This is a Web Log or BLOG.      What is that?  Seriously, what in the world is a BLOG?  Blog is short for Web log which is a web page with personal entries similar to a journal.  This can be periodic articles or sharing of personal experiences.  In our case it is a page where you can access information about events and teas Lady Gayle has attended, and in general, what's going on here at The Tea House Times.  Sometimes there will also be photos of particular events or travel destinations or tea rooms.  If YOU want to have a voice, send comments to us for our Society Page.  Click here for details.

KEEP VISITING  Scroll down for Lady Gayle's latest entries. 

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Did you listen to an interview of Lady Gayle of The Tea House Times at Tea Radio?  If you missed it, click here to listen. 

Did you hear Gayle's Travel Log prepared for Tea Radio about Charleston Tea Plantation? Click HERE to listen now.  Join Tea Radio for tea related broadcasts via email.  www.TeaRadio.com

Did you hear Lady Gayle's spot on Celebrity Chef Connection?  Check the audio video for 9/5/07 at www.celebritychefconnection.com.  Here is our radio commercial too: <Listen to our Radio Commercial>

Did you see Lady Gayle on Daily Connections Talk Show? Link available for a limited time. Click here to view http://dailyconnections.ebru.tv/en/episodes/317.html

JOIN US ON THE NEXT TEA TOUR.  CLICK HERE.

The Tea House Times - Lady Gayle's Blog

May 11, 2008 is Mothers Day

Happy Mothers Day - Take mom to tea!  Celebrate together while Preserving the Traditions of Afternoon Tea™. Click here to find a Mothers Day tea near you.

May 4, 2008 - Preparing for World Tea Expo

Time to prepare for World Tea Expo!  Be sure to read the great article sent in by Tea Bureau Member, George Jage - President, World Tea Expo - full of great tips for preparing to attend any trade show.  See Tea Bureau Member Articles.

I personally love this time of year.  Everyone is hosting lovely springtime tea parties for every reason imaginable.  And - some for no reason at all.  Two weeks ago I was invited to speak at a ladies church tea - and of course one immediately thinks it must be a fundraiser - but - no - this group of ladies met in their church hall for the simple enjoyment of sharing friendship over tea.  Ladies volunteered to host tables and invited their friends to join them. Each hostess brought china and scrumptious tea time treats to share.  Some guests also volunteered to bake or help the hostesses in some way.  And I was the chosen entertainment! 

Last weekend I attended a fabulous tea fundraiser at Lambert Castle in NJ. The Passaic County Historical Society ran the tea.  Food was catered by High SocieTea in Wayne.  Each course was served separately with fresh brewed teas.  Lambert Castle is a sight to see.  This tea was a 3 day event with 6 seatings!  Very, very successful.  They did a perfectly wonderful job with every detail.  Be sure to look for it for next year. www.lambertcastle.org

Now I, too, am preparing for World Tea Expo.  If you are a tea business owner, be sure to stop to meet me at booth #507 May 30-June 1, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, World Tea Expo.  Ask about new tea room promotions.  Businesses and Speakers may apply to our new Tea Bureau - and an official Welcome Gift will be available at our booth.  Visit www.teabureau.com for information on how to join.

....Lady Gayle

April 23, 2008 - Go Green!

We want to know how you are going green.  In what special - tea related - ways do you recycle, re-use, etc.?  Like ...using broken china to create a trivet.  Or using old tea towels to make a tote bag for groceries.  Send us an email and will share your ideas here at our website and possibly in print.  Click here to email.....Lady Gayle

Go Green!

The Tea House Times is printed using an environmentally friendly ink made with naturally replenishable vegetable oils to reduce release of volatile organic compounds.

March 28, 2008 - Tea Bureau News Release

Click here to read our Tea Bureau News Release!

March 19, 2008 -

If you missed the show, go to dailyconnections.ebru.tv   Look for links to past shows. Click on March 19 Mothers and Daughters at Tