During college I spent a rainy month in London. Without a real purpose for being there, I aimlessly strolled through museums, read The Bell Jar in Hyde Park, saw American Psycho in a fancy movie theatre and as many West End shows as I could. But despite the great surroundings, I was lonely, lost. I found great comfort in the ritual of the afternoon tea. Who couldn’t be charmed by dainty finger sandwiches, crumbly scones with globs of clotted cream and fresh raspberry jam, flecked with seeds? It was heaven. Those delightful afternoons were my inspiration for this weekend’s baby shower. All of the nibbles and treats were artfully displayed on tiers of crystal and floral cake stands. Amy embraced shades of pink and lady-like floral and ribbon touches to celebrate the near arrival of Frannie’s little girl. Guests brought baby photos of themselves, which Amy displayed above the assorted teacups and everyone filled their ballots with their matching guesses. All in all, a proper and lovely afternoon tea.

The Menu

pink champagne

iced moroccan mint tea

iced pink rose tea

english breakfast, earl grey, green, and peppermint teas

pickled quail eggs

steamed asparagus with green peppercorn champagne dip

minted english pea soup shots

tea sandwiches

cucumber and watercress on white bread

curried egg salad with roasted tomatoes on wheat

gravlax, cream cheese, capers and dill on pumpernickel

smoked turkey and cranberry on orange currant muffins

rose water scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream

carrot cake cupcakes

raspberry french macaroons

pink coconut macaroons

raspberry filled chocolate cups

fig and pomegranate tarts

chocolate espresso cookies

almond sugar cookies

lavender lemon squares

white chocolate petit fours