OGDEN, UT — Atlas Tea Company, a new teahouse in downtown Ogden, opened its doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, but its mission goes far beyond serving tea. Located at 2341 Washington Blvd, the business offers a variety of specialty and loose-leaf teas, but its core purpose is to raise awareness about mental health and provide a supportive community space.
Owner Amber Zaugg shared her vision for the business, emphasizing that while the teahouse is a place to thrive and build a successful venture, the true goal is to use the platform to foster well-being and connection. “We have a delivery system that is a business,” Zaugg explained, “But the core of Atlas is just let’s be well together and exist together.”
Zaugg’s personal experience has greatly influenced her approach to this mission. In 2020, she lost her former husband — and the father of her children — to suicide. Having worked in mental health for several years, she feels deeply connected to the cause of supporting those struggling with mental health challenges.
A Business with a Bigger Purpose
“Atlas is about potential. We don’t want to get stuck anywhere,” Zaugg said. “I think that’s what mental health interventions all need to be about. Let’s get unstuck. Let’s move forward.” The teahouse, she hopes, will serve as a way to raise funds for mental health initiatives while offering a space for the community to gather, heal, and support one another.
The family-run nature of the business reflects the deep personal connection Zaugg has to the project. She was heavily involved in every step of the teahouse’s creation, from developing the menu to making every dish served at the grand opening event. Her children have been involved too — her son helps with dishes, while her daughter, Emma, contributed to the shop’s design and kitchen efforts.
Zaugg’s emphasis on health extends to the menu, which includes carefully crafted teas like the Gingerbread Rooibos, a caffeine-free blend of masala chai, fresh ginger, and African rooibos. Avoiding excess sugar and artificial ingredients is a key aspect of her business philosophy, with organic offerings central to the teahouse’s identity.
A Vision for Community Healing
More than just a place to grab a cup of tea, Atlas Tea Company will host events aimed at healing and raising awareness of mental health issues. Zaugg hopes the teahouse will be a space where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. “We deserve to exist together and to experience existence together,” she said, expressing her belief that everyone has the right to feel connected and supported, especially during difficult times.
Through its community engagement efforts and the funds generated by the teahouse, Atlas Tea Company aims to make a meaningful impact in the fight for better mental health resources and support in Ogden and beyond.
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