The Bee's Knees British Imports: Perfecting the Art of Teatime

BY JENNIFER C. SCHÜNEMANN

Lucinda Sears, Donna Biscotti, and Trish Zarola of The Bee’s Knees British Imports have created a delightful space with just the right touches to create the perfect tea break on a cozy fall afternoon. From British chocolates and biscuits (cookies, as we call them here), to cozy throws, refined teas, and the stunning pots and cups in which to serve them—this charming shop has it all. They specialize in handmade British brands like Burleigh, Dunoon bone china, and Silverwood Bakeware (of Great British Bake Off fame). They are also one of the largest dealers of Emma Bridgewater pottery in the United States.

The idea for the business was born out of the many requests from friends and family to bring collectible teapots and other British treats back from Lucinda’s trips home to London. In 2011, Lucinda and Donna created a small online business—a side project while their children were still in school. Every December, they would hold an increasingly popular Open House for friends and family in Lucinda’s home. As word spread, the kitchen table business grew to take over space throughout the house, and friend and collaborator Trish was brought in to help transform an online presence into a fullfledged business.

The ladies of The Bee’s Knees in front of the new shop

©Pierre Chiha Photographers

In 2020, they decided to bring the popup concept to a space in West Concord. The response was huge. People stuck at home that winter were craving the type of comfort that a good cup of tea (and all the accoutrements) provides. Area Brits were eager to stock up on holiday treats they were missing when they were not able to travel home for the holidays. And tea sets, biscuits, and chocolates were a popular gift to send to friends and family who were separated during the height of the pandemic.

The team quickly realized there was no going back. The West Concord pop-up led to a permanent shop in Acton. But the business kept growing! So, they have moved once again—into a beautiful space just across the street at 566 Massachusetts Ave. in Acton.

© Pierre Chiha Photographers

“Once people learned that we had a physical shop, our online customers would travel hundreds of miles to come and see us in person,” said Lucinda. “Brits, Anglophiles, and, of course, people who like nice homewares, could finally come and shop with us in person. The new space will make the experience even better and we can’t wait to greet you.”

Tin ceilings with charming detail, the white brick exterior, a fresh coat of paint, ample space to display the many handmade wares, and the shop is ready for the busy holiday season. You will find custom-ordered Dunoon mugs, a range of tea set patterns, loads of sweets and treats in the newly expanded “Tuck Shoppe” (the British take on a penny candy corner), beautiful tea cozies and towels, and everything needed to channel the British vibe this fall and winter.

© Pierre Chiha Photographers

A grand opening is planned the weekend after Labor Day. Festivities include traditional British foods like sausage rolls, scones, and, of course, proper tea. And with a planned royal visit from Prince William and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, to Boston in December, a celebratory feeling in the shop is sure to infuse a little magic well into the holiday season! So come visit at 566 Massachusetts Ave in Acton to find out what makes this British import shop “The Bee’s Knees”! Visit Facebook or Instagram (@thebeeskneesbritishimports) for details.

This article made possible through the support of The Bee’s Knees British Imports.