High Tea hosted at Gilded Lily
A second tea will be held March 18 at 3:30 pm
By Kathy Feist
Mrs. Debra Beachner, proprietor of Gilded Lily, 612 E. 135 St., in Martin City, hosted eight guests on January 28 for a formal Sunday afternoon high tea in Celebration of National Hot Tea Month.
Mrs. Beachner served Harney Earl Grey tea during the main course followed by a Orange Blossom White Dessert Tea from The’ de la Pagode. A hefty selection of sweets, pastries, salmon sandwiches, chicken-stuffed endive, cheesy croissants with jam, fruit and other assortments were served. Mrs. Beachner poured Prosecco and/or sherry for those who wanted to imbibe spirits.
Nostalgic jazz drifted softly throughout the 115 year-old-house as the guests arrived and introductions were made. A table was set up in the front parlor and decorated with black and a white toile print tablecloth, floral print chinaware, bright pink cloth napkins and African violets planted in old tea cups.
Women giggled at each others stories and Mrs. Beachner discussed the origins of high tea 
(Dutch) and the kinds of teas she served for the occasion. A good time was had by all.
All the guests left with gift bags consisting of Nina of Paris tea bags, Earl Grey chapstick, candy hearts, a honey spoon and a tea-inspired placard.
High teas at the Gilded Lily will become a regular occasion, starting off seasonally, says Mrs. Beachner. The next tea is Sunday, March 18, at 3:30 pm. The story of the first tea, held by Anna Duchess of Bedford, will be told. The cost is $25. To register, go to https://www.gildedlilykc.com/afternoon-tea/.
Visit Gilded Lily for their latest selection of vintage gifts and teas, including a Valentine tea made of chocolate and rosebuds. For more information, call 816-510-2182.