The serving of afternoon tea with its dainty accompaniment of sandwiches or cake is coming into ever greater popularity, whether at an entertainment to which cards for “Afternoon tea at four o’clock” are sent, or during the customary afternoon calls. In the former case, naturally, the refreshments are usually more elaborate, though in no case should they be heavy, as dinner is so close at hand.

For the small reunion of friends, the tea should be made and served by the hostess in the drawing room or living room; or in summer weather, out-of-doors. Simple ssandwiches and cakes are served with hot tea, coffee or chocolate; though tea is preferable, because less rich and held by most women in high esteem.

For the more pretentious afternoon tea, refreshments are served in the dining room, from a table made beautiful with flowers, lifhts and tempting viands. At one end of the table is usually a tea-service and at the other a service for chocolate. Each is presided over by a friend of the hostess. The refreshments include sandwiches, fancy cakes, olives, bonbons, etc. These are passed to the standing guests by waitresses or young girls, also friends of the hostess.

Napkins are a convenience, but not a necessity. Sandwiches and cakes are usually placed on the saucer or a plate under it. In summer weather, frappe’, glace’, sherbet, or any suitable frozen dessert is sometimes served in addition to the other delicacies.

From Mrs. Fryer’s Loose Leaf Cook Book, 1922

A hissing tea pot on the table, dainty cakes and sweets, and friendly chatter – this was the enchantment of the old fashioned tea party. The tea hour was a charming background for social entertaining in the turn-of-the-century era and before. It brought out a spirit of hospitality among friends where conversation flowed freely. The custom originated in England and also became popular in the United States. Read more »

Adapted from The American Woman, September 1922

One type of tea that is a delightful form of entertainment is called the high tea.  The high tea takes the place of a formal dinner and is usually held on Sunday evening.  While it is distinctly formal in name and purpose, it is entirely informal in character.  By choosing to host a high tea, you can entertain many friends without the trouble and expense of a formal dinner. Read more »

Adapted from The American Woman, September 1922

Proper dress plays an important part at tea time.  If a lady is wearing a gown that she knows is inappropriate and unattractive, how can she be a charming and well-poised hostess?  And a guest cannot be comfortable and happy in a frock that is altogether out of place.

So to be well-dressed and correctly dressed is important.  To be correctly dressed, one must wear what all fashionable people are wearing wherever tea parties are held.  The tea hour is the fashionable hour of the day when one wears one’s newest and prettiest frock. Read more »