Tea Time Etiquette

Even though people around the world love their tea, the practice of "teatime" belongs to the people of Britain.

We all love to break for tea when we need to steal a quiet moment to ourselves. But real teatime is meant to be shared with friends. Teatime is a social gathering with roots in old England. The British are indeed viewed as the world's tea drinkers, and many residents of England are also accomplished growers and blenders of fine teas.

Teatime in England is something that not everyone has the good fortune to experience, so remember to mind your manners should you ever be invited. If you are ever fortunate enough to participate in this noble British tradition, be sure to follow proper 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 though some traditions have gone by the wayside, other points of teatime etiquette remain. Modern hosts and hostesses of proper British teatime will expect certain behaviors from their guests. For example, teatime guests are sent written invitations which outline all of the detailed information. From these invitations, guests will know what to expect at the gathering and will not feel awkward in any way.

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.

No proper British teatime hostess or host spends her or his time fussing in the kitchen. The preparations are made beforehand, allowing the host or hostess to entertain the guests in proper fashion.

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.

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

Columnist Emanuel Elley is a regular writer for a number of today's best web sites, on activity family and fun at home themes.
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