A former teacher has made a career change to enable her to fulfil her dream of starting her own business.
Jennifer Hill, 26, has resigned from her position as an English teacher to open a tea emporium on Chapel Road.
Tea Alchemist opened at the weekend, in the premises previously occupied by Michael J Chapman estate agents - which lends itself very well to the vintage style shop.
Jennifer explained "I was assistant head of department in Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College and figure that if I can teach 170 teenagers at once and be in charge of Key stage 3 English curriculum, I can definitely make my own business work.
"I love tea, baking and all things quirkily British and therefore decided, whilst being young and without kids, now would be the best time to go for it. I dreaded being 45 and looking back thinking, 'What if...? What if I'd gone for it...?"
Jennifer has recently moved to Prestbury from Didsbury to be nearer to her family and her shop.
Speaking about her decision to open in the village, Jennifer said "I chose Alderley Edge because I think it is a beautiful little village, with just the right atmosphere and just the right market for the range of products we will be selling.
"The products consist of a wide range of high end loose leaf teas, tea making paraphernalia, tea infused cosmetics and other tea-related gifts. Designers we are using include Villeroy and Boch, Tom Dixon, and Richard Brendan; we will be looking to build upon this range in the coming months.
"The theme of the shop is a vintage, Victorian chemist, as we intend to present tea as a luxurious drink to enjoy, as well as remedy for common ailments. The tea and products we offer will be of a very high quality and the service we offer will be personal to each customer."
In addition to buying single items, Tea Alchemist offers gift boxes and bespoke hampers. Customers can select a range of products in store and they will create the hamper to order, offering free delivery to addresses within a 5 miles radius.
Tea Alchemist will be open Thursday to Saturday 9.30-5pm and Sunday 11-4pm during December, until Jennifer has finished her teaching post. In January, it will be open Tuesday to Saturday 9.30-5pm and 11-4 on Sundays.
