Today we’d like to introduce you to Sasha Geyer.
Hi Sasha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
During University I drank caffeine daily. I relied on coffee and energy drinks to get me through my studies. During this time I also had terrible anxiety, and later connected many of my anxiety attacks to caffeine, and coffee specifically. I made the decision to cut coffee out and began opting for drinks that were much more mellow. When I discovered matcha I realized I found my perfect morning drink that would keep me energized while being gentle on my nervous system. After I tried matcha in New York City and Los Angeles I was hooked. These cities were doing it right. I craved a high quality matcha latte in downtown Phoenix, and I knew I wasn’t the only one. The more popular matcha became, the higher the standards the cafe goers had. I began to do research, test products, and recipes until I was making them for myself and friends everyday. I realized I had a passion for matcha and saw an opportunity to pursue it. I was also craving a community in my city. I wanted to pursue something of my own while building relationships with my neighbors and feeling like a part of something.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t have a business or finance degree, so I am learning as I go. I feel very lucky to say that many other small business owners in the Phoenix community have helped me along my journey. At the very start of my journey, Angel, the owner of Lovebite Dumplings, was generous enough to collaborate with me for a long time. She helped me gain confidence in what I was doing and was a huge cheerleader for my product. Because of Angel I was able to expand and look for a place of my own in the community. Soon after I met Mariah, who had recently taken new ownership and was building Alcove. Her and I connected instantly and she has always made room for me to grow on the beautiful patio at Alcove. It has been such an honor to meet other women business owners in downtown. Really I couldn’t do any of this without my sister. She volunteered so many hours to helping me serve drinks, set up and take down pop-ups, and always brings her amazing friends as support.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Being a part of building a community in downtown Phoenix has been a labor of love. What started as a simple four drink menu has turned into a rotating number of matchas, houjichas, community events, creative collaborations, and matcha education workshops. I could never do this alone and I am constantly inspired by the other women in the community. I’m extremely proud of the relationships I’ve built with local artists, owners, and neighbors. I was born and raised in Phoenix, but it’s now that I am really feeling connected to my community.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I found my community and they have been a huge support. I made an effort to find likeminded women who care about and want the same things. I’ve done my best to stay consistent, branch out, and step out of my comfort zone. I’ve never talked to so many people in my life. I think it takes time to make real connections and find your place. I am still working on it and have much more to learn.
Pricing:
- Lattes range from $7-8
- Matcha tins are $38 for 40 grams and I offer a refill program to refill empty containers for $29.
- Private events start at $200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studio8matcha.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio8matcha/
- Other: @studio8matcha
