Our Story

 

Hi, I’m Amy—founder of Oolong Tea Collective.

I studied Economics at UCLA, but my passion for hospitality led me into the food and beverage world. After gaining some experience on the corporate side, I—like many young Asian-American entrepreneurs in their early 20s—set my sights on franchising a boba shop, serving the sweet, chewy drinks so beloved in my community.

That journey took me to Taiwan—my first solo trip there. Curious and excited, I asked to try the boba tea without ice or sugar, wanting to taste the tea in its pure form. It was bitter, flat, and nearly unbearable to swallow. The shop owner told me, “The tea quality doesn’t really matter—as long as the flavorings are right and enough sweetener is added, the drink will taste good.”

That answer didn’t sit right with me.

Disappointed and on the verge of giving up, I stumbled upon traditionally brewed Taiwanese oolong tea—and it changed everything. I tasted freshly harvested oolongs from high-elevation farms, and the flavor was mesmerizing: rich, floral, layered, and deeply satisfying. I couldn’t understand why tea like this wasn’t more accessible back home in the U.S.

That was the moment Oolong Tea Collective began.

My mission became clear: to share the beauty of authentic, natural loose leaf oolong teas—and to help people rediscover tea not just as a beverage, but as an experience. One rooted in craftsmanship, culture, and honesty. I work directly with farmers to ensure transparency and quality every step of the way.

I started small—selling at my local farmers market in Irvine, California. Today, we partner with coffee shops, restaurants, and tea lovers who want to create better, more mindful drinks. And we invite you, too, to explore the joy of being your own home barista.

To me, tea isn’t just delicious—it’s meditative. It helps quiet the noise, relieve stress, and reconnect me to what matters most.

I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s explore the power and possibility of tea together.

Cheers with Tea,
Amy