There is something profoundly magical about Downtown Rome, especially when you are strolling through the 100 block of Broad Street, affectionately known as the Cotton Block. Our city boasts the second-largest historic Victorian district in Georgia, and tucked right into this vintage landscape is a business that perfectly captures that historic charm. I’m talking about Southern Seasons, the beloved local tea room and emporium that has just done something incredibly historic itself.
For the second consecutive year, Southern Seasons has officially been voted Best of Georgia in the Specialty Restaurant category by the Georgia Business Journal! They first clinched the title in 2024, and again in 2025, and this back-to-back public vote proves that Rome is deeply in love with what owner Haley Johnson has brewed up.
I recently sat down with Haley inside their gorgeous space to chat about their journey, their tight-knit team, and the three distinct ways this local treasure is serving our community.
The Story Behind the Sips
Before she was bringing elite tea culture to Floyd County, Haley spent 30 years climbing the ladder in Corporate America, but when she and her family moved to Rome, they completely fell in love with the community. Haley knew she wanted to plant deep roots downtown, right on Broad Street.
When the opportunity arose to take over the tea room space from its previous owner, Haley leaped at the chance to create something collaborative and unique. They purchased two 125-year-old historic buildings and went to work.
If you visit, the first thing you need to do is look up! Haley’s husband completely installed a beautiful ceiling. He also installed a top-tier catering kitchen. To bring the aesthetic together, Haley’s best friend, Courtney, stepped in as the lead designer to craft the flawless vintage ambiance.
One Space, Three Ways to Experience the Magic
Southern Seasons isn’t just a place to grab a quick drink; it’s a multi-faceted experience designed to slow time down. Haley shared that they really focus on three distinct areas of revenue that keep the business thriving:
1. The Ultimate Event Space for Life’s Big Moments
Southern Seasons has quickly become Rome’s premier destination for private parties. They are consistently booked out months in advance for baby showers, birthdays, and bridal showers.
One of their smartest, best-kept secrets? Friday Bridal Luncheons. Haley notes that when wedding parties arrive in town on Fridays, they often can’t check into their hotels yet. Southern Seasons hosts them for tea, giving the wedding party a beautiful place to gather and celebrate right before heading off to check-in and attend the rehearsal dinner.
2. Time-Honored Afternoon Tea Services
Think you can only visit for a private party? Think again! While they offer lovely weekday options Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (including Cream Tea, Luncheons, and Weekday Afternoon Tea), their Saturday Afternoon Tea is an absolute must-experience.
Every Saturday at 2:30 p.m., you can book a reservation to enjoy an elaborate tea experience. These often transform into incredible themed events, ranging from Regency-era elegance to the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. At Christmas time they have a close relationship with the Big Man himself, Santa, and host special tea times with Santa.
3. A Premium Loose-Leaf Tea Emporium (In-Store & Online!)
The biggest goal for Southern Seasons right now is expanding its incredible loose-leaf tea brand to the digital world. They proudly blend their own Southern Seasons loose-leaf tea, featuring about 40 unique, top-grade varieties. They always have fresh samples waiting for you on the floor when you walk in.
Their tea quality is so high-end that they even have a regular client from London who refuses to go back home across the pond without stopping by Rome to stock up on her favorite blends first!
- In-Store Experience: Sip on a hot cup to-go, browse curated blends, or grab selections from premium lines like Harney & Sons and The Republic of Tea.
- Online Shopping: You can buy all of their proprietary custom blends directly on their website or via their TikTok Shop! This online shop is the perfect way to support this local business.
Driven by Community and a Fantastic Team
When you ask Haley what keeps her inspired through the chaotic, hard-work reality of running a small business, her answer is simple: the people.
From her incredible local staff, like the adorable Hannah, to the guests who travel from Tennessee, Mississippi, and Indiana just to make Southern Seasons a destination stop, and the local community support is unmatched. They even regularly host a senior center from the Dallas, Ga area that takes an annual trip up to experience the tea room!
True to the rising-tide-lifts-all-ships philosophy, Haley is also a massive cheerleader for her fellow business owners.
When asked what her advice would be to someone wanting to make a difference in the community, she told us her personal motto, which is evident in how she runs her business.
“My personal motto is: go where you’re needed and do what you can. That’s it. I can only do what I can do… so I just try to be aware of where you need to be and just do it.” — Haley Johnson
How to Connect & Book
Whether you want to purchase a tin of custom loose-leaf tea, grab a weekday lunch, or book out the room for your best friend’s bridal shower, getting in touch is incredibly easy. While they welcome social media DMs, calling directly ensures you can lock down your dates immediately.
- 📍 Address: 100 block of Broad Street, Downtown Rome, GA
- 📞 Phone Number: 706-528-4546
- 🌐 Website: southernseasonsrome.com
- 📱 Socials: @SouthernSeasonsRome on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
Watch the interview with Haley Johnson here:
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