Chicago-based 9TEA3 is revolutionizing the way consumers experience tea by infusing premium loose leaf offerings with cultural storytelling, artistic collaborations, and wellness education. The Black-owned e-commerce brand has quickly established itself as a unique voice in the specialty tea market by emphasizing tea as a lifestyle choice and cultural practice rather than simply a hot beverage option.
Founded by entrepreneurs Cyd and Hassahn, who met as students at DePaul University, 9TEA3 emerged from a vision to make high-quality loose leaf tea accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. The founders recognized that while tea represents the second most consumed beverage globally, many communities lacked exposure to premium tea experiences and the wellness benefits associated with quality loose leaf varieties.
The brand’s approach centers on education and cultural connection. Rather than positioning tea as an elite or inaccessible product, 9TEA3 embraces the tagline “We serve tea and culture from the block to the boardroom,” signaling an inclusive philosophy that welcomes tea enthusiasts from all backgrounds. This positioning reflects the founders’ commitment to democratizing wellness while maintaining uncompromising quality standards.
9TEA3’s product line features carefully curated loose leaf teas selected for their flavor profiles, wellness properties, and sourcing integrity. The company emphasizes the ritual aspects of tea preparation and consumption, encouraging customers to slow down and create intentional moments throughout their day. This mindfulness-centered approach resonates with health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to coffee culture and fast-paced beverage consumption.
Beyond product sales, 9TEA3 has distinguished itself through meaningful cultural partnerships and community engagement. The brand’s collaboration with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra exemplifies this commitment, with 9TEA3 sponsoring a summer concert featuring Grammy-winning artist Common. This partnership demonstrated how tea culture intersects with music, community gathering, and artistic expression.
Adding to its cultural credentials, 9TEA3 launched the Sips and Sounds series in partnership with Chicago DJ Francesca Eva while looking to expand this clever concept with other DJ’s, artists, and concert series. These curated experiences combine tea tastings with musical performances, creating multi-sensory events that appeal to culturally engaged audiences. The series has helped establish 9TEA3 as more than a product brand, positioning it as a lifestyle platform that facilitates connection and cultural appreciation.
The founders’ relationship with DePaul University extends beyond their time as students, dating back to when they met in the year of 1993, hence the name of the brand. Cyd and Hassahn have returned to their alma mater to lecture on entrepreneurship, tea culture, and wellness, sharing insights from their journey building a mission-driven business. These educational engagements reflect the brand’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs and wellness advocates.
9TEA3’s target audience comprises health and culture-conscious consumers who value intentional living, appreciate music and arts, and seek products aligned with their values. The brand appeals particularly to individuals interested in exploring wellness practices rooted in cultural traditions and those looking to incorporate mindful rituals into busy lifestyles.
The company’s e-commerce platform at 9tea3.com provides customers with detailed information about each tea variety, brewing recommendations, and educational content about tea culture and wellness benefits. The brand maintains an active social media presence, sharing tea preparation tips, wellness insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their cultural collaborations.
As 9TEA3 continues expanding its reach, the brand remains committed to its founding principles of quality, cultural relevance, and community connection. With the tagline “Peace, Prosperity, and Pinky Up,” the company invites consumers to embrace tea as a daily practice that supports both personal wellness and cultural appreciation.
CONTACT: https://www.9tea3.com/
https://www.instagram.com/9tea3leafstyle
https://www.tiktok.com/@9tea3leafstyle
https://www.facebook.com/9tea3leafstyle
Media Contact
Company Name: 93 Whole Leafstyle LLC
Contact Person: John Watson
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: https://www.9tea3.com/