Course Syllabus

The simple words "tea party" can conjure a variety of different mental images: Alice in Wonderland, Teddy Bear Tea, a bunch of older women in floral dresses wearing gloves…each person probably has a different idea of what a tea party is, which is one of the great benefits of hosting a tea party: you can adapt it to suit any type of crowd, any budget, and any tastes.

Tea parties generally happen in between meals. The most common time frame is between 3-5 pm, but there's no reason you couldn't have a brunch tea or a dinner tea. In fact, the tradition known as "high tea" is actually just a simple dinner that was once common of miners and factory workers when they came home at the end of the day.

The menu at your tea party can include simple scones and sweets, or you can get creative with finger sandwiches and quiches, or even serve a full, simple meal--depending on the occasion, time of day, and how hungry your guests are likely to be.

This course will provide an introduction to the vast array of teas, the history of tea and tea parties, and the surprising social and political impact of this simple beverage. It will also provide tips for planning your own tea party, including food suggestions, tea-pairing ideas, and tips for tailoring your event to the intended audience and budget.