Looking for a simple way to show mom you appreciate her? How about a Simple Tea Party. I’m loving the influx of all the pretty tea and china sets in stores these days. Perhaps everyone is getting ready for the Royal Wedding on May 19th. Shameless plug for the upcoming “Royal Tea Party”…get more info HERE.
Tea Party
I love having a simple sweet and savory spread. From cheesecake stuffed strawberries to powdered beignets – there is something for every palate on the table. Check out these tasty prosciutto palmiers and butter mints by the Hurried Hostess.
Here are a few tips on a simple tablescape:
1. I’m sure your grandmother or mom has some fine dainty china and now is the time to whip it out. If you are unable to locate any I suggest visiting your local resale shop or keep an eye out for estate sales to see if you can come up on some pieces.
2. Mix and match the china – I love the different shapes and platter sizes and even incorporating plates as serve ware. So simple and brings the whole table for an all inclusive look.
Tea Party
3. Perhaps you aren’t a tea person, I suggest the alternative – a cocktail! I love a pretty drink and this Tea Cocktail DOES NOT disappoint. Check out the quick recipe below.
Tea Cocktail
TEA COCKTAIL
Ingredients: Butterfly Pea Tea – 1 cup of fresh steeped (dark blue hue) tea – option number 2 , 1/2 cup of Lemonade, 1/2 cup of vodka, crushed ice (serves 4)
Instructions:
a. Steep 2 tablespoons of butterfly pea tea with 1 cup of boiling water. The more tea you place in the water the darker the hue.
b. Strain the tea from the liquid and set aside to cool.
c. Mix the lemonade and vodka (your choice…I prefer Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka) and set aside.
d. Place crushed ice cubes in glass and pour your butterfly tea into the glass.
e. Finally pour your lemonade/vodka mixture into the tea mixture and watch the science happen. The more lemonade/vodka mixture you add the more purple/pink your drink becomes.
f. Garnish with edible flowers and enjoy.
Tea Party
4. Store bought cakes ARE YOUR FRIEND – I have an addiction of visiting HEB, Kroger, Randall’s and browsing the bakery section. With no intentions of buying but just looking at the selection for the day and allowing my imagination to run free. Just another tidbit I’ll have a post soon on how to “zhush” up a store-bought cake…think gold leaf, oh yea!
I love picking up bundt, angel food and pound cakes because they are the easiest to decorate. Think whipped cream, fresh fruit, chocolate syrup and caramel – a mini art project that tastes just as good. There is no right or wrong way to decorate!
5. Get colorful with your food selection! Typically a tea party sticks with whites, creams and a soft color palette – add a punch of color not only to be visually pleasing but typically colorful food tastes better, IMO. For example, having the strawberries and tea cocktail definitely stood out. Not to mention the chocolate crackle cookies (boxed cookies people!) were a great contrast to all the soft and dainty. Don’t be afraid to punch it up with colors.
Tea Party
What are your plans for Mother’s Day? Hopefully this helps give you inspiration on how to treat your mom or yourself for the day! I’d love for you to share what you plan to do, whether it is going out to eat or trying your hand at an at home brunch feast. Let me know!
