During my childhood, my mom always made tea for us when we returned home from school. It wasn’t the elaborate tea experiences you find in tea houses, but I developed a fondness for enjoying tea with some cookies ;). A few years ago, while stationed in Germany, I discovered and fell in love with Villeroy and Boch’s Petite Fleur tea set. Surprisingly, I still use this set today. I’m not the only one in my family who appreciates tea parties; my grandbabies do too. However, when I looked for similar tea parties in my area, I found them to be quite expensive. Exploring local options, I discovered that places like The Peabody charge $30 for Duckie Tea for children 12 and under, $45 for Chez Philippe Tea with three courses and a choice of tea, and $55 for The Peabody Tea, which includes three courses, a choice of tea, and a glass of champagne. Realizing the cost, I decided to try hosting my own tea parties. Below, you’ll find some recipes I’ve come across on the internet, making modifications to suit my taste.
I’ve always been confused about whether it’s High Tea or Afternoon Tea. Thankfully, the Tea Time website clarified it for me. They also provide delicious recipes. High Tea includes a more substantial spread, incorporating meat, fish, egg dishes, as well as breads and desserts, usually served in the early evening—a sort of light supper accompanied by tea. On the other hand, Afternoon Tea is typically enjoyed at a low table, like a coffee table in the sitting room before a warm fire. High tea earned its name from being served at a high table, such as a dining table or high counter, towards the end of the workday. Whether opting for a more luxurious tea or planning a heartier meal, both options offer delightful ways to savor teatime and entertain guests.
