Tea Parties

There's nothing like a tea party to bring back memories of innocence and make believe. The delight in a child's eyes when you sip the imaginary brew and give back lavish compliments and thanks is utterly captivating. Having your friends in for tea is a childhood ritual that many of us carry into adulthood and pass on to our own children as if it were a family heirloom. Sometimes we are lucky enough to inherit tea sets, infusers, caddies, and linens used by generations of ancestral tea party givers. We will solemnly pass these treasures on to the next generation.

A Little History

For the most part we model our tea parties on the British tradition of Afternoon Tea which originated about 1840. Because the Brits were in the habit of eating an early lunch and late dinner, they developed the custom of bringing sweet and savory tidbits to the tea table in the late afternoon. This practice became more and more elaborate until traditional Afternoon Tea included tea sandwiches and savories, followed by scones and spreads and tea breads, and finishing with tarts, cakes, and cookies, all served with several kinds of tea. It is on this tradition that we base our own Afternoon Teas. To learn more about tea traditions click on any of the pages below.

Planning Tea Parties

Tea Menus

Having Fun with Sandwiches

Tea Party Foods

Recipes

Visiting Tea Rooms - CHADO -TEAISM