All about afternoon tea...

Afternoon tea has to be the most civilised part of British life. When I was an ex-pat child living in Lisbon it was observed almost religiously. When I hold an afternoon tea now it's likely to have a prohibition theme and involve cocktails served in teacups but the cake stands and other accessories remain essential. I stumbled across the Vintage Tea parties website when looking for some vintage spoons. They're based in Wiltshire and hire out their collections for large events (vintage tea party themed wedding anyone?). Needless to say, they're inspired me to hit the local charity shops and see if I can't start building up my own collection: