Tablescape:
This is a great time to use your vintage linens.

Start with a white damask tablecloth. Place a smaller linen cloth with embroidered roses or interesting cut- or drawn-work edges in the center of the table, turned diagonally. Last, add a coordinating embroidered or lace doily in the center to set off the centerpiece. For the centerpiece, use a Victorian-themed hatbox or small trunk and fill with a bouquet of roses, greenery, and baby’s breath, and drape lace gloves, etc. over the edges. Lay strands of pearls around the trunk, in the center of the table. Add votive candles and crystal candlesticks. Scatter heart-shaped ornaments around the centerpiece.

For placemats, I used vintage-inspired tin signs. Another option: Use large rectangular paper lace cake liners from the cake-decorating department of your favorite craft store. Attach with a glue stick to the white side of rectangular cake boards. Add Victorian style scrap and or stickers to decorate.

Use the second set of color-copied Valentine post cards as place cards. Write the corresponding guest's name on the back of the card. Your guests will have fun matching their invitation to the place cards! Set the table with your prettiest rose-themed china. Or, try mixing teacups of a similar theme or color. A solid color dessert plate under each tea cup and saucer will unify the look.

Use white linen napkins tied with ribbon. Add a small heart ornament. Tuck in a vintage silver knife, fork and spoon. (Napkins and tableware do not have to match. You can find great bargains on orphan pieces at antique and thrift shops!

Tea ware: Your teapot does not need to match your china. Just use what you have or purchase a new solid-colored teapot that coordinates, such as white or ivory. A lead crystal sugar and creamer set may be used in lieu of china. The facets add sparkle to the tabletop when the candles are lit! A Rose Tea Cozy from Sweet Necessi-Teas is great for keeping the tea warm as your guests gather. It also adds a decorative touch to the teacart or buffet when not being used!

Menu:
Heart-shaped Cream Scones      Chocolate-dipped Shortbread Hearts
An assortment of chocolates       Chocolate -dipped Fresh Strawberries
Whipped Heavy Cream                Pretzel Salad
Darjeeling or Oolong Tea            Strawberry Jam
An assortment of herbal teas for your caffeine-sensitive guests

Favors:
Place in a basket or vintage heart-shaped candy box by the front door:
A small organza bag filled with rosebud potpourri.
A single rose tied with ribbon. (Purchase individual water holders with rubber lids at the floral dept. of the grocery store.)
A small heart-shaped tin filled with some of the loose leaf tea used at the party.

by Karen Hattaway
Sweet Necessi-Teas A Tea Accessories Boutique