Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store my tea?

Store your tea in an airtight container away from light, moisture, and strong odors. Avoid transparent containers, as light can degrade the quality of tea leaves. For optimal freshness, keep tea at room temperature in a cool, dark place such as a cabinet or pantry rather than near the stove or refrigerator.

What is the shelf life of your teas?

Most of our teas remain at peak flavor for 6-12 months when properly stored. Green and white teas are more delicate and best enjoyed within 6 months of purchase. Black teas, oolongs, and herbal infusions can maintain their quality for up to a year. Each package includes a "best by" date for reference.

Do you source directly from tea gardens?

Yes, we have established direct relationships with 15 small-scale tea producers across China, Japan, India, and Sri Lanka. Our founder Sarah Mitchell visits these gardens annually to ensure quality, sustainability, and fair compensation throughout our supply chain. We can trace each tea back to its specific origin and harvest date.

Are your teas organic?

Many of our teas are certified organic, and all are sourced from gardens that practice sustainable cultivation methods. Some of our partner gardens use traditional farming practices that exceed organic standards but may not carry certification due to cost barriers. Each tea product page clearly indicates organic certification status.

Are your pastries made in-house?

Yes, all of our pastries are handcrafted daily in our Wellington studio kitchen by our pastry chef Maria Santos, who trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. She creates each item from scratch using local, seasonal ingredients whenever possible. We bake in small batches throughout the day to ensure freshness and have been featured in "Wellington Living" magazine for our artisanal approach.

Do you cater to dietary restrictions?

We offer a selection of pastries to accommodate various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. Our kitchen does process allergens like nuts, wheat, and dairy, so we cannot guarantee that any item is completely free from traces of these ingredients. All ingredients are clearly listed for each pastry in our studio and on our product pages.

Can I place a special order for an event?

Absolutely! We accept custom orders for special events with at least 72 hours' notice. Please contact us through our contact form or by phone to discuss your specific needs. We can create bespoke pastry selections that complement our teas and match your event theme.

Who creates your ceramic pieces?

Our ceramic collection features pieces from 8 selected New Zealand artisans who share our aesthetic vision and commitment to quality. Each maker brings their unique approach to form, texture, and glaze, creating functional art objects that enhance the tea experience. We work closely with local potters like David Chen (Auckland) and Emma Thompson (Christchurch) to commission exclusive designs that are produced in limited quantities for our studio.

Are your ceramics dishwasher safe?

Most of our ceramic pieces are dishwasher safe, but we recommend gentle hand washing to extend their lifespan. The high temperatures and harsh detergents in dishwashers can, over time, affect glazes and delicate details. Each piece comes with specific care instructions based on the artisan's recommendations.

Do you offer custom ceramic commissions?

Yes, for special occasions or unique needs, we can connect you with our ceramic artisans for custom commissions. These bespoke pieces typically require 4-8 weeks for completion and involve a consultation process to determine specifications. Please contact us to discuss your vision and timeline.

Do I need to book in advance for studio experiences?

Advance booking is required for all structured experiences like tea tastings, pastry workshops, and tea ceremonies. These sessions have limited capacity to ensure quality and personal attention. For casual visits to enjoy our daily tea and pastry offerings, no reservation is necessary, though we may have wait times during peak hours.

Can I host a private event at your studio?

Yes, our studio is available for private events outside of regular hours. We can accommodate intimate gatherings of up to 20 people for custom tea experiences, workshops, or special occasions. Please contact us at least three weeks in advance to discuss your event concept, preferred date, and requirements.

Is your studio accessible?

Our studio is fully accessible with step-free entry, accessible restrooms, and seating arrangements that can accommodate mobility devices. Service animals are welcome. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know when booking so we can ensure your comfort during your visit.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship our shelf-stable products (teas and ceramic items) internationally. Shipping rates vary by destination and package weight. Due to import regulations, we cannot ship fresh pastries internationally. Please allow 7-14 business days for international delivery, depending on customs processing in your country.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, and bank transfers for online orders. In our studio, we accept credit cards, contactless payments, and cash. For large orders or event bookings, we can arrange invoice payment with terms.

What is your return policy?

For ceramic items, we accept returns within 14 days if the item arrives damaged or defective. Please contact us immediately with photos of the damage for a prompt resolution. Due to the perishable nature of our teas and pastries, we cannot accept returns on these items, but will address any quality concerns on a case-by-case basis. See our full return policy for details.

Do you offer gift options?

Yes, we offer elegant gift packaging for all products and can include a personalized message with your order. We also create curated gift sets that combine teas, ceramics, and shelf-stable treats in beautiful presentation boxes. Gift certificates for products or studio experiences are available in electronic or physical format.