Richmond was where we went to church. Ask my friends + family- they will all tell you I have a ‘Richmond accent’. Whatever that is… Speaking of church (even tho I don’t belong to that church anymore), I was in the gospel choir. This is my segway I guess for telling how big of a role music has/does play in my life. Debbie Gibson, Paula Abdul, and Olivia Newton-John were my first friends in life. I was in Glee Club for elementary school, Band in middle school, and Advance Choir in high school. I had some opportunities to work with some pretty dope producers in college, but my narc bio mom wasn’t havin it. I used to go to concerts once a month, married a percussionist, and even performed quite a bit all throughout my life. (solos and with bands or singing groups) Even named my daughter Soul, after soul music! But when we (my husband, son + daughter) tell you we “love music”, we don’t just love music. We live, breathe, and eat it for dinner mmkay!! We take music very seriously and have cultured ourselves with an eclectic repertoire.

Interests… I’ve mentioned before that I don’t talk about this on my blog, because I want to keep things neutral around here. I am a very spiritual person, and my spirituality is a big part of my life. Without getting too much into it, it’s kind of why I do this Tour. Aside from being busy in spiritual activity, this Tour (and my Boutique) keep me out of trouble! I also have mentioned that I am an avid reader. I love Memoirs and minimalist poetry. (I just wrote that on my previous post, huh? Oh well, this is for the new ones!) I collect fine art. My home looks like an art gallery! We have vignettes all over that highlight favorite artists. I might have to do a whole separate blog post on that one, that’ll be fun. And if I’m not home or at Tea, I’m at the beach or by the water somewhere. Yes, I even named my son Ocean! Getting that Vitamin Sea or Salt Water Therapy is very important to me. And then another huge part of my life (which might have to be its own post as well) was my Trauma Recovery. It was a tremendous chunk out of my adult life, and what drives me today.

Okay, I think that’s the gist. That was hard for me guys! I’ve looked it over a couple times and I don’t feel right about it, but I also don’t know what to change to make me like it. Even now as I’m concluding it, I feel so- [think Ginger when she walks out after finding out Chandler had a third nipple] like, gross. I don’t like talking about myself!! That’s why this is such a cool challenge for me. I had no plans or structure, and didn’t really know what to include here. I think I’ve touched most of what’s important to me, so hopefully I painted a good enough picture of who the Author is behind this website. I don’t get many comments on these posts like I did before (cuz I was gonna say ‘Tell me who you are in the comments!’), but I always appreciate your comments on our socials and in my DM’s. Closing my eyes and pressing PUBLISH now before I continue second-guessing and talk myself out of publishing the entire thing. Thanks for reading!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

Spot 49 :: The Caviar Co. [First Spot of Leg 4]

Our 49th Spot:

The Caviar Co.

46A Main Street Tiburon, CA 94920

thecaviarco.com

[Quick Note: Since we sometimes visit Tea Spots that weren’t officially scheduled on the Tour…even tho I still wrote a review, they wouldn’t get their own spot number. But when I would compile my raTEAng posts, they would still be included and the numbers would be all thrown off. To keep things more cohesive, I decided to match the spot numbers with how many we’ve been to for less confusion. This explains why our last posted spot was 45, and this one is continuing at 49…to account for the past surprise visits along the way.]

Afternoon Tea = check!

Bay Area = check!

Cute little town = check!

Again, I can’t give you all my secrets… But when I found out there was Afternoon Tea in TIBURON!!?! I looove Tiburon! You know I was going. And because it’s a seasonal offer, I was happy to start our Tour there. SO HAPPY we did.

Just the ride over already was so much fun! Anticipating my work (Hooray for the First Spot on our Tour!!), anxious about seeing the water (it’s been a while for us), enjoying deep conversation with the Huz… When you get there, at the end of Main Street, there’s a little cut-out in the road where you can stop and take a few pictures of our beautiful City!! I love my city. I was gonna include some pictures here, but- I think yall should just experience it for yourselves.

It’s not huge in there, which I liked. Intimate, maybe 10 tables. Courteous staff right away.

