Erika Said:

Is a tea party theme a nice idea for a bridal shower?

We Answered:

My mom hosted a traditional high tea for my older sister bridal shower. She did a selection of sandwiches, salads and little finger foods, crudites, etc. (no messy chicken wings though). She did it very traditionally with the foods and stuff, and she served many different mini-cakes, a full cake and intricately decorated petit fours, all kind of buffet style because of the amount of people.

For party favors she bought 50 antique tea cups and saucers from different flea markets in the area and each person got to take the tea cup they used at the party home. (She had a basket filled with gift bags and coordinating tissue so people could wrap up their cups after they used them for safe transport home). Everyone LOVED them!

Good Luck!

Vincent Said:

Why should the Tea Party people trust the Republicans and their new Contract with America?

We Answered:

They shouldn't trust ANY of the 2 main Parties.

Both the Republicans AND the Democrats have been infiltrated by "agents" of the Banks.

This is the truth.

Erica Said:

What kind of things should I consider when organising my first tea party?

We Answered:

What fun! I haven't been to one of those in years. Low tea is always served at 4pm promptly. Although you are having it indoors, choose a sunny room so that you'll have natural light. If the weather permits, a sun porch or outdoor setting would be wonderful.

If you don't own one, borrow a lace or brocade tablecloth from a friend or family member to dress the table. As a nod to the Spring equinox, it would be lovely to purchase some spring flowers or tea roses and fern to create a centerpiece. Delicate linen or lacy napkins and silverware should be set.

Teapot, cups and saucers should match (e.g. all should be silver, or all should be porcelain). Ceramic will do in a pinch. Delicate hand-painted tea services are my favorite (who wants to polish silver? I don't have a maid!!!) Usually, Earl Grey tea is served, although you may want to give you guests 2-3 varieties.

If you can find a 3-tiered service, that will add to the atmostphere. Scones are a must (if possible serve with jam and clotted cream). Scones should placed on the top tier of your service. When eaten, they are broken in half, spread with cream/jam & eaten open-faced, (not pressed together like a sandwich). Cucumber sandwiches (on soft white bread with the crusts removed and cut into 1/4 sections diagonally) are also quite popular. Other finger foods or warm foods should also be placed on the second tier. The third tier is traditionally reserved for cakes, petit fours and other sweets. There should also be a plate of lemon wedges as well as milk on hand for those who prefer it. Cubed sugar is preferable to granulated, and easier to serve.

Obviously as hostess, it is your responsibility to serve your guests. If you have a good friend who is helping to organize the tea, you may need her assistance (I don't know how many guests you have invited). Have a wonderful time with your party... it's great to see people keeping these traditions alive!

I found a few good websites for you and placed the links below. I certainly hope this helps.

Love & Blessings!