The Exotic Teapot

Any day of the year is prime time for displaying flowers.  Research dating back to 1938 has shown that blooming flowers and dried petals emit an aroma and visual calming effect for humans.  One of the most notable studies is referred to as the Bach system.  One physician using this treatment said “the strength of flower therapy lies in the normalization of psychic disruptions and the resolution of inner conflicts.”  This combined with the many health advantages of drinking tea is a winning combination for a party, as photographer Lauren Rubenstein has shown.

Using an exotic teapot is one sure way to impress guests at a dinner party.  Additionally, there are other simple serving techniques that will surprise your company: 

·In lieu of spoons, place cinnamon sticks in each cup of black tea;

·Freeze rose buds in ice cube trays then add to chilled tea;

·Add infused lemon balm or lemon verbena to tea.  Place lemon zests around saucer to accentuate;

·Use a flowering tea in a clear glass teapot so your guests can watch the flower bloom right before their eyes.

If you haven’t visited a wine and spirits shop in the U.S. you may be surprised at the variety of tea infused vodkas on the shelves.  Even the finer pubs and bars, especially in southeastern USA, vie for the most unique tea infused martinis and cocktails.  Southerners have always been known for drinking sweet iced tea; most restaurants in the region assume that when you order tea, it is to be iced and laden with sugar.  No wonder sweet tea infused vodkas have caught on so quickly.  One brand warns that even the daintiest of belles can drink a mason jar full before feeling fuzzy. 

There are many reasons to select tea and associated wares as a gift set.  The gift card to the recipient(s) and the chosen items in the set can easily be catered to his/her personality.  Here are just three of many options when personalizing a gift set.

1. For the health conscious friend gift card:  You are what you drink (include green, white or herbal teas)
2. For the one that schedules too many activities:  There is always time for tea (include single mug infuser)
3. For the optimist card:  With this gift, each day will blossom (include clear glass teapot with flowering tea)