April 10, 2017

Meet Lan Ong of Bird Pick in Pasadena and Arcadia

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lan Ong.

Lan, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Our household was naturally scented with the aromas of traditional Chinese herbs and fresh brewed tea. From tummy aches to headaches, colds, coughs or lack of energy, there was always a tea or herb to remedy. Our family roots are from Guangdong, China where my grandpa practiced traditional Chinese medicine. He had remarkable healing powers and I was told that people came from all over China to see him for his magical herbal potions.

Raised by my grandparents, I had the privilege as a little girl of frequently partaking in the sacred ritual of the GongFu tea ceremony with my grandpa. The tiny yixing teapots and cups always fascinated me, as I thought it was a fancy tea party. He would point to the sky, and remark that God will always take care of the birds, and that they will choose the very best leaves to make their nests. Grandpa also expressed that the best leaves are from the highest mountains and make for a superior cup of tea. This was the inspiration for a little teashop that I established in 2008, called Bird Pick tea & herb.

I learned that the reason I had to be so careful in handling grandpa’s prized teapot was because it had been seasoned over the years with his preferred oolong teas, which literally means “black dragons.” Water, being the life force and the mother of tea, was used in every step of the tea preparation. Grandpa would pour the water high above to allow a perfect brew, watching the leaves unfurl like black dragons, hence the name. The first brew was never drunk, and disposed as it was the awakening of the tealeaves. Once brewed, the tea would be poured in a circular motion in tiny teacups, to distribute the flavors evenly. The same tea leaves would be brewed several times, and each brew would produce a myriad of flavors not present in the previous brews. Taking in the aroma, only tiny sips were to be taken to thoroughly enjoy the pure aromas of the tea. Through this artistry, Bird Pick’s motto, ‘Taste the aroma, transform the moment’ signified the delicate enjoyment of tea. I’ve learned to appreciate that tea is not just a beverage, but a social etiquette, gathering and delight in each other’s company.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Every day presents new challenges of running a business, many of which require quick problem solving. If only it were as simple as brewing and drinking tea all day!

Lots of opportunities were presented shortly after Bird Pick opened in Pasadena, and we quickly grew to 3 locations by 2010. Since then we have closed 2 of our locations due to disappointing business results. Determining the viability of a business in a new project requires high risk, and there are constantly changing variables that will affect the success or failure of a business.

Taking the time to thoroughly research locations and potential, brand awareness, target audience and keeping up with the growing trends and demands of competition have been lessons learned.

So, let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Bird Pick story. Tell us more about the business.
Bird Pick is known for carrying over 100 loose leaf teas that are mostly sourced from the origin. Featuring a Pure Tea Bar with house-made syrups purees, organic cane sugar, freshly brewed and hand-shaken to order. We are most delighted with serving healthy, refreshing tea beverages in a warm and welcoming environment, plus having the most loyal patrons. Bird Pick is also an avid supporter of its communities in which we do business, as well as involved in charities such as American Red Cross, Foothill Family and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
The good luck is the growing trend and awareness of tea that is gaining consumer popularity. The bad luck is the tough economic times that Bird Pick got its start in 2008.

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