Hidden Gems: Meet Ellarose Preston of J. Elise Tea

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellarose Preston. 

Hi Ellarose, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I come from a family that loves drinking tea and understands the many health benefits related to it. Years ago, I was struggling with hypertension and was looking for natural interventions to help me manage it. I found scientific evidence that suggests drinking hibiscus tea regularly could assist in lowering your blood pressure. That along with other lifestyle changes allowed me to manage hypertension without medications. Fast forward to a vision board party in 2016, I brewed a delicious hibiscus iced tea and everyone loved it! They even suggested that I bottle it! I figured, why not. Let me lean into this and see what happens.

From there I went into the kitchen to develop a recipe and started selling at local farmers’ markets and events. Eventually, we procured bottles, labels, licenses, and retail locations.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There has definitely been a big learning curve. I essentially was and I’m still learning as I go. It has not been smooth but it has been rewarding to serve others by way of a delicious and healthy beverage. One of the biggest struggles I’d say is how long it often takes to accomplish a particular goal. Nothing seems to happen within the timeframe I plan. It always seems to take longer, whether it’s securing licensing, and/or working with various agencies.

Of course, the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have caused a tremendous amount of struggle as well.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
J. Elise Tea is a beverage company that produces artisanal bottled iced tea. The company is affectionately named after my beloved aunt, now ancestor, Jamila Elise Harris.

We have three flavors that are not only delicious but are also health-supportive.

Heartea Hibiscus (sweet & unsweet): packed with vitamin c for an immune system boost and great for your cardiovascular system.

Royaltea (white tea-based with lemon balm & pineapple): full of antioxidants, can help reduce cold and flu-like symptoms and feelings of anxiety and depression.

Our beverages are a great healthier alternative to high sugar juices and pops. We source organic and sustainable ingredients from across the globe for a truly luxurious beverage experience with every sip. There is nothing on the market right now that tastes like our tea.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Currently and in 5-10 years projection, the beverage industry will continue to flourish overall. This is particularly true for functional beverages and ready-to-drink beverages that hold sustainability and health at the forefront. At J. Elise Tea, we plan to expand into more retail locations across the country and with more flavor options that will continue to support our consumers well being.

Contact Info:

• Email: Ellarosepreston@jelisetea.com
• Website: www.Jelisetea.com
• Instagram: @jelisetea
• Facebook: Jelisetea