A Rose Inspired Afternoon
WORDS : CHYKA KEEBAUGH
PHOTOS : LISA ATKINSON + COMMISSION STUDIO 2019
Too often we only entertain and lunch or dinner, but why not mix it up?
Hosting an afternoon tea is a far less formal way of entertaining. Plus, it gives us an excuse to focus solely on sweet treats, which is exactly what this afternoon tea is all about! Inspired by the delicate beauty of David Austin roses, everything that was served has a touch of rose to it. From a rose flavoured cocktail to a layered tea cake topped with rose heads all served on a collection of pink plates, with rose gold cutlery surrounded by peach coloured vases. Everything certainly did come up roses!
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR FLOWERS…
Get those flowers into a warm water vase as soon as you get them, and try to not to overcrowd them in the vase. We all thrive when given a little space to do so!
Change water regularly, it's good for the flowers and looks neater.
Add a little apple cider vinegar and sugar to your vase to keep water fresh longer, don't ask me how it works; it just does!
When you change the water in your vase, trim the stems a little. You can also trim the leaves off the stems, this saves them from dying off and discolouring the water.
Once one flower in the bunch is starting to look a little sad, get rid of it.
Is your room too hot? Flowers will wilt in winter so keep them in a space that doesn't get too hot.
FINISH THE DAY WITH A ROSE TEA
What better way to while away a sunny summer’s afternoon than by serving tea. A beautiful garden tea party would not be complete without delicate rose-flavoured tea and sweets to match.
Ingredients:
2 handfuls of fresh rose petals (4 if you want a stronger rose flavour; ask your local florist for untreated petals, or source them at an organic grocer)
honey to taste ( if you would like sweetener)
Method:
Rinse the rose petals in a colander
Place the petals in a saucepan and pour 850ml (3 cups) water. Boil for 5 minutes, then strain into teacups.
Add honey, to taste, for sweetness.
