The art of the tea party

BY Jasmine Williamson  |  Owner, Tea Rose Nashville

photography by misty westebbe photography

In this fast-paced, technology-engrossed society that often feels fragmented, the timeless art of having tea, serves as a beacon of true connection, serving as a reminder of reflective joy and fulfillment found in sharing moments of togetherness.  As Nashville natives and owners of Tea Rose, we are intentional about the blending of quality time, luxurious tea experiences and southern hospitality.

Tea Rose was founded from our intimate mother-daughter tea parties and truly blossomed after I hosted Jaila’s princess-themed 7th birthday tea party. I’ve always planned every detail of her celebrations, but it was something truly magical about the tea party. The girls were stunning as each dressed as a different princess and enjoyed every element as did their moms with a special queen’s court setup. We still reminisce about that unforgettable experience. Now, our goal is to bring the magic of tea to clients and create moments that will be treasured for a lifetime.

At the heart of our business is family and communication because we know the strength that comes from intergenerational exchange and heartfelt dialogue over a soul-warming cup of tea. Our unplugged tea experiences allow us to engage in meaningful conversations and practice teatime etiquette while creating new memories.  The regality of a tea party is to be fully present, and we get to disconnect from the daily chaos and find solace in each other’s presence.

Outside of our personal time, we love creating transformative tea experiences from princess parties to Bridgerton bridal bliss. The glowing initial impression of the tablescapes and intricate details ignites us to keep growing our collections and perfecting our craft. With each experience we get the pleasure of watching the instant transformation to poised ladies and gentlemen after they understand their plate seating, learn how to stir tea properly, and signal they have concluded their courses while conversing with their table mates.              

It has been amazing watching our favorite pastime grow into a business that connects families and friends across Middle Tennessee. Tea Rose is eager to begin your transformational tea experience and cultivate your visionary tea party for all occasions. In the meantime, we hope you embrace those quaint moments to deepen your relationships and curate a special opportunity of connection.

Transform your teatime into a personalized experience with these five tips. Start by selecting a fun theme or your preferred color palette to create a delightful atmosphere. Elevate the charm by using your beautiful china collection, adding a touch of elegance to your setting. Pamper your taste buds with sips from Tea Rose’s premium loose-leaf tea collection. Indulge in the sweetness of your favorite treats and pastries from Triple Crown Bakery, enhancing the overall delight of your teatime. For a touch of engaging conversation, don’t forget to download Tea Rose’s Cheerful Teatime Conversation Starters, available at tearosenashville.com. Cheers to a uniquely personalized and enjoyable teatime!

Cheers to fostering connections!

Tea Time Tips

Courtsey of Tea & Etiquette: Taking Tea for Business and Pleasure

The traditional time for afternoon tea is four o’clock. Along with a choice of teas, there are three distinct courses: savory (tiny sandwiches) first to blunt the appetite, then scones, and finally, pastries.

Invitations may be extended and accepted by telephone, face-to-face, or by mailing them at least a week in advance.

If it is not a large formal tea, a silver tray and tea service are not necessary. A china tea set, consisting of a teapot, a creamer for milk, a sugar bowl, an optional pitcher of hot water (for those who prefer weak tea), and a plate for lemon slices arranged on a wooden or glass tray are fine.

At a large tea party, circulate around the room, talking to your guests and seeing that everyone has met and is comfortably enjoying the party.

It was proper in the late seventeenth century for a lady to signal she had sipped enough tea by laying her spoon across the top of her cup, tapping the cup lightly with the spoon, or turning the cup upside down.

Tea pouring involves the most stylized and personal element of the afternoon tea ceremony simply because of the intimate interaction between pourer and guest.

Sugar cubes are preferable, not only for the ritual of using elegant sugar tongs but for their neatness.

For more information and to schedule your tea experience, visit tearosenashville.com . Also, make sure to check out Triple Crown Bakery, located in downtown Franklin, for in house tea service and treats.