There is something classic and quite beautiful about a tea gathering. A tea party etiquette is an opportunity to embrace style, relax, and enjoy great company, whether it’s a themed event, a formal high tea, or an afternoon get-together with friends. A tea party etiquette has its own set of norms, just like any other social gathering, and if you follow them, you’ll stand out for all the right reasons. Knowing and adhering to these tea party etiquette rules ensures that you are a courteous guest and leaves a lasting impression.
Here are the top five tea party etiquette tips that will make you outstanding:
1. Being punctual
Being on time is essential when it comes to tea party etiquette. Informal events where it’s OK to come stylishly late are not the same as tea parties. By definition, tea is a time-sensitive experience. Being late could disrupt the gathering’s flow, put undue strain on the host—who may have planned the occasion with great care—and keep you from sipping the freshly brewed tea.
2. Properly Holding the Teacup
Hold the teacup by pinching your thumb and index finger through the handle while letting your middle finger support the base of the handle from below. Never hook your finger through the handle, and avoid raising your pinky finger.
3. Conscientious Speech and Tone
A tea party involves more than just drinking tea; it also involves having a nice, casual discussion. Intimate, cordial interactions are typically encouraged by the event’s character. Thus, it is essential to understand how to hold courteous and interesting talks.
4. Serving and Pouring Tea Correctly
If you are pouring tea, only fill the cup about two-thirds full to avoid spills. Always pour for others before yourself, starting with the person closest to you. If you’re the host, be sure to ask how each guest prefers their tea—strong or weak, with or without sugar, milk, or lemon—and accommodate their tastes. If you’re a guest, don’t serve yourself unless invited to do so.
5. Polite Use of Tableware
Here are a few key tips for handling tableware during a tea party:
- When spreading jam or clotted cream on your scones, use the designated spreader or butter knife. Place the spread on your plate first before spreading it onto the scone.
- Break off small bite-sized pieces of scones, rather than eating them whole, to avoid messes.
- Lay your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down and dab your mouth gently with it as needed.
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Conclusion
With its air of sophistication and tradition, tea party etiquette is an opportunity to demonstrate your manners and social graces. Following these five tea party etiquette rules will make you a distinguished and courteous guest: arrive on time, hold your teacup correctly, engage in pleasant conversation, serve and pour tea with care, and use your dinnerware appropriately.