AFTERNOON TEA

Today was a special day, since my daughter and her soon to be mother-in-law came over to finalize the guest list since it's just a matter of weeks before the wedding invitations will be placed in the mail.  In honor of the occasion, I decided to have afternoon tea. 

I've been a tea drinker myself for a number of years, and most recently have gotten hooked on chai tea.  So why a tea party?  Last year, after living in Colorado for close to thirty years, I finally went to the Brown Palace hotel in downtown Denver which is well know for their longstanding tradition of afternoon tea.  It was really a special treat (expensive) that I think everybody should try at least once in their life.  

So, I thought it would be fun just the three of us girls to enjoy a little pampering.  Plus, it gave me an opportunity to pull out some special china that dates back to my Great Grandmother's era. 

These heirloom pieces are really special.  Some of the pieces are literally "fine china", so delicate and hand painted; they added beautiful touches to the table.

These little luncheon plates are from my Mom's collection, they have a built in spot for the tea cup.

So, I had some fruit and cheese, tea sandwiches and some sweets (of course); after all, what's afternoon tea without scones right?

I bought all the goodies from the bakery, but I did make all the finger sandwiches.  I made three different varieties:

• roast beef, avocado, dijon mustard on wheat tortillas (sliced)
• lox, cream cheese, capers on mini wheat bagels
• chicken salad, mandarin oranges on sourdough cocktail bread

I've been a fan of Celestial Seasonings teas for many years, so I had quite a collection available.    That's a fun little tour in Boulder, if you're looking for something unique to do...and totally native to Colorado.   Don't forget to stop by the gift shop and the sample room too!







You know I got such a kick out of putting this tea together, that I just might have to make this an annual event!