WILDWOOD, FL (352today.com) – A longtime staple in The Villages is getting a fresh blend of flavors and a modern refresh as The Spice & Tea Exchange of Brownwood celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a grand reopening weekend April 10-12.
The anniversary celebration is open to the public during regular store hours at the Brownwood location at 3638 Kiessel Rd., with Friday and Saturday open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. while Sunday is open 12 to 5 p.m.
Now under the ownership of Stephanie and Andrew Rush, the specialty shop is marking the milestone with expanded offerings, updated displays and a renewed focus on customer experience.
“We’re thrilled to be stepping into a beloved neighborhood store,” Stephanie Rush said. “The community has already welcomed us so warmly, and we’re excited to give back with upgrades and expanded offerings.”
The Rushes, who also own locations in Jacksonville and Savannah, have already begun modernizing the Brownwood store to reflect changes across the brand. One of the most noticeable updates is the expanded tea selection, with a larger “tea wall” featuring more varieties and sizes than before.
“We’ve been able to bring in most of our collection of teas and really expand that space,” Rush said. “It gives us more room to showcase what we offer and to educate both our staff and our guests.”
Additional updates are planned later this year, including a revamped tea bar and expanded areas for custom spice blends. The store is also introducing “create and share” recipe kits, which bundle spices and recipes designed for customers to prepare meals and share with others.
“A lot of what we do is based on what our guests love,” Rush said. “We track what people are buying and make sure those blends are front and center.”
Beyond its products, the store emphasizes and interactive, sensory shopping experience. Customers are encouraged to open jars and smell blends before purchasing–something Rush says sets the store apart.
“You don’t get to do that at most places,” she said. “Flavor isn’t just taste–it’s aroma, too. Being able to experience that before you buy makes a big difference.”
The anniversary weekend will highlight different product categories each day, with themed sampling and discounts. Friday will focus on teas, Saturday on matcha and Sunday on spice blends, with each category offered at a discount and accompanied by expanded tastings.
“We’re doing more elevated sampling throughout the weekend so people can really explore what we offer,” Rush said.
As the store enters its next chapter, Rush said she hopes it continues to grow as both a retail space and a community hub.
“We just want people to know we’re here,” she said. “We love connecting with our guests, sharing ideas and being a resource – not just for cooking, but for creating a more flavorful life.”