Memories Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Teas The Season

About me..., Cups, Cozies and China, Enjoying Together, Memories

Have A Virtual Mother’s Day Tea

April 27, 2020
Mother’s Day is coming up and many of us may be separated from those that we would normally be spending time with. Let me propose a creative option to help bridge this distance. Have a virtual Mother’s Day Tea!

Mother’s Day is an international holiday. The modern day celebration was started by Ann Jarvis who wanted to create a memorial for her mother. In 1905, Ms. Jarvis held a celebration at St. Andrew’s Methodist church and in 1914, Mother’s Day became a national holiday. Mother’s Day is actually celebrated internationally and is one of the biggest holidays recognized across the world. It is one of the busiest times for sending flowers, gifts and cards…and for phonecalls. Anywhere from homemade cards to breakfast in bed, mother’s day has been a special day for mothers all around the world. Whether from children to their mother or from mother to mother, this day recognizes the strong bond and unselfish commitment that mothers bring to their families.

For many this year, families may not be able to get together and celebrate. And maybe even in their normal times, the miles wouldn’t allow for coming together. My sisters and I are in that exact situation. We live in separate parts of the country. We all have a love for afternoon tea in any form, for vintage china of any kind, and connecting to just be sisters. For birthdays, special occasions, and holidays, it would not be unusual for the three of us to get together and visit a tea room or have tea with each other. Now we just make that a virtual event. This amazing technology that is so normal to us, allows us to come together and still celebrate and enjoy one another.

Here is how a Virtual Tea looks

We recently decided to have a virtual Birthday Tea for each other. We were all born within the same time frame and knew that we would not be able to meet up. Thanks to the technology, we planned a virtual event and were able to connect. Now we have virtual meetings all the time, but for this occasion, we wanted to do something special.

An invitation was sent out noting date and time, gave directions on what to have available and even what to wear. And we all had fun with it.

We decided to have a bit more than a cream tea but not a full afternoon tea in the traditional sense. It was going to be in the morning so it was BYOB – Bring Your Own Breakfast. For definition, a cream tea is when you have scones with jam, curd and cream and tea. This would be a great way to celebrate – having a scone (or bread of sorts) with cream and jam and of course accompanied by your favorite tea!

The attire would be hats at the least and we would share with each other our menus, the tea we were serving, and of course the china that we were using. It was going to be a grand “Show and Tell”. And of course, there would be all the other conversation.

Let me walk you through the festivities by each of us.

My sister Barbara

Barbara’s Breakfast Skype setting
- Barbara’s Menu
  - A homemade Egg, Ham and Cheese on an English Muffin (sounds very similar to a famous Scotch Restaurant – ahem McD’s), Cheesecake with Strawberry – looked amazing. Unfortunately, we didn’t all have that treat.
  - Proseco cocktail – a great idea!
- The tea of choice and Barbara’s favorite – Lady Londonderry
- China selection – Teacup was Grosvenor Jackson English and the plate Marcesa by Lennox
My sister Laurie

Laurie’s Skype setting
- Laurie’s Menu
  - English Muffin Bread with raspberry / cherry preserves
  - Poached egg in an egg cup
  - Tangerine
  - (Cheese and Irish soda bread pictured)
- Laurie’s Tea Selection was Margaret’s Orchard – a lovely Darjeeling
- China Selection was Hutschenreuther Selb teacup and plate. Both my sisters are big fans of the teacup and plate set, so no surprise this gorgeous setting was pulled out. The creamer is a Shelley Dainty Mauve. The jar is the picture is a biscuit jar made by Royal Winton, Grimwades, England.
And me!

Beth’s Breakfast Skype setup
- Beth’s Menu selection –
  - Toffee Scone with curd and currant jam (the Toffee Scone recipe will be highlighted in an upcoming post – so stay tuned for a delicious scone)
  - Egg, Cheese, Sausage Omelet
  - Fresh Blueberries
- Tea of choice – English Breakfast
- China selection – Moonstone plate and berry dish, Arthur Wood and Sons Teapot (such a beauty), Royal Standard English Bone China teacup. I too used a Shelley creamer and sugar.
We chatted about everything, pontificating on issues like we really knew what we were talking about then laughing at ourselves. We oohed and aahed at the china and enjoyed a meal together. The total virtual event took up over 2 hours of the airways and probably the most important part, it melted the miles and made all of us feel special. It was a sweet time of conversation in an environment that was very familiar to us….afternoon tea.

Here’s How To Have A Virtual Mother’s Day Tea
1. Set up a virtual celebration with your mother or the mom’s that you want to connect with. They are many free platforms available and very easy to use. Most will allow for multiple callers in the meeting. We used Skype but I have also used Zoom, both successfully.
2. Set the date and the time and send out an invitation. I was coordinating the invitation and sent an email invitation a few days ahead.
3. Outline what you want to do during the time – a Cream Tea or a full plate together or even just snacks and tea.
4. Give some guidance for food and tea and accoutrements. If you are local but are not able to meet up, you can prepare the food and drop it off.
5. Give some guidance on dress or theme. Definitely dress the part and have some fun with it. It doesn’t take a lot to make your time very special.
But most of all, the most important thing is the time that is spent together. So whether you have hi-end food, fancy china or are all dressed up or nothing at all…..its the heart felt celebration of the love you have for one another.
Chatting about everything…always with opinion
You will have giggles on your hats, comments and critiques on each other’s menus, and delights in connecting on these special times. Though it won’t always be the case, the virtual tea gives you a great option for staying connected through the miles.

I dearly love my sisters and they bring me great joy. So very blessed by them. Both are beautiful women, they love the tea, they love the china and just love having fun together. Age and wisdom have brought us close and we have become the best of friends. Thank you Barbara and Laurie. I raise a toast to you both for being the best.
So consider stepping out and have a virtual Mother’s Day Tea….just connect and celebrate each other. You won’t regret it.
Read More

Beth 68 Comments
Cups, Cozies and China, Enjoying Together, Memories, Uncategorized

Tea Tastings with Spring Blooms

April 20, 2020
Spring brings rebirth to our seasons. It comes as a fresh start after the sometimes long winter. We look forward to it and it begins a season of growth and planting. In this challenging season, I am excited to share with you some new tea tasting with spring blooms.

