A Proper Tea Party
Spring into summer are traditionally peak seasons for the celebration of wedding nuptials and births. If hosting duty for a wedding or baby shower is falling to you, consider the classic elegance of a proper English afternoon tea.
The Invite
Buy ready-made invites or custom-design your own handwritten creations using delicate vellum papers and elegant card stocks. For an added touch, use ribbon to tie a small packet of fine tea to the invite. When deciding on a start time, keep in mind that afternoon tea is traditionally served between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
The Décor
Cover the serving table with a pretty chintz or pastel tablecloth. In the centre, cluster a collection of flower-filled teapots using varying sizes of overturned clear bowls as pedestals to create height interest.
Set out china teacups, saucers, small serving plates and cutlery on one side of the table and arrange food around the remaining space. Mismatched china adds visual charm to the occasion. Scour antique stores for inexpensive floral patterned cups and saucers as well as old-fashioned serving trays, pedestal and multi-tiered cake plates.
The Eats
Keep the fare light and simple with guests choosing from crustless sandwiches cut into bite-size shapes or rolled and sliced into pretty pinwheels. Round out the offering with fresh scones with Devonshire Cream and jam, mini pastries, cupcakes and cookies.
The Refreshments
Make pitchers of infused iced teas (green tea with mint leaves is deliciously refreshing) and serve sparkling punch in flute glasses. Tea, of course, is the main attraction. Brew several different kinds of tea using a small placecard to identify what's in each teapot. Set out tea condiments including milk, lemon, honey and sugar.
The Resources
For teas and accessories:
The Old Curiosity Tea Co., www.cuppa.ca
Say Tea, www.saytea.com
Cakes and cookies:
The Cupcake Shoppe, www.thecupcakeshoppe.ca
Yummy Stuff, www.yummystuff.ca
