People often ask, “Why did you decide to go into the business?” This is something that I have wanted for over 10 years. I went to my first Spice and Tea shop out in Wilmington, NC. As soon as I entered, I immediately fell in love with the smells and the general atmosphere of the establishment. It was at that point I knew one day I would own my own spice and tea shop.

I grew up in Willow Springs, NC. Attended Fuquay Middle and High School. My family has been here for generations. This is my home. I felt it is important to keep a piece of my family and this communities heritage preserved.

My grandpa, whom I admire greatly, recently passed away. He was a hard-working, respected man and lived on the farm that has been in my family for generations. In honor of my grandpa, I wanted to be able to bring a piece of him into the business. Therefore, much of the furniture inside my shop is built from a pack-house on my grandpas farm that was built in the 1920s. His picture is hanging on the wall in the shop. It’s not just to honor his legacy, it reminds me of what he believed in. He was the true epitome of what this community is all about. Family, hard work, and a passion for helping others.

I look forward to seeing the community come in and enjoy everything we have to offer, and I hope everyone leaves with the same feeling I had when I entered my first spice and tea shop many years ago.

~Rachel Strahler