A Seat at the Table: Inside Scoop of Burdick Blueberries June Tea Event

Featured: Milton Burdick’s Iced Tea

It was just lovely. Farm-fresh flowers carefully arranged, polished collections of China set just so, and mini sandwiches served alongside hot tea while guests overlooked rows of blueberry bushes. The June Tea at Burdick Blueberries in East Otto, NY—just minutes from Western New York’s favorite weekend destination, Ellicottville—is the kind of event where the intimate details matter most. Now in its second year, the event is quickly becoming a cherished seasonal tradition with a bright future ahead.

Agritourism continues its upward trajectory, offering new income opportunities for farms like Burdick’s. More people are craving immersive experiences—like picking fresh berries, mingling with goats, or savoring farm-to-table cuisine. In fact, around 7% of U.S. farms now incorporate agritourism, and Burdick Blueberries is proud to be one of them.

For the Afternoon Tea event Guests were offered a firsthand look at the natural beauty of the land while Amy and Beth shared heartfelt stories and family history—creating a sense of connection, appreciation, and admiration for the work and resilience it takes to run a farm.

“It’s like a pretty post straight off Pinterest—I absolutely love it!” said one returning guest. “Last year was great, but this year was even better.”

Amy and Beth have a special way of making the farm feel like home. Tables set just right, fresh flowers in every corner, crisp linen that flowed in the breeze, pretty displays of products and the place settings we set with different China each telling a story of their own.

This year, the event included introductions to a few of the farm’s newest animal residents: Poppy and Sweet Pea, a pair of Nigerian Dwarf goats full of personality, and Buddy—a retired Amish workhorse now enjoying a peaceful life at Burdick Blueberries. (While Buddy didn’t give any rides this time, Amy has been working with him this spring to prepare for light-duty tasks, including future buggy rides through the patch!)

Guests were invited to enjoyed surrey rides through the fields with Amy, and a flower garden walk with Beth before settling in for tea. As the crowd gathered around tables filled with vintage China and floral bouquets, Amy welcomed everyone and introduced two of the farm’s newest value-added creations: Blueberry Splash—a lightly sweetened blueberry concentrate crafted from the final berries of last season's harvest. Paired with Milton Burdick’s iced tea, a house favorite featuring tart lemon and sweet tea, the refreshing combination delighted everyone and left guests asking for seconds. Along with the iced tea event goers got to sample Blueberry Butter—served atop sharp cheddar cheese and a crispy multi-grain cracker. Both products are inspired by Amy’s desire to reduce blueberry waste at the end of the picking season.

After refreshments and garden chatter, the tea service continued with Paris black tea and an elegant spread of mini sandwiches. Guests were pleased to learn that Burdick Blueberries partnered with Ginger Snap Patisserie of Orchard Park to deliver a thoughtful menu: buttery mini chicken salad croissants, cucumber tea sandwiches with a perfect creamy crunch, blueberry scones with a lemon twist, and rich cheesecakes topped with house-made blueberry compote. Needless to say—plates were cleared and compliments flowed.

Attendees also had the opportunity to shop a limited collection of exclusive pre-season products, including jars of Blueberry Splash, Blueberry Butter, and farm-fresh bouquets carefully arranged by Beth, grower and floral designer at Burdick’s. During her garden tours, Beth shared her vision for the upcoming season and offered arranging tips for fellow flower lovers. (Psst… there’s some upcoming event that allow you to get a little dirt under your finger nails!)

The afternoon wrapped up just in time as the expected afternoon rain released it's first few drops shortly after 3PM. As guests began to pack up many shared their appreciation for an afternoon of simplicity, community, and the smallest most thought-out details, it was exactly the kind of gathering that makes Burdick Blueberries so special.

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Working with Refined Media 716

In early spring 2024, Burdick Blueberries partnered with Refined Media 716, a Western New York-based marketing and creative agency, to elevate the farm’s exposure and enhance its seasonal offerings. The partnership focuses on strategic planning, website design, marketing assistance, and event coordination. With a shared vision, Refined Media 716 has helped Burdick Blueberries tell its story more effectively, attract a broader audience, and streamline event planning and execution. Together, they’re building a brand that celebrates the farm's unique charm and offerings, while creating memorable experiences for visitors from near and far.

To learn more about upcoming events or seasonal offerings, follow @burdickblueberries or visit www.burdickblueberries.net.