Who are you?

Sarah Burns, owner of TeaGeeks.com.

What does your business do?

TeaGeeks is an online tea shop that specialises in loose leaf tea, tea accessories and monthly tea subscriptions. Some of our teas are hand-blended and our teas are chosen for their quality and great taste. Britain is a nation of tea drinkers but many people are only sampling a tiny selection of the types of tea available.

Where are you based?

TeaGeeks is based in Glasgow and I'm based at home. As the shop is online I can manage most aspects of the business from home just now. This is a great way to keep the costs down just now while I grow the business.

How did you get started?

I started the business due to a frustration that tea wasn't given the same consideration as coffee. For the same price as a handmade cup of coffee, you get hot water with a teabag. I wanted to bring the luxury and quality back to tea so I started the business at home on my computer.

What is your background?

My background is in education and after university, I worked in Japan as a teacher and that's where I first become aware of loose leaf tea. I've also been to India, China and Korea and fell in love with the culture behind the tea while visiting these places.

What is your top tip?

My top tip for someone starting out in business would be to think carefully before diving in, if that's possible! Sometimes you can have really great ideas but it can be costly and time-consuming to find out if they're not the right ideas for you.

How long has your business been running?

Nearly two years. My first sale was in the summer of 2013 and TeaGeeks has since been growing.

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

Business Gateway were really helpful in getting my business plan together and Jobs and Business Glasgow have been extremely helpful in obtaining funding and supporting me as my business grows. Sandra Kelly from Jobs and Business Glasgow has been a great advisor and mentor to TeaGeeks.

What was your biggest mistake/or what would you do differently?

I think the biggest difference between now and two years ago is that I plan more. In the beginning I had loads of ideas and just went with them but now I ask myself questions about the ideas, how useful they are and if they're right for my business and the customer.

Where do you plan your business to be in five years time?

In five years time I would love to have a shop where people can sample and enjoy the teas before buying and taking them home.

Useful contacts

I would advise anyone, even if it's just an idea, to get in touch with Business Gateway or Jobs and Business Glasgow.

Contact Details (your contact details in case someone wants to reach you) Website: www.teageeks.com Email: sarah@teageeks.com