Tea parties are the height of society and have been since the Victorian age.
A lady's tea is a formal affair. Teas are given for special occasions like birthdays, Mother's Day and bridal and baby showers. Often, they are held in honor of a special guest, though sometimes they are held just for a group of women to get together. Most preparation work is done prior to the affair so the hostess is able to enjoy the festivities. The finest china and utensils are used to serve tea and special treats. It is the hostess's job to be sure everyone has a good time. Does this Spark an idea?
Tea History
Afternoon tea takes place at three to five o'clock in the afternoon. Duchess Anna of Bedford, lady in waiting to Queen Victoria, is credited with inventing afternoon tea in the mid-1800s. She had a problem keeping her energy up without a small meal late in the day. Sandwiches, scones and other pastries were served.
Invitations
The invitation to the tea should contain information on the date, time, location, name of the person being honored (if there is one), appropriate dress and an RSVP phone number to which they should respond at least five days before the event. The invitation may be an elaborately printed invitation or a hand-crafted one. The addresses should be hand written or done in calligraphy. Send invitations at least two weeks prior to the event.
Table Settings
The main table should be covered with a linen or lace tablecloth, and food can be placed on a second table or sideboard. Place a tray with teapot, creamer, sugar bowl, a plate with lemon wedges and a strainer at the head of the table, with cups and saucers to the left. Place food on serving platters on the table or the sideboard if needed. Place settings should consist of a small luncheon plate with a cloth napkin to the left. A fork is placed on the napkin, and a knife and spoon rest on the right side of the plate. Tea spoons are placed on saucers when tea is served. Tea can be served buffet style, but it is better served at the table so the person pouring is part of the conversation. The only decoration necessary is an arrangement of cut flowers.
Proper Way to Make Tea
Serve one or several different teas, including black, white or green, and each one in its own teapot. Heat the pot by swirling a little hot water on the inside and pouring it out. Add the proper amount of tea leaves and 1 or 2 inches of boiled water, place the lid on and steep for five minutes. Fill the teapot with water, replace the lid and let the brew steep another two minutes.
Pouring Tea
The host is the person to pour the tea unless she designates another person. A teacup and saucer is retrieved from the left and the guest is asked how she prefers her tea. Pour cream in the cup first, and then add sugar cubes, with the tea added last.
Tea Treats
Many different snacks are traditional at an afternoon tea. Crumpets are yeast rolls made with butter, egg, milk and flour heated in a frying pan. Serve them with an easy, more modern version of Devonshire cream made with cream cheese, powdered sugar and whipping cream. Scones, dense baking powder biscuits flavored with fruits and spices, are a good choice too. Serve cucumber sandwiches made of crustless bread, thinly sliced cucumber and butter or cream cheese. Other sandwiches include open-faced chicken salad and bread spread with cheese spreads. Sweets include cakes, pies and other desserts.
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