How the Victorians invented modern romance—one teacup at a time Valentine's Day is a time to connect with friends, family, loved ones. During the Victorian period, Afternoon tea wasn't just refreshment—it was romance. Victorian couples courted over teacups, and a Valentine's tea was the perfect excuse for young people to spend time together (albeit under proper supervision). Victorian England saw the rise of popular Valentine's Day traditions that many people still practice today. Tea was a...

Once upon a time, on a train car barreling from Madrid to Lisbon, a young woman was served a small jar of Clotted Cream at breakfast. It was the first of many firsts, but one that gave rise to a lifelong love affair with sunrises, train travel, and clotted cream. Clotted cream is a staple at most Afternoon Teas due to its strong historical significance and amazing flavor. Clotted cream, a velvety smooth and barely sweet cream has its origins in the Southwestern part of England. While the...

A bridal shower ready tea setting using a mixture of vintage bone china and linens alongside new make porcelain pieces. Afternoon tea has...