christmas tea at the ashton.

if you recall from this post last year, it’s a tradition in my family for all the girls [whomever is around, at least] to have what i used to think was “high tea,” but recently learned is actually technically “afternoon tea,” at christmastime. basically, it’s the full tea service with savories, scones, and sweets enjoyed in the mid- to late afternoon. we go every year – often it’s just my mom, mimi, and me, but in the past we’ve sometimes had my aunts and cousin on my mom’s side join us, and this year we were lucky to have nama grace us with her presence. we always get dressed up and make long, leisurely time of it, and just have fun being fancy. the ashton hotel in fort worth is our traditional spot, and that’s where we did tea this year. last year, we had tea at the crescent hotel in dallas, which was very nice, and next year we plan on trying out the ritz carlton [as long as we can remember to make reservations in october because they fill up SO fast], but we really do love the ashton and their scones are probably the best i’ve ever had. we had a lovely time and enjoyed the food, the company, and the experience thoroughly. and naturally i documented every delightful morsel of every course:

{ft. worth is always so cute. especially at christmastime.}

{i have fond memories at this hotel.}

{with the three women who make my world go ‘round}

{and champagne because… that’s just how we do.}

{a table set for tea}

{the menu [insert smiley emoticon with hearts for eyes]}

{the first course: a tiny little mug of roasted chestnut soup with sweet potato ribbons. and the tea that i had was this fantastic coconut black tea that was off the menu.}