When it’s high time for teatime the solution can be found in Rimbey’s recently opened specialty teashop and café.
Valerie-Ray St-Jean, steeping expert and owner, held the grand opening for My SpecialTeas on Nov. 1. She also held a soft opening Oct. 29.
“It’s been very well taken by the townspeople,” said St-Jean.
St-Jean used to manage the Best Western Hotel but it was a birthday present from her sister that got her started on a lifelong dream.
“I’ve always had a soft spot for teahouses,” she said. St-Jean’s sister gave her a box full of teapots, telling her it was inspiration to start living the dream.
St-Jean had talked about owning a teashop before but that present was the catalyst to switch her life’s direction. “That was pretty much my push and go. When it’s right, it’s right,” explained St-Jean.
She loves working in the service industry and likes being able to give her customers one-on-one treatment.
“You come for the experience,” she said, at a loss for words to explain her cosy, warm and brightly lit shop featuring both tables and sitting areas for drinking and visiting.
St-Jean plans to host high tea once a month, grandparent-grandchild tea days, as well as princess-themed birthday party teas in her princess room. She will also make deliveries to the manors once a week for those who can’t get around easily in the winter.