🫖Indulge in the Timeless Elegance of High Tea
“High Tea”~ the mere mention evokes an aura of refinement, elegance, and a delightful escape into a world of sophistication. It’s an experience that invites you to slow down, savor, and luxuriate in the finer things in life. From the delicate clink of fine china to the inviting aromas of steeping tea, high tea is not just a meal, it’s an art. Today we’re exploring this cherished tradition of elegance and its origins.
While many associate high tea with lavish high societal gatherings, its origins are surprisingly practical. Emerging in the 19th century, high tea was first a substantial meal for the working class, served at a high dining table, hence the name. After long hours of labor, families would gather to enjoy hearty fare (roasts, breads, and, of course, tea).
According to the British Museum, the “afternoon tea” has been credited to Anna Maria Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, during the 1800s. At the time, “rapid urbanization and the rise of industrialization, alongside the advent of gas lighting in England, were pushing evening meals later and later. While rural communities still followed the natural rhythm of the day, with meals timed to the sun, the wealthy were now dining closer to 9 p.m., with lunch happening many hours earlier, around midday. The Duchess, one of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, found this schedule difficult to endure. Around 5 p.m., she began to experience what she called a ‘sinking feeling’ due to the long gap between lunch and dinner. To remedy this, she requested tea, bread and butter, and cake be brought to her room in the late afternoon. This simple indulgence soon became a cherished tradition, and with little encouragement, the upper classes embraced it. Before long, afternoon tea became a fashionable custom that spread across Britain”.
As society evolved, so did teatime; And it became a more refined and luxurious social occasion- the meals lightened to delicate “finger” sandwiches, scones, and miniature sweets paired with fine teas.
Experience High Tea Nearby:
The Christina Room at Hotel DuPont
Wilmington, DE
For those seeking to experience high tea in a most refined and inviting atmosphere, the surprisingly affordable Christina Room at the Hotel DuPont
is a must-try for tea lovers. The Christina Room’s ornate décor and tranquil ambiance offers the perfect setting for an afternoon high tea to remember. Much like Dishfunctional, walking into the DuPont Hotel is like stepping into a world where timeless elegance and modern luxury meet.
Mimi’s Tea Cottage
West Chester, PA
For those seeking a traditional English Tea Room, visit Mimi’s, a quaint and rustic farmhouse style cafe offering a dainty sandwich, baked goods and tea menu that includes a children’s tea option for the little prince and princesses.
The Allure of Exquisite Teacups
What truly makes high tea a memorable experience is the teacup. An object that holds not just tea but a rich history of artistry and tradition. These delicate vessels, crafted from fine porcelain, become the centerpieces of the occasion, each sip a journey through time.
Teacups from prestigious manufacturers like Royal Worcester, Wedgwood, and Herend are sought after by collectors for their intricate designs and impeccable craftsmanship. With their delicate patterns, often featuring gold accents, floral motifs, and hand-painted details, these teacups aren’t just for sipping, they are cherished treasures passed down through generations.
Some teacups are so rare and beautiful that they fetch astounding prices. For example, some stunning vintage and antique masterpieces command prices upwards of $5,000 at auctions.
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An Affordable Feast for the Senses
You don’t need to visit a luxury hotel or visit a tea room to indulge in a carefully curated selection of warm, fragrant teas poured into the finest teacups, accompanied by a decadent array of tea sandwiches and sweets. And you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on high-end cups and saucers. With just a few carefully chosen touches, you can create an atmosphere of luxury and grace- turning an ordinary afternoon into something truly enchanting.
Dishfunctional offers all that you need to create a luxurious experience, where both elegance and comfort come together. Your artfully prepared tea sandwiches and irresistible sweets deserve to be shown off, just as you disserve to be pampered as you indulge. Delight in your choice of premium tea cups and saucers, tea pots, cream and sugar bowls, dessert dishes, display stands, serving trays, and linens that are unique, beautiful, and affordable.
High tea is not just an ordinary afternoon meal, it’s an experience that envelops you in pampering elements- rich history, soothing tea, scrumptious treats and fine china. Whether you choose to bask in the refined elegance of the Christina Room at the Hotel DuPont, relax at Mimi’s Tea Cottage, or create your own personal tea experience, we have many items waiting for you that promise to transport you into a world of luxury and relaxation.
Why not luxuriate in this timeless tradition? Allow yourself to savor the flavors of warm tea, the sweetness of freshly baked pastries, and the artistry of teacups that have stood the test of time? After all, high tea is more than just sipping from a cup, it’s about creating moments of beauty, elegance, and cherished memories. “National Tea Day” is Monday. Lets start savoring it now with…
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🍵A Thirsty Thursday Treat! 🍵
On Thursday, April 17th, the only finger you need to lift is your pinkie! All our tea-riffic shoppers will receive a complimentary cup of tea on us! Because nothing says “thank you” quite like a warm brew. Come sip, shop, and soak up some good vibes!
Tea Time is Tomorrow 10AM until 2PM!
DISHFUNCTIONAL RETAIL STORE LOCATION:
Lincoln Court Shopping Center
225 Lancaster Avenue
Malvern, PA 19355
