Debbie Laskey's Blog

Welcome to Debbie Laskey's insights and commentary about BRANDING, MARKETING, LEADERSHIP, SOCIAL MEDIA, EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT, and CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES. Debbie has worked in high-tech, the Consumer Marketing Department at Disneyland Paris in France, nonprofits, and insurance. Expertise includes strategic planning, brand development, marketing plans and audits, competitive positioning, websites, communications, public relations, employee engagement, customer experiences, and social media marketing.

Showing posts with label British history. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Have a cup to celebrate National Tea Day!

Founded by The Tea Group in 2016, National Tea Day's 2026 celebration also coincides with what would have been the 100th birthday celebration for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Red Rock Tea House explains, "Tea is one of the most beloved beverages worldwide, cherished for its incredible variety of flavors, aromas, and health benefits. From the serene tea gardens of China and Japan to the lively tea culture of Britain and India, tea has played a significant role in history, tradition, and daily life for centuries. It is more than just a drink — it is a ritual, a moment of relaxation, and a way to connect with different cultures. Whether you enjoy the simplicity of loose-leaf teas, the convenience of tea bags, or the artistry of hand-crafted blends, the world of tea is vast and diverse. Every cup tells a story, reflecting the climate, soil, and craftsmanship that go into producing each unique variety."

According to There Is a Day for That, "Tea is a common household beverage both nationally and internationally. Thousands of people drink tea daily, allowing them to choose from many different delicious varieties and flavors such as earl grey, English breakfast, matcha, chai, and green tea, among many more. Established in 2016, National Tea Day was created on Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday as a way to enjoy a classic beverage and pretend you're royalty. Afternoon Tea was introduced in Britain in the early 1840s to satisfy hunger between meals before dinner. Today, it is more of an occasional indulgence, or occurs to celebrate an event such as a birthday among friends. Just like coffee, it can be made to your liking, either hot or cold, with sugar or another sweetener, and even a milk or creamer of your choice."

What are some famous tea brands?

(1) Twinings

(2) The Republic of Tea

(3) Harney & Sons

(4) Taylors of Harrogate

(5) Herbs & Kettles (Atlanta, Georgia)

Check out these fun facts about tea (with gratitude to Days of the Year):

(1) In Morocco, serving mint tea symbolizes hospitality and friendship. Hosts prepare and pour tea from a height into small glasses, creating a frothy top, a gesture of warmth and respect to guests.

(2) Contrary to common belief, "high tea" refers to a substantial evening meal for the working class, not an afternoon tea. It includes hearty dishes, highlighting Britain's diverse tea traditions.

(3) Tea was introduced to Russia in the 17th century through trade with China. It became a staple with unique traditions like brewing tea in samovars, reflecting Russian culture.

(4) The British tradition of adding milk to tea began in the 18th century. This practice cooled the tea and protected delicate porcelain cups from cracking due to heat.

(5) In Turkey, tea is central to social interactions. Offering tea signifies hospitality and is a customary gesture to welcome guests, fostering community bonds.

(6) Japan's tea ceremony, known as "chanoyu," emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. This ritual reflects Zen Buddhist principles and showcases Japan’s appreciation for simplicity and mindfulness.

(7) In 1908, American merchant Thomas Sullivan sent tea samples in silk bags. Customers mistakenly dipped them whole, leading to the unintended invention of tea bags.

So, take the time today to indulge with a hot, steaming cup of your favorite flavor of tea!

Image Credit: Teaching English with Cambridge.

Read The Power of Tea: 100 Health and Wellness Benefits:

https://theteahouseonlosrios.com/blogs/news/the-power-of-tea-100-health-and-wellness-benefits

See all types of tea from The Republic of Tea:

https://www.republicoftea.com/collections/shop-all-tea-types

Learn about the 100 types of tea plus how to choose the right tea from Red Rock Tea House:

https://www.redrockteahouse.com/blogs/articles/100-types-of-tea

Thursday, April 9, 2026

Personal Branding and #WinstonChurchillDay

Did you know that Winston Churchill was an honorary American citizen?

On this date in 1963, President John F. Kennedy presided over a ceremony that granted honorary citizenship for Winston Churchill, who was well-known for his leadership as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II. However, he could trace his roots back to America by way of Brooklyn, New York, because his mother, Jennie Jerome, was American.

While Churchill was not present at the ceremony (he and his wife watched on television from England), his son and grandson attended. Churchill had been granted citizenship in eight individual states as a prelude, including Hawaii, Maryland, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

The ceremony in 1963 was the first time in U.S. history that an honorary citizenship was granted. Since then, only seven other honorary citizenships have been granted.

Here was the conclusion to Churchill's statement as he reflected upon his honorary American citizenship: "Our past is the key to our future, which I firmly trust and believe will be no less fertile and glorious. Let no man underrate our energies, our potentialities and our abiding power for good."

Did you know that an honorary American citizenship is only symbolic? The title does not grant the right to vote, work, or live in the United States - and honorary U.S. citizenship does not come with a U.S. passport.

Since honorary American citizenship can only be granted by a proclamation issued by the U.S. President or by an Act of Congress, the person must demonstrate the highest admiration of the American people. During the ceremony in 1963, President Kennedy recalled how, during World War II, Churchill, "mobilized the English language and sent it into battle," and described him as "the most honored and honorable man to walk the stage of human history in the time in which we live."

So, from a personal branding perspective, Winston Churchill was truly one-of-a-kind. According to Forbes, "A personal brand is the acknowledged public perception of an individual. Personal branding is what you say about yourself based on your experience, expertise, core values, and key differentiators. Developing personal branding helps you be seen as an industry authority, grow and build trust with your audience, and ultimately make an impact as a mission-driven thought leader."