A Steinbach tea and coffee shop is all about making it local.

President of Sweet Life Tea and Coffee, Kim Penner,

President of Sweet Life Tea and Coffee, Kim Penner.says she wanted to have a shop where local products and people could be featured adding they have pottery from a lady in St. Malo, all natural candles, popcorn made on-site and locally roasted coffee.

"I've seen some giddiness," notes Penner. "I've seen excitement; people are excited that they don't have to go to the city. That's a big one that I'm getting, that they don't have to order it online or go to Winnipeg to get their loose leaf tea. I've been hearing great comments about some of the flavours of the tea. I've been hearing great comments about our coffee. People are excited about good quality, local coffee."

Penner says people are excited to have loose leaf tea and good quality coffee in Steinbach where it's local and easier to access. She adds although many people love tea, there are also those who love coffee.

"I wanted to do local stuff and I found people who roast in Mitchell called Fluid Bean," adds Penner. "It's owned by Lyonel and Lorrie Peters and this is just a start for them."

Although they've only been open for two weeks Penner says she's hoping to have more local products to offer customers in the future. Sweet Life Tea and Coffee can be found on Reimer Avenue next to Rhyme or Reason Cafe. 

October is Small Business Month, recognizing and celebrating the contributions of small businesses in our community.