Today we’re chatting with Farah Jesani, founder of One Stripe Chai, we’re chatting through the B2B side of the biz and what happened when she need to pivot last march, and her advice to entrepreneurs in the beverage space coming into 2022.
One Stripe Chai is a woman-owned South Asian beverage brand that offers authentic, small batch masala chai concentrates and blends, crafted to be enjoyed from the comfort of your home or at your favorite coffee shop.
Using tea sourced directly from a small organic and biodynamic family-owned farm in Assam, India, One Stripe Chai is brewed in Portland with a focus on taste and simplicity.
A Sip of Authenticity
One Stripe Chai is all about bringing authentic, small-batch masala chai concentrates and blends to your cup, whether you’re cozied up at home or enjoying a cup at your local coffee shop. Farah sources her tea directly from a small, organic, biodynamic family-owned farm in Assam, India, ensuring that every sip is rich in flavor and culture. Brewed in Portland, this brand beautifully marries taste with simplicity, allowing everyone to experience the true essence of chai.
Finding Their Footing in a Changing Landscape
As we all know, the pandemic has thrown us all for a loop, but Farah and her team are finding their new rhythm. Currently, One Stripe Chai has a balanced presence in both direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales and coffee shops. “Coffee shops came back with a vengeance!” Farah shares, reflecting on the resurgence of local businesses.
Exciting collaborations are also a big part of their strategy. Farah explains how they partner with small, lesser-known artists for unique ceramic collaborations. These handmade pieces not only add beauty to the brand but also educate people about South Asian culture. One of their recent projects included a rose chocolate chai bar in collaboration with a chocolate brand, as well as a puzzle collaboration inspired by the trend of staying in and enjoying puzzles at home. “It’s a fun thing to do, and it keeps freshness in our brand,” Farah adds, clearly excited about the creative direction.
Advice for Aspiring Beverage Entrepreneurs
Now, let’s get into the good stuff—Farah's best piece of advice for anyone looking to enter the beverage industry in 2022. “Be very intentional about where you want to be,” she advises. This means considering the type of beverage you want to create and the channels you want to pursue. With so much competition out there, it’s crucial to have a clear vision.
Farah suggests that entrepreneurs should ask themselves important questions: “Do you want to raise money? Or do you want to be a lifestyle brand?” This reflection can help clarify your goals and drive your strategy.
She also emphasizes the importance of being intentional about your team. Whether you're flying solo or working with a co-founder, knowing where you thrive is key. But perhaps most importantly, she encourages taking the plunge. “It’s okay. You’ll figure it out,” she reassures, reminding us that the journey of entrepreneurship is all about growth and discovery.
In Conclusion
Farah Jesani’s journey with One Stripe Chai is a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of uncertainty. As she navigates the evolving landscape of the beverage industry, her insights remind us that intentionality and collaboration can lead to exciting opportunities. So, if you're a fellow entrepreneur, take a page from Farah's book—embrace your vision, stay open to collaboration, and don’t be afraid to dive into the unknown!
