Small Business Through the Lens of Tea

Matthew Phillips

Photo Story

Establishing Shot

The collection of teas on display at Sweet Pea's Tea Room in Battle Ground. According to
British-born owner Sharon "Mum" Harbeck, being British means that
"you’re born with a cup of tea, you die with a cup of tea."
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019 

Detail Shot

Tea Master Inti starts to prepare a flight of tea, at the Jasmine Pearl Tea Co. in
Portland. All tea is derived from the tea plant, Camellia Sinensis. Inti and the other
employees take the time to explain all about tea to every customer.

Portland, OR, April 20, 2019  

Action Shot

As he prepared the first brew of the tea flight, Inti explained that the Jasmine Pearl Tea Co.
has close connections with many of the tea farmers that they source from all over the world.
The close relationships guarantee a superior quality product, as we as "ensures a certain
degree of integrity," Inti said.
Portland, OR, April 20, 2019 

Action Shot

According to Inti, the first brew is always the darkest, depending on the type of tea. Inti
and his fellow Tea Masters will prepare dozens of flights for customers to sample per day.
Their goal is to educate customers and help them find a tea that they like.
"The way you enjoy it is the right way to drink it," he said.

 Portland, OR, April 20, 2019

Establishing Shot

A traditional cup of English Breakfast tea and teapot at Sweet Pea's Tea Room.
"I've never known life without tea," Sharon Harbeck said. Tea was imported to England
from British occupied India in the 1800s, where it became a cultural phenomenon
that remains fundamental to British society.
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019   

Action Shot

According to Sharon Harbeck, tea should be drunk according to taste, with or without
milk and sugar. Harbeck explains to all of her customers that tea is more than a beverage,
it is an experience, part of everyday life.
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019  

Close Up

Sharon Harbeck prepares a special Easter-themed afternoon tea for a customer.
Afternoon tea is traditionally served with small sandwiches, scones with
clotted cream and other pastries. Harbeck wants her customers to take their time
and really take in the whole experience.
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019     

Interaction Shot

Sharon Harbeck (left) works with her son Robert (right) preparing traditional
finger sandwiches for the tea service. Sweet Pea's Tea Room hosts up to 60 customers
 per day. Sharon prepares every single dish that leaves the kitchen.
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019  

Detail Shot

 Sharon Harbeck garnishes sandwiches before plating. According to Harbeck, presentation is
paramount. Every garnish, every detail, must be perfect for every customer.
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019  

Detail Shot

Sharon Harbeck explains more about the social customs of afternoon tea.
Harbeck and the other servers take time to explain to every customer the process, in an effort
to help every customer get the most out of their experience.
Battle Ground, WA, April 20, 2019