We’re looking forward to introducing you to Emilie Jackson. Check out our conversation below.
Emilie, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Have you ever been glad you didn’t act fast?
Many times, actually, acting quickly can be a virtue. But in some situations, taking time and allowing things to be seen in a different light can make all the difference.
Fast forward to about ten years ago — we were looking for a space for our business, and a friend found a location that, on paper, looked ideal. However, the more we looked into it from a financial and layout standpoint, the more something inside me told me it wasn’t the right space.
I remember saying to my husband and partner in this venture, “There’s something that doesn’t feel quite right. I can’t explain it to you, but I don’t think we should sign the lease.” He trusted my intuition, and even though I didn’t have anything tangible to show him, we decided not to sign.
One of our mentors once said, “Don’t try to fit into a space. Instead, design your ideal space — and it will come.”
He was so right. It took another six months, but we eventually found the perfect space — one that gave us the opportunity to grow into it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Emilie Jackson, co-owner of Emilie’s French Teas — a French tea room and boutique — and Centered Spirit, a Cultural and Holistic Health Center.
I’m a certified Tea Sommelier and an Herbalist, always in learning mode. Together, we’ve designed a space where people can simply come and enjoy a cup of tea with a pastry, or, if they wish, explore holistic health services offered through our shared space with our sister company dedicated to alternative medicine.
All of the teas I carry come from France. They are curated from tea gardens around the world, with the final blending completed in France. The tea blenders draw upon their deep experience in wine, culinary arts, essential oils, and perfumery to create the perfect balance — whether it’s a flavored or a pure-origin tea.
We offer over 75 loose-leaf teas, available for purchase along with all the accessories you need to prepare the perfect cup at home. About 75% of our teas are European and USDA Organic.
My passion is to teach the art of tea. I love educating people about the many varieties of teas and tisanes (herbal teas), their wellness and medicinal properties, and their organoleptic qualities — the ways they engage all the senses. Tea is a lifelong journey of learning and discovery.
As my tagline says, “Tea is as fascinating and as complex as wine.”
With that in mind, I’ve created a curriculum of tea classes for anyone who wishes to dive deeper into this beautiful world.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I would say the six years I lived and worked in Mexico City were some of the most formative of my life. Mexico is a country very dear to my heart — it shaped me not only professionally, but also personally and, most of all, spiritually.
Of all the countries I’ve lived in, Mexico was like Cinderella finding her glass slipper — it was simply the right fit for me. I fell in love with the culture, the history, and the immense creativity and work ethic of the people I met there. It’s also where I met one of my best friends — and, sadly, where I lost a dear friend during the 2017 earthquake.
Mexico taught me to live more fully in the present moment. Much like in France, life there centers around family, sharing meals, and gathering around the table — and of course, dancing, which has always been one of my great loves.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’m talking about my extreme sensitivity — my ability to sense things and environments quickly, whether they feel welcoming or not. For a long time, I felt this sensitivity was holding me back. But as I grew and truly learned to understand — and, most importantly, accept — this part of myself, I discovered how to use it to my advantage.
For those who feel deeply, like me, there are techniques to channel and manage this sensitivity, turning it into a powerful tool rather than seeing it as a burden.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
t’s hard to choose just one value, because several are so central to who I am. I deeply believe in art, craftsmanship, and expertise — the kind of work that comes from hands and hearts. Unfortunately, true artisans are increasingly rare these days, which makes their craft all the more precious.
I also believe that we work to live, not live to work. Spending time with friends and family is essential. I have to admit, living in the U.S. and running my own business has sometimes made it challenging to fully protect this value — one that I hold dear from my own cultural roots.
And then there’s the love of culinary experiences — the joy of preparing and sharing food with friends and family. For me, it’s not just nourishment; it’s connection, celebration, and an expression of care.
Together, these values guide how I live, work, and create experiences for others — whether it’s through tea, wellness, or simply sharing a meal.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
My heart.
The part of me that feels deeply, loves fully, and holds space for others — that is who I am at my core.
For those who truly know me, I hope this is what they see: not the titles I carry, not the things I own or do not own, but the kindness, curiosity, and care I bring.
Everything else — the business, the accolades, the material trappings — is temporary.
My heart is what endures.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emiliesfrenchteas.com
- Instagram: @emiliesfrenchteas.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28591001/admin/dashboard/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emiliesfrenchteas
