It’s just a couple hours chit chatting over tea and sandwiches with the ladies.

You couldn’t be MORE wrong.

I have an invitation so far this season to attend a bridal tea in May.

I take more care in selecting my outfit for the tea than its associated wedding. I cannot stress this is where you are impeccable, this is where you shine. In 1 two-hour gathering, you have the matriarchs and the ones about to be.

For this tea, I have already begun procuring my outfit. My dress is a short sleeved light blue A-line, cinches at the waist and hits right above the knee. My purse is white grade-A leather with a big floral design, its first use will be for the tea so no possible scuffs or dirt. Shoes are sandals of obvious quality. Again, they gonna be on point. I haven’t decided on jewelry yet, but will keep it low-key.

the old matriarchs at these teas are the prize. You are dressing for them.. think a little retro when you start putting your outfit together.

Anticipate a crowd of 25 - 50. Some women will not attend teas, citing boredom or ‘not their thing’. Teas have the air of being a light event of snacks but are actually ones of intense scrutiny. Teas increase your brand.

Arrive 5 minutes late: walking in slowly & smiling, bright, carefree, looking at the beautiful decorations and visually taking them all in as you walk through the door.

{everyone at the tea has now seen your entrance and views you taking it in stride}

thank the hostess for the invitation if she is closest to you at the door. If not, you find the oldest closest woman and speak to her.

This is the formula for the afternoon’s entirety.

don’t know the woman in front of you?:

Hi! I’m Susie ThenYaShoulda, the niece of Robert Smith. It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Matriarch. I am just thoroughly enjoying Katie’s tea today. Have you tried this petit fleur? It is so sweet, I must sit down. Here. (pull chair) Please join me! I think I would like some more tea. Mrs. Matriarch, may I get you more tea while Im getting some for myself?

Katie is the tea’s hostess & member of the matriarch’s family. randomly interject REAL meaningful praise when speaking of her at this event.

I’ve attended bridal, baby, garden/floral and Spring teas. While Saturday would seem appropriate, they have always occurred on Sunday afternoons and I think there’s a reason for this. 1 function of teas is family vetting and determining your individual level of class/values.

You always always mention going to church - bonus points for mention of a favored denomination (preferable responses would be baptist or methodist) . Or mention you ran into to Patty at the club today while grabbing lunch after church and she brought up the community art supply & book swap your mom put together in her neighborhood and she wants guidance on doing something similar in hers.

Sunday tea time also provides opportunity to share what you did on Saturday to demonstrate your shared values.