The Art of Afternoon Tea: A Guide to Hosting a Cozy and Elegant Tea Party

January 1st | Mont Tremblant, Canada

This morning, as I sat by the window with my first cup of Earl Grey tea, the world outside was hushed with the delicate stillness of winter. The sky, a soft wash of gray-blue, seemed to stretch endlessly over the bare branches, their silhouettes drawn with the precision of an ink sketch. It reminded me of an Edith Wharton passage I once read—how the beauty of a moment is often found in its quietest details. This is how I feel about afternoon tea. It is not simply an occasion but an exquisite pause in time, an invitation to slow down and indulge in refined simplicity.

The Setting: Creating a Cozy & Elegant Atmosphere

A well-appointed tea table sets the stage for an afternoon of quiet luxury. Begin with a foundation of a crisp tablecloth, lending an air of sophistication. Your china should be a reflection of personal style—mixing antique teacups for character or presenting a matched set for understated elegance, one of my favorites is Vista Alegre's Paço Real.

Candles, softly flickering in their silver holders, and seasonal flowers planted on clay pots complete the tableau, while Ella Fitzgerald songs in the background fill the space with a lovely melody. As House & Garden  notes, "Music should guide us through memorable conversations, accompanied by warm, preferably candlelit, lighting (houseandgarden.co.uk).

The Tea: A Selection for Every Taste

A well-curated selection ensures that every guest finds their perfect cup. Offer a balance of flavors:

• A full-bodied black tea such as Earl Grey Supreme or Tower of London Blend by Harney & Sons, served with lemon or a splash of milk.
• A floral or herbal infusion like Morrocan Mint or Cherry Blossom, ideal for those who prefer a caffeine-free option.
• A fragrant green tea such as Dragon Pearl Jasmine or Japanese Sencha, steeped at a lower temperature to maintain its delicate flavor.

Quality is paramount. Always use loose-leaf teas where possible, steeped to perfection—black teas at 200°F for 3–5 minutes, and green teas at 175°F for no more than 3 minutes.

The Menu: A Symphony of Delicate Bites

An afternoon tea is as much about the delightful nibbles as the tea itself. Offer an assortment of:

• Finger sandwiches: Traditional cucumber with cream cheese, smoked salmon with crème fraîche, and egg salad with watercress. Lower tray and eaten first.
• Scones with clotted cream and preserves: The cornerstone of a true afternoon tea. Middle tray and eaten second.
• Petit fours and tea cakes: Light, elegant confections like madeleines, macarons, or lemon drizzle cake. The top tray as a little sweet treat at the end.

Presentation is everything. Arrange treats on a tiered stand, with savories on the lower tier and sweets on the top—a nod to traditional etiquette. As Veranda highlights, "A basket of freshly made scones served with clotted cream and jam is an essential element of a proper afternoon tea." (veranda.com)

The Ritual: Pouring with Grace

The ritual of tea pouring is a moment of refinement. Hold the teapot steady, allowing the tea to flow smoothly into the cup. Milk, if added, follows the tea, in keeping with custom. Stir gently—never clinking the spoon against the porcelain. And always rest the spoon on the saucer when finished.

The Finishing Touches: Elevating the Experience

A handwritten menu, a small posy at each place setting, and a few goodies wrapped to go for each guest, including a handwritten scone recipe, add a thoughtful flourish. These details create a sense of occasion, ensuring that each guest feels honored and indulged. As Veranda notes, "A beautifully set tea table transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, inviting guests to linger in the art of refined living." (veranda.com)

Three Things I’m Grateful for Today:

1. Scones! Aren't they just so delicious?!

2. The joy of gathering dear friends for conversation.

3. The way candlelight dances on fine china as the afternoon fades into evening.

Daily Reminders:

• Polish the silver serving tray.

• Set aside time for a handwritten note; elegance is found in thoughtful gestures.

• Next time I need to have a hard conversation with someone, do it over tea. It brings harmony to the occasion.

This morning’s stillness reminded me of why we set the table, pour the tea, and invite loved ones to linger a little longer. May our afternoons be steeped in warmth, our table a place to gather friends, and our hearts ever open to the gentle moments in life.

Photo Courtesy of Harney & Sons. Shop the collection at The Mayfair Hall here.