The simple words "tea party" can conjure a variety of different mental images: Alice in Wonderland, Teddy Bear Tea, a bunch of older women in floral dresses wearing gloves…each person probably has a different idea of what a tea party is, which is one of the great benefits of hosting a tea party: you can adapt it to suit any type of crowd, any budget, and any tastes. Students regularly come to my class with cups of tea, and they love sharing what types they are drinking and asking others if they like tea or coffee.  Having had tea parties and ceremonies around the world I regularly find myself drawn to British Tea (especially Earl Grey).  

I am a big proponent of cultural competency, so we will spend time discussing important etiquette and even pronunciation.  We will watch one of my favorite people demonstrate from London how to serve, properly hold your tea cup, open your scone and depending on your location use cream and jam, or jam and cream.

This course will provide an introduction to the vast array of teas, the history of tea and tea parties, and the surprising social and political impact of this simple beverage.   In this beginner class, we will brew loose tea and drink in the traditional English fashion, put together beautiful finger sandwiches, make scones, and discuss clotted cream, jam and lemon curd (students are welcome to purchase for full impact).  This class is a prerequisite to our advanced sections including-Vintage Tea Party and Hosting an event.