by Paula Anderson
A place for 'tea and conversations' is located in the Midtown area near Crosstown Concourse. Barbara Bacon-Wall, founder and owner of the Enchanted Tea Lounge, was inspired by her grandmother who would "bake tea cakes, brew tea and share family stories."
According to the website, Enchanted Tea Lounge is designed to evoke a sense of home, offering a space where guests can feel like family from the moment they
walk into the lounge.
Bacon-Wall shared her entrepreneurial journey in a Q & A interview.
Q1: What inspired you to be an entrepreneur?
"What inspired me to become an entrepreneur was my passion for creating unique experiences that bring people together. I’ve always been passionate about creating meaningful experiences and building spaces where people can connect, relax, and celebrate life’s special moments. Tea has a unique way of bringing people together, and I saw an opportunity to share that magic in Memphis. I was also inspired by the chance to merge my love for hospitality, community building, and cultural traditions into something truly unique. The journey of entrepreneurship allows me to be creative, make a positive impact in my community, and empower others—whether through a shared cup of tea, supporting local initiatives, or offering enriching programs. Starting Enchanted Tea Lounge was a way for me to follow my dream and make a difference while doing something I love."
Q2: What challenges have you faced since starting your business?
"Since starting my business, I’ve faced several challenges, but each has been a valuable learning experience. One of the biggest hurdles has been building brand awareness and educating the community about the unique experience we offer at Enchanted Tea Lounge. Tea culture isn’t as mainstream in Memphis as coffee culture, so introducing people to the art of tea and its traditions required creativity and persistence. Another challenge has been managing resources effectively while growing the business. Balancing operational costs, staffing needs, and marketing efforts has required careful planning and adaptability. I’ve also navigated the complexities of catering to diverse customer preferences while maintaining the authenticity and quality that define our brand. Finally, as with any small business, there’s the ongoing effort to keep up with changing market trends and customer expectations while staying true to our mission and vision. Despite these challenges, the support from our community and the joy of creating memorable experiences for our guests have made it all worthwhile."
Q3: What is your inspiration to keep going when obstacles arrive?
"My inspiration to keep going when obstacles arise comes from the joy and connection I see in the faces of our guests. Knowing that the Enchanted Tea Lounge creates a space where people can celebrate, relax, and build meaningful memories keeps me motivated. The positive feedback and gratitude from customers remind me that the work I do has a purpose and brings value to others. I’m also inspired by the mission to enrich our community. The vision of empowering others, fostering cultural appreciation, and creating a sanctuary for people to connect drives me to persevere, even during challenging times. On a personal level, I reflect on why I started this journey—to share my passion for tea culture and build something meaningful. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and the belief that I’m creating something lasting and impactful gives me the strength to push through and keep dreaming bigger."
Q4: What advice would you give to a new entrepreneur?
To a new entrepreneur, my advice is to start with a clear vision. Understand why you’re starting your business and what makes it unique. Define your mission, values, and goals to guide your decisions and keep you focused. Embrace the learning curve—you won’t have all the answers at the beginning, and that’s okay. Be open to learning from your experiences, mistakes, and feedback, and seek mentorship from knowledgeable people. While having a solid business plan is essential, stay flexible and ready to adapt as circumstances change. The ability to pivot and innovate will be crucial to your success. Networking is also key. Build relationships with other entrepreneurs, potential customers, and industry professionals, as these connections often lead to valuable opportunities and insights. Focus on understanding your target audience and consistently delivering value to them, as their satisfaction and loyalty will drive your business forward. At the same time, manage your finances wisely by budgeting, tracking expenses, and securing the right funding, as cash flow is the lifeblood of your business. Entrepreneurship can be demanding, so prioritize your well-being. Avoid burnout by setting boundaries and making time for yourself and your loved ones. Starting a business is a journey filled with ups and downs, but staying committed to your passion and purpose will make it rewarding. Trust yourself, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take bold steps toward your dreams."
To learn more about the Enchanted Tea Lounge, click here.
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