Our Origin
The inspiration for Selenite Tea House began on a quiet September morning, during a drive through the rolling countryside of rural Pennsylvania. As our owner passed horses grazing in open pastures and picturesque farmland, she was reminded of her travels abroad—biking through the Irish countryside, traveling by train through Scandinavia, and kayaking among the fjords of Norway.
Those experiences shared something special: a sense of peace, connection, and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. She envisioned bringing that same feeling closer to home, creating a place where guests could slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a little escape from the everyday.
When she discovered a historic Victorian farmhouse nestled among 18 acres of rolling hills, gardens, and pastures just north of Pittsburgh, she knew she'd found the perfect setting.
A Place to Slow Down & Savor the Moment
At Selenite Tea House, old-world charm meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by the Scandinavian concepts of hygge—the feeling of coziness and contentment—and lagom—finding balance and appreciating just enough—we've created a space where meaningful conversations, beautiful surroundings, and life's little pleasures take center stage.
From our thoughtfully decorated tea rooms and vintage furnishings to our peaceful gardens and winding paths, every detail invites you to linger a little longer.
Whether you're gathering with friends, spending an afternoon with family, or simply treating yourself to something special, we hope you'll leave feeling refreshed, connected, and inspired.
Afternoon Tea, Weddings & Celebrations
Join us for traditional afternoon tea on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, featuring a selection of savory bites, delicate sweets, and thoughtfully chosen teas. We welcome guests of all ages, making Selenite a special place for everything from a relaxing afternoon with friends to a memorable outing with children and loved ones.
Beyond afternoon tea, Selenite offers a romantic setting for intimate weddings, garden receptions, bridal and baby showers, birthdays, and private celebrations. Our Victorian farmhouse, covered patio, and picturesque grounds provide a charming backdrop for gatherings both large and small.
We also host unique experiences and wellness-inspired events throughout the year, bringing people together through creativity, connection, and a little something unexpected.
For those wishing to extend their stay, overnight accommodations offer an opportunity to settle in, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of the property a little longer.
More than a tea house, Selenite is a place to gather, celebrate, and savor life's beautiful moments.
Curated with Hygge in Mind
Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Danish lifestyle concept about taking time away from the daily rush to be together with people you care about - or even by yourself - to relax and enjoy life's quieter pleasures. In doing so, we can catch a glimpse into why the Nordic countries are rated among the happiest in the world.
In the Middle Ages, the Old Norse definition meant "protected from the outside world."
Hygge has no agenda. The point is to celebrate the small joys of life, perhaps discuss deeper topics. It is an opportunity to unwind and take things slow - something Selenite Tea House excels at.
Our tips for imbuing your life with hygge:
Spend time with friends and family. Schedule a weekly get-together over coffee or brunch. Visit with older relatives.
Remove work-life distractions. Leave work on time and leave work at the office. Turn off your cell phone and unplug once in a while. Take a day off for your mental health.
Clear your home and clear your mind. Get rid of clutter with a jumpstart on spring cleaning. Create a simple space where you feel at peace. Add some simple decorations but give your space room to breathe.
Practice mindfulness and meditation. Stress can build up with an unbalanced work-life, and taking time to defog yourself can help you feel more at ease in your own space. Turn off the lights and light an aromatic candle. Breathe and practice sitting in silence.
Go outside for a walk and fresh air. The Danes have a saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes.” Rain and cold weather rarely keep the Danes inside - our owner can personally attest to this.
Eat, drink, and be hygge! On cold nights, curl up with a cup of tea or hot cocoa. Bake some cookies or cinnamon rolls. Light a fire or a candle, and exhale.