Calling all Tea and Jewelry Aficionadas...

Spring is finally in the air, and you know what that means: flowers, flowers, everywhere!

Get out your dresses and skirts and join me for the 6th annual Afternoon Tea in the Garden... hats optional.

We will feature a selection of fine teas as well as an assortment of tea sandwiches, canapés, scones, sweets, and tea cakes. A tour of the garden will also be conducted.

The Tradition of Afternoon Tea
Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, is often credited with inventing the pastime of afternoon tea in the early 1840's. Traditionally, dinner was not served until 8:30 or 9:00 in the evening and the Duchess often became hungry by 4:00. She ordered a small meal of bread, butter, and sweets such as cakes, tarts, and biscuits, to be brought secretly to her boudoir, along with tea. When she was exposed, she was not ridiculed as she had feared, but her habit caught on and the concept of niceties and tea became popular and eventually known as "afternoon tea.” This pause for tea became a fashionable social event governed by etiquette.

During the 1880's, upper-class and society women would change into long gowns, gloves and hats for their afternoon tea which was usually served in the drawing room or garden. Afternoon or “Low Tea” is typically served between 3:00 and 5:00 and is often accompanied by dainty tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, cakes and pastries.

Unlike afternoon tea, “High Tea” was conceived in the late nineteenth century as the workingman's supper. Also known as the “Meat Tea,” High Tea is served early in the evening to substitute dinner and consists of hearty foods such as meat and cheese dishes, breads, cookies and meat pies.

The proposed date is Sunday, May 17 (the weekend after Mother's Day and before Memorial Day weekend). Please let me know if you can attend on this date. If not, Sunday, April 26 is another possibility. Email me at contact@3PennyPrincess.com or leave a comment with your availability. A formal evite will follow.

And, for all you jewelry lovers... Diana P. from the shopping & brunch will feature her latest jewelry designs (see necklaces on Dinagideon, HeidiG, Lexieloo, Diana P, and 3-Penny Princess in the last 3 Brunch photos). She has kindly offered an Aficionada discount on all pieces!

Here are some of her exquisite creations:

I look forward to sipping tea in the garden with you!