Mother's Day Tea

I think one of the nicest gifts for Mothers on their special day is to present them with a meal they didn't have to cook! Taking Mom out to eat is great, but not always plausible, not to mention the crowds, the noise and most certainly, the expense.

Here are a few suggestions for an easy Mother's Day Tea. Most all can be done the day before, allowing more quality time with Mom.

* Prepare your table. Set out a pretty tablecloth, napkins, plates, cups & saucers, silverware, serving trays. Use one tray as a centerpiece with teapot, sugar bowl, & cream pitcher (if desired). An electric kettle is handy for keeping the water hot. Purchase a small bouquet of fresh flowers to display in a flower pot or extra teapot if you have one. Small tea lites or a votive candle make it cozy. Make sure they're unscented.

If the weather allows, have it outside on your patio or bistro table for a more casual setting. Even if space is limited, a few potted plants/herbs will make it garden-like. Serve the tea iced if a warm day is expected.

* Plan your menu. Be sure to purchase Mom's favorite loose leaf tea and one or two others to give as her gift. Shop for menu ingredients and specialty condiments: lemon curd, preserves, clotted cream. A small jar of honey, lemon slices and grapes for garnish add a nice touch.

* Do your food prep. Keep the menu simple: Tea Sandwiches, Scones and a few petite Desserts. Prepare your sandwiches and store each kind in a separate container. Place a slightly damp paper towel over them before covering to keep the bread moist. Scones can be made from one of the many great mixes found in your grocery or specialty foods store. Desserts can be as easy as making brownies or lemon bars, cut into small squares, and mini cream puffs/eclairs (found in your grocer's frozen food section). A small assortment of gourmet chocolates add some elegance.

* Tea Time. Turn on some soft music and enjoy. Have a picture taken of the two of you enjoying tea and present her with a silver frame for displaying it. Make it even more memorable by sending her home with a new tea cup.
Above all else, cherish this time you have together.

Happy Mother's Day ~



*** I've provided some links below that may be helpful. I love Paula Deen's video of making "engagement ring" sandwiches: very easy and great tea fare as well. Include egg salad & chicken salad sandwiches for variety. World Market & Pier One have unique and reasonable gift and decorating ideas.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/videos/easy-party-finger-sandwiches/11005.html
http://www.worldmarket.com/home/index.jsp
http://www.pier1.com/catalog/browse/0500.home-decor