Upon seating, we were first welcomed with their Spiced Spritz (Veso earl grey aperitif, apple cider, crémant). At first in my notes, I put ‘fruity, barely flavor of sparkling wine but still good’. I really liked the square ice in it. But as I had more (maybe I didn’t mix it), you could taste the alcohol more and more AND I loved that. I had way more sips of this than I should have, and I’m not even sorry haha. It was very good!

They had a simple tea selection. Only 3 bases (black, green, and herbal), but a variety of notes to choose from.

Fireside Toffee Apple – The Huz gave himself a full healthy first pour! This was very good. I was tasting/smelling coconut, not so much apple, and more of a hibiscus.

Japanese Sencha – Nice strong green tea flavor, which I love.

The most beautifulest tier in this world.

Vanilla Bean Scone with Butter & Raspberry Jam – It wasn’t warm. Very crumbly, almost fully crunchy. They use butter (which was a nice change) and a very good high quality preserves. It was just okay for me.

Cucumber and Herb Sandwich with Whitefish Roe – Whatever the spread is, it’s amazing. Not sure if there was citrus in there, or if it was the caviar…but IT’S GOOD. Oh it’s dill!! This cucumber sandwich was slammin. And if we’re just at Cucumber and it’s this good!? Whew, look out.

Deviled Egg with Kaluga Hybrid Caviar – That’s the creamiest deviled egg I’ve ever had. It was SO flavorful. This was our favorite of the Savories fo sho!

I’m like- dang, do I have to eat everything with caviar now??

Toma Quiche with Siberian Sturgeon – I don’t know but it’s good. (whiny face emoji) The salty from the caviar MMM.

Smoked Salmon Sandwich with Salmon Roe – I did a dance and melted. You have to understand: we have smoked salmon on a regular at home. I’ve had smoked salmon sandwiches at at least 30 of the 48 Tea Spots we’ve visited. I used to own a catering business specializing in tea party foods where we did a smoked salmon sandwich. So, it (I guess unfortunately) takes a lot to wow me about a smoked salmon sandwich. I’m not used to a grainy bread with it, but I welcomed it here. Perfect cut of salmon, nice thick (but not too thick) bite. Perfect ratio of cream.

Brie and Apple Sandwich with Classic White Sturgeon – I am a Brie Girl! Whatever kind of jam they used was a good choice. Can’t say I’ve ever had it with caviar…but I love.

Sesame Cone with Smoked Trout Roe – I have to admit: I did feel a little bad like I was eating Nemo babies. (yikes emoji) But that was short-lived haha! I’ve never had anything like this before. Adored the sesame cone, loved the crunch of course. The explosions from the caviar were so fun!

“I feel hecka rich. Hahaha!”

Hacklini Blini with Hackleback – So, blinis are my favorite. Story Time: when I was in college, I dated this guy who was a Concierge at this fancy hotel in the City. I wasn’t familiar with how it all worked…so he explained to me how different places give him the five-star treatment, so he can refer hotel guests there. He took me to this Michelin Star restaurant and ordered blinis for us. Now I had never had a blini canape; didn’t know what it was, didn’t know what to expect. Those little pancakes with all the fixings (smoked salmon, some sort of cream, red onion, and capers) were a combination I instantly fell in love with. After we broke up, I had forgotten what they were called exactly. It was a nasty separation, so I couldn’t ask him… This was the beginning of a search that was never satisfied. Hahah! I finally figured it out, and probably only had it less than a handful of time since then. But, I never forgot how much I loved them!! So- a longwinded explanation of my depth of desire for these! I could have eaten a hundred of those. So buttery and nice chew on the pancake.

Bump of Osetra Caviar – We have never done a bump before! Heheh. We didn’t do the hand, just had it from the spoon. That tasted like the ocean!! I loved it.

“I’m so happy!”

Me: “Why don’t we ever get caviar for home?”

Him: “Cuz they don’t sell it at FoodMaxx, I don’t know!?”

(we don’t really shop at FoodMaxx, but that was so funny)

Poached Pear Panna Cotta – I love pear stuff!! So thick. I love a thick panna cotta, almost like you have to chew it. I think it’s safe to say that this panna cotta is my favorite from the entire Tour.

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart – It’s so bitter! It’s so good!

Love that they had only 3 Sweets.

French 75 Macaron – That’s a unique, high end macaron. So so chewy shell (which I prefer over the crumbly).

