Host an Afternoon Tea Party, Articles, living

Host an Afternoon Tea Party

by Martha Li
published June 25, 2009

rating: (46 Ratings)

Whether you’re planning a bridal shower or a unique activity for your next get-together, afternoon tea is a great way to spend time with your gal pals. We spoke to UK Chef Sophie Michell who gave us tips on how to host our very own at-home afternoon tea party. Read on for great ideas including some original recipes from Michell.

Afternoon tea essentials

Based in London, England, Chef Sophie Michell certainly knows a thing or two about afternoon tea. And contrary to what some may believe of this popular English custom, afternoon tea need not be a high-brow affair. For Michell, the experience evokes feelings of nostalgia and casually spending time with loved ones. “To this day, even when I visit my grandparents’ house in Cheshire, we’ll always have biscuits and tea in the afternoon. It’s a very comforting thing to do.”

Michell admits, however, that doing afternoon tea the “old school way definitely makes it a fun and pretty event!”

Here are some suggested accessories to help make your afternoon tea a smashing success:

▪ A cake stand for placing a large-size cake such as a lemon drizzle cake or coffee cake

▪ A two- or three-lever tier stand, for placing cookies, mini pastries and sandwiches

▪ Cloth napkins

▪ Forks and spoons

▪ Serving utensils

▪ And, of course, a teapot as well as tea cups and saucers!

What to serve

In British tradition, afternoon tea is usually a light meal that is eaten between 3pm and 5pm. “It’s meant to be a bridge between lunch and supper,” says Michell. Typically loose tea is served in a teapot with milk and sugar accompanied by finger foods.

Here are three great recipes created by Michell that are perfect for an afternoon tea with your gal pals. Says Michell enthusiastically, “They’re all treats you would imagine enjoying at an afternoon tea—but with a healthy twist!”

▪ Berries Layered with Tetley Infusions White Tea with Blueberry Mousse

▪ Tetley Infusions Classic Tea with Mediterranean Lemon Tea Sandwiches

▪ Tetley Infusions Green Tea with Pomegranate Crème Brûlée

Go to divine.ca’s Recipe Finder for more recipes for your afternoon tea!

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KellyM
July 15, 2012 at 3:09 pm

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I Love to host little party's and get togethers at least once a year I will host a little tea party with my granddaughters I make us little finger sandwiches and special little cookies they love it so do I. We have made many memories together and have a special bond.Most of my parties are with finger foods or potlucks . I love to cook and create new recipes