Before we get started, a couple stories and accolades. First, about the pictures. These pictures are from those early spring strolls that we are all taking these days. The first blooms of spring were captured by three beautiful women – Brenda, Marissa, and my daughter. Thank you for these demonstrations of God’s consistent character and presence in spring.

Secondly, about the teas. I have wanted to get out and sample some new teas. With all of us being at home these days, I have not been able to to this. To my surprise, one day a package arrived at my home. Inside was a sweet note of thanks from my daughter-in-law’s mother, thanking me for taking care of her daughter during a recent illness. What an unnecessary surprise and treat. But inside the box was the best – a selection of teas that I had not had before. I was delighted and blessed. These teas set the basis for this session of tastings.

Many thanks to all these contributions to this latest adventure.

Tea and Treats Gift Box

Using the colors of the flowers, I have taken these first blooms and have coupled them with some of my teacups. Along with this, I have paired a new tea for your tasting enjoyment. Let’s take some time to deep breathe and enjoy the walk through God’s beautiful creations. Come along with me for a virtual spring stroll.

Tea Tasting Guidelines

A reminder of the process. Let’s use the tea tasting guidelines that were posted some time ago. Here’s a refresher.
1. Assemble and setup brewing station and table
2. Place a small amount of the loose tea in a bowl or plate. Smell the tea and note flavors or scents of the raw tea.
3. Steep the tea according to the directions.
4. In a fresh cup, pour a portion of tea. Observe the color and the smell of the steeped tea.
5. First sip the tea with no additives.
6. Then begin with additives –
  1. Sugar alone
  2. Milk alone
  3. Sugar and milk
7. Discuss impressions – likes, dislikes, possible pairings with food.
8. Repeat process for additional tastings, getting fresh cups and pot
Click here for a copy of your Tea Tasting Guidelines for the Daily Enthusiast

Tea Tasting Guidelines For the Daily Enthusiast
Download

Here’s the previous post https://teastheseason3.com/tea-tasting-2-the-adventure-continues/

Let’s taste…..

Blueberry Black Tea

Our first selection is a reflection of blues. This is Blueberry Black Tea. This tea is from Yunnan China and is a mix of black tea and blueberries. You can see and smell the blueberries in the loose tea. When this tea is steeped, it takes on a very light hue of blue within the black tea. The first smell of the steeped tea is definitely blueberry, the taste as well but is subtle. With a little sugar added, the blueberry taste is definitely accentuated. With milk, I felt it dulled the flavor – and the color was a purple gray. I would enjoy this tea again, using a small amount of sugar to enhance the blueberry flavor. Steep this tea for 3-5 minutes.

Blue Setting with Blueberry Black Tea

The Blueberry Black Tea was served in Greystone teapot by Johnson Brothers and enjoyed in a teacup by Hidone – Blueberry made in Japan.

Spring Purple Blue Flowers

Teacups – Hidone Blueberry Japan / Morning Glory by Shelley

Lemon Drop Mate

This tasting was for Lemon Drop Mate, a white tea that has been infused with lemon and combined with Macha. The loose leaf tea has a gorgeous grassy look and a light citrus smell. The steeped tea has a delicate lemon taste with almost a mint-like flavor and has this beautiful light amber color. You can taste the Macha and its very pleasant to the tea. I actually enjoyed this plain or with sugar and milk. When I tried the sugar alone, it was too sweet and almost tasted like a candy – for me too much. I will have this tea again – it was surprisingly delightful. Steep this tea for 3 minutes.

Yellow setting with Lemon Drop Mate Tea

The Lemon Drop Mate was served in a Furio Home teapot and enjoyed in Hautschenreuther Selb Bavaria Favorite teacup.

California Hike

Teacups – top Paragon, middle Colclough English Bone China, Art Deco Gladstone China

Raspberry Pink Champagne

This Raspberry Pink Champagne is a white tea with the taste of raspberries and a slight fizz of champagne. The tea was accompanied by a Raspberry Champagne sugar. The loose leaf tea is a large lighter green leaf and is rough cut. There is a light hint of raspberry in the smell. Without any additive, the flavor is gentle and very mellow. With a little sugar, the flavor of the raspberries is stronger. Using the Raspberry Champagne sugar was a fun addition and definitely rounded out the flavor. Milk again for me seemed to mellow out the flavor too much. My daughter-in-law found it enjoyable. I have not been a fan of white teas, but I would definitely drink this again. It was delightful. Steep this tea for 3 minutes and yields a beautiful light amber color.

Pink Setting with Raspberry Champagne Tea

The Raspberry Champagne tea was served in an Old Amsterdam teapot and enjoyed in English Castle Staffordshire – floral pattern teacup.

Spring Pink Flowers

English Staffordshire and Royal Vale Pink Floral Teacups

Rooibos Chai

I absolutely love Rooibos teas and this one did not disappoint. This was Rooibos Chai. All the spices of Chai with the tastes of Rooibos. The loose leaf has a spicy fragrance and a beautiful mix of whole spices. The steeped tea had that familiar Chai fragrance along with the dark auburn that Rooibos teas have. It was beautiful. The first taste is clear with the spices but not over powering at all. With a little sugar added, the spices became very clear. A little milk, and it was a delicious blend with a nice creaminess. My recommendation is actually with, without sugar and / or milk. I did receive some Chai Sugar, for me it was a little too sweet and masked the Rooibos flavor. This is definitely one that I will continue to enjoy. And since there is no caffeine in a Rooibos tea, you can enjoy this anytime of the day or evening. Steeping time for this tea is 5 minutes.

Butterfly setting with Rooibos Chai

Chair Rooibos as served with a hand glazed English Cordon Bleu BIA pot and enjoyed in a vintage Rosina teacup.

