By I’m a coffee person. My days don’t start without it…and my afternoons (and sometimes even evenings) end with it. I may be addicted, but it’s my drug of choice. That being said, I’ve always shied away from the idea of Afternoon Tea service. But a few years ago, I realized the error of my ways.
English ‘Afternoon Tea’ (rumored to have it’s origins in the early 1800’s curtesy of the Duchess of Bedford as means of filling the gap between breakfast and a late dinner) is about so much more than just the tea. A formal afternoon tea service is a social event, and something to be shared with friends and family. This makes it an intimate, unique experience to share with a bridal party, mother/mother-in-law, or even fiancé(e) who isn’t afraid to put his/her pinky up!
My personal favorite is Champagne Afternoon Tea service- a most popular type here in the States- and a sophisticated early happy hour of sorts – garnished with all of the sweets and savories you can imagine, and of course a glass of champagne or Brut Rosé alongside your tea of choice. It’s the sort of experience relegated to a Sunday brunch or Holiday celebration — but available almost any day for a mid week treat! Living in Southern California, there’s a plethora of Afternoon Tea services available. But if you’re looking for a true original – one of the best is found at the Langham Huntington in Pasadena.
Boasting a reputation of being the first (1865) luxury hotel in Europe to offer Afternoon Tea service – all Langham hotels worldwide now serve Afternoon Tea every single day, on their signature Wedgewood rose teaware.
My favorites during Afternoon Tea? For savory, don’t pass up the smoked salmon with caramelized shallot caper cream & caviar. Got a sweet tooth? Unique ‘fruity pebble’ inspired French Macaroons and blushing pink cream puffs top my list. View the full menu here. For Teas, choose one of the Langham’s signature blends, and you won’t be disappointed – even IF you’re a coffee person.
So grab your girls, or guest of choice, and indulge in Afternoon Tea at least once. You’ll probably be hooked. It’s an experience unlike any other – and something that truly compliments the celebration of a wedding that’s #SoMuchMoreThanOneDay.
