High Tea is a special occasion today, usually reserved for Mother’s Day or birthdays. However, this was not always the case.

High tea originally started in England in the 1840s. Originally reserved for the upper class, high tea was regarded as an important outing, an occasion, until the 1900s when every class was allowed to observe it. It meant that ladies dressed in their best dresses, gloves, and fascinators while gentlemen dressed in their best suits. Today, in the 21st century, high tea is observed differently. While it is still a special occasion, the dress attire is not as fancy. It is more relaxed. It is also quite common to have high tea in a hotel or restaurant. However, it can be just as fun to host your own high tea at home.

A big part of the high tea experience is setting the table traditionally. Start with your base: add a beautiful tablecloth (floral), layer tea plates and side plates for sweet and savoury food. Add fabric napkins, a vase of beautiful flowers in the centre, and serving plates and platters for all the delicious food.

It is traditional to use Fine Bone China teaware or New Bone China teaware. At Stevens, we have a range of Fine Bone China teaware from Momento Como to Cristina Re. Add teacups and saucers to the table. Add a big teapot depending on how many guests you are hosting. It is always better to have more tea than less. A teapot is also the statement piece on any high tea table. Fill with your choice of tea from a classic English breakfast to Earl Grey or fruity teas such as chamomile or peppermint.

Next, it’s time to add the food. Traditionally, a high tea used to include scones and tea. Now, chefs and home bakers create beautiful canapes and finger food to impress their guests. High tea food can be fancy or simple depending on your style and budget. Here is our list of food recommendations:

• A cake
• A cheeseboard featuring 2-3 types of cheese, fruit, crackers, and dips
• Little canapes such as mince pies, sliders, or club sandwiches
• Sweet canapes such as macarons, slices, scones, or madeleines

Sometimes a thoughtful gift is not just a physical gift, it is an experience. This Mother’s Day create your own high tea for Mum. We know she will love it and appreciate it.