Butterfly in spring flowers

Focusing on the butterfly, this is a 1950’s Rosina English Bone China teacup

Berry White

This last tea is called Berry White. This is another white tea blend that includes a mix of natural berries – blueberries, raspberries, schizandra berries, strawberries, and hibiscus. Natural flavors of lychee and plums were also present with some jasmine. The loose leaf tea was a beautiful painting of all the berries. Raspberry and strawberry were the prominent fragrance. Once steeped, it yielded a berry colored tea that was reflective of the many combinations adn paired beautifully with the china. Even though it had a somewhat astringent character, the tea was delicious on its own. An addition of a little sugar was okay, it really wasn’t needed for this tea. And no milk. This tea was able to be enjoyed on its own. I will have this tea again and would serve it for a dessert phase of an afternoon tea. This tea is steeped for 6 minutes.

Purple Setting with Berry White tea

Spring Purple Crocus

Berry White Mitterteich Bavaria Violet teacup / Japanese bone china

Mitterteich Bavaria Violet teacup / Japanese bone china

Though our stroll is done, the seasons will continue…the times will change and we can be grateful that the desert once again yields to spring. Did you have a favorite? I hope that this brings you some comforting reflections and reassurance of hope.

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. Isaiah 35:1

Credits and accolades….

The teas used in this post came from The Spice and Tea Exchange https://www.spiceandtea.com/ Check it out – I am sure you will enjoy it!

The gorgeous cozies were designed and sewn by my sister. Previously highlighted in this post Cozy Up To A Warm Cup of Tea https://teastheseason3.com/cozy-up-to-a-warm-cup-of-tea/
Read More

Beth 60 Comments
Cups, Cozies and China, Memories, Uncategorized

ANTIQUE SHOPPING ON THE ROAD

April 6, 2020

One of the things I love to do is antique shopping, especially for vintage china. I love scouring through the shelves and shops, looking for special treasures. I enjoy seeing the variety of items in these places, many with such a broad range of things, all the while imagining the life of the item, who held it, how was it used. Junk to some, treasures to others. It becomes an antique adventure.

Beth ready for the road trip!

Another thing I love to do is drive. I had a great job one time that allowed me to travel around New Mexico seeing all the diversity and beauty of this state from the road. Going into the small communities – it was a blessing. Great memories learning about the culture and the heritage – such a variety.

When I have a chance to combine the two – I jump on the opportunity. And that is just what I recently did. Packed up my bags, put on some tunes, and hit the road to travel from New Mexico through to Iowa. Taking a little longer path, I crossed several states – New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri and finally Iowa. And now it becomes Antique Shopping On The Road!

Road Map of Trip to Iowa

Here are some of my stops. Come along with me and join the journey. With my China Shopping Toolkit in hand I set out to find me some treasures!

China Shopping Toolkit

Not new to those of us who hunt out these little gems but critical when looking at vintage or antique items, the tools, tricks, and guides to finding these beauties is critical.

I outlined the process in my recent post on how to shop for vintage china https://teastheseason3.com/tools-for-vintage-china-shopping/.

Download my VINTAGE CHINA SHOPPING GUIDE and get ready for some fun!

VINTAGE-CHINA-SHOPPING-GUIDEDownload

Warehouse Antique Mall – Oklahoma

My first stop was in Oklahoma City at the Warehouse Antique Mall https://www.facebook.com/TheWarehouseAntiqueMall/ . Though near closing time, the proprietor was very pleasant and allowed me to browse with the one stipulation that I come back on my way back through. While there I found a couple treasures.

Pictured below is a Royal Albert Blossoms Time plate. This pattern was requested in 1933 by G. R. Palmeter who wanted to have a pattern created reflecting apple blossom time and to tie in with the Apple Blossom Festival. This plate will serve slices of cake to delight my afternoon tea guests.

Royal Albert Plate

The Enchanted Frog – Lathrop Missouri

I find driving very relaxing. While driving, I check signs to see any opportunities I will take. The Enchanted Frog https://www.facebook.com/enchantedfrogantiques/ was exactly just one of these spots. I had seen these signs a couple times on my travels, but this time I decided that I would stop and check it out. To my delight and surprise, it was just off the interstate in Lathrop Missouri – quick on and off, so I was able to spend more time in the shop.

Like many shops, they look small from the outside but once in – these shops can go on for miles. Boasting of 60+ vendor booths, it was a nice respite while on a long drive. When you enter, prepare to remove your purse no matter of the size. It’s a precaution to not bump into things on the shelves. Put into your locker, you grab the key and are on your way. Though I wear a small purse over my shoulder, I completely appreciate the request but kept my antique shopping toolkit. No purchases at this shop (not this time around) but certainly on the list to check out again.

THE BRASS ARMADILLO – Iowa

The Brass Armadillo – Ankeny Iowa

Once in Iowa, my daughter suggested that I check out the Brass Armadillo https://www.brassarmadillo.com/ This store boasted of over 400 vendors and once in the store, it was clear this was an antique shoppers’ heaven. I made some significant purchases while there. The store is clean and you are pleasantly greeted by your host, explaining how the store works making sure to offer you water or coffee. Then you are set free. And it was fun for sure. With my cart to collect purchases, I started through the organized lines of booths.

Brass Armadillo Logo

Teapots in the cart and ready for purchase

I did learn that this is one of several shops part of an antique store chain. Generally Midwestern and Southwestern in location, I would readily recommend this to anyone in the area. Prices reasonable, it was a very pleasant experience. And I will definitely be checking out some of the other locations as well as keeping this one on my list of “always stop to see what’s new.”

One of many purchases, this sweet little creamer and sugar is Hamilton Bone China.

Hamilton Cream and Sugar

ANTIQUES IOWA – Iowa

Antique Iowa, Story City Iowa

I visited another Iowa antique store that had been recommended by one of my New Mexico antique store owners. They had commented to me that this is one they always stop for. So my daughter and I braved the elements (yes it was snowing) to check out Antiques Iowa https://www.iowaantiquenetwork.com/ .

