Embrace a Cosy, Witchy Autumn with Char Teas
As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there's something inherently magical about curling up with a comforting cup of tea. The days grow shorter, and the nights stretch longer, inviting us to embrace the cosy, ethereal atmosphere that feels reminiscent of the enchanting scenes in Practical Magic. Whether it's the stirring sound of wind rustling through amber-coloured leaves or the faint scent of cinnamon in the air, autumn is the perfect time to embrace the romance of day-to-day magic with a soothing brew from Char.
Tea as Ritual: The Practical Magic Connection
As the first cold breeze touched my skin this year, I was already wrapping myself in a warm blanket and rifling through my tea cupboard for a perfect, warming accompaniment to my favourite autumnal film.
In the beloved film Practical Magic, magic weaves through the lives of the Owens women, expressed through simple rituals and intentional living. There's something so bewitchingly appealing about their connection to nature and the quiet magic of everyday actions — like brewing a cup of tea.
Tea, after all, is more than just a drink. It’s an experience, a pause in the day, and a moment to gather your thoughts. Choosing the right tea can evoke a particular mood, and for autumn, nothing feels more appropriate than deep, warm, earthy blends that bring you comfort. Char offers a wonderful selection of teas perfect for conjuring these atmospheric, comforting moments.
Autumn Brews to Enchant Your Senses
Best served from a cauldron, here are some autumn-inspired blends from Char that will bring out the Practical Magic in your life:
If there’s one tea that feels like it was brewed by a witch stirring a cauldron, it’s chai – hold the eye of newt and toe of frog, this is a heartwarming concoction that will leave your kitchen smelling divine. The Spicy Turmeric Chai from Char has just the right mix of warming spices like cardamom, ginger, and cloves, perfect for those chillier evenings when you need a little magical warmth. For a little extra decadence, brew this tea mixed with milk or honey on the hob for about ten minutes, letting the tea and spices mingle with your favourite milk or milk alternative on a low heat until your saucepan’s contents transform into Golden Chai, then strain it into your favourite mug, top it off with a few twists of black pepper (trust me) and let the aroma fill your home — almost as if you’ve cast a spell to ward off the autumn chill.
- Wu Yi Oolong at the Witching Hour
With the rich, smoky essence of oolong paired with notes of roasted chestnut, the Wu Yi Oolong is the ideal tea for craving earthiness. Picture yourself, like the Owens sisters, standing by a flickering fire, a steaming cup of this rich amber brew in hand, the perfect complement to an evening spent with loved ones under the moonlight.
For something a bit more whimsical, the Lavender Earl Grey is an intoxicatingly floral blend that transports you to a moonlit garden. Imagine sitting by a crackling fire pit, a shawl draped over your shoulders as you sip this vibrant brew, the soft swish of the lavender mingling with the cool night air. It’s the kind of tea that inspires creativity and pause for connection — perfect for sharing with friends, just like the Owens sisters’ midnight margaritas.
Create Your Own Practical Magic Ritual
To truly capture the spirit of Practical Magic, it’s important to create a tea ritual that feels both intentional and magical. Here are a few tips to set the scene:
Set the Mood: Lighting plays a key role in creating an atmosphere. Drape your space in the soft glow of candles or fairy lights. The flickering light instantly adds a cosy, mysterious touch to your tea ritual.
Add Nature’s Touch: Incorporate elements of nature by decorating with autumn leaves, dried flowers, or even a small vase of herbs like rosemary or sage, to bring a bit of the outside in.
Enchant Your Cup: Use your favourite witchy mug or a vintage teacup to enhance the experience. After all, the Owens women would approve of making the ordinary extraordinary.
Choose Your Tea Mindfully: As the seasons shift, allow yourself a moment to tune into how you're feeling. Do you need grounding? Opt for something earthy like the Wu Yi Oolong. Craving warmth? Golden Chai is your go-to.
Incorporating tea from Char into your autumn routine is a beautiful way to invite magic into your life. Just like in Practical Magic, where magic is found in the simplest moments, brewing a cup of tea can be its own spell — one that brings comfort, connection, and a touch of enchantment.
So, as the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, why not stir up your own magic with a bewitching blend from Char? Let the season unfold with warmth, tea, and a little everyday witchcraft.