Random thoughts as I was finishing my tea service:

So happy but also a little sad cuz it’s only 2 months out the year. I feel a Revisit already!

I didn’t know I was a Caviar Girl. I am a Caviar Girl now, watch out!

I don’t usually finish, but I wanted to eat everything all.

After my last bite: “I’m sad, the caviar is over.”

Me with my kids, at dinner that night: “I didn’t know this life existed and I am. On. Board! Like, I want some on my burger.”

Me, while writing this: “This is brutal. BRU-TAL. Writing this and looking at all these pictures.”

I was so proud and impressed with myself for choosing this one as our Tour Opener!! Haha! Such a perfect Spot. And of course, being surrounded by the coastal little town vibe of Tiburon, always an A+. The service was really good. Hi Tess! (she was so cute) This Tea Service is only around for November and December, Wednesdays through Sundays. So make sure you visit before it’s all gone!! I am seriously strategizing on how I can fit it in my schedule + budget to go back this time around! I don’t want to wait a whole year!! (three crying emojis) This place is so good, it’s already HIGH UP on my my raTEAngs list. Please check back after 5 more Spots to see where they landed. Or better yet, get your cute butt over there (who know where that one’s from?!) so you can taste for yourself first!!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

‘I was given 3 years’

[old photo from 2014]

I knew I was going to do a Welcome Back post as soon as I went on Break. I even consciously collected little tidbits here + there to share. There were a couple directions I could have taken this… Here’s where I’m gonna start:

July 2014 – June 2015 | parTEA with me California Tea House Tour, Leg 1.

June 2015 | parTEA with me Company and Signature Tea Line started, focused on business.

July 2015 – October 2016 | parTEA with me California Tea House Tour, Leg 2.

June 2016 | parTEA with me Company and Signature Tea Line launched, focused on business.

October 2016 | parTEA with me Company Launch Party, business took off.

May 2017 – June 2017 | parTEA with me California Tea House Tour, Summer Tour.

June 2017 | Closed parTEA with me Company ecommerce and in-store sales (got too big too fast) to focus on private brand deals + partnerships.

November 2017 | Got hormone disorder diagnosis, focused on health.

June 2018 – November 2018 | parTEA with me California Tea House Tour, sporadic Spot Visits.

September 2018 | Diagnosed with C-PTSD, started Trauma Recovery, stopped all parTEA with me business.

December 2022 | First time taken to afternoon tea since Recovery and Pandemic.

March 2023 | Announced 3rd Leg of parTEA with me California Tea House Tour.

April 2024 | Officially done with Trauma Recovery.

May 2024 | parTEA with me California Tea House Tour, Leg 3 done and BREAK begins!

So this Timeline gives you a basic perception of the past 10 years and the breaks in between. (as if I’m explaining why I took off for 3 months on my resume hehe) You’ll see how I would take some time between Legs of the Tour, to focus on my company or health. Nothing outrageous, totally understandable right? So, it was no big deal when I took a break after the 3rd Leg of our Tour finished. And as I explained in this post, my mindset had changed prior to this particular break.

So what did I plan for this break, and what actually happened on it?

I planned a lot of reading and a lot of relaxation. I planned taking time in my day, whether for homeschooling/hanging out with my kids or for delving deeper into my spiritual activity. I planned to be off all forms of social media. Be present. Be rested. Be alive.

It didn’t necessarily all work out that way.

It took me some time to come down from the hustle + bustle I was living. I tied up some loose ends with the website and my tea boutique, which took longer than expected but glad that was all done. I did a deep clean of my bedroom and bathroom, cleaned out my closet and bookshelf. Started a new memoir and poetry book…

By the second week, I got some bad news from my day job and dealt with that stress. Got inspired to plan some blog posts and even continued some work on a new line for my boutique. Oh yeah, there was also this medical test that my doctor had been wanting me to get done (that now I had the time + energy for) so I went and did that.

May 31, 2024 – I got my test results. What they diagnosed me with, most patients are given only 3 years left to live.

And I didn’t want to tell a soul. I figured when I went, I’d just go and people wouldn’t have known the wiser. I shared with my husband of course, and our kids (they’re 17 + 13). We had our tears…and subsequently our dark humor that only those close to us will understand (and not get offended). “Okaay, if it’s your dying wish!” I spent some time trying to process… Spent some time trying to figure out how I wanted to spend the rest of my days… At only 43, I have lived a painful and traumatic life. It wouldn’t be so bad, I guess.

