Interview with Nectar & Leaf
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Tea is more than just a beverage—it's an experience that connects us with nature, offers comfort, and nurtures our well-being. For Nectar & Leaf, this philosophy is at the heart of their beautifully crafted blends. In this interview with N&L's wonderful founder, Mara, we sit down to explore the inspiration behind the brand, the art of creating unique botanical teas, and what slow, seasonal living means to her. From the delicate floral notes of their blends to their commitment to quality sourcing, discover what makes Nectar & Leaf so much more than just tea.
What inspired you to start Nectar & Leaf? Why tea?
I’ve always been drawn to the natural world - flowers, herbs, and the way plants can support wellbeing. Tea is such a creative space, with endless combinations of botanicals that come together for both flavour and function. I wanted each blend to be a reflection of nature’s beauty - something that delights the senses while offering a simple way to support the body and mind. That’s what inspired me to create Nectar & Leaf - teas that are as beautiful as they are nourishing, made entirely from plant-based ingredients.
Is there a particular season that inspires you the most when creating new blends?
Each season brings its own inspiration, but I’d say spring and summer stand out the most. Spring is all about fresh, floral notes and light, uplifting herbs - think rose petals, lemon balm, and elderflower. Summer, on the other hand, is a celebration of ripe fruit, cooling drinks, and the vibrant colours of the natural world. These seasonal shifts always shape the way I think about new blends.
What does slow, seasonal living mean to you?
For me, it’s about appreciating the little things - taking time to enjoy a cup of tea, noticing the changes in nature, and embracing rhythms that feel natural rather than rushed. It’s also about being intentional with what we consume, choosing ingredients that are in harmony with the seasons.
How do you approach sourcing ingredients for your teas, and why is that important to you?
Sourcing is one of the most important aspects of Nectar & Leaf. We focus on high-quality, natural botanicals - no artificial additives or sweeteners, just pure ingredients. We work with trusted, established British suppliers who share a commitment to responsible sourcing. The quality of the tea speaks for itself when you start with the best possible ingredients.
What’s your personal favorite tea in your collection right now and why?
Right now, I’m loving Blushing Rose, our very first blend. It’s delicately floral and absolutely beautiful to look at. Every sip takes me back to the beginning of this journey and reminds me why I started it all.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes moments that reflect the heart of Nectar & Leaf?
One of my favorite moments is testing new blends. There’s something so satisfying about experimenting with different botanicals, tweaking the balance of flavours and colors, and seeing how they interact - it’s like nature’s own form of artistry.
But what truly stands out is hearing from happy customers. Knowing that our teas have found a place in so many homes is really special. It’s not just about the tea - it’s about sharing something we’ve created, a small moment of joy in someone’s day.
What is the biggest learning you’ve had so far on this journey?
Patience. Building something meaningful takes time, and there’s no shortcut to doing things the right way. Whether it’s perfecting a blend, finding the right suppliers, or growing the brand, it’s all about trusting the process and staying true to the vision.
What challenges have you faced in building Nectar & Leaf, and how did you navigate them?
One challenge has been educating people on the value of high-quality tea. Many are used to mass-produced options, so it’s been important for us to highlight the difference in quality, flavour, and the care that goes into our blends. We’ve been working hard to share this message through our website, social media, and every platform we sell on, making it a key part of our communication to help people see and appreciate the true value of what we offer.
Tell me about one self-care ritual you couldn’t live without.
My morning walks, whether through the city or my local park, are something I couldn’t live without. It’s a moment to appreciate a new day starting and gather all the inspiration I need. No matter the season or my commitments, it’s an absolute must-do.
What are your hopes for Nectar & Leaf as you grow?
I want to keep expanding our collection while staying true to our core values. Along the way, I’d love to foster a strong community around the everyday rituals that make life special. Our teas are often given as gifts, and it’s exciting to think about how, as we grow, our blends will continue to help people connect with one another and create lasting memories.
We feature Nectar & Leaf's delicious Spring Symphony loose leaf tea in our Spring Renewal Gift Bundle and you can also shop the tea on it's own. Stay up to date with Nectar & Leaf over on their Instagram @nectarandleaf.