The Newfoundland Tea Company

What inspired you to start your business?

The inspiration for The Newfoundland Tea Company comes from my roots and a love for quality products, food and drink. My parents are Newfoundlanders, and while I didn’t grow up here, I spent a lot of time visiting as a kid. Some of my best memories are of sitting at the table with my Nan and Pop, drinking tea with Carnation milk —an experience that always felt comforting and familiar.

When I moved to Newfoundland when I was 30, I opened Freshwater Inn in Gambo and Bistro on Roe in Gander, which I ran from 2003 to 2023. Throughout my career, I had the chance to connect with so many people who shared my appreciation for great food, good company, and the little things that make life special. That experience really deepened my love for creating something that brings people together.

Tea felt like a natural next step—something that could capture that same feeling of warmth and connection. I wanted to offer high-quality, organic teas that not only taste amazing but also celebrate Newfoundland’s rich culture and traditions. So, in 2016, I started my tea business.

At the heart of it, The Newfoundland Tea Company is about more than just tea. It’s about slowing down, savouring the moment, and feeling connected—whether it’s to a place, a memory, or the people around you.

How do you describe your brand?

The Newfoundland Tea Company is a family business through and through. Both my son (when home from school) and daughter work alongside me, which makes it even more special. Our teas are carefully sourced from the best organic gardens around the world to ensure that every cup is clean, pure, and packed with flavour. We sell to consumers, shops and cafes across Canada.

What started as a passion project has now grown into something much bigger. We’ve recently opened a storefront where customers can come in, explore our wide variety of teas, vintage items, local and Canadian goods, and experience a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The store gives us the opportunity to share our story, introduce people to our unique blends, and create a space where folks can feel connected to Newfoundland—whether they’re locals or just visiting.

My background in hospitality really shaped the way I approach this business. I’ve learned that people don’t just come back for the product—they come back for the experience, the feeling, and the connection. That’s something we strive to bring into The Newfoundland Tea Company.

What sets us apart is that we’re not just selling tea—we’re sharing a piece of Newfoundland.

What’s your bestselling product & why do you think it’s so popular?

All The Blends Box – box of all 28 tea blends packaged in mini pouches with 3 cups each.

It allows a tea lover to try all the teas and also to gift them to loved ones.

What’s your favourite product from your own shop?

Cream Earl Grey – It’s such a rich and smooth tea.

What’s your favourite local Newfoundland business?

Cupboard Up – A gift shop based in St. John’s, NL