We had the good fortune of connecting with Carole Bright-Alvarez, M.A., M.B.A. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carole, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
People. Hiring, training and maintaining amazing employees is THE most important aspect of building success. They represent our brand, and, are the interface with our community. Hiring the best and brightest is essential.

What should our readers know about your business?
We not only sell the highest quality, most exquisite teas from all over the world, but more importantly, we create an experience for our customers. Exploring the world of teas is a sensory experience which cannot be replicated in a grocery store aisle. At iN-TEA, customers can experience the smell of the dry leaf, observe the look of the leaf (color and shape), hold the warm cup in their hands, enjoy the aromatics and taste the drink that has been shared through generations.

Our employees are given an intensive 6 months or training that include written and oral tea tests as well as in-depth, hands-on tea preparation training. They are equipped to answer your most discerning tea question and “fit you to a tea”!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d recommend starting in Denver and working their way west to the mountains:

Visiting Denver might include visiting the Zoo &/or Museum of Nature and Science, a walk through the Bontanic Gardens and a bike ride through Washington Park.

Taking in a Rockies game and then stopping at Mile High Distillary with dinner at Rioja on Larimar.

If kids are involved, a day at Elitches and the Water Park!!

Exploring Rhino and Lodo unveils new and fun places with a unique dining experience at Denvers first liquor license; The Buckhorn Exchange – try the Rocky Mountain Oysters for a real Colorado experience!

Casa Bonita (re-opening soon!) is a Denver tradition, followed by a scenic walk around Clement Park lake and an evening visit to Coal MIne Brewing Co. (South Littleton) a brew pub with doggie play yard in front!!

Must head up to the mountains, (fishing at any stream access along the way) to end up in Breckenridge or Vail. So many great restaurants and hikes in both mountain towns!

A summer stop in Winter Park has all outdoor fun available or in winter, choose from so many ski areas!

Another day, continue the drive to Steamboat or on to Aspen.

Fort Collins is also a fun day trip – be sure to stop at Happy Lucky Tea shop (owned by friend George Grossman). Boulder and the Flat Irons for hiking, biking, strolling and shopping along the Pearl St mall.
So much to do – a week is hardly enough!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family. They have been amazingly supportive, empathetic, risk-taking and full of ideas! From both my parents, my husband, my two daughters and all the in-laws; having family to cheer me on has been the most inspirational source of energy and encouragement that anyone could ask for!

Website: www.in-tea.net

Instagram: in.tea.littleton

Facebook: @iNTEALittleton

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