Elmwood Inn

Fine Teas

Celebrating 18 years

of introducing America

to the art of tea!

Links to our

Graduates

Listen to a one hour

interview with the

Richardsons on

Public Radio.

Listen to the show.

Enroll online now and save $100.

HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF TEA
Tea is more than a commodity or drink, it has shaped human history for thousands of years. Learn the roots of tea in Asia and its translation into western society.  This session sets the tone for the entire weekend.

FOUR CUPPING SESSIONS: GREENS/WHITES, OOLONGS, BLACKS, HERBALS/TISANES
From single estate teas to flavorful tisanes, you will taste some of the world's great teas while you learn the art of making great tea time after time. We’ll help you design a tea list.  Six hours of hands on tastings over two days will include an introduction to tea grades and blending procedures.

FROM THE BUSH TO THE CUP

Experience the story of tea production brought to life through the photography of Bruce Richardson.  This feature has appeared in Fresh Cup's TEA ALMANAC and it is the basic class taught at World Tea Expo by Mr. Richardson.

TEA & GIFT SHOP RETAILING

Learn what tea drinkers love to buy and how you promote your best-selling items. Participants receive the valuable Elmwood Inn vendor list with information about ordering best-selling tea related merchandise. Our staff has walked the aisles of trade shows for 15 years. This list is priceless and will save you hundreds of hours of research!

THE SECRETS OF TEA ROOM BAKING

No American tea venue developed as many recipes as Elmwood Inn.  Hear the details behind the beautiful tea foods you've seen in the three Elmwood cookbooks. This idea-filled session is always a highlight of the weekend.

KITCHEN BASICS

Starting a tea room or tea bar? What agencies do you contact? What equipment will you need? How do you go about setting up a kitchen or tea station that works for you.

TELLING YOUR STORY

Are you media-savvy? Enhance your public relations skills by learning how to send effective press releases. Learn how to get press exposure using a press kit and photographs.  

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS: DEVELOPING A BUSINESS PLAN

What should I charge? Should I take reservations? How do I train my employees? How much should I invest? Can I make a profit? What agencies do I have to contact? We will help you research thEse important questions before your banker asks.

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"I feel I got my money's worth! Everything was extremely well organized and informative. It was the shot in the arm we needed to get us going!" 

Mary Jane Fay, Pennsylvania

"Tea Room 101 was a 'whole system' experience -- heart, spirit, mind, and body. There is a beautiful spirit involved in your operation - a serenity."

Susie Kaylor, Washington

"I enjoyed every minute of the seminar, and Bruce and Shelley are warm and entertaining speakers. Informative lectures and beautiful surroundings with people who have raised tea food presentation to an art form!" 

Nancy Branch, Quebec

"Now I feel free to call or email with questions, and I'm confident they will be answered." 

Paulette Shockey, Maryland