The arrival of spring tends to lure us out of hibernation to gather again, and occasions such as Mother’s Day are particularly well suited to more whimsical daytime festivities.
Afternoon tea, with its procession of scones, tiny sandwiches, small savouries and sweets, is particularly conducive to socializing. (High tea is typically served later than afternoon tea and is more substantial.) Unencumbered by the timing of a multicourse meal, guests are free to graze their way through bites that may not even require a knife and fork, nor do they need to be eaten in any particular order. An array of small items accommodates a range of appetites, and having it all made ahead and served at once, without needing to be kept hot or cold, is easier on the host.
Besides the relaxed way of serving (and eating) afternoon tea, midday gatherings can be easier for those with young kids, who tend to love tea parties themselves, or anyone who doesn’t like to be out early or late. And though it’s perfectly acceptable to serve only tea, steeped teas of all kinds make a delicious base for or addition to a cocktail – or you could steep vodka or gin with loose Earl Grey or green tea leaves (funnel 1-2 tablespoons into a bottle and let it steep for a few hours for green tea, a day or two for black tea) to add to sparkling water, lemonade or tonic.