Tea Etiquette Tidbits

Do you know which way to point the spout of the teapot once it’s placed on the table? Do you know what kind of napkins to offer your guests? Do you know how to properly sip tea? Here are some useful tips you can use at your next traditional or buffet tea.

The Teapot: When the teapot is placed on the table the spout should point towards the hostess.

Serving: An experienced hostess will serve the foods in order, scones, sandwiches, and then dessert.

The Teaspoon: After you have stirred your tea, rest the teaspoon in your saucer. It is not proper to place it on the table or serving tray.

Sipping: How many of us recall images of a someone lifting their little finger as they sip tea. Well in all actuality it isn’t proper etiquette neither is leaving a lipstick print on the cup.

The Napkin: If you are hosting a tea party etiquette states you should offer cloth napkins, not paper. The napkin should be completely unfolded and placed on your lap and keep it laid flat.

How To: Here is one place where its okay to eat with your fingers, but foods must first be placed on your plate before you start to indulge yourself. When eating scones break off small pieces and eat a small bite at a time. Do not use a fork to eat the scone. Savor the tea sandwiches one small bite at a time instead of shoving the entire thing in your mouth! Desserts should be presented on the tray in individual servings.

Once you have finished, leave your plate in front of you and fold your napkin and place it to the side of the plate, but not on the plate.

When adding sugar cubes take care not to dip the sugar tong or sugar spoon into the tea.

The proper way to drink tea when seated at a table is to leave the saucer on the table and only raise the cup. However if you are not seated at a table you should lift both the saucer and the cup to your chest then lift the teacup off the saucer and sip. When you are not drinking, the cup should rest in the saucer on your lap.