We didn’t wanna dwell on this. We spent the summer attending our son’s many gigs (he’s the drummer for a band), hung out with our daughter’s friends and their families, watched a lot of Lifetime movies (hehe), and spent a lot of time outside laying out in the sun and being out there well into the evening. As mentioned, I’m a total Book Nerd. (Memoirs and Minimalist Poetry are my genre jams!) Haha, I told my colleague that I probably wouldn’t even finish 2 books while I was on Break… Tell me why I devoured SEVEN Memoirs and a poetry book!!?! I did Minka Kelly’s, Jennette McCurdy’s, John Stamos’, Fat Joe’s (his is incredible, Mommie bought that one for me), Tupac’s Oral History, Paris Fury’s, and Britney’s…for those interested. I was also really looking forward to having Leisure Tea with friends that I don’t get to, when I’m on Tour. I enjoyed EIGHT tea parties while on Break! Went to Julia’s with my sister, K On The Go 3 times (LOL!!), Chelokababi with the OG’s, Muir’s, Four Seasons, and did a Husband Tea at Malaya‘s. I was thoroughly enjoying myself, not thinking about my diagnosis. … But then I realized- even if I didn’t want to share with others, my family would need support when I was gone. So, I was moved to talk about it. I started with my sister and her husband, I only have less than a handful of trusted close girlfriends, then little by little I told a few more if it came up in conversation. And my family was able to get the love + prayers they deserve.

Me? I’ve been good. I have suffered and endured these symptoms for years. Only now it has a name and now I know the culprit. I was back and forth from the hospital with appointments, labs, specialists, tests, more tests- it was beyond exhausting. My case is peculiar (of course it is) and they want to do more tests to understand it better. Am I dying in 3 years? Maybe, maybe not…they’re not sure. But the medical gaslighting was too much for me, so I’m taking a break from it all. I will go back when I’m ready. I decided to share this on my website not for pity, of course not. But I do have somewhat of a public presence (that makes me laugh a little to admit that), so this is my courtesy to you all. Even tho I know I didn’t have to. May you show me compassion if you see me with my cane or using my walker or in my wheelchair. (and may you show compassion to others having to use mobility aids as well!) May you have some understanding if/when I need some, regarding posts or socials. And at least you’ll understand my process, my choices a bit better.

I mentioned before that there were plans of a 4th Leg, but nothing scheduled. And with this new diagnosis, my husband encouraged me to go for it! He says, “who knows if you’ll be able to do another one after this.” And he’s right. So that’s why I’m continuing on. We have 7 NEW Bay Area Spots and 7 NEW not-so-Bay Area Spots to try. This Leg will be 14 months. So I have 14 new Tea Spots to look forward to, one a month. That’s how I will be spending my time. Aside from being a wife, a homeschooling mom, servant of God, and friend (to my few VIP’s)…this Tour, WRITING, and my private gourmet tea boutique will keep me occupied and distracted with good things. I hope you continue to follow along with us! Sit at our tea party tables and share our thoughts about each new Tea Spot! Anticipate the my raTEAng posts, follow us here + on our socials, donate, and continue to support this Tea Community. We love you all. Thank you for being here.

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

NEW MENU ALERT! Claremont Hotel | Festive Holiday Tea

New Menu Visit:

Claremont Hotel

41 Tunnel Road Berkeley, CA 94705

claremontresortandclub.com

IT’S TIIIII-IIIIIIIIIIME!!

No, not for Mariah’s song… For Afternoon Tea at the Claremont!

Of all the Tea Spots I’ve visited, I get the most messages, the most inquiries, the most wish list confessions about the Claremont Hotel! Yall are obsessed!! “When will the Claremont be serving Tea again?” “Can you ask the Claremont when they’ll be serving Tea again?” “The Claremont should serve Tea all year round.” I really should have been taking screenshots, cuz yall know I love me a receipt haha.

