On the third Friday of the month Ashford Tea Company presents ‘Poet-Tea’ a monthly tea and art experience for the mind and body.
The upcoming experience will be on August 19 at 7 p.m. The monthly show is hosted by writer and poet Brandy Simpkins.
The monthly event features different artists, musicians, poets, and authors. The show is features strong performances and well-established service.
Owner of Ashford Tea Co., Wayne Ashford wants people to slow down, breathe, and be in the moment.
“I know there are a lot of choices people have in Savannah, but it really warms my heart that you all chose to spend your time on a Friday night with Ashford Tea Company,” said Ashford, owner of Ashford Company, to the audience at the last Poet-Tea event.
Ashford has more than 30 years in the tea business and opened his tearoom in 2018. At the event, guests will experience tasting local and exotic tea, paired with fresh tea sandwiches and vegan & gluten-free locally made desserts.
The 30 years of experience is evident by the set-up of the tearoom and presentation at Poet-Tea.
There is an extensive display of the teas and other items in the shop including artwork.
Tables are set for 20 guests to enjoy an evening of poetry, music, networking, and more.
Aiding in the experience is Simpkins.
You are greeted by both she and Ashford when you enter.
Simpkins, a freelance journalist, and Savannah State graduate who studied English Language & Literature, met Ashford last November when she was working on a news story about the teashop. The two kept in touch and developed a friendship over their mutual respect and love for poetry.
“We are grateful to have everyone who comes out. This is still a new show however we are bringing new art to this platform every time,” said Simpkins.
Simpkins, who goes by the moniker “Miss Brandywine” when performing and hosting, is a Savannah native and curates the shows with Ashford.
Simpkins was the featured artist back in May and since then she has continued hosting duties while helping produce the event.
After being greeted guests have a chance to enjoy chatting it up with others they may know or meet someone new. During this time guests can also examine the various teas available to sample. Once the tea is poured it is time for the show to start.
Over the first couple of shows, there has been an array of artists featured from the performing and visual sides. Musicians, lyricists, poets, authors, and more have come together for an evening of fun and enlightenment.
Margie Marie is the featured visual artist for the first set of shows. Margie Marie is a Savannah native and has been painting and drawing since she was 6 years old. She has been producing a live painting that depicts Simpkins inside of Ashford Tearoom.
“The purpose of this painting with Miss Brandywine is to capture the essence of Ashford Tea Company and to give people a feel for the vibe we were going for in the poetry series,” said Margie Marie.
Margie Marie also has illustrations from her Ashford Tea Series on display in the shop. The painting and the illustrations are for bid. For some artists, it is a great opportunity to display their work and generate money.
Ashford Tea Company wants people to enhance their mind and body and in addition to what they offer to help with that, they also connect with other local companies that promote the same theme of mind and body wellness.
“Your dreams and passions cannot live without someone else’s dreams and passions. It cannot live by itself. We should share those dreams and passion with someone who is doing the same thing and that is how our community grows and stays strong,” said Ashford.
Sharing dreams and passions truly is something those attending Poet-Tea will witness as each artist brings their A game and displays the beauty of their dreams, passions, and craft through their work.
This is evident in the presentation of the show from beginning to end. Each artist displays their passion but more importantly is evidence of the amount of time and work put into their craft as the audience listens, they digest amazing work as well as amazing food and teas.
Experience Poet-Tea on the third Friday of each month. Tickets are $20-$40 and RSVP only as seating is limited. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the events starting sharply at 7:30 p.m. Find out and get tickets under the events page at ashfordtea.co
