Last Saturday, Dec. 1st, my girlfriend, Lori, and I traveled to East Lansing to attend Cristy Bennett's Celtic Christmas Tea. It was the perfect way to welcome the month of December and the Christmas Season. When this series of teas are done, Cristy will be taking a much deserved break, so we savored every minute of this last tea.
As always, the festive front porch set the tone for what was waiting for us inside.
A Cardinal Christmas Tree was in Cristy's family room.
Lori and I had our picture taken with Cristy's sweet mother, Lila.
~ Beautiful Tablescape ~
Our name at the top of the napkin folded in the shape of a Christmas Tree indicated where we'd be sitting.
Beautiful keepsake menu card below. On the back cover was an Irish Christmas Blessing: "May you be blessed with the spirit of the season, which is Peace, the gladness of the season, which is Hope, and the heart of the season, which is Love."
The tea began by a toast with Martinelli's Gold Medal Chilled Sparkling Apple and Pear Juice.
David [Cristy's husband] poured our delicious Wassail Tea that was a blend of Hot Cinnamon Spice Black Tea [by Harney & Sons], Apple Cider, Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice, Nutmeg, and Cloves. It is perfect for the holidays!
It was served in beautiful shamrock teacups by Lefton.
Cristy's signature pinwheel scones were Irish Currant and Caraway Seed, with Devonshire Cream, accompanied by a cup of Vegetable Barley Soup.
Shepherd's Pie [bottom], Pistachio-Pineapple Salad [top left], and Broccoli-Craisin Salad [top right].
~ Dessert was Gingerbread Trifle ~
Feeling blessed that I've been able to attend so many of Cristy's wonderful teas.
More tablescape photos and a tour of Cristy's house.
~ Living Room Buffet ~
~ Celtic themed Christmas Tree ~
~ Antique Secretary ~
~ Fireplace Mantel ~
~ Dining Room ~
Heartfelt thanks for all the beautiful teas you've hosted since my first tea at your house in April 2011, Cristy. You saved the best for last! May God bless you and David as you begin a 'new chapter' in 2019.
So lovely.
ReplyDeleteAs always, everything was lovely! Christy does an amazing job with these teas, I hope she will resume them after her break. I'm so glad you were able to attend this one.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful tea. The photos show a lovely home and very charming!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful settings. Thank You for sharing.
ReplyDeleteMarilyn
Oh Phyllis, what a wonderful Celtic Tea you and your friend attended. The food and setting that Cristy provides looks so incredible!
ReplyDeleteA beautiful tea time! The shepherds pie brought back many beautiful memories of our visit with you and Jerry! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Nancy