Let’s discuss tea etiquette. In order for you to plan a tea for the purpose of teaching proper behavior you must be aware of the basic manners for hosting a tea. Once you know the proper etiquette and have the right supplies you will be ready to plan a tea for your homeschool co-op event. Homeschool co-op teas are quite successful if the hostess is in the know with regards to how to plan a tea. I highly suggest planning a homeschool tea as a method to introduce manners in a group setting. This will reinforce the importance of personal presentation and well behaved attitudes between the girls attending.
Basic Tea Party Etiquette:
Guests are not to eat until all guests have been seated and served.
Hostess is seated last. When she is seated she will remove her napkin from the table, unfold it, and place it in her lap. At that point the guests do the same.
If you leave the table before the end of the tea party please place your napkin in your seat.
Remove gloves before eating.
The proper order to eat tea party food is scones/muffins then finger sandwiches, and finally sweets.
Eat taking small bites.
You may eat with your fingers but if something is messy please use a fork.
Place jam or Devonshire cream on your plate and then add a small amount to your scone.
Drink your tea silently. No gulping or slurping.
Use your own spoon to stir in sugar or milk. Do not allow the spoon to clank against the sides of the teacup.
Do not blow on your tea. Please wait patiently for the tea to cool.
Pick your tea cup up from the saucer to drink and then place back on the saucer in between sips.
Be kind and say “please”, “thank you” and “excuse me” when necessary.
Please allow for all to join in the conversation.
Following these simple etiquette rules will instill respect for others and yourself. Proper etiquette is a gift you give your children. Etiquette does not have to be confining or stuffy. A tea party will make being a lady fun.
Pictured above is The Tea Party Adventure Kit. The Tea Party Adventure Kit can be purchased for the unbelievable price of $24.99. This kit has everything you need to get off to a great start planning a tea for fun or an event.
Included in the kit:
1 Tea Party Hat
1 Pink Gerber Daisy
1 Pink Rose and 1 Lavender Rose
3 Mixed Flower Sprays with Greenery
1 Sheet Glue Dots
1 Pair Gloves
1 Pearl Necklace, and Earrings Set
1 Pink Boa
1 China Teacup and Saucer
1 Gold Demitasse Spoon
1 Raspberry & White Decaf Teabag
Having the pleasure of reviewing tea party products to guide you to the right places, I can highly recommend The Tea Party Adventure Kit by Tea Party Adventures. All the products in the kit have uncompromising quality. The tea is delicious also! This kit also makes planning a tea simple while maintaining the proper decorum and quality. The hat included will fit girls to adults and is decorated by the wearer with the flowers which come in the kit. This makes a lovely and non messy craft.
When planning your Homeschool Tea please visit Tea Party Adventures for fun themes, the Party Adventure Kit and items to purchase separately. A 10% discount is offered on the purchase of 6 or more kits. I suggest planning ahead and having moms register and pay in advance so all can take advantage of the discount and the great products.
Related Articles:
Tea Parties to Reinforce Etiquette: Part 1