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Polite Society School of Étiquette offers a thoughtfully curated collection of courses designed to cultivate grace, confidence, and impeccable poise. The following courses are offered. Beginning Étiquette Course — An introduction to the essential principles of etiquette, gracious manners, and confident social interaction. Afternoon Tea Étiquette Course — An elegant exploration of afternoon tea traditions, tea-table etiquette, and the art of hosting and participating in this cherished ritual. Protocol, Decorum, & Savoir-Faire Course — A study of refined conduct, formal protocol, and the discernment required to navigate social and professional settings with confidence. The Story of Tea Course — A captivating journey through the history, culture, and traditions of tea, celebrating its enduring influence on societies around the world. Étiquette tutelage is also offered through speaking engagements, instructional webinars, school seminars, private dinners, and specialty tea events. The School's mission is to educate both adults and children in the traditional principles of etiquette and the essential social skills needed for everyday life. The curriculum encompasses the history of etiquette, social graces, dining etiquette, proper table settings, appropriate attire, protocol, decorum, and other valuable etiquette practices. Students also learn the art and essentials of preparing and serving a proper Afternoon Tea. Polite Society School of Étiquette provides students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the expectations of society with grace, poise, and confidence, empowering them to feel comfortable and self-assured in any social situation. All courses include foods and beverages as teaching aids. Interactive online training courses are available.

Friday, April 1, 2016

The Art and Proper Etiquette of Afternoon Tea Book

The Art and Proper Etiquette of Afternoon Tea Book


From the book:

Making A Perfect Pot Of Tea

The round shape of the teapot was designed by the Chinese who used a muskmelon as a model.  The shape is different from a coffee or chocolate pot.  The rounded lower portion or body of the teapot is rounded to insure the tea leaves have the proper room for expansion during the infusion process.  The lower placement of the spout on the vessel allows for the tea to be poured without interfering with the leaves.

The make a perfect pot of tea, boil fresh cold water in a kettle.  Cold water is essential because it has more oxygen content and gives the tea a fuller flavor.  While the water is boiling, warm the teapot with hot water.  Once the teapot is warmed, pour out the water and put in the tea leaves.  Use one teaspoon of tea leaves or one tea bag per cup of tea.  Place measured amount of tea in a tea sock, a basket infuser, or a disposable paper tea filter.  Metal should not be used.  No metal should touch the tea while it is brewing.  Once the water has reached its desired temperature, bring the teapot over to the kettle and pour the water into the teapot immediately.  (Boiling water drops in temperature the moment you lift it from the flame).  Cover the teapot with a tea cozy or place the teapot on a hotplate that is heated by a candle.

Always brew by the clock, not by the color.  Every tea has its own distinct character.  Different teas and herbal infusions require different steeping or infusion times.  White, green, and oolong teas steep for about one to two minutes while black and chai teas and herbal infusions steep for about three to seven minutes.  Steeping time also depends on several factors such as the tea family, the leaf size, and the amount of twist or roll in the leaf.  Most tea merchants include brewing instructions on their labels.  Every tea will taste better if it is "brewed rather than stewed."

Enjoy a fabulous cuppa,


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