Tea Time Etiquette
Tea is the beverage of choice for people around the world. Tea Time, however, belongs to 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.
Despite the disappearance of certain traditions, some proper English teatime etiquette remains. Today's hosts and hostesses do expect a certain level of decorum among their teatime guests. It is still a common practice for the teatime host or hostess to send written invitations to his or her guests. With the teatime details clearly stated, guests know what to expect and no one will feel awkward.
There are certain items required for proper English teatime etiquette. A teapot is first and foremost. Silver teapots are used for all formal affairs, while china teapots are chosen for more casual or intimate gatherings. Tables are properly set with teaspoons, cups, saucers and a sugar bowl. Sugar tongs, a tea strainer, a lemon dish and a fork are among the required utensils. Forks are provided when cakes are being served, and knives are placed on the table to use with jam or cream for the scones. Every proper teatime table has a separate spoon for each jar of jam and cream. Refreshments are placed only on the table where the teatime guests are seated.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.
Holding a proper English teatime is a fun way to entertain friends. Set out your teapot, cups and saucers, serve fancy cakes or scones, and invite your friends to join in the fun. You must remember though, this is teatime, so do mind your manners.
By Expert Author: Emanuel Elley
Article Source: http://www.articlesphere.com
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