High Tea, Fascinators & Champagne as Melvin’s Tea Celebrates 25 Years In Style

It’s no secret that Kenyans are fond of at least one or two cups, or even three, of tea every single day. Be it indoors or outdoors, tea has proudly become a part of our culture. Currently grown in 21 counties, tea is the only cash crop cultivated widely across geographically dispersed areas in Kenya, making it truly the land of Tea. What’s better than enjoying a relaxing cup of tea with friends and family in the afternoon? After all, few moments in life are as agreeable as the tradition of afternoon tea.

Melvin Marsh International (MMI), a Kenyan-based family business and the founders of Melvins Tea, hosted an elegant high tea party at the scenic and plush Zen Garden to celebrate 25 years of existence, an event dubbed ‘Brewed to Last.’ The afternoon was characterized by bright, beautiful fascinators, setting the tone for the celebrations, and lots of tea sipping among gorgeous and dapper ladies and gentlemen. After all, high tea is undoubtedly a fancy and unapologetically elegant affair.

25 years ago, Flora Mutahi, CEO of Melvins Tea, aimed to transform the culture of coffee dates by popularizing tea dates, offering tea in a variety of forms. Recognizing tea as a staple beverage in many African homes, she set out to introduce flavored tea to tea enthusiasts in Kenya and beyond. Despite skepticism, loyal tea drinkers worldwide helped turn her vision into reality. Today, Melvins Teas, the pioneers of flavored teas in the Kenyan market, serve millions of cups annually. The product range has expanded to include not only flavored teas but also herbal and fruit infusions, along with green, orthodox, and purple teas.

The high tea party brought together family and friends, with Cabinet Secretary for Industrialization, Trade, and Enterprise Development, CS Betty Maina, as the guest of honor, along with other prominent figures from the manufacturing industry, consumers, distributors, retailers, and relevant stakeholders. Their gathering wasn’t just a celebration of a resilient woman entrepreneur who defied the odds to build a brand, but also served to highlight MMI’s journey from a local entity to an international brand—a testament to the hope and faith in the growth of Kenya’s manufacturing industry.

The tradition of high tea was initiated by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford (1788 to 1861). Feeling hungry long before the evening meal, the duchess began having tea and pastries served in her chamber around five o’clock. Initially dining alone, she soon started inviting a few of her closest friends to join her at the main table, known as the ‘high table,’ for afternoon tea. This tradition, born out of necessity, eventually became an enduring symbol of British culture—a high tea party that encapsulates the true spirit of Britain.

Before Melvins Tea emerged, the world of tea was rather straightforward: tea was tea, occasionally with milk and sugar, but often consumed plain. However, in 1995, the CEO and Founder of MMI recognized that people desired and deserved exceptional flavors of tea that could be enjoyed every day. This realization became the cornerstone for building a world-class company with several robust Melvins brands. Additionally, the evening marked the launch of a luxury collection of orthodox teas by MMI, further solidifying their commitment to providing high-quality tea experiences.

Tea embodies a cherished ritual, and when we share this tradition with others, whether they’re near or far, it fosters a powerful connection that stays with us throughout life. What’s not to love about sandwiches, scones, cream cakes, and bite-size treats, all served alongside a piping hot cup of tea and some bubbly to mark special occasions? High tea presents an opportunity to unite everyone, reminisce about past memories, look forward to the future, and simply sit back, relax, and savor the joys of life.