I often think that I am the luckiest person in the world because I get to play “dress up” in my job as an Afternoon Tea Etiquette instructor/educator.

I really enjoy dressing up in period clothing and escaping to another time.  The Georgian/Regency period features beautiful fashion with unlimited options.

Outfit wise, it was easier than you might think.  There were many different levels and pieces but they mostly came together easily.  I found my dress immediately.   Next, a hoop skirt was needed.  That was the fun part!  It was surprisingly easy to walk in and created a breeze as I moved. The earrings came from a designer in Portugal.  The fan and reticule were items that I already owned.  The hat was from the Colonial Williamsburg period.  I added a satin burgundy trim on the brim edge to define the brim and make a statement.   The ensemble was comfortable.

The real challenge was the hairdo.  Of course, isn’t it always?  Natalie and I purchased wigs, perused books and online sources such as YouTube to research hair styles during the Georgian period.  Making the wigs look historically authentic was a daunting task at best.   Georgian hairstyles were completely over the top. We placed padding inside the wigs to add height.  I had almost given up on the wig, but it all came together the night before.  Thank goodness!

It was so fun to see the ladies who attended the tea.  They dressed up and really added a lot to the event.

 

 

The china was lovely and captured the essence of the tea perfectly. 

 

 

I talked about etiquette and especially court etiquette during the time of Queen Charlotte.  There was a great deal of pressure was on the young women to make “good matches” for their families.  I described Queen Charlotte’s life and the upheavals during her reign.  I also explained the language of fans to send messages at a gathering.  Everyone loved that!  I created a Regency themed IQ test for the guests and everyone did well as three people tied for first place.

 

 

Finally, the weather was phenomenal.  A perfect autumn day!

Disclaimer: Polly Singer is not affiliated with Netflix, Shondaland Productions, Julia Quinn or any other entity associated with the Bridgerton Books or Series.