And once again, we thought it would be small but it surprised us both and revealed series of hallways with treasures galore. Maybe a reflection of the heartiness of Midwestern people (of which I am one), the store was pretty full of folks out shopping for those special finds. Like many stores, employees will circulate and see if you need to have your selections taken to the front. And what that does? Frees your arms up to hold more things!!!! And of course I had to comply.

This is just a sampling of many cups obtained along the way.

Vintage China Cups

BRICK STREET MARKET AND CAFE

It was time for lunch and you can’t go to the Midwest without stopping to have something iconic to eat. And for us, that would be the pork tenderloin sandwich. We took the opportunity to stop at the Brick Street Market and Cafe https://www.thebrickstreetmarket.com/ in Bondurant, Iowa and were delighted to have one of my favorite lifetime sandwiches.

Brick Street Market and Cafe, Bondurant iowa

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Cole Slaw

Now I grew up in the Midwest and don’t really understand folks who don’t embrace the allure of a great pork tenderloin sandwich. So this was a treat for sure. Though this isn’t the only place that you can get a great tenderloin, it came highly recommended and they were not wrong. You can sit up to the counter in true diner style or sit in a booth. But make sure to enjoy with mustard, pickle and onion. I can still taste it! Do you think there is a mail order option for this?!?

MEMORY LANE

Memory Lane Antiques, West Des Moines Iowa

Our last stop was Memory Lane in West Des Moines Iowa. https://www.memorylaneantiquesvalleyjunction.com/. This little shop in downtown was another little treasure. A mix of boho vintage and antique, this shop was a sweet way to end a long hunting adventure. A sweet little pink teapot was my purchase here. Just perfect for morning tea.

This little teapot is a Pristine from England. Pristine was a unique English pottery. They made almost exclusively teaware: teapots, creamer and sugar sets, milk jugs, and teacups. Now out of production for over 10 years, this Staffordshire Pristine teapot is a sweet little find.

Pristine Teapot

Now home and sharing my shopping adventures with you. Nothing serious, nothing dramatic, just simple pleasures. For those of you who enjoy the antique shopping experience, you will recognize the large pile of wrapping paper below. Yup – it was that much. It was a delightful and successful adventure.

The wrappings of my trip!

I would highly recommend if you drive through small communities, learn about them and meet the people, even if in a small way. Share a bit of your journey….those serving you will smile…it makes their day.

Collected Treasures – only 1/2 of the finds!

“I love older things that people have used and cherished. They have personality, character, and soul.”
Anna Hillgass

Read More

Beth 67 Comments
Cups, Cozies and China, Enjoying Together, Memories, Recipes, Uncategorized

How to have a Valentine’s Tea Party

February 10, 2020
Ready to serve you!

This is a special time of year and having a Valentine’s Tea Party can show your friends just how much they mean to you. In this post I will outline the steps that I use in putting a Valentine’s Tea Party together and just what it looks like when put it altogether. Included are some free planning tools for you to use. These are hints, helps and steps that I have developed. You will find them helpful for your Valentine’s tea and any afternoon tea that you hold.

How to begin the planning

Once you have decided that you want to have a Valentine’s Tea Party, there are some simple questions you will want to ask to determine how the party will go. These are guidelines and considerations for you. Most importantly, you want to make your Valentine’s Tea party special for both you and your guests.
- Pick the day and time of day you want to have your tea party. If you are having an afternoon tea, this will include savories, scones and sweets. So your guests will want to come prepared to enjoy a full serving of treats. The time of day helps to determine your tea choices. Frequently, late teas include decaffeinated teas.
- Determine how long your tea party will be. My tea parties are generally 2 hours long. This gives each course about 30 minutes to enjoy and then some time for guests to settle in and service to begin.
- Determine how many guests will be coming to your party. This will impact your location and your menu development. I will address the menu development later in the post. Afternoon teas are generally fancy but you can make the menu to reflect your style. You will want to make sure you understand your guests’ food needs – are there any allergies or food preferences that you need to address?
- Pick out your invitations. Will you use email? Text? General mail? I generally use either email or text and there are many vendors that can provide you with easy electronic invitations such as Smile Box http://www.smilebox.com or Evite http://www.evite.com. You will want to send out your invitations 2-3 weeks ahead of the party. This is not only for your guests but also for your planning. Make sure to have an RSVP and ask if there are any food allergies or food preferences (gluten free for example).
- Outline if you are going to have any activities. There are several tea party games that you can use. My guests generally are just full of conversation and we don’t have games. But I have attended many teas that do, so choose what works for you and your guests.
Planning for the Valentine’s Tea Party

Menu Development

I like to do a traditional afternoon tea. This includes 3 courses – savories, scones and sweets. The courses are presented in that order.

The savory course consists of individual servings or “finger food”. I like to have 4-5 savories during this course. The savories can be cold or hot. I usually have a combination of both. I love to serve a Spinach Ball with Marinara Sauce. This recipe can be made well in advance, easy to put together and freezes well. The link to this recipe is at the end of this post.

Champagne Glass Tipped with Red Crystal Sugar

I will frequently offer a champagne cocktail with my special teas. So check with your guests if this would be acceptable. I like to serve this with the savory course.

Here you can see that I chose to dip the edge of the champagne flute with red crystal sugar – just an added touch of specialness!

The scone course consists of breads or scones. You can serve one scone or two. I like to serve 2 and have one reflect the season or event. For the Valentine Tea Party, I serve a Strawberry Cream Scone. I also serve a Currant Scone at all my teas (just a little tradition I like to have). Its during this course that you would serve a curd and cream. I like to serve Lemon Curd and Devonshire Cream. The scone and curd recipes are listed below.

The sweet or dessert course is the final course. I like to have 4 items for this course and similar to the savories, are small servings.

Part of my menu development is also the tea pairing. What teas will go best with what course? There are guidelines that help you select appropriate teas but to me, bottom line is what tastes best and what you and your guests like. But no tea bags – only use loose leaf tea in tea pots.

