HIGH TEA

We wanted to create a series of pictures reminiscent of the early 20th Century styling---women dressed in lace and silk against the background of flowering gardens and nature.  Throw in a high tea celebration, a once upon a time daily ritual and the drama is created.  This story unfolds as one of days spent in English gardens.  Thanks again to shooter, Jim Vetter who has an eye like no other for creating special scenes like these.  And none of us could have found a better spot than the picturesque Marin Art and Garden Center in Northern California to bring this unique study of dreams to life . . . .

CREDITS

Photography: Jim Vetter Photography

Gowns and Headpieces: Amy-Jo Tatum

Makeup and Hair by Rachel Gardea

Models: Alex and May
Photographer Assist: Soheila Moghadam

Venue: Marin Art and Garden Center

 

 

See behind the scenes images of The High Tea Shoot

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THE HIGH TEA WEDDING

Imagine picture hats paired up with short white gloves.  Add lace doilies under floral tea cups, sliver tea pots with peonies mixed in with blush roses. Lay out all the fine china and here comes the bride donning a vintage lace tea gown circa 1920.  These are some of the one-off details that make up a high tea wedding.  Teatime is my number one theme for the reason it incorporates some of the most lady-like elements of entertaining, fashion and decor. This polished and sophisticated late afternoon mini-meal over the centuries has become the perfect showcase for delectable little sandwiches and scrumptious petits fours framed by white lace doilies. Once upon a time high tea was celebrated by really enjoying those afternoon hours before sunset, the perfect time for a wedding celebration.  While high tea suggests all the formality of a big wedding it's also perfect for the informal celebration.  You can keep it simple and at the same time elegant serving finger sandwiches, small pastries, tea and champagne, buffet style.  Whether you're planning a large or small wedding I hope these images are an inspiration point for you . . . .

 

 

Tip: If you search thrift shops and flea markets, you'll find every kind of tea cup and pot you can imagine.  Go ahead and mix up patterns.  These days you can lay out a whole potpourri of diverse designs.
Tip: Use 9-12-inch wide cuts of lace as runners to decorate a table before you lay down china and food laden platters ....

Photos 1-4: Tea Pots by The Chic Little Shop; The Alexandria Chemise--photo by Scott Photo; Tulle picture hat by Amy-Jo Tatum/photo by Stephanie Williams Photography;
China Teapots via Jennelise Rose
Photos 5-11: The Margaret Gown; (6&7) Pastel tea cups by The Vintage Table; The Jayne Gown/photo by Lirette Photography; Peonies and Silver via Pinterest; Pink Macaroons by The Sweet and Saucy Shop; Pink Tea Cup via Nooks and Crannies
Photos 12-17: Pink Macaroons via Style Me Pretty; Teapots by The Vintage Table; The Emma Gown; Tiffany Blue Tea Cups by The Vintage Table; Place Setting and Silver platter of appetizers by The Vintage Table
Photos 18-22: The Cabbage Rose Picture Hat/photo by Ron Greystar; Tea cups by The Vintage Table
The Nouveau Lace Picture Hat; The Chantilly Lace Cap Veil; Tea Cups by The Vintage Table

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