Our Mission: Building Connection and Community Through Coffe

My Journey with Coffee: A Story of Culture, Community, and Connection

My fascination with coffee and its rich cultural significance began early in my childhood. I grew up watching my mother and her friends gather at our home, often spending hours sipping coffee and tea. At the time, I didn’t realize it, but they were recreating the café experience right in their living room. These gatherings were more than just about drinking coffee—they were a time to connect, share stories, and discuss everything from their lives to the social issues of the day.

I would sneak out of my room, captivated by the sight of women enjoying cakes, laughter, and deep conversations, all while the comforting aromas of coffee and perfume filled the air. As immigrant women, ‘Kahve’ time became a sacred ritual—an opportunity to dress in their best outfits, adorn themselves in gold jewelry, and take turns hosting “Kahve” parties. It was a time to dream, share, and connect, all while manifesting their hopes and aspirations in each cup of coffee.

The most magical part of these gatherings was the coffee fortune reading. Rooted in the ancient practice of tasseography—reading the coffee grounds or tea leaves—this tradition has been passed down through generations of Assyrian women and other cultures around the world. I would listen in awe as one woman read the fortune of another, creating an atmosphere of wonder and connection.

Inspired by these moments, I founded TEE KOFFEE to honor the power of community and the cultural ties that coffee can nurture. Each of my blends is a tribute to my heritage, and every cup holds a story and a fortune waiting to be discovered. Through TEE KOFFEE, I aim to share the magic of coffee and bring people together, one cup at a time.