HUDSON, Ohio — Entrepreneurs Stephen Kelbach and Rita Wisdom are bringing their passion for quality spices and teas to Hudson with the opening of their second Spice & Tea Exchange® location. The couple, who first opened a store in Chagrin Falls in 2022, will celebrate the launch of their new Hudson location with a four-day grand opening celebration from Thursday, March 6th through Sunday, March 9th at 94 First Street.
The festivities will kick off with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony with The Hudson Area Chamber of Commerce at 2pm on Thursday, March 6th.
Stephen’s journey with The Spice & Tea Exchange® began 14 years ago when he discovered the John’s Pass location in Madeira Beach, Florida, instantly becoming a devoted customer of their fresh, high-quality products.
“Stephen actually introduced me to The Spice & Tea Exchange®’s products when we met,” says Rita Wisdom, co-owner. “As someone who loves cooking, I became an immediate fan. Then, one Sunday over breakfast, I jokingly suggested we should open a store since there wasn’t one close to us. What started as a casual conversation quickly evolved into a serious business opportunity. Every step felt natural and just seemed like a perfect fit.”
The new location in Hudson’s First & Main shopping district was carefully selected for its charm and accessibility. “Stephen visited the location and immediately knew it would work,” Wisdom adds. The store is situated just one street from the historic district in a pedestrian-friendly area among other unique local businesses.
The space has been meticulously renovated by Stephen himself, who personally handled the complete build-out. Customers can explore over 140 fine spices, including traditional and signature blends hand-mixed in-store, along with infused sugars, honey, and more than 70 gourmet loose-leaf teas available to purchase or enjoy at the in-store tea bar.
“We’ve been thrilled at the community support we’ve received so far,” says Stephen Kelbach. “We opened just days before Christmas, but the reception has been fantastic. For most of our customers, this is their first experience with The Spice & Tea Exchange®. I really enjoy introducing them to the various products and helping them find their new favorite seasoning or tea – so far, the Bleu Burger seasoning has been very popular.”
Grand Opening Weekend Events (March 6-9)
- Thursday, March 6: Ribbon Cutting at 2pm and free tote of choice with a $50 purchase
- Friday, March 7: 15% off total purchases
- Saturday, March 8: Buy 4, get the 5th free on all consumables
- Sunday, March 9: Free hot or cold tea of any size with a $25 purchase; drawing for gift basket raffle
Throughout the weekend, customers can enjoy free samples and enter a raffle to win a gift basket filled with specialty products.
About The Spice & Tea Exchange®
Founded in 2008, The Spice & Tea Exchange® has grown to become a staple in kitchens across America. The Hudson location carries over 85 handcrafted seasonings, blended in-store daily, and offers a full-service tea bar serving hot and cold pours of their small-batch teas.
Location: 94 First Street, Hudson, Ohio
Hours: Sunday 10am-5pm | Monday-Thursday 10am-7pm | Friday-Saturday 10am-8pm
Follow: Facebook @TSTEHudson | Instagram @SpiceAndTea.Hudson
