Meet Member Chris Giblin

What inspired Namjai Tea?

When I worked in the hotel business in Thailand, I was looking for ways to surprise guests at check in. I surveyed 3-star properties like ours to see what they were offering, and then looked at 4 and 5-star. I discovered welcome drinks at the higher end properties and thought that would be perfect for us because guests don’t expect that at a 3-star property. I tried a variety of drinks before I settled on Butterfly Pea Flower Tea. It was a big hit with our guests.

And how did this become your business?

Herbal/botanical beverages are a rising beverage category in North America for their simple ingredients, functional benefits, and unique flavor profiles. My partner, Rossukon and I wanted to create a healthy and refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed at anytime. My hotel experience led many guests to ask about our welcome drink, how they could make it, and where they could buy the ingredients? So after exiting the hotel business in early 2020, I thought it would be great to introduce this brisk, lively, and unique tea to America.

Where did the name come from?

Namjai is a very special word in Thailand - meaning 'to be kind and to help others without expecting anything in return.' This is intrinsic to what we stand for. As an example, part of our profits are donated to a foster home in Phuket for children affected by the pandemic.

What was (is) the hardest part of the start-up process?

Launching during Covid. The playbook for a beverage launch is to do lots of in-store samplings as a way to connect with customers and build brand. Obviously, those aren’t allowed right now, so we have to find new ways for customers to try our products.

What is your goal for the business at the end of 2021?

To prove the demand for Namjai and to do a second production run with any changes in the flavors, labels, and ingredients based off customer and retailer feedback.

Where are you from?

I am from Santa Rosa and my partner, Rossukon is from Phuket, Thailand.

What did you do before Namjai?

I was the a co-owner/general manager for 3 boutique hotels in Thailand. After moving back to the States, I started Namjai and a real estate photography business called North Bay Photo.

What do you do to relax?

I enjoy running and being out in nature.

What is your favorite place to eat in Healdsburg?

Shelton’s, which is right across the street from CraftWork. Excellent sandwiches and salads!

What do you like best about CraftWork?

That it doesn’t operate like a traditional business but rather a close knit community where anyone is welcome. Most notably, each one of the staff members treats you like a friend rather than a customer. Sure, there are all the tools you need to succeed - high-quality office desks and chairs, consistent high-speed internet, comfortable and inspirational ambiance, well-equipped private meeting rooms, and wireless printing to a high-end color laser printer – but its the people and community that is being created here that makes it stand out.