Whether you are cozying up on your couch with a good book or hosting a party for a special occasion, tea is a beverage for all. Steeped in ritual and history, tea and its accompaniments make for special moments. Tea Parties includes inspiration, recipes and decor ideas for all sorts of gatherings including bridal and baby showers, Galentine’s Day, holiday festivities, and even children’s parties! If traditional tea suits your fancy, the do’s and don’ts of English Tea and the ceremonial nature of Japanese Tea are explored, along with information about the seven categories of tea. Learn all about how tea traveled the globe, providing comfort and joy to all who drink it.
Introduction
The Origins of Tea
An Ancient Discovery
Tea Travels to Japan
Trade Routes • Tea slowly expanded west from China, into India and beyond, through the Silk Road. This network of paths allowed travelers to exchange tea for jewels, herbs, spices, animals and more. A southern branch of the Silk Road, the Tea Horse Road, traversed high mountain peaks where traders exchanged tea for horses. The route grew in popularity as Tibetans became interested in tea. The road extended into Nepal, Burma and India, bringing tea further into the Asian continent.
Britain’s Tea Problem • In the 17th and 18th centuries, Britain expanded its empire, eventually occupying up to one-fifth of the landmass in the world. At the same time, an obsession with tea occupied Britain.
Americans Take On Tea
British Tea over Time
Tea Today • Although the history of tea in Western culture largely focuses on China, Japan, India and Britain, tea is a household staple in many countries around the world. Three billion cups are consumed every day. The highest tea consumption per capita today is not in Britain or China but in Turkey. The United States doesn’t even make the top ten.
Cypes of Tea • What’s your cup of tea? Choosing the right tea is arguably the most important element of any tea party. All tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, but the difference lies in how it’s grown and processed. Tastes of tea vary widely, and each type of tea offers a different experience for the drinker. Start by asking yourself, what do you want from your tea? Whether you’re looking for a healthy supplement, a jolt of caffeine, a subtle fruity flavor or a meditative experience, your choice of tea matters.
From Seed to Cup • Although all traditional tea comes from the same plant, the options available today vary greatly. The location, cultivation and production process of tea leaves impact the flavor and aroma, resulting in different types of tea.
Choose Your Tea • Follow this easy guide to narrow down the best tea choice for every occasion.
Black Tea
Ceylon Tea
Assam Tea
White Tea
Oolong Tea
Green Tea
Sencha
Gyokuro
HOT TOPIC: Is Prepackaged Iced Tea as Healthy as Hot Tea?
Health Benefits
Matcha
Pu-erh
Yellow Tea
Herbal Tea
Rooibos
Chamomile Tea
Yerba Maté
Tea Time
What Time & What to Serve? • Tea is a drink enjoyed at any hour of the day, from strong and bold black teas first thing in the morning to a soothing herbal tea at night. But for hosting a tea party, timing is everything.
Japanese Tea Time • In Japan, tea time can also be a sacred ceremony designed for hosts to welcome guests formally and escape the fast pace of everyday life.
Be Prepared to Accessorize
Holidays & Special Occasions
Fairy Tale Tea Party • A fairy tale party is popular for kids ages three to eight, when their imagination encourages the existence of tiny fairies who live in the woods and fly using magic. Bring the magic alive with a reading of a favorite...