Learning about the world of tea is a fascinating endeavor. There is so much to discover about this ancient beverage. In the words of James Norwood Pratt, "Tea is a lifelong learning experience".

 I have had the privilege of learning from some of the tea industry's leading educators to include noted tea authors and educators, Mim Enck, Jane Pettigrew, James Norward Pratt, Elizabeth Knight, Kay Snipes and Teresa Eager, of Magnolia & Ivy.

The World Tea Expo has afforded me opportunities of learning over the past three years. I have attended seminars from professionals in the tea business and met tea importers and exporters from all over the world at the expo. In 2007, two of my employees attended the expo with me so that they could also benefit from the educational opportunities and learn from other professionals in the tea industry.

In 2005 I attended the STI educational program in New York where I earned my certification for completing the, "Foundations of Tea": levels one and two. The Specialty Tea Institute's "Foundations of Tea, Level One & Level Two," were developed by a team of industry experts in response to numerous requests for a standardized education program that offers an industry wide, recognizable accreditation. This two-day educational conference is part of the most significant STI initiative ever undertaken and represents a major milestone in the history of the US specialty tea industry.

 I am also authorized by The Protocol School of Washington to present Tea & Etiquette classes.

My desire is to continue to learn as much about tea and the tea industry as possible, so that I may inspire and share my passion with others.

Sincerely,
Ellen Garrett