Valentine’s Tea Party Menu

Here is the menu. You can see all the items listed along with the tea that has been chosen for the course.

Preparing Ahead

Critical for your tea party is to plan ahead. I develop the menu with this in mind. A lot of the items on the menu can be prepared in advance and put in the freezer (one of my favorite kitchen tools). For example, all my scones are prepared and frozen unbaked, just waiting to be baked the day of the tea. In this particular Valentine’s Tea Party menu, 8 of these items can be made ahead and in the freezer just waiting to be baked or reheated for service. That’s a huge time saver. So planning out your schedule is critical.

Getting the other tea party items together can also be done ahead of time. Menus printed off, teapots and teacups pulled. I even make up tea bags ahead of time so I can steep the pot and not make my guests wait.

This can seem overwhelming and that’s why using planning tools is so important. Download my Teas The Season Tea Party Planning Toolkit .

Tea-Party-Planning-ToolkitDownload

Setting the Stage

Setting the stage for you Valentine’s Tea Party is part of the experience. It makes your guests feel pampered and very special. Valentine’s provides the perfect venue for this. You can go all in from an expense perspective or on a budget as well. With little effort and resources,, you and your guests will feel special. Just let your creative talents flow!

Putting it Altogether

I recently had the opportunity to host a Valentine’s Tea Party for 6 ladies. It was delightful. Here is what it looked like when put altogether.

Entering and Greeting the Guests
- Entry table greeting guests
- Another greeting for my guests
Setting the stage for my guests. Valentine Themed Vignettes
You can make your guests feel special by having little vignettes around your home. I like to have something at the entrance to my home that highlights the theme. I will find quotes on-line and incorporate them into frames. These frames were simple Dollar Store frames that I burnished with gold to give a vintage look. I will use inexpensive tulle to help embellish the tables and LED lights to help set the stage.

Valentine quote in frame greeting my guests

Place Setting

Each place setting has a plate, silverware, napkin and cup. For this Valentine’s Tea Party, I used a red napkin and a ceramic bow napkin holder (a gift from one of my sisters). Instead of going with red cups, I went with floral and pink cups for the table setting.

For the silverware, I used a small demitasse spoon for the tea, a small cocktail fork and then a small butter knife. Both the spoons and folks can be purchased in many places. World Market carries both the spoons and forks for a reasonable price. You can also find them at your local restaurant supply store. I have listed these in the product selections at the end of this post. These particular knives I have collected over the years from different vintage stores. Each place setting has a menu. The menu becomes a nice keepsake for your guests to remember how you gifted them with such a great tea party.

Valentine Tea Party Place Setting

Table Setting

This is a setting for 6 people. I have carried the theme in through the table using the same tulle and lights. You can see the different cups and the food tiers. Each chair is adorned with a red ribbon to add to the flair. I like to have a center runner of color for the table. Here I have used red for that Valentine’s theme along with tulle, little lights, and fabric rose petals. The flowers, lights and rose petals I purchased at my local Dollar Store. I have the food tiers on the table and test how they sit in line with the decorations, but nothing else higher so that my guests can have great conversation.

You can see that I like to use the black metal tiers but you can use whatever presentation you like and what fits your guests. I also make sure to have plenty of creamers and sugars available. For the lemon curd and the Devonshire cream, I am using Moonstone vintage china – an inheritance from my mom. Always a sweet memory.

Finishing up…..

The party was a success! The hostess and guests were pleased with their Valentine’ Tea Party. They were able to step back from the stress of life and enjoy each other’s company. Along with their empty plates and cups, the ooohs and aaahs intermixed with their constant conversation were the measurements of my success. They felt lavished and refreshed….and I was blessed! Cleanup was done, I finished the champagne and put my feet up!
- Stacked and ready for cleanup
- Cleanup done!
Feet up!

Tools and Recipes

Here again are the FREE tools for you to download. These are guidelines to help you have a successful tea party and can be used for really any function. I have used these for simple 4-6 people as well as upwards of over 20 guests, so they have been well tested.

Tea-Party-Planning-ToolkitDownload

Here are some of the recipes listed on the Valentine’s Tea Party menu. These have been published in my previous posts. There will be several additional recipes in future posts highlighting other items off this menu.

Lemon Curd https://teastheseason3.com/lemon-curd-its-all-about-the-curd/

Spinach Balls with Marinara Sauce https://teastheseason3.com/spinach-balls-an-easy-savory-treat/

Strawberry Cream Scones https://teastheseason3.com/strawberry-cream-scones/

These products were used in this post:

This post contains affiliate links and I may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. Look at the products and enjoy!
Read More

Beth 22 Comments
Enjoying Together, Memories, Uncategorized

Planning a Little Girls’ Cocoa Tea Party

February 5, 2020
The envelope arrives and their little hearts leap with excitement. Its a Tea Party – A Cocoa Tea Party! What a precious time for a little girl. Little girls getting together and enjoying each other’s company, the treats, and all the embellishments. Let’s talk about planning your little girl’s first cocoa tea party!

So how do you bring together all the pieces of a tea party for little girls and with little stress? Here’s some how-to’s and helpful hints to entertaining on a shoestring and yet sure to bring all the enjoyment to your little girls.

