Style Guide - Leaves and Flowers
How did the two of you meet one another?
Anna: Emily and I met in 2011 through our work. Soon after meeting, I left on a
4-month trip to India and we kept in touch. When I got back our friendship caught
on pretty quickly.
What was the reason behind starting Leaves and Flowers? Why a tea company?
Emily: We both were seeking work that felt more sustainable and wanted to work
with a product that supported our physical wellness. Having both been in industries
that felt at odds with these two values we turned to the idea of starting our own company,
where we could be in charge of our relationship to our work. We both were drawn to
plants and the power they hold, and we felt a tea company was a straightforward way
to present this to the public. With our backgrounds in food and beverage we had connections and resources that really supported our vision for the company.
What are some of the benefits from drinking tea daily?
Anna: It depends what kind of tea you are consuming, but in general I find tea to
be such a nourishing and gentle beverage. Tea (particularly green tea) is rich with
antioxidants and bioactive components. Studies have shown that it can improve
brain and heart function. And I find botanical teas (non-caffeinated plants) to be particularly beneficial.
Emily: I find the routine of drinking tea daily gives me a grounded feeling. I start and
end my day with tea, and it allows for quiet moments where I can just sit and enjoy
the act of preparing something for myself. Energetically, I enjoy how I feel when I drink
tea versus say a cup of coffee. It is a much gentler form of stimulation.
How does something become an essential for you?
Anna: For me it happens on its own. Suddenly there’s a thing, a piece of clothing or jewelry, a person, that I can’t imagine living without.
Emily: There are periods where life can get too busy. I used to struggle more with knowing how to support myself when I felt overworked, overwhelmed, or stressed. For me what equates to an everyday essential are the things that don’t take a ton of effort, but aid tremendously in supporting my well-being during these times.
What does every woman need to have in her closet and her pantry?
Anna: The perfect pant and really good olive oil…
Emily: A pair of jeans that she feels like a million bucks in, dates, almond butter,
and Maldon salt in her pantry.
In what are you most comfortable wearing? What outfit speaks best to
who you are?
Anna: Living in Northern California I feel I’m never without a chunky sweater. I like fabrics that feel soft and luxurious, short heels with jeans, a special piece of jewelry
worn every day.
Emily: I gravitate towards clean lines, neutrals over loud patterns and colors, and a mix
of vintage and new. I feel most comfortable and confident in garments that fit well. Most pieces I own are versatile and can be dressed up or down given the occasion.
SOFIA SLIM CLASSIC SHIRT IN CASTAWAY & Flavie Trouser Jean in Blue Rose
Grace pocket t in Vanilla & CHARLOTTE HIGH RISE STRAIGHT IN LALUNA
How has your approach to dress changed over the years?
Anna: As I get older, I am becoming more and more comfortable with my personal style and expression. I find that comfort and quality of material is more important to me. But usually when a piece feels good, it fits my body well too.
What are your everyday essentials?
Anna: Movement (preferably in nature), something warm, and face oil.
Emily: A hot morning beverage, time outside, and a moment for my body to be still and for it to move.
What has been the most challenging aspect(s) of your business?
Anna: Maintaining our vision while allowing it to adapt to our ever-growing hearts and lives.
Emily: Historically I have become restless in jobs and tend to start anew every 3-5 years. Owning this business has been an invaluable lesson in rooting down,
committing to one thing, and allowing for it to evolve and expand in ways that can only happen with a long-term vision and commitment.