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The Huron Expositor, 1995-02-22, Page 33Honour the bride and groom with a tea party Something's brewing .. . afternoon tea. What's that -- tea's the domain of little old ladies and homesick British expatriates? Look again. This age-old British tradition has crossed the Atlantic and been discovered as a civilized and delicious way to conduct business, entertain friends -- and honour brides. In hotels across the country, tea time is replacing the 'power breakfast' and two-hour lunch with a pleasurable and less-expensive business meeting that's lighter on calories. And from a cozy tea -for - two, for the bride and groom, to a gathering of many family members and friends, the ritual of afternoon tea is once again being embraced as a popular venue for at-home entertaining. The pouring of steaming tea from a silver teapot, the passing of savouries and sweets, and light-hearted conversation can make any occasion one of life's simple pleasures. Anytime is an excuse to have a tea party. From bridal and baby showers to birthday parties and graduations, to an open house for out-of-town guests, afternoon tea is a year-round social fare befitting to everyone. 'Taking tea' is more economical than a sit-down dinner, and it's a graceful and healthier alternative to acocktail party. For today's busy hostess, it's also a timesaver, since so many of the accompaniments can be made in advance. Ladies of the Victorian and Edwardian eras served tea from ornate silver services in the drawing room.. Today, whether the setting be regal or informal, the tea ceremony can be whatever and wherever you decide. • If you're planning a wedding to be attended by a large group of guests, consider a formal tea reception. A grand assortment of light finger sandwiches and sweets can be set in the dining room, buffet -style, served on your finest silver service and table accessories, china and laciest linens. • In the late spring and summer, the glories of 'tea al fresco' should be explored for a romantic bridesmaids' garden tea party. It can be hosted on a patio, terrace or under a shady tree. Extend the 'tea' theme by giving each attendant a charming, minature sterling silver teapot of pendant. • An informal winter holiday tea served on a small table in front of a hearth in the living room or den makes for a warm and intimate weekend affair for newlyweds or close friends. Just remember that informal doesn't mean less fancy. You'll want to display your finest teacups and polished silver. Tea protocol wouldn't be without the proper flourishes and tools. Once the darling of the 18th century, the sterling tea service and its companion accessories - tea strainers, spoons and sugar tongs, and so on - are making an elegant comeback. And remember, silver tea services are heirlooms, to cherish and use during holidays. But why not use the pieces individually as well, and every day? Serve hors d'oeuvres or desserts on a silver tray; put fresh flowers in the creamer; use the sugar bowl to hold Parmesan cheese. And why not treat yourself to a nightly 'cuppa', served from a silver teapot? Whether you need a break from a weary day, or to celebrate a special occasion, the tea party is a party for all reasons - and for all seasons. O'ZOt 9 DOUBLE SAVINGS c or that special day come to Dorothy's Specialty Shoppe. We carry all your wedding needs from decorations, silk flowers, cakes, tableware to invitations. Rentals available on Church & Hall Decorations, Dinnerware, Linens, Cakes, and much more!! SAVE! SAVE! SAVE! re) 0 FF WEDDING I difid INVITATIONS rl�A 1 1 1 L % OFF SELECTED 1 D CORATIONS 1 Honey Comb Bells, Streamers, Silk Flowers. Ribbons & more. See our 50% off section for great decorating ideas. Decorations on sale through March. Evening appointments available on request. (J��20t� y HAMMOND PLAZA 42Ecialty._STzoppE . 1 J MITCHELL Hwy. No. 8 EAST OF TOWN 348-9482 Wednesday, February 22, 1995 -PAGE I 7C (,O►1t(' in or cull fin- your Personal Consultation FARMER BILL'S GRAND BEND FLOWERS 56 ONTARIO STREET (HWY 21 N) - GRAND BEND 238-8638 YOUR LIFE TOGETHER ER IS JUST BEGINNING, BUT... Are you planning your financial futtu-c? You've probably heard this at east a few times in your tile. But, let me ask you a second question. How much planning has gonc into your wedding day? One year? Usually you need that much time to book the hall or church you want. How much will this day cost? Now, I'm not saying that this isn't [Honey well spent. You arc celebrating, along with those you love one of the most important days in your lives, and one that you will remember forever. But are you planning for your future with the same focus:' Do you pay yourself first? Don't think, "but I don't have enough money to invest." I help people plan their future so they can realize some of their dreams. Invest some time in your financial future. It doesn't take a year of planning and it doesn't cost a lot of money. We need to build our financial inde- pendence, and we do this with- TIME, MONEY, AND RATE OF RETURN. Right now, you have TIT on your side. So, why not call me and begin your lives together with a sound financial plan. Phil Paquette Financial Consultant 524-4517 REGAL tiCAPITAL PLANNERS LTD. 886 Queen St. Kincardine 1-800-565-9666 Mike Strickland Financial Consultant 524-5123