Checklist on how to put Cocoa Tea Party together:

To help the process, here is a checklist to put your little girl’s party together.
1. Determine the when, time, where and how many will you want at the party.
  - When is important to consider for days available. Holidays are fun but can be tough. Schedules are busy. Invite early to make sure your guests availability.
  - Time will determine food choices for your guests and how long. Adult teas generally are 2 hours long.
  - Where and how many help to determine location of your tea party
  - Are you going to invite parents or just the girls? Sometimes parents will be fine with a drop-off but if they are not familiar with you, they might want to stay around.
  - Remember that these are littles…so there attention span is limited. Activities indoors and outdoors will be helpful.
2. Once you have the pieces of #1 identified, there are some things you will want to consider –
  - Will you have games, crafts or activities?
  - Its a tea party – will the girls wear hats or dress up?
3. Menu preparation
  - Check on allergies for your guests and adjust as necessary.
  - Keep in mind the time of day you are having this and any seasonal preferences. If in the afternoon, your guests may have already eaten – so a light menu might be appropriate.
  - What equipment will you need – how will you set the table and present the food. It’s a tea party! Have fun with it!
4. Putting the invites together
  - Choose an invite that is friendly and inviting
  - Determine when the invites need to go out
  - Be sure to include RSVP
  - Include the parents to make sure those invites get home if delivered to school
  - Here’s some examples of printable invites
5. Setup and Cleanup
  - Make sure you have a plan around your setup. Give yourself enough time to take a deep breath before all the fun starts.
  - And include your daughter in the prepping! She will love being a part of the whole process.
For a great tool, CLICK DOWNLOAD for my free Checklist For Little Girls’ Tea Party

CHECKLIST-FOR-LITTLE-GIRLS-1Download

So here are some examples for you to consider – invites that can be colored in, simple hats made by your guests, Tea Party Bingo and coloring pages. I have included some Pinterest links for you to browse.
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/61854194857011850/
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/47780446034771463/
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/603763893780657438/
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/644929609122803552/
And Christmas games…..so many to choose from, but the infamous “Would You Rather Christmas Game” is here for you to have fun with. I know the girls did at this party.
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/404198135309752862/
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/781726447800245536/
So here is what it looks like put together!

We had the perfect opportunity this season to have a first cocoa tea. And it was delightful.

All the details were worked out and everything was planned. The excitement was more than a little girl could hold in – squeals were everywhere.

Once the details were outlined, the invitations were selected. A black and white invite was selected and the little hostess was in charge of coloring in the details and making the invitation personal to her guests.

The menu was developed and our little hostess was set to making sure items were getting prepared and ready for her guests.

Perfect Party Planner –
Checking off the menu to make sure everything is ready

About the cocoa cups!

To make this a special treat for the party, mom opted to purchase some little sweet tea cups. The beverage of choice was going to be cocoa but the little cups would be perfect. So off to the local vintage antique shop to select some cups. Its how some of us get started in our teacup journey and brings a lot of joy when you find these treasures. Little expense but pure luxury for the little girls. If you aren’t able to find a vintage or antique store, there are plenty of alternatives. Just look for demitasse cups or espresso cups. These are small little cups perfect for little hands. I have listed some below in the products section.

Little cups in a row ready for the guests

About the table setting!

Now for the table setting. This was a cocoa tea and had a seasonal Christmas theme to it. The tablecloth was purchased at a discount store and was vinyl – just perfect for little ladies and their table skills with hot cocoa. This was also going to be great for any crafts that were planned. You can find these tablecloths online – I have posted one in the product section. They are easy to clean and if you can’t find the size you want, just trim to fit. Now this was for Christmas, but the options are endless.
- Vinyl tablecloth
- Table set for Cocoa Tea Party guests
Each place setting had a plate, the special cup paired with a small spoon and topped with the menu for the day. Those little spoons are called Demitasse spoons or coffee spoons – sometimes hard to find but easy online. When mine aren’t being used for a cocoa tea, they are my tasting spoons when I am cooking. The link is included below in the product section.

The menu was developed with little palates in mind, along with the ease of preparation and in tune with a budget friendly approach.

About the food!

Here is the menu that was developed ~
- Emma’s Tea Sandwich
- Cheese and Salami Skewers
- Christmas Colored Veggies
- Mandarin Orange
- Present Petit Fours
- Glazed Spritz Cookies
- Hot Cocoa and Marshmallows
The food could all be prepared ahead of time – a great option for mom. Like these Present Petit Fours – done and waiting to be served.

Make ahead Christmas Present Petit Fours – ready for service

And here’s the recipe for the Petit Fours….so easy to adapt to any party and only limited by your imagination. Made from store-bought pound cake, these are easy to put together.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/100768110390976982/

And for the hot cocoa, a warm sweet treat for the girls. Prepared by mom, served in her teapot and accompanied by marshmallows. Here’s an easy recipe to follow. And remember to save yourself a cup to enjoy.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/107945722304467041/

The food was served on plastic food tiers. These are economically friendly and reusable. Some of the crudites are cut out using shapes to add whimsy to the snacks.
- Savories
- Sweets
About the fun!

Soon the guests were arriving and the party was in full swing. The girls enjoyed themselves dressing up in hats and gowns. Food was served in their full regalia. Oooohs and ahhs and giggles were all around. The hostess chose to play a fun word game with her guests – asking questions like “Would you rather sing Christmas Carols for a month or laugh like Santa?” And yes, there was a craft – something the girls could do and then take home for their own enjoyment. Small fabric bags, puff paint and all sorts of decorations was just the ticket.

The girls played dressup, dined on the delights, played a few games and completed their craft bags. Then to the outside for some outdoor play and run off some of that delightful energy.

The cocoa tea party was a success! All enjoyed the party and left full in their tummies and in their hearts as little girls do.

Here is my Little Girls’ Tea Party Planning List and Tools

These products were used for this Cocoa Tea:

This post contains affiliate links and we may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. Look through the products and enjoy!
Read More

Beth No Comments
Cups, Cozies and China, Enjoying Together, Memories, Recipes

A Christmas Tea – a holiday treat

December 5, 2019
Christmas is the perfect time for a holiday tea. Everyone is excited about the season. The carols are playing and celebrations are in the air. People are gathering and gifting, sharing memories and good times. A tea provides a perfect opportunity to rekindle special friendships and have a moment of repose from the hectic schedule that a holiday can have.

I enjoy gifting my teas to a group, not claiming any expertise, just enjoying the art of serving. These steps and information are a collection over time from personal experiences, likes and enjoyments.

Setting the Stage

Critical to a tea is the stage or venue. Sometimes it might be a theme or just the ambiance that you create. When I have a tea in my home, I want to create a sanctuary where people can enter and leave their cares at the door, even if just for a moment. So the setting is very important.

