It's Teatime, Mind Your Manners

Even though people around the world love their tea, the practice of "teatime" belongs to the people of Britain.

Teatime is more than a refreshing break; it's actually a social gathering. Friends and associates gather at teatime to relax for a tasty cuppa and some good company. Stereotypically, residents of England are viewed predominantly as tea drinkers. Many Britons are also expert tea growers and blenders.

If you are ever fortunate enough to attend teatime in England, it's important to mind your manners. There is a certain set of rules to be followed, known as teatime etiquette.

Over the years, the rites and traditions of teatime have relaxed. Certainly, British teatime etiquette is not the regimented ceremony that it once was. For example, gentlemen would be expected to pour their hot tea into the saucer, not sipping until the tea had cooled. This archaic tradition has all but disappeared, and anyone drinking tea in this manner would cause raised eyebrows in today's modern tearooms. In fact, it would likely be considered rude and boorish behavior. Historically, teatime etiquette would require the lady of the house to keep her tea locked safely away, producing it only at teatime. Of course, the modern English woman keeps her tea in a countertop canister, just like everyone else.

Despite the disappearance of certain traditions, some proper English teatime etiquette remains. Today's hosts and hostesses do expect a certain level of decorum among their teatime guests. It is still a common practice for the teatime host or hostess to send written invitations to his or her guests. With the teatime details clearly stated, guests know what to expect and no one will feel awkward.

Every proper British teatime celebration requires certain items and accessories. Of course, a teapot is an absolute necessity. Silver teapots are usually chosen for formal affairs, while pretty china teapots are used for intimate gatherings and casual teatime parties. When a British teatime table is set, there are cups and saucers, teaspoons and a sugar bowl. A tea strainer is placed upon the table, along with sugar tongs and a lemon dish with a fork. Guests will be provided with forks if cakes are being served, and knives to use with jam or cream for scones. An individual spoon is placed with each cream and jam bowl. Teatime refreshments are never placed on a separate table, but are only served at the table where guests are seated.

The host or hostess is expected to spend time entertaining his or her teatime guests, rather than fussing in the kitchen. Therefore, everything must be ready to serve before the guests arrive.

Anyone can enjoy proper British teatime. Invite some friends over, set the table with your prettiest teapot and utensils, and splurge on English scones and cream. Teatime is a wonderful way to enjoy the company of friends while sipping a favorite blend, any time at all.

Article Source: http://www.rightarticle.com

Writer Emanuel Elley enjoys writing for several today's best web sites, on family video and home activities issues.
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