Hosting an Afternoon High Tea: How, Why, and What to Use
There's something delightfully elegant about the tradition of afternoon high tea. It's a perfect opportunity to gather friends, slow down the pace of life, and indulge in delightful treats while sipping on a warm cup of tea. In this blog post, we'll explore the how, why, and what of hosting an afternoon high tea with friends.
How to Host an Afternoon High Tea
1. Select a Date and Time: Decide on a date and time that suits you and your guests. Afternoons are typically ideal for high tea, allowing you to enjoy the sunlight while savoring your tea and treats.
2. Choose a Venue: Depending on your preference, you can host your high tea at home, in a garden, or at a tea room. The setting should reflect the mood and ambiance you want to create.
3. Create an Inviting Atmosphere: Decorate your chosen venue with tablecloths, fine china, elegant teacups, and fresh flowers. Soft music playing in the background can enhance the experience.
4. Select a Tea Selection: High tea is all about the tea, so choose a variety of loose-leaf teas to cater to different tastes. Classic options like Earl Grey, a nice strong black tea such as our Bold Brew: Assam, and a fruity tea such as Utopian Teas Forest Infusion are always a good choice.
5. Prepare the Menu: The menu for your high tea can be a delightful assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, pastries, and cakes. Traditional favorites include cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon, and sponge cake.
6. Serving Etiquette: Invest in a tiered cake stand to display your treats. Use elegant teapots and cups with saucers. Remember to serve lemon slices, milk, and sugar for tea customization.
Why Host an Afternoon High Tea
1. Social Connection: High tea offers an intimate setting for conversation and bonding with friends. It's a chance to catch up and relax in a civilized yet enjoyable manner.
2. Escape from Daily Routine: In the midst of our busy lives, a high tea offers a respite. It encourages a slower pace, allowing you to savor each sip and bite.
3. Celebrate Special Occasions: Whether it's a birthday, bridal shower, or a simple get-together, high tea can make any occasion feel extra special.
What to Use for Your Afternoon High Tea
1. Tea Accessories: Quality teapots, teacups, and saucers are essential. Invest in a tea strainer or infuser for loose-leaf teas - most of Utopian Teas teapots come with an inbuilt infuser already!
2. Tableware: Fine china, tiered cake stands, and cloth napkins can elevate the presentation.
3. Tea Selection: Offer a variety of teas to cater to different tastes, from black and green to herbal and floral infusions.
4. Finger Food: Create a menu with a mix of sweet and savory treats, keeping in mind dietary preferences and restrictions of your guests.
5. Decor: Fresh flowers, elegant tablecloths, and soft table settings can make your high tea visually appealing.
Hosting an afternoon high tea is a fun way to unwind and share memorable moments with friends. With the right preparations, you can create an atmosphere that transports you to a world of elegance and sophistication. So, pick a date, choose your teas and treats, and get ready to host an unforgettable high tea experience with friends. It's a wonderful way to celebrate life's simple pleasures and strengthen bonds with those you cherish.
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