One of the first steps is to determine how many guests you are expecting. This helps not only for the setup but also for the menu. I generally set up one long table depending on how many attendees there will be, but its also possible to break the group up into smaller settings. You will want to consider the setting to help encourage conversation and fellowship. Once I know the number of guests, I can set the table. This also helps me determine how many teapots, curds and cream, and food towers I will need for the tea. I generally set one pot, curd, cream and tower for every 4-5 people. All of this is dependent on the area where I am having the tea.

This is the setting for one of my Christmas Teas. Always a delightful experience, this is set for 12 guests, so there are 3 towers where the savories and scones will go. Each place setting has a small plate, napkin, silverware, teacup and menu. There will also be 3 teapots and 3 sets of curd and cream to be shared by the group. The table also is also adorned with seasonal decorations, careful not to impede the tea and allowing for easy conversation. I will also have gentle instrumental music on in the background and for this occasion of course, Christmas music.

Christmas Table Setting

Conversation Area

My home is decorated for Christmas in any of the rooms that my guests will be. There is a nice conversation area where people can visit while waiting for all the guests to arrive. Frequently they will look at the decorations or the tea cups around the room. Guests will come dressed in their holiday best with gifts to share with one another. When its time to begin, the guests will be seated and I will explain how the tea will go forward.

Menu Development

The menu needs to reflect the season or time that you are having your tea. Menu development is fun and very satisfying for me. Once I know the number of guests and any food allergies, I hunt for just the right recipe that will delight my guests and reflect the Christmas flavors. I want this to be memorable for them, anticipating oohs and ahhs from the presentation. I know that means people are relaxing and enjoying themselves. I look for recipes that I can prepare with confidence, comfortably and that I can prepare in advance.

The sequence of presentation for the tea and the food towers is consistent with afternoon tea approaches. The savories are first consumed, then the scones, and finally the desserts. With each course, a particular tea has been paired with the food to enhance the taste.

For this particular Christmas Tea, I selected certain recipes with each item being an individual small serving. Generally for each course, there will be 4-5 items. The menu and recipe links are included.

Christmas Tea Menu
- For the savory course
  - Christmas Tree Cucumber Sandwiches
  - Spinach Roll http://nummykitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/spanakopita-rolls.html
  - Beef Wellington Crostini http://www.teatimemagazine.com/beef-wellington-canapes/
  - Goat Cheese with Cranberry in Endive
  - A Champagne Cranberry Cocktail is offered – Champagne or Proseco with cranberry juice, served in a champagne flute
  - English Breakfast Tea – a classic black tea
- For the scones course
  - Cranberry Orange Scone https://www.pinterest.com/pin/47780446028785785/
  - English Currant Scone https://teastheseason3.com/__trashed/
  - Lemon Curd https://teastheseason3.com/lemon-curd-its-all-about-the-curd/
  - Devonshire Cream
  - Lady Londonderry Tea – a classic black tea with subtle strawberry and lemon notes
- For the dessert course – I serve the dessert course on a separate plate, clearing the table prior to presentation
  - Peppermint Meltaway https://www.thatswhatchesaid.net/peppermint-bark/
  - Mincemeat Tart https://teastheseason3.com/pie-who-has-room-for-pie/
  - Eggnog Mousse http://www.laurenslatest.com/egg-nog-mousse-with-gingersnap-crumbles/
  - Gran Marnier Brownie Bite https://www.pinterest.com/pin/47780446024353786/
  - Chocolate Tea – a nice black tea with just a hint of chocolate
These recipes have been either developed or adapted by me, or used in their entirety by the author. Links have been provided.

Putting it altogether

Assembling everything so that you are able to serve calmly and smoothly can be a challenge. At times, I might have a friend or family member help me prepare and serve, but many times it might just be me. The venue, menu prep, and delivery are carefully combined to make for an enjoyable tea – not only for my guests but also for me.

Curtain between dining room and kitchen

My kitchen is separate from my dining room and allows for the tea preparation. Using a suspension rod, I actually hang a curtain between the kitchen and the dining room. This allows my guests to be separated from the noise of the kitchen and to have privacy during their conversations.

Teapots ready for service

I like to have everything planned ahead of time and setup as much as I can. I have the teapots lined up, the tea portioned in bags and the water to the desired temperature ready to be steeped and served along with the food tower.

Christmas Teapots

Dessert is the last course and I like to serve this on a separate plate. In preparation for the presentation, I will remove all the food towers, curds and cream. With much anticipation, the plates of Christmas goodies are placed at each guest for their enjoyment. Its so satisfying to see and hear their delight. The conversation continues and gifts are exchanged.

Closing the tea is done with a warm towel to refresh the guest and a gift bag of scones and a Christmas ornament. Well wishes extended for the season as my guests leave, relaxed and full of holiday warmth. For me, a Christmas Tea is as much for my guests as it is a blessing for me.

“Christmas is a season for kindling the fire for hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.” ―Washington Irving

Christmas Dessert Plate
Gran Marnier Brownie Bite, Pecan Tart, Peppermint Meltaway, Egg Nog Cake
Read More

Beth 2 Comments
Memories, Recipes, Uncategorized

Pie? Who Has Room for Pie?

November 27, 2019
When the meal is done, you always want to leave room for pie. Isn’t that the question that is always asked at the end of the Thanksgiving feast? Who has room for pie? I always have room for pie….its tradition. And admittedly, even if I am full, I always have room for pie. Or at least when the dishes are done and I can relax and enjoy a nice cup of tea with that slice. So what are your favorites? Blueberry would be my son’s. Some are the traditionalists….enjoying simple pumpkin. Mine was mincemeat but I always struggled…I wanted just a little slice of each…pumpkin and mincemeat please.

Then I found the perfect match. The Two Tone Holiday Pie, a layered pie with mincemeat on the bottom and the traditional pumpkin custard on the top. I have made this pie for year’s. In fact, I have the recipe that I originally used years ago, still on the 3 ring notebook paper and sporting some stains from my zealousness in the kitchen. I still use this exact recipe.

