Afternoon tea is a delightful tradition, offering a moment of indulgence and elegance. To make the most of your experience, follow these simple do’s and don’ts.
Do's
1. Dress the Part
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2. Mind Your Table Manners
Napkins on laps, elbows off tables, and sipping tea with care are all part of the charm. Enjoy the moment with refined etiquette.
3. Start with Savouries
Tradition dictates enjoying sandwiches and savouries before moving on to scones and desserts. Follow the order for a balanced tasting experience.
4. Break, Don’t Slice
When it comes to scones, break them apart with your hands instead of using a knife. Then, add clotted cream and jam as preferred.
5. Sip, Don’t Slurp
Tea should be sipped gracefully, not gulped. Engage in conversation between sips and savour the flavours.
Don'ts
1. Don’t Overfill Your Cup
Fill your teacup about three-quarters full to avoid spills. This also leaves space for milk, if desired.
2. Avoid Overloading Your Plate
It’s tempting to grab all the treats at once, but take your time. Enjoy each tier in its order and pace yourself.
3. Skip the Pinkies
Despite the common myth, raising your pinky finger while sipping tea is considered improper. Keep all fingers on the cup handle.
4. Don’t Rush
Afternoon tea is meant to be a leisurely experience. Allow yourself time to enjoy the surroundings, conversations, and treats.
5. Avoid Over-Perfumed Teas
While floral teas are delightful, overpowering scents can disrupt the subtle flavours of the food. Opt for a balanced brew that complements your spread.
Final Thoughts
Afternoon tea is as much about the ambiance as it is about the food. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. So, relax, sip, and savour every bite. The perfect afternoon tea awaits!
The Unspoken Social Cues of Afternoon Tea: What People Don’t Tell You
Afternoon tea may seem simple on the surface, pour, sip, and nibble. But beneath the surface lies a series of subtle social cues that can shape the entire experience. These aren’t the kind of rules you’ll find printed on a menu or explained by your server. They’re the quiet cultural codes that make afternoon tea feel special, and sometimes even a little intimidating to first-timers.
In this post, we explore the unspoken behaviours that help you move confidently through any tea setting from traditional hotels to modern cafés.
Afternoon Tea Theme Garden Party
There’s something undeniably magical about an afternoon tea garden party. As the sunlight filters through blooming branches and birdsong dances in the air, there’s no better way to bring friends and family together than over delicate sandwiches, clotted cream scones, and dainty cakes. To set the scene with vintage elegance and whimsical flair, every detail counts, from floral bunting and fine china to the all important centrepiece: the porcelain/cake stand.
Why Afternoon Tea in Spring is the Perfect Thing To Do
Spring in the UK is a welcome shift. After months of grey skies and early nights, the first signs of blossom and sunshine feel like a gentle reset. Parks start to fill again, the days stretch out longer, and everything just feels lighter including our appetite for getting out and about.
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