Let me start with saying that I love tea. I like the many varieties it comes in from the earthy…to the hibiscus lemon grass and everything in between. I love the aroma, and the warmth of it in Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. Since I love tea so much, the natural progression would be to have a tea party. In my research the follow five items has helped me with my tea party planning:
- The venue. The venue could be a home party on a patio or a garden area. Or you can find a tea house to host the event. The are two types of parties to host. Afternoon tea—Also known as “low tea,” the afternoon tea is enjoyed at a low table, such as a coffee or tea table in the living room. It is a more relaxed setting than the high tea, but it isn’t necessarily more casual. And High tea—This is served at a dining table or higher table than the low tea. You may have a high tea with small snacks or something more substantial.
- The food, would include finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, mini cakes, muffins, cookies, and tea sandwiches served in a tiered arrangement. When eating at a tea party, remember that this isn’t a meal designed to fill you up. Take small bites and enjoy the tea and conversation.
- Attire. Tea party attire can be be casual smart to semi formal. Suggestions for women are dresses in beautiful floral, and fun prints like polka dots and cherries in light colors and pastels, worn with comfortable shoes. Suggestions for men is a sport coat with a patterned button-down or classic white shirt and a nice pair of dress slacks
- The hat. One of the prized possessions of an afternoon tea goer is a fabulous tea hat or fascinator in a multitude of bright colors and styles. The fascinator is worn by attaching the clip or headband to the head, but it’s normally worn affixed to the side or front of the head. While you can wear a fascinator on either the right or left side of your head, traditionally, a fascinator is worn on the right-hand side of your face. According to my research, it is okay for a lady to wear her hat at the table; however, gloves should be removed before the tea service begins.
- Have fun. Enjoy the company of new or familiar faces at the event. Participate in the tea related activities and chalk this up as an event to remember!
