ORIGIN
A.
Ceremony was established to offer a unique approach to tea, prioritizing quality and craftsmanship while embracing modern flavors. In a market dominated by mass production, the goal was to create a more personal and intentional experience, centered on sustainability and direct partnerships with tea farmers.
B.
Our cafés are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience, blending premium teas and coffee with an emphasis on community and connection. Each drink is a reflection of the brand’s commitment to integrity, creativity, and honoring the craft of tea-making, while introducing fresh, innovative offerings.
INTEGRITY
I. Sourcing With Purpose & Passion
We build ethical partnerships with tea farmers across Asia, ensuring every step— from sourcing to serving—reflects our commitment to quality. These relationships, rooted in sustainability and respect for the craft of tea production, span generations. Each cup we serve honors the dedication and artistry behind our premium teas, connecting you to a rich tradition.
II. Cultural & Familial Roots
Our owner’s connections to her hometown Anhui, China, where her family has long worked with local tea farmers, shape Ceremony’s sourcing philosophy. We select every leaf from small, family-owned farms in China, Taiwan, and Japan, prioritizing exceptional teas and supporting sustainable practices, fair pay, and environmental stewardship.
III. Straight to the Source
We cultivate direct trade relationships with farmers, ensuring fair compensation and upholding high craftsmanship standards. Through trust, collaboration, and ongoing communication, we support sustainable practices that benefit both farmers and the environment.
IV. Freshness in Bloom
We prioritize freshness by carefully managing inventory and offering a curated selection of premium teas. With regular shipments from trusted farms, we ensure each batch arrives at its peak flavor and quality.
V. Artful Preservation
Our carefully curated selection allows us to prioritize quality and flavor. Stored under optimal conditions, each cup reflects the care we invest in preserving aromas and meeting customer expectations.
VI. Crafting a Community
Sourcing tea at Ceremony goes beyond business—it's about building lasting relationships based on trust and respect. Our bond with farmers ensures ethical sourcing, sustainability, and exceptional quality. When you sip our tea, you connect with a community of dedicated farmers, craftsmen, and experts, united by a shared commitment to integrity and craftsmanship.
LEADERSHIP
Michelle Cheng is the founder and owner of Ceremony, overseeing two retail stores, an online platform, and a growing wholesale business. She carefully selects her team to ensure they share her passion for great service and high-quality products, creating a welcoming experience that honors both tradition and quality.
MICHELLE CHENG
Michelle Cheng’s passion for tea began in her hometown of Anhui, China, where she grew up surrounded by generations of tea farmers. This early exposure to tea craftsmanship and sustainable practices shaped her values around quality and ethical sourcing.
After moving to New York, Michelle honed her skills in the textile industry, gaining valuable insights into international imports. This experience laid the groundwork for her dream: a café that blended the traditions of tea with a modern, creative approach.
In 2019, Michelle launched Ceremony Café in Rhode Island, offering premium teas alongside inventive coffee and beverages. Her commitment to quality and sustainability, paired with a focus on direct trade relationships, quickly resonated with her community. Despite early challenges, including skepticism from investors and the pandemic, Michelle’s resilience and creativity fueled Ceremony’s growth. Today, Ceremony stands as a vibrant space where tea and coffee lovers come together to celebrate craftsmanship and connection.
Michelle Cheng / Founder and Owner
Matt Restrepo / Operational Manager
BROOKS STREET
Mary Correia / General Manager
Alex Brown / Assistant Manager
SOUTH MAIN STREET
Heather Fernandez / General Manager
WHOLESALE
/ Quality
We ensure every tea meets the highest standards, delivering rich flavor and freshness in every cup.
/ Sourcing
Our teas are ethically sourced from renowned regions, prioritizing sustainability and direct farmer partnerships.
/ Partnerships
We support our partners with tailored solutions, expert guidance, and a commitment to lasting relationships.
/ Application
Getting started is easy—apply today for exclusive access, seamless ordering, and expert support.