The Delight of High Tea: A Royal Tradition with Friends
In 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to witness the coronation of the King in England. While I didn’t have tickets to the official ceremony, the vibrant atmosphere in London during such a historic event was unforgettable. Amid the excitement and fanfare, a group of us decided to indulge in a quintessentially British tradition—high tea.
Gathering at a beautiful hotel, we savored delicate sandwiches and sweet treats as we watched the coronation crowd parade through the streets. It was a moment to connect, slow down, and embrace the joy of good company and fine food.
That day, surrounded by people from around the world who had come to witness history, I realized the true magic of sharing high tea. It’s not just about the food (though the treats are undeniably delightful!) but about creating a space to pause and enjoy life with others.
Monthly Gatherings: A Bond Forged at Brighton
My friends and I share a special history. We met while working at Brighton Girls Camp, and the bond we formed there has only grown stronger over the years. Now, the four of us gather monthly to slow down, catch up, and create new memories. Each month, one of us takes a turn organizing the event, always keeping it a surprise to add a sense of anticipation and excitement.
In December, one of my friends raved about a high tea she’d experienced in Salt Lake City. Inspired by her enthusiasm, I decided that January would be my chance to plan something truly memorable. My creative wheels started turning, and I settled on surprising the group with a visit to the Grand America Hotel for a high tea experience they’d never forget.
A Grand January Surprise
On the day of our gathering, I invited my friends to meet at my house 45 minutes before the event. They were buzzing with curiosity, having no idea where we were headed. When we arrived at the Grand America Hotel, their smiles lit up the car.
The Grand America is an iconic gem in Salt Lake City, known for its elegance and charm. It was the perfect setting for our special day.
We were greeted by Blaire, a charismatic host whose warm demeanor made the experience even more extraordinary. Blaire shared fascinating stories about the hotel’s stunning chandeliers, exquisite artwork, and intricate architectural details, adding a delightful layer to our visit. His insider knowledge made us feel like royalty as we settled in for tea.
Nearby, a young woman played the harp, her music filling the room with a gentle, melodic ambiance that perfectly complemented our tea. Sitting close to us was a young mother with her four-year-old daughter, who knelt on her chair to reach the table and fully enjoy this memorable experience.
The tea itself was exquisite. From perfectly brewed teas to an array of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, every bite celebrated flavor. As we laughed, reminisced, and planned future adventures, I was again reminded why these moments matter so much.
High tea isn’t just about the treats; it’s about the people you share them with. Creating experiences that turn into cherished memories has always been my goal, and this January gathering was no exception.
