Afternoon Tea Etiquette
Where there is a day, there is tea. Tea is always a good idea whatever event and time of the day is happening. Tea can be a picnic indoors or a party on table and best mingling and small talk time. A lot can happen on tea.
Even before globalization, afternoon tea has made its way around the world. It is adopted in many countries to suit their local culture and now it is a popular event. Afternoon tea is a happy time around the world. British in origin, the mid-day meal after lunch consists of tea, light sandwiches, scones, bite-sized desserts and varieties of finger food.
Lets discuss some etiquette do’s and don’ts so that you enjoy your best in this dainty social event.
The number one priority is to relax, unwind and enjoy this experience of luxury.
And the next most important point is don't call it High tea. High tea isn’t the same thing as afternoon tea. Afternoon tea would often take place between 3 and 5 p.m. around a low table setting with everyone seated on comfortable couches rather than a traditional dining table. Finger food or a small portion of dishes are served. And On the other hand true to its name, high tea happened at the dining table ( high table), often later in the evening. It usually includes wholesome food.
It may go without saying that afternoon tea traditionally involves just tea. While modern-day versions may offer coffee.
To make it, elegant and delightful affair dress up in smart and casual. If you’re going to a nice establishment, dress a little more formally,
It is expected from the host to serve the tea first to guest then to themselves or host can designate someone to pour the tea however whatever the case do not serve to yourself first.
Use a tea strainer if needed and fill the teacups up to three quarters of the way. So that your guests can add milk, lemon or sweetener to their tea as per their taste.
Once you have received your cup of tea ,then add milk, lemon or sugar as you desired. Stir the tea with a teaspoon up and down (6 o’clock to 12 o’clock motion), 2-3 times silently. Then set the teaspoon on the right hand side of the saucer. Hold the teacup by the handle with pinkie finger down. When you’re sitting at the table, there’s no need to lift up the saucer to drink from your teacup. Don’t blow on the tea , let it cool itself. Don’t make loud slurps when drinking your tea. Take small, quiet sips.
“If someone at the table is pouring tea for you and they ask you to pass your teacup, you have to pass the teacup with the saucer not simply hand them your cup.”
Afternoon tea is made complete with a three-tiered stand — and this has its own set of rules. Usually savory tea sandwiches and snacks on the bottom, scones in the middle and sweets on top. It is best to start from the lowest tier. It’s also common courtesy to move through the meal together when dining with others. If you’re enjoying afternoon tea with a group of people, you should pace yourself along with everyone, especially the host.
As the name suggests finger sandwiches should be eaten with your hands, but small delicate sweets/ cake may require a dessert spoon. Never dunk anything into your tea. Once a flatware has been used, rest it on the right side of the plate. Don’t put it back on the table. Once you are finished with your tea, place napkins on the left side of your plate .
Put Your Phones Away
It’s common courtesy to stay off your phone and remain engaged with your tea partners (after you’ve snapped your requisite photo for social media, of course).Phones, glasses, and any other personal items shouldn’t be on the table. Instead, place them on your chair to your left or right.
Yup, Doing everything quietly and decently with tea and scones can make your afternoon tea enjoyable and luxurious just like high class Victorian.
For more details contact:
Sarita Sharda
Wedding Image Makeover Consultant | Image Panorama
Mobile: 9953485680
Email: imagepanorama.in@gmail.com
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