Tea Etiquette

Here is an order in which tea party foods are to be eaten. First, scones or muffins, then sandwiches, and lastly,
sweets.

Take small bites. Never stuff the whole sandwich or dessert in your mouth even though it seems small enough.

Do not dine with gloves on.

When seated at a table, raise only the teacup to drink, not the saucer. Place the teacup gently back on the saucer. If you are not seated at a table, simply hold the saucer in your lap with your left hand and raise the teacup with your right hand.

Return the cup to the saucer between sips.

Never dip a scone in jam or cream. Pretend it is a dinner roll. Break off bite size pieces and add the jam or cream in your own plate.

Scones are not to be eaten with a fork.

If serving on a 3-tiered server, place the scones on the top tier, savories and sandwiches on the middle tier, and desserts on the bottom.

Never sip or slurp tea.

Place all forks or spoons on their corresponding plates. Never lay a serving utensil on the tablecloth or table.

Be sure to unfold your napkin and place it in your lap. Leave your napkin on the chair, not the table, if you must leave the table.