About Kathleen Kern

Kathleen Kern has had a twenty-year journey with learning and educating about teas from around the world. Kathleen’s tea journey began by opening the first specialty tea business in Cincinnati, Ohio in 2003 and growing to multiple locations complimented with an internet business. Kathleen successfully sold the tea business in November 2023.

“Like a lot of small businesses, it began with a small spark of passion. Over the last 20 years, that spark ignited–from a team of one (me, a Brit who missed a good cuppa) and grew to a team of 15. Our shared passion allowed two generations of our family to travel, learn, taste tea together, create memories, and share stories. Many of our customers and team members became friends. The 20 years were nothing short of exceptional. I have moved on and am equally excited about what the new era and future hold.”

Kathleen now shares unique growth strategies to grow your business and collaborate with complementary businesses and non-profit organizations. She has created and led public and private classes, tasting events, and consulted with restaurants and museums to develop tea menus, provide training in brewing techniques, and collaborate on special events.

Notable Collaborations & Events

Some of Kathleen Kern’s favorite collaborations include the following:

The Fitton Center for Creative Arts, Hamilton, Ohio

A great interactive time presenting "Celebrating Self" a series held at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts. Including why Kathleen started, the history of the business, and about tea, alongside an Afternoon Tea luncheon. (Video by TVHamilton)

Watch Presentation

The CET Public TV Broadcasting Service

Prepared tea to 300 donors and members pairing an Afternoon Tea with an early preview screening of each new Downton Abbey season. An enjoyable annual event for everyone.

Diana, A Celebration Event

Kathleen created an Afternoon Tea charity fundraiser with Charles, 9th Earl Spencer as the guest speaker, who spoke on continuing the work of Diana, his sister. This coincided with the Dayton Art Institute exhibit which featured 28 outfits, two diamond tiaras, home movies, and Diana's famous wedding dress with its 25-foot train.

The History Museum South Bend, Indiana

Educated staff and hosted an Afternoon Tea for a Downton Abbey traveling exhibit event.

The Titanic Exhibit, Cincinnati Museum Center

Created a dual-tier event for first-class and steerage passenger experiences during the exhibit. Guests did not know which class they would be included in for tea, and at the end of the exhibit, with a passenger name on the ticket, could look to see if they survived. An emotional exhibit.

Available for Consultations

Kathleen Kern is now available to create classes, tastings, and custom consulting engagements.

London, England • Washington D.C. • Or By Arrangement