Exploring Life & Business with Cayla Tomas of The GRN + TĒ Shop

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cayla Tomas.

Hi Cayla , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always had a deep appreciation for tea—not just as a beverage, but as a ritual and a form of healing. When my husband and I moved to Virginia in February 2022, I was seeking an additional stream of income beyond personal training, and I naturally gravitated toward herbalism. I immersed myself in learning, spending countless hours in bookstores researching the medicinal properties of herbs and experimenting with custom blends in my kitchen.

Since meeting my husband, we’ve rarely relied on over-the-counter medicine, so I was already familiar with the value of natural remedies. Then, in May 2022, I found out I was pregnant. That moment became a catalyst for going even deeper into the world of herbs—especially as I navigated the challenges of morning sickness during my first trimester and sought safe, natural ways to support my body throughout pregnancy.

Later that summer, we returned to Georgia, and I began pursuing certification as an herbalist. With my background in nutrition and fitness coaching, the connection between physical health and plant-based wellness became clear. It was at this intersection that The GRN + TĒ Shop was born—a brand rooted in tradition, intention, and holistic care.

Today, I offer handcrafted herbal blends at local markets throughout the Atlanta area, connecting with individuals who are looking to support their wellness naturally. I’m also in the process of launching gardening classes to help others grow their own herbs, fruits, and vegetables—because I believe true wellness starts at the root.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped the journey in a meaningful way. Starting The GRN + TĒ Shop, while pregnant came with its own set of hurdles—physically, emotionally, and mentally. I was learning how to grow a business at the same time I was growing a life, which required a lot of patience and trust in the process.

One of the biggest struggles was balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, especially in those early months. There were moments when I questioned if I could keep up with everything—between blending teas, learning the ins and outs of herbalism, showing up for my fitness clients, and being fully present for my family. It forced me to slow down, get clear on my priorities, and redefine what success looked like.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My work is rooted in herbalism and plant-based wellness. Through my brand, The GRN + TĒ Shop, I create small-batch, handcrafted herbal blends designed to support everyday healing—whether that’s easing stress, calming digestive issues, supporting postpartum recovery, or simply creating space for rest and ritual. I believe tea is more than a drink—it’s a gateway to intentional living.

What I do is deeply personal. Every blend is inspired by my own journey—especially my transition into motherhood and my desire to care for myself and my family in the most natural, holistic way possible. I source high-quality herbs and focus on formulating teas that not only taste good but offer functional benefits. I’m also intentional about educating my community on how these herbs work and how to incorporate them into daily life.

While my background in personal training and nutrition informs my understanding of the body, what truly sets me apart is how I blend that knowledge with traditional herbal practices. I’m not just creating products—I’m creating a lifestyle rooted in nourishment, balance, and connection to the earth.

I’m most proud of the way The GRN + TĒ Shop has created real impact, especially in spaces where herbal knowledge hasn’t always been accessible. Whether it’s offering tea at local markets, helping someone find a blend that truly supports them, or teaching people how to grow their own herbs—I see this work as a form of care, and that’s what drives me every day.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I would love to do collaborations—especially with individuals or brands that are aligned with intentional living, holistic wellness, and community care. Whether it’s co-creating a custom herbal blend, hosting a wellness workshop, or popping up at a local event, I’m always open to creative partnerships that bring value and healing to our communities.

People can also support The GRN + TĒ Shop by shopping my blends online or visiting me at local markets around the Atlanta area. Every purchase directly supports a woman-owned, family-run business rooted in care and craft.

For those looking to go deeper, I’m currently working on offering gardening and herbal education classes, where we’ll explore how to grow your own herbs and use them in everyday life. If you’re a teacher, healer, chef, or fellow creative and want to collaborate on something unique, I’d love to connect.

The best way to reach me is through Instagram @thegrnteshop or by email at [email protected]. Let’s grow something meaningful together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thegrnteshop.com
• Instagram: @thegrntheshop
• Facebook: grn+tē

Image Credits
Rydell N Tomas Jr.