That long awaited time is finally here! During November and December, every Saturday and Sunday, at 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM seatings, the Claremont Hotel will be serving their Festive Holiday Afternoon Tea! And of course, yours truly had the absolute pleasure of trying it all on the first day it was offered! Thank you to their amazing staff for hosting us once again and showing us a fabulous time!

What initially impressed me was how neutral this theme was executed. Festive: cheerful and jovially celebratory; Holiday: a day of festivity or recreation when no work is done. There weren’t Christmas trees everywhere, no tinsel or mistletoe. Even the menus just had a pretty floral design. So for those that don’t celebrate the popular events that happen around this time of year, they are free to come and enjoy this theme without compromising their own set of beliefs or traditions. Well done, Claremont.

Creamy Earl Grey (a remarkably heady earl grey tempered with wickedly delicious cream flavor) – I was so surprised I hadn’t ordered this one yet, as I’m a Creamy Earl Grey Girl! We made sure to try teas we hadn’t tried yet this go around. Very perfumy up front, not much depth.

Organic Oregon Mint (with a blend of the world’s finest spearmint and peppermint, this tea offers a strong aroma that’s soothing & invigorating) – Very slight minty background, not strong at all. I think I’m not too excited about the teas so much, because the food really takes center stage.

Afternoon Sparkler (Chandon champagne, Empress gin, lemon juice, lavender simple syrup) – What a cool addition to this service, we got to try some cocktails too! (clapping hands) Their sweetest bartender (always nice to see him!) surprised us with these selections, and so glad he did. So so fragrant. The citrus hits you right away, that’s niiice. Lavender is perfect. Nice tang.

Oolong Sour (oolong-infused Gold Bar whiskey, lemon juice, egg whites, simple syrup) – Ohmygosh!! That’s one of the best cocktails I’ve ever tasted. You barely know you’re having alcohol, which Chef says could be a good or bad thing haha. We loved this one so much tho. “Save me sooome!”

Spectacular tier.

Rosemary Buttermilk Biscuit (Claremont Gold honey butter) – So fluffy inside, the accompaniments go so well with it, and love love love that honey. (I made sure to take some home with me this time yay!)

Lemon Poppy Scone (orange marmalade, devonshire cream) – I don’t know how he nails that crumb every. Tiiime!? Only a little lemon which I like, but serious crunch for days. Had to take a second bite, before I moved on to my next tasting…

Winter Vegetable Quiche (honeynut squash, kale) – I don’t know but I tasted greens and it brought me right back to my Southern Granny’s greens. There was an unexpected smoke. Thick, crumbly pastry. Gooood.

Wild Mushroom Tart (truffled fromage blanc) – There’s a freshness in this one right off the bat. Chewy bread, tart in the cream, micro greens were a nice finish. This was the table fave fo sho. I could’ve eaten a million of those. It was the cold, chewy mushrooms for me.

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad (croissant) – Love how the salmon was minced, adored that texture. Then that good crunch in the cucumber. And I love croissant anything.

Dungeness Crab Salad (fennel, avocado, parker house roll) – Very light. Loved the fennel. I am a Fennel Girrrl!!

Prime Rib (black garlic horseradish aioli, gem lettuce, caramelized onion, sourdough) – I am all about the horseradish. And that rib was so tender!

I don’t know how he exceeds EV-ER-Y TIME!!?!

I’m usually all about the biscuit…but the scone today!! I don’t even like lemon! LOL.

It’s the choice of bread for each thing too.

Vanilla Panna Cotta – The peppermint meringue was a nice touch. But I always love the fruits, so the blueberry was it for me.

White Chocolate Cranberry Financier – Cake is always so moist. The cranberry topper was quite welcome.

Matcha Roulade – Not strong matcha at all, which is a good thing for this sweet. Inhaled this one.

Citrus Cheesecake – There’s a bitter in the citrus that I really liked. The cheesecake was more spongy than I like, but I still ate it! Haha.

Strawberry Champagne Macaron – Always excellent. Perfect amount of flavor of each profile.

