Making a difference

Biodegradable Silky Pyramids

What began in 1907 as a convenient silk bag full of tea leaves has declined over the last 100 years into a paper bag filled with very small grades of tea, called ‘fannings’ and ‘dust’. Convenient, yes, but not the same experience.

Inside a tiny gyoza restaurant in Kyoto, I was presented with my first tea pyramid. I was hooked. As far as I am concerned, they are irresistible. Sensual silken purses, designed to hold loose tea leaves, those needing  more space to expand when they infuse. It is an unexpected, grounding pleasure to see, touch and smell real tea leaves, spices and flower petals through that delicate mesh. Tea pyramids are a complete sensory experience.

My pyramids  are sealed with heat, so there are no staples or bleaching of paper. Best of all, I am proud to share with you that Madame Flavour pyramids are fully biodegradable. Not made from nylon, but instead from an extract of corn – this process takes from a year to five, depending on heat and humidity (instead of hundreds of years for nylon). There is just one source in the world: Osaka, Japan. They are costlier and more difficult to fill, but despite resistance, this is a decision I am glad I made and stuck with.

Preserving Our Culture

Despite the digital world closing in around us, we are dedicated to personally exchanging letters with the Madame Flavour tea-drinkers who so thoughtfully write to us. This ritualistic practice is important to our reason for being here as it reminds us of the difference we make in the world.

From using our own personal photos on the website and tea packaging, to drinking our tea from family heirloom cups, we celebrate our real experiences and creating meaning from them.

We do work hard, but we also work hard on ourselves, developing as emotionally and spiritually fulfilled people. Our largely female environment is supportive and encouraging, totally united in our mission to offer all women a tranquil moment in their busy day where they can reflect on what truly matters to them.

Including Unique Australian Ingredients

Travel is one of my favourite things in this life. One thing I have discovered through travel is  an appreciation of the delicious and varied wonders on offer across the world. It has been my joy and privilege to search Sri Lanka, China, France, India, Norway, Cuba, Sudan and many other countries to find the most delicious of each ingredient I use in my blends.

But in adding some of Australia’s own native treasures I feel as though I include something of my spirit and myself. This wonderful island country has the most unique, undiscovered flavours and many of them appear in my high tea collection. I have found kindred spirits in Gary and Melissa from Lismore and Gil and Meredith from Korumburra; passionate proponents of locally-grown, native foods, and I hope – wherever you come from – you enjoy what we have worked together to create for you.

Keeping our Workers and Suppliers Happy

The Madame Flavour team goes well beyond the walls of our cosy offices; we have colleagues in over 12 countries. And though we only see them a few times a year, their happiness and fulfilment is just as important as those we see every day. All our growers, pickers and packers know about our vision and the difference they make in the world.

I have met almost all of them personally and visit them regularly. I have become dear friends with many of my suppliers, and lend a hand where and when one is needed, both financially and emotionally. We are our own global family, united in our purpose on this earth, and I make sure each member feels valued and appreciated.

Causes Close to My Heart

As Madame Flavour, I am not perfect. I too am vulnerable to life’s dark clouds and have my own personal experiences with anxiety and depression. It is genuinely important to me to contribute to as many local causes as I can, through sponsorship and sharing my products or time. Each month I get many messages from kindergartens, charities, clubs, community organisations and schools asking for my help. I do what I can for each of them, and it makes me – and all of us here – really happy to get involved.