Afternoon tea is a perfect excuse to throw a lavish party with girlfriends that requires little effort but all the elegance. I love having tea during the holidays complete with mini sandwiches, scones with jam, sweets and savories. I anticipate my annual visit to Fairmont San Francisco every year to enjoy this spread in the company of my closest girlfriends and our mothers.
With summer fully underway I figured, why not enjoy afternoon tea year round? While frequenting Fairmont San Francisco during Christmas time is a must, tea at the Plaza in New York City is just as lovely during the summer months.
Traditionally, tea is served at four or five o’clock per English tradition and has evolved to be characterized by three courses served on a three-tiered stand:
Savories: bite sized sandwiches
Scones: served with jam or clotted cream
Pastries: cakes, cookies, and sweets
While I love this traditional spread and justify having it on special occasions, I wanted to revamp the menu to reflect a more nutritious and balanced approach. Later this week I will be sharing three recipes to serve at a tea party that still uphold the elegance embodied by this English tradition but with a nutritious twist.
Little details:
I recommend having your guests bring their own teacup and saucer if you don’t have a full set. In addition to the finger-sized food items, detail should be paid to the tea itself. I recommend serving both tea and coffee, letting the guests choose to their liking. I like having two teas on hand- an Earl Grey and a Darjeeling usually bode over well. Don’t forget a tray of lemon slices!
Essentials:
1. A classic white teapot allows the floral print cups and saucers to be the star.
2. Three-tiered stands with “lacy” sides for an elegant touch.
3. Classic and multipurpose white pitchers.
4. Everyone needs a teacup and matching saucer with a pretty pattern.
5. This stainless steel tea strainer is a steal from World Market.
6. A Blossoming rose teapot is a lovely addition to a summer spread.
7. This pink 3-tier stand by Le Creuset is a tea party must-have.
8. For those looking for a little added sweetness.