1940’s Tea Table Service Etiquette

A delightful and inexpensive way to entertain is at afternoon teas. There is the large formal tea, at which the out-of-town friend may be introduced to your own circle or small informal tea, for “visiting” among friends and neighbors.

AT THE TEAS

“Be wisely frugal in thy preparation, and freely cheerful in thy entertainment.”— Quarles 

Being recognized as an ideal hostess is every woman's desire, and one can attain this by study and practice. Here are some suggestions to that end.

1. Appear calm and gracious when your guests arrive.

2. Be rested and fresh in personal appearance.

3. Be free to entertain your guest without having to excuse yourself frequently to prepare refreshments.

4. Be ready at all times for an unexpected guest at your table.

5. Serve delicious yet inexpensive food.

6. A delightful and inexpensive way to entertain is at afternoon teas. There is the large formal tea, at which the out-of-town friend may be introduced to your own circle or small informal tea, for “visiting” among friends and neighbors.

7. Spread a tea cloth or a lace cloth on a table.

8. Set a large tray with the tea service (tea kettle, pitcher and lemon dish, teapot, sugar bowl, tea cups, saucers, spoons, tea plates piled with napkins) near. On the other end beyond the tray, set a plate of hot biscuits, or toast, sandwiches, cookies or cake.

9. Pour tea, adding hot water for those who like it weak, and putting in sugar and cream or lemon, according to each one’s taste. After the guest receives the cup, she helps herself to sandwiches and cake. 

From Charlotte Hawkins Brown’s, “The Correct Thing to Do — to Say — to Wear,” 1940

 🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber of The RSVP Institute of Etiquette, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia