From the Classroom to the Cup: Our Story
We believe tea is more than a drink. It’s a moment of focus, a ritual of comfort, and a way to connect.
The journey of an educator who found her true calling in the art of tea.
A Teacher’s Heart, A Lifelong Passion
For a decade, Hannah Sandau dedicated her life to the classroom. As an elementary school teacher, she built spaces of discovery, community, and growth. But amidst the chaos of school years, she relied on one quiet constant: Tea.
It was her focus on busy mornings. Her calm in the afternoon. Her warmth on cool Pacific Northwest evenings.
In conversations with parents and friends, Hannah noticed a pattern. People were craving healthier alternatives to sugary drinks and coffee, and they were curious about premium loose-leaf tea. But they were also intimidated.
- "Where do I start?"
- "How do I brew it?"
- "Is it complicated?"
Hannah realized her two passions, teaching and tea, were actually one. She could use her teacher's heart to demystify artisan tea, making the ritual accessible, approachable, and joyful for everyone.
Rooted in Oregon. Grounded in Wellness.
The Spirit of "Yerba Buena"
Our story began in 2015, but today, our roots are firmly planted in the soil and spirit of Oregon.
"Yerba Buena" is Spanish for "the good herb." It is also the name of a native mint plant found creeping along the forest floors of the West Coast. We chose this name as a nod to our region's rich agricultural wisdom and the history of using plants for wellness.
To us, it represents a simple philosophy that guides everything we do:
Good Herbs. Good People. Good Tea.
Our 3 Core Commitments
We honor the connection tea brings with three promises to you:
Commitment:
Certified Organic & Hand-Crafted Quality
We source only 100% certified organic, small-batch loose leaf teas.
Why? Because whole leaves provide the purest, most robust flavors, free from the dust, fannings, and microplastics often found in conventional tea bags. To ensure every blend meets the highest standards, Hannah is currently pursuing her certification as a Certified Tea Sommelier through the World Tea Academy.
Commitment:
Community & Tea Education
We take the intimidation out of loose leaf.
We believe brewing tea should be a simple, personal ritual that brings you joy, not a complicated chore. Through education and clear guidance, we help you discover what you love and how to brew it with confidence.
Commitment:
Sustainable Sourcing & Eco-Friendly Packaging
What is good for the earth is good for the soul.
We are committed to ethical sourcing, supporting the farmers who grow our botanicals, and minimizing waste with reusable tins and recyclable refill bags.
A Note from Hannah
My vision is for you to find the same connection, comfort, and ritual in tea that I have. It's more than just a drink; it's a chance to connect with yourself, with the people you share it with, and with the cultures that have cherished it for centuries.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey.
Ready to pour your first cup?
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