In an unexpected twist of fate, Hamilton natives Aimee and Roger Owens found their business, Star Spangled Tea & Coffee, in the spotlight after an impromptu interview on Fox Business. Following a chance encounter while stuck in Atlanta traffic, they received a call from a producer eager to showcase their unique brand on Fox & Friends’ “Saturday in America.” This opportunity marked a significant shift for the couple, who had long dreamed of making a mark in the tea and coffee industry.
Roots in Hamilton, Ohio
Aimee, a 1991 graduate of Hamilton High School, reflects on her upbringing in a close-knit community. Growing up on Holmes Court and spending time on North Third Street, where her late father worked as a doctor, she imbibed the values of hard work and determination. “There was a sense of community,” Aimee recalls, emphasizing how her childhood taught her that anything is possible. These foundational principles would guide her through life’s challenges, including the uncertainty that arose during her husband Roger’s military deployments.
In March 2003, the couple faced a new reality as Roger was deployed to Iraq. Aimee managed life as a new mother with their toddler son, Alex, and newborn daughter, Lizzie, grappling with the constant anxiety of his safety. During this tumultuous period, she worked as a full-time teacher and pursued a master’s degree, all the while nurturing a “strong Christian faith” that anchored her through difficult times.
The Birth of Star Spangled Tea & Coffee
The idea for Star Spangled Tea & Coffee blossomed during the pandemic. Aimee inspired her husband to explore tea, leading them to consider launching their own veteran-owned tea brand. Starting the business from their Columbus, Georgia dining room was no small feat, especially during the economic uncertainties of COVID-19. Aimee took charge of backend operations, focusing on product development, packaging, and shipping, all while maintaining a sense of humor about her aversion to the spotlight.
Today, Star Spangled Tea & Coffee features teas and coffees inspired by American culture and regional flavors. Currently, they aim to create a distinctive flavor representation for each state, with fun blends like Georgia peaches and Florida key limes, while still brainstorming how to capture the essence of Ohio. Their innovative approaches even extend to collaborations, working on coffee blends themed around historical figures, such as President Jimmy Carter.
A Commitment to Community
Aimee and Roger’s commitment extends beyond their products; they actively support the military community that has become integral to their brand identity. Their sponsorship of the Best Ranger Competition and military job fairs reflects a heartfelt dedication to service members. Recently, they partnered with Freedom 250, helping coordinate celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary, further intertwining their business mission with patriotic endeavors.
Despite the national opportunities arising from their newfound exposure, Aimee holds Hamilton close to her heart. The couple cherishes every chance to return to their hometown, especially around patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July. Their recent trip to Hamilton during Independence Day highlighted their appreciation for their roots. Roger fondly notes, “We like to come to Hamilton, especially for July 4th, because it’s more patriotic.”
As Star Spangled Tea & Coffee continues to grow, Aimee remains focused on her long-term dream: to see a storefront in Hamilton, making their delicious, patriotic products accessible to communities and paying homage to the values that shaped their journey. Whether online or at local markets like Jungle Jim’s in Fairfield, the Owenses’ mission to support America and its military remains unwavering.