The Business of Etiquette
Hello Syndi Seid, an Etiquette coach based in San Francisco, afternoon tea is no longer a practice enjoyed only by ladies and gentlemen in other countries. It is fast becoming a popular alternative to conventional business breakfast or lunch. Now only is it less costly, but it is a fun way to entertain someone at a time of day that is often less hectic, so here are a few simple guidelines to follow.
An afternoon tea takes place between two and five pm. The most popular forms of service are a full tea as a four-course service of finger sandwiches, savories, cones and dessert plus your choice of tea. A royal tea is the same four courses and includes a glass of champagne or cherry. A high tea on the other hand is a real meal that is generally served late in the day, family style around the kitchen table. So even if you see an advertisement for high tea, what they’re really meaning to say is afternoon tea.
When pouring the tea, pour the tea in you cup before adding anything else. This way you can better judge the strength of the tea. So unless you are using old bone China, it is no longer necessary to pour the milk or add the lemon sugar before pouring the tea. Use a tea strainer by holding the strainer in one hand or placing it on the rim and then pour in the tea with the other hand. Fill the teacup three quarters full, never to the brim. This allows room for milk and sugar and it prevents spills. Add milk or sugar, or lemon to taste as desired. Also, never use lemon and milk together as it will curdle the milk.
When stirring your tea, use a quiet and gentle back and forth motion. Never scrape the sides or bottom of the teacup in loud circular motions. When finished stirring, simply place your teaspoon in the saucer on the backside. Do not leave your teaspoon in the teacup or put your soiled spoon back on the table. Never swirl the teacup like a glass of wine. If you spill tea onto the saucer, ask for a new saucer. In less formal settings, place a paper napkin in the saucer to soak up the spilled tea.
Now it’s time to drink your tea. It is considered impolite to stick your pinky finger in the air, or to cradle the teacup with one or both hands. If you are seated, lift the teacup by the handle. If you are stranding, keep your teacup and saucer together in your hand. Never pour spilled tea back into your teacup, and never drink tea from the saucer.
So there you have it. A few basic tips to help ease your comfort level at an afternoon tea. I’m Syndi Seid, happy practicing!
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