Party invitations and holiday dinners are certainly no rarity this time of year, but if you’re looking for a unique yet timeless way to celebrate the season, consider a tea party. Karl von Ramm, general manager of Charleston’s Loutrel Hotel, invited us to his table to share a cup and some insider tips for hosting friends for a traditional tea. Watch the video below, and read on for a cheat sheet.
Set the Table
Whether you set out greenery or flowers, chargers or china, or all of the above, all eyes will be on the table. Choosing a color scheme is a good place to start. Perhaps a classic green and red? Or go all out on gilt. Whatever the palette, von Ramm says small decor and details—napkin rings, serving dishes, antique trinkets, and festive place cards—make it all come together.
Embrace Ambience
Play to your guests’ five senses in setting the mood. Arrange for comfortable lighting and some background music. Light a holiday candle or start a simmer pot to greet your guests with a warm scent. Or do as von Ramm does and have your scones baking in the oven as everyone arrives.
Service the Tea
Now for the main event. The flavors are up to the host, but for the winter season, notes of spice, cranberry, cinnamon, and orange are popular. Knowing what tea you are serving, how long to steep it, and the correct water temperature are all crucial to the process. Make sure to read the directions on the packaging and experiment with a cup prior to the party.
Sequence the Food
The key to a traditional tea is appropriately coursing the meal. Start by serving the scones—and don’t skip out on the clotted cream. Then it’s on to savories and sandwiches, ending with sweet delicacies. And seriously, don’t skimp on the clotted cream.
Make it Easy
Hosting isn’t always a piece of cake, so don’t make it any harder on yourself. Every item on your table doesn’t have to come straight from your oven. There’s nothing wrong with sourcing pastries or small bites from a local eatery—in fact, they can be conversation starters.
