12 ways you can drink tea like a royal

Afternoon tea has been a staple of British culture since the first half of the19th century, and there are many resources if you'd like to learn about it. No worries if you'd rather not spend the entirety of your tea time perusing a history lesson at the British Museum website. As you might imagine, we at Tea and Banter encourage tea enjoyment of all kinds. For those of you who would like to do it according to royal etiquette, Arthur Gaultier is an expert from premium brand Nio Teas and has released a helpful guide to afternoon tea, along with some helpful explanations. Settle in with your favorite blend and join us to learn the rules.

Social behavior

It's understandable that many of the twelve items on this list are about how to behave yourself appropriately during the event. After all, says Gaultier, "This isn't just about sipping tea; it's a moment to pause, savor, and enjoy the company of others." He says that "Every small gesture...[is] a way of embracing the quiet luxury of good manners and fine tea."

With that in mind, it's best to dress appropriately. "Most venues ask for a 'smart casual' look, which means you can skip the tuxedo but avoid jeans and sneakers." This sets the gathering apart from other times of an ordinary day and that is why it is also advisable to turn off mobile devices. Phones can be accessible, but Gaultier suggests that you "Let the afternoon be all about good company, conversation, and, of course, fabulous tea." While keeping your phone from making a ruckus, try to do likewise and stir your tea quietly. If it helps, imagine the cup as a clock face and only stir from 6 o'clock to 12 o'clock.

It's been mentioned that this is a time set apart and a chance to enjoy your fellows. Keep that in mind when pacing yourself. "It's a marathon not a sprint" is a good reminder and it's advisable to "start with the savory sandwiches, move on to the scones, and finish with the delightful sweets." Arthur also says not to "worry about planning dinner afterward - you'll definitely be too full for it!" Tasha Marks of the British Museum explains in her article on the subject of afternoon tea, one of Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting, the Duchess of Bedford, is said to have described a "'sinking feeling' at about 5pm...[and] requested that some tea, bread and butter and cake brought to her room in the late afternoon." This ritual is meant to be restorative and satisfying as well.

When it comes to drinking, here are a few tips. First, unless you are standing, leave the saucer on the table. "The only time you lift your saucer is when you need to go more than a foot away from a table," continues Gaultier. Support the teacup itself as you "grip the handle gracefully with your thumb and index finger and let your pinky rest against the underside of the cup for balance."

Food guide

There are interesting and specific things to keep in mind with regards to the food. In terms of the drink itself, tea should be poured first and "milk goes in after the tea, allowing you to adjust the strength to taste." It is inadvisable to dunk things in your tea, so enjoy scones or biscuits separately.

Speaking of scones, you may need to check your geography to decide how to top them. "In Devon, it's cream first with jam on top. In Cornwall, it's the reverse." That is traditional, but Gaultier suggests that you "just slather it how you like and savor the deliciousness."

Finger sandwiches are a must-have for afternoon tea and "perfectly crafted to be eaten with your hands." Keeping in mind the earlier advice about pacing, take your time with these and "eat them in two or three bites, not one big mouthful."

Finishing touches

When you are ready to finish, use your napkin wisely. Gaultier says to "gently dab" your lips and refrain from wiping. You can signal that you are ready for the tea to end by folding it and placing it to the left of the plate. Your fork and knife are the other tools. "Place your fork and knife in the '4:20' position on your plate...where both utensils are sitting at the 4 o'clock position on your plate." Gaultier marks this as a "polite way of saying you're finished."

As always, afternoon tea is meant to be an enjoyable occasion and a respite from the worries of the day, but you are welcome to remember some of these conventions to show a heightened respect for the event.