9teSome partnerships are about exposure.
Others are about alignment.
Bringing 9TEA3 into Struggle Beard Bakery was never about expanding a menu. It was about expanding a moment.
Because tea has always been more than a drink to us.
It is a pause.
It is a breath.
It is how people settle into conversation and into themselves.
That is exactly what Struggle Beard Bakery represents.
From Healing to Hospitality
Founded by retired U.S. Army veteran Quinton McNair, Struggle Beard Bakery was born from a personal need for healing. After serving 24 years in the military, Quinton returned home carrying PTSD and depression. Baking became his therapy. What began as a way to find peace eventually became a space where others could feel it too.
Struggle Beard Bakery is not just a place to grab something sweet. It is a place where people gather. Where conversations happen. Where creativity and mental health are treated with care and respect.
That energy felt familiar to us.
Why Tea Belongs Here
At 9TEA3 we approach tea as culture not commodity. Every blend is inspired by lived experience memory and intention. Tea is how we slow things down in a world that never stops asking for more.
When Hassahn Liggins first connected with Quinton, the conversation flowed easily. They talked about purpose community wellness and building something that matters. Somewhere in the background 90s hip hop played the kind of music that reminds you who you are and where you come from. No rush. No pitch. Just real alignment.
That is how this partnership came together.
As Cyd Lockett often says, the best moments do not need to be forced. They just need space.
Now Serving 9TEA3 by the Cup
You can now enjoy a curated selection of 9TEA3 teas at Struggle Beard Bakery including:
’93 InfiniTEA
French KISS
I Used to Love HERbal
Just One of Those Days
Nuthin’ but a Tea Thing
Thinking of a Master Plan
You Can Chai Chai Chai
Each cup is designed to stand on its own while pairing naturally with Struggle Beard Bakery’s bold baked goods. Whether you are stopping in for comfort focus or a quiet reset there is a tea that meets the moment.
More Than Food More Than Drink
Struggle Beard Bakery already creates experiences beyond the counter including karaoke nights that invite people to show up fully through voice laughter and shared expression. With 9TEA3 now part of the space this collaboration opens the door to future moments where tea conversation and creativity intersect naturally.
No agenda.
No pressure.
Just room to grow.
Why This Matters
This partnership represents what is possible when Black owned businesses lead with intention authenticity and care. It centers mental health without stigma. It values culture without performance. And it reminds us that wellness can be shared simply by creating the right environment.
Sometimes healing looks like a warm pastry and a hot cup of tea.
Sometimes it sounds like old music playing softly in the background.
Sometimes it is just knowing you are welcome.
That is the space we are building together.
9TEA3 is now proudly served at Struggle Beard Bakery.
Come as you are.
Sip slowly.
Stay awhile.
Stay Connected
Learn more about our teas and our philosophy at
https://www.9tea3.com
For partnership or press inquiries
info@9tea3.com