You start by making your favorite pastry shell or purchasing pie pastry, whatever is your preference. Use a 9″ pie plate. However, I like to use a deep pie plate to give me room for all the yumminess.

For the mincemeat mixture, the recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of prepared mincemeat. I prefer to use None Such Mincemeat Classic Original in the condensed form. It does come prepared in a jar but for me, the condensed has smaller pieces and a more traditional taste. Its a dry packed product that you rehydrate with water, cooking it slowly in a saucepan until the mixture comes together. It thickens as it cools. I like to make ahead and freeze it for future use. Where I live, it can be hard to come by, so I order up a few boxes and throw them in the freezer. If you have not had mincemeat before, its a mixture of spices and dried fruits. In earlier days, it also contained beef and beef suet. I prefer the mixed fruit version.

3 inch and 6 inch pie tins

I have also made small versions, whether pumpkin, mincemeat, or both. I serve them for a holiday afternoon tea.

For the pumpkin custard, you will make it just like a traditional pumpkin pie – you know the one on the label. You will add the spices, sugar, salt, eggs and pumpkin but will substitute some of the liquid with orange juice and evaporated milk.

To assemble the pie, you spread the mincemeat mixture on the bottom. Then pour the pumpkin custard on top. Place in a 400 degree oven and bake for 45 minutes or until a knife comes out clean. I like to put foil around my crust so as not to scorch the edge. Then I place a pastry leaf as a decoration for the holiday.

Looks like someone tried to get to this pie before it was time!
Print Pin

Two Tone Holiday Pie

A seasonal pie with a bottom layer of mincemeat topped with a traditional pumpkin custard

Course Dessert
Keyword mincemeat, pie, pumpkin, two-tone holiday

Servings 8

Ingredients
1½ cups prepared mincemeat I use None Such Classic Original Condensed
1 unbaked 9" pastry pie shell
1 15 oz can of pumpkin
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2 tsp grated orange peel
¼ cup orange juice
3/4 cup white sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves
2 eggs

Instructions
Prepare mincemeat according to package. Mixture will thicken as it cools.
Spread mincemeat evenly in bottom of pastry shell.
Prepare pumpkin pie filling in separate bowl. Mix pumpkin, spices, salt, sugar, eggs, orange juice, and evaporated milk until well blended.
Pour pumpkin mixture over mincemeat layer.
Bake in a 400 ° oven for about 45 minutes or until knife inserted comes out clean.
Read More

Beth 1 Comment
Cups, Cozies and China, Memories, Uncategorized

Little hands, little cups

November 3, 2019
Little Teacups for the grand-daughters

I had a little tea party
this afternoon at three.
‘Twas very small,
three guests in all,
Just I, myself and me.

Myself ate up the sandwiches,
While I drank up the tea.
‘Twas also I who ate the pie,
And passed the cake to me.

The Tea Party by Jessica Nelson North

My first tea set

In an earlier post I shared my memories of the first tea set that I had as a very young girl. I still have that set and now it looks so very small. I remember setting my table with each plate, cup and saucer, setting them just so. Little treats to enjoy, my tea parties had special imaginary friends and of course, Transistor Bear.

When my daughter was young, she received her first tea set from me. And I still have that tea set in its original box. In full nostalgia, I pulled the set out and dusted off the memories of when she was that little and the delight of a young girl having tea. I will be handing this set off to her so she and her daughter can enjoy it and carry on the tradition.

My daughter and her friends
One of the joys I have is that my daughter, daughter-in-law and grand-daughters all enjoy the fun of a tea party. I have made it a tradition that for each grandchild, I will purchase their first teacup. In all honesty, these may not necessarily be true tea cups but they serve the purpose perfectly. Kind of like an early right of passage, these cups are chosen with each child in mind.

I have even included my grandsons on this journey. When they get old enough to comfortably hold the cup, we venture into tea parties – tea time with grandma. And when old enough, have that initial introduction to a tea room.
- For the boys!
With gentle instruction, I show them how to hold the cup, how to use the spoon, and just to enjoy the moment. Little sandwiches and crudites, always followed with a sweet treat. Clink, clink, clink goes the spoon while stirring. With little smiles on their face, they look at each other and are feeling very grown up and special. Slurp goes the first sip….grandma corrects and explains how to drink and savor. I smile and hope they are able to keep this special time in their little hearts.

Ahhh now the little girls ……small hands, small cups.
Read More

Beth 13 Comments
Cups, Cozies and China, Memories, Uncategorized

Fall Meanderings…..

October 24, 2019

I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” L. M. Montgomery,Anne of Green Gables

I sit in my house looking out the window. I can see the wind is blowing the trees and the leaves are turning beautiful colors. Its the signal for the sleepy time of the seasons. Its getting dark earlier and there is a chill in the air. We begin to bundle up and look forward to fires where we can warm ourselves and pontificate about things in the world while staring at the dancing flames. We talk of life and lessons, about losing our leaves only to go through a winter and come out to new growth in the spring. Then we laugh at ourselves and become quiet by the fire. Come sit with us as we play with the embers and reminisce.

One of my sisters gifted me with a delightful Georgia Peach Rooibos. You would think spring, but the color and the flavor are full and rich and remind me of rust colored leaves. Feeling blessed with such a gift, I brewed a small pot, picked out a beautiful cup, bundled up in a blanket and settled in to read. It is fall.

Read More

Beth 1 Comment
Memories, Uncategorized

I love the fall….

September 28, 2019

I love the fall. It is absolutely my favorite time of year. The crispness in the air, the smells of the season, windows open and seeing the leaves change. It signals the harvest, the time where the hard work of spring and summer would bring in the bounty. I was raised in the mid-west and though I have never lived on a farm, I saw many years of autumn harvests. The golden glow of the fields on the horizon ready to be harvested still generate feelings of gratefulness and blessings. I love the fall….can you smell the nutmeg from the pumpkin bread? Its fresh from the oven – let me serve you a slice.

Read More

Beth No Comments