Contributor: Jamie Richardson
The Spice & Tea Exchange of Kannapolis
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📍 102 S. Main Street, Kannapolis, NC 28081
In Kannapolis, where history and revitalization blend together, Dionna Milem has created a delightful destination for food enthusiasts and tea lovers alike. The Spice & Tea Exchange of Kannapolis opened its doors in November 2021, and brings a unique blend of fine spices, handcrafted seasonings, loose-leaf teas, salts, sugars, and gifts to the downtown.
Dionna’s journey to owning The Spice & Tea Exchange is as full of flavor as the products she sells. A Kannapolis native, Dionna’s roots run deep in the community—her mother worked at the local mill, and she grew up immersed in the warmth of this tight-knit town. So, when the revitalization of downtown Kannapolis began, Dionna knew she had to be part of the movement to bring new life to the area.
A Family Vacation Inspires a Business
The inspiration for opening The Spice & Tea Exchange came during a family vacation to Florida. While exploring, Dionna stumbled upon the smallest shop in the franchise. The rich scents and vibrant atmosphere captivated her instantly.
As someone who loves to cook and has a deep appreciation for tea, she knew this was something special. Back home, Dionna searched for a local branch of the franchise, only to find the closest ones were in Spartanburg and Blowing Rock.
- The idea of bringing this unique experience to her hometown began to take root.
The Spice & Tea Exchange Establishes Roots in Kannapolis
With her daughter off to college, Dionna decided to turn her passion into a business. She opened the first location in Salisbury in 2019. Dionna recognized the potential in Kannapolis as the city underwent revitalization efforts.
- Having grown up in the area, with her mother working at the mill, Kannapolis held a special place in her heart, and she decided to establish a second location there.
The Kannapolis store quickly became the heart of her business, and she eventually closed the Salisbury location, encouraging her loyal customers to visit her new spot in downtown Kannapolis.
A Community Gathering Place
While the Salisbury location attracted a mix of locals and tourists, the Kannapolis store has become a true gathering place. Dionna loves reconnecting with people she grew up with and meeting new faces drawn in by the area’s growth. It’s clear that this shop is more than just a business to Dionna—it’s a way to reconnect with her roots and contribute to the town she loves.
A Taste of the Products at The Spice & Tea Exchange
The Spice & Tea Exchange offers an impressive array of products, with handcrafted spice blends being the highlight. These blends are mixed in small batches to ensure freshness, and they are a hit with customers.
The Tuscany spice blend and Vik’s Garlic Fix are among the top sellers. For tea lovers, the store offers a variety of 65-70 loose-leaf teas, with Mango Tango and Elderberry Fortress herbal teas being the most popular. Whether you prefer your tea hot or cold, the tea bar is always open, ready to serve you your favorite brew.
Elevate Your Culinary Creations
The shop also features infused salts and sugars that can elevate your culinary creations. The vanilla bean sea salt, for example, is perfect for enhancing the sweetness of fruit salads—just imagine vanilla-salted pineapple! Or try the mango habanero sugar, a spicy-sweet addition that’s great for rimming a margarita glass or adding some sweetness to your salsa.
Beyond individual spices, herbs, and teas, The Spice & Tea Exchange offers gift baskets, corporate gifting, wedding favors, and a wholesale program for local restaurants. There’s even a small event space within the store, perfect for hosting intimate gatherings and adding another layer to the shop’s community involvement.
Dionna’s philosophy is simple yet profound:
- “We have so much more than just tea. We have something for everyone.”
So, stop by today and let the friendly staff help find the perfect spice, tea, or gift. Whether you’re a seasoned chef, a tea connoisseur, or someone looking to add a bit of spice to your life, Dionna and her team are ready to welcome you with open arms and a sprinkle of something special.
Upcoming Event
Don’t miss their pressed flower class on Sept 8th from 3-4pm. You’ll create a floral display on a gold frame (all supplies included for $35). Tea and light refreshments will also be served. Only 12 spots available.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