We (as per usual) had an AMAZING time. The meal was excellent. Chef came out a couple times to chop it up with us (do people still say chop it up?), always good to see him and hear what he has going on. [Chef Joseph L. Paire III, Executive Chef, follow him @chefjosephl] Service is always impeccable. You will be treated with only the utmost respect and care here. They made sure we had everything we needed for a brilliant afternoon. During our visit the Hotel Manager stopped by to say ‘hello’. I was so caught off guard! It was toward the end of our meal. A few sips (of each cocktail PLUS a glass of Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut, Epernay) in and my One-Bite’s just hanging out (if you don’t know what those are, click here), and here he came for a Meet + Greet! He was so kind and I was a little starstruck at the moment hahah. After he walked away, it was discovered that I had a huge black poppyseed in my teeth!! We died and cracked up about that for a couple minutes!

It seriously is always a pleasure to visit the Claremont. Their hospitality is top tier (pun intended). For all of you who ask me about this place, help me show them some love back and take advantage while their seasonal Afternoon Tea is available. You have 8 weekends still!! I just might go back too, when my sister gets back into town. She’s always wanted to go, and we have yet to! If you see me, say HI! And if you have Tea there, tell us how it went!

All Claremont Hotel related posts:

Spot #40 :: Claremont Hotel

NEW MENU ALERT! Claremont Hotel | Galentine’s Day Tea

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

Donations for what?

I’ve been thanking people for donations for a while now. Sometimes my Stories posts mention donations. But, donations for what? Since we’re so close to approaching the 4th Leg of our Tour, I thought I would do a full blog post just about that.

Full transparency. (as per usual that you get from me)

At the bottom of every blog post I publish, you’ll see a Donations Form. It gives you options for monetary donations on a one-time, monthly, or yearly basis. And if you are moved to contribute, I wanted to tell you what that money goes towards.

If you’ve been here a while, you’ll know that Afternoon Tea is expensive. If you’re new around here (well, first Welcome!), hey Afternoon Tea is expensive. Our Leg’s are usually a full year long, sometimes longer. We do one a month. At average $50-70 each tea service, times 12 months = $600.00-840.00! And again, this is average. The most I’ve paid for tea was $250, and the least around $40.

Let’s get this straight right now: I AM NOT ASKING YOU TO PAY FOR MY TEA, that I volunteer and choose to do on my own.

For those that have and would like to donate, I’m just here telling you what that goes to. So yes, I/we have decided to visit these Afternoon Tea Spots all on our own. And I pay for these visits myself. (and my girlfriends do the same; of course, not all of them are going to ALL Tea Spots like I am) With the exception of less than a handful of collabs a Leg (that I disclose on those posts), each and every visit on the Tour is paid out of my pocket.

And that’s all that your donations go to. Not clothes, not camera equipment, not books (I’m a book-lover, are you?!). Just tea.

Without putting aaall our business out there- we are a one-income household and I am legally disabled (without disability benefits). My day job as a property manager pays me $11.00 every 2 weeks (yup, no typo there, no missing 00’s or anything). I own a small private gourmet tea boutique where I create and sell teas, for mostly friends + family. (so I’m not making major bucks off my friends or anything, the little I make goes towards my Tour visits or book habit hehe) This website is monetized, but it’s not like paying off my mortgage or anything! SO YOUR DONATIONS HELP SO SO MUCH!!!

Thanks to you kind Donators, friends and strangers, I have been able to continue doing what I love. I have never ASKED for donations, I just let you know that option is available should you choose to give out of your own genuine free will. I APPRECIATE ALL of you, whether you donate or not. Those that follow, ‘Like’, comment, share our social media posts- I see each and every one of you. Those who have entered your email and subscribed to this website (which you can do at the bottom of each blog post too)- I see each and every one of you. Those who vibe with me and get to see my personality on Threads- I see each and every one of you. Those who laugh with me and get my silly voiceovers on TikTok- I see each and every one of you. So really, while this is meant to inform you of behind-the-scenes stuff… It really is an APPRECIATION post to all of you who inspire + motivate me to keep going. THANK YOU for letting me write. (three hand thanking emojis, that are really hi-five’ing emojis, but we use for hand thanking or praying)

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

	Mason Jars \| parTEA… on ORIGINAL CREATOR in all c…
	Mason Jars \| parTEA… on ‘I was given 3 year…
	My CD Insert \| parTE… on A Collection of One-Bite…
	My CD Insert \| parTE… on NEW MENU ALERT! Claremont Hote…
	My CD Insert \| parTE… on Spot #42 :: K On The Go