I was so happy to be able to host a few friends of mine for a Valentine's Day Tea. I gathered inspiration flipping through my recipe books, tea and decor magazines (one of my favorite things to do!). Once I spotted ribbon that reminded me of chocolate, my "theme" became apparent. I decided that brown and pink would be my colors and away I went. I tried to make most menu items have a valentine theme, whether there was a red ingredient in it or shaped like a heart. It was so much fun! As one of my friends put it, "I love that you're getting a lot of mileage out of this!" She is absolutely right! Of course my main goal is to make my guests feel special and have a great time. But can I help it if I don't thoroughly enjoy myself? Of course not!
Following are photos of the event! Enjoy!
I made the napkins and placemats by sewing two coordinating fabrics together. The favors ( heart shaped measuring spoons with sweet sayings on them) are wrapped in beautiful scrapbook paper that resembles chocolate. No scrap was wasted. I used them for the invitations, place cards, and even curled the tiny pieces around a dowel to make faux chocolate curls sprinkled on the table.
I hung thick, wired ribbon that was spiral-curled down from the chandelier. Then I strung thin pink ribbon resembling frosting from arm to arm. I added heart ornaments and crystals. The lights each got a bow tied around them.
Strawberry and Toffee Almond Salad served with balsamic vinaigrette and sprinkled with feta cheese. Mmm!
Southwestern Open Face Quesadilla&
Bacon and Red Pepper Bruschetta.
Herb Spiced Egg Salad Sandwiches on Potato Bread
Cheesecake Cookies with Fresh Strawberries
Heavenly Sticky Buns (made by my wonderful friend)Delicious!
Please leave a comment if you're interested in a recipe or have any questions about hosting your own tea! I am ALL for making my teas "Semi-Homemade". Great food can be achieved and you'll still have the energy to spend time with your friends! After all, that is what it's about! (I hope to be posting most recipes soon)
Post Script
I was so delighted to see my new puppy McKenna enjoying the tea. She also had a matching bandana coordinating with the table linens (more pictures in another post). I thought she would fuss and cry and instead she curled up and fell asleep, happy to be in the company of friends!
P.S.S.
Happy Birthday to my bunny Victoria Valentine! And she really IS a Sweetheart!
Victoria Valentine
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