If you are cold, tea will warm you; if you are too heated, it will cool you; if you are depressed, it will cheer you; if you are excited, it will calm you. Thank God for tea! What would the world do without tea! I am glad I was not born before tea.

William Gladstone, British Prime Minister

How long has it been since you went to a tea party? How long since you gave one, or simply enjoyed afternoon tea with a friend? Perhaps you’re thinking it’s time you did so again.

The lovely tradition of the tea party is a welcome antidote for today’s hectic life style. As we share a pot of tea, we make a space for unhurried conversation with those we care about. We feed the senses, restore the body and spirit, and create fond memories. It is indeed “a spa for the soul”.

Whether the occasion is casual or formal, the group large or intimate, your guests children or adults, here you will find all the resources you need to plan a memorable party. We suggest creative themes, give ideas for table settings, favors and decorations, and provide sample menus with easy to follow recipes for sweet and savory treats. We also share tips on etiquette, including proper attire and invitations.

If you are looking for a special tea item for yourself or for a gift, a book, or even a complete "tea party in a box" with all the essentials for entertaining with tea, you can find it at our on line Tea Shop. There is also a dedicated page on the website with information about tea shops to visit in your area. Finally, if you enjoy this website, don't forget to subscribe to The Merry Kettle, a quarterly e-magazine about all things tea, by entering your contact information in the opt in box found on any of the main pages.

Even if you prefer coffee or hot chocolate, or like earthenware better than fine china and silver, we hope that what you see here stimulates your imagination. A tea party really isn’t about the tea after all. It’s the spirit of companionship and sharing that makes the experience special. In that spirit, we invite you to explore our site and be inspired.