Tea Time Etiquette

By: Emanuel Elley

People all over the world love their tea, but no one enjoys proper teatime more than the British.

Teatime is more than a refreshing break; it's actually a social gathering. Friends and associates gather at teatime to relax for a tasty cuppa and some good company. Stereotypically, residents of England are viewed predominantly as tea drinkers. Many Britons are also expert tea growers and blenders.

If you are ever fortunate enough to attend teatime in England, it's important to mind your manners. There is a certain set of rules to be followed, known as teatime etiquette.

Over the years, the rites and traditions of teatime have relaxed. Certainly, British teatime etiquette is not the regimented ceremony that it once was. For example, gentlemen would be expected to pour their hot tea into the saucer, not sipping until the tea had cooled. This archaic tradition has all but disappeared, and anyone drinking tea in this manner would cause raised eyebrows in today's modern tearooms. In fact, it would likely be considered rude and boorish behavior. Historically, teatime etiquette would require the lady of the house to keep her tea locked safely away, producing it only at teatime. Of course, the modern English woman keeps her tea in a countertop canister, just like everyone else.

Even in our modern society, there is certain etiquette to be followed when a British host or hostess invites you to teatime. For a proper teatime gathering, the hosts will forward written invitations to all of the guests. These invitations are designed to provide all of the detailed information that the guests will need, including what to expect. By sending invitations, the guests can be fully prepared for the gathering and will not feel out of place.

Proper English teatime etiquette requires certain essential items. First and foremost, there must be a teapot. China teapots are chosen for intimate gatherings, while silver teapots are the vessels of choice for more formal affairs. The table will be properly set with cups and saucers, teaspoons and a sugar bowl. Utensils including sugar tongs, tea strainer and a lemon dish and fork are set out. If cake is being served, forks will be provided. Knives are placed on the table for enjoying jam or cream with scones. The proper teatime table will have a separate spoon for each jar of jam and cream. Refreshments are placed on the table where guests are seated, and nowhere else.

When serving tea, it's important that the hostess spend teatime with her guests, rather than fussing in the kitchen. Teatime etiquette requires the host or hostess to entertain and visit with the guests.

Anyone can enjoy proper British teatime. Invite some friends over, set the table with your prettiest teapot and utensils, and splurge on English scones and cream. Teatime is a wonderful way to enjoy the company of friends while sipping a favorite blend, any time at all.

Article Source: http://www.bettergolfarticles.com

Emanuel Elley writes for a variety of well-known web sites, on family fun and happy family subjects.
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