Tom and Cathy Koch have been Crystal Lake locals for 30 years–almost the entire length of their marriage. They raised their family and put down roots here. Cathy, a stay home mom, ran the household while also caring for elderly and ailing family members. Tom worked in sales and continues that career today. Their love for Crystal Lake and specifically the downtown area is evident when you meet them. They are proud to be a part of the community and now a part of the vibrant shopping and dining district.
While vacationing in Florida, the couple casually strolled into a Spice & Tea Exchange franchise. They fell in love with the products and went to order more once they got home. While ordering online, they were surprised to learn that they could open their own franchise. That sparked an idea that changed the trajectory of their lives. The couple researched their options and persevered through challenges and made what seemed like the obvious decision to open a Spice & Tea exchange, specialty shop owned by its passionate and hospitable hosts, right here in Crystal Lake.
Since opening in November of 2024, their Spice & Tea franchise has complimented the “unique foot traffic” model and theme of small-town downtown Crystal Lake. Cathy operates the store, which she longed for. Tom still works his regular job, but enjoys working behind the scenes of the store. They have felt so welcomed and embraced by the town, a reflection of the way they have supported shops around them. The couple feels they have “hit their stride” and have fun every day with their “labor of love." As they share, “We did this for us.”
The Kochs explained that within the store, there are “350 large glass jars that offer a smell of a salt, sugar, spice, herb, tea, etc. You can get a good sense of the way something tastes by using your nose”. Every three months they have a wave of new inventory, most of which stay in circulation. The shop shelves 80 different types of tea (including the ever-popular chai) and 40 types of sugar–the possibilities are endless. Teas can be made to order and tea-scented candles make a great gift. The aisles invite you into a world so aromatic, you feel as if you're gathering the leaves and sprigs yourself. The point of sale counter is made from a slab of the two-century old tree that once stood in front of the Dole Mansion, adding to the rustic feel of the shop.
Fall is the perfect time to sample the flavors of the season, including cherry pie and pumpkin cake teas, Caesar, Green Goddess, and Honey Mustard for dips and salads, and Autumn Harvest Spice Blend, Pumpkin Pie Sugar, Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend, Pumpkin Spice Maple Syrup, and Brandy Honey for your baking needs. Plus dark cocoas for all your holiday needs, including a Halloween drink with marshmallow “ghosts” for a spooky night effect.
Speaking of the holidays, there are plenty of wonderful gifts including drink mixes (for cocktails and mocktails), everyday spice staples, a variety of pre-portioned bundles with recipes to follow-just add your own (fill in the blank). If “spices and teas” aren’t enough, check out the pastas, rubs for your Thanksgiving turkey, and more!
As The Spice & Tea Exchange of Crystal Lake marks its first anniversary on Williams Street, Tom and Cathy Koch look forward to celebrating with the community that has embraced their vision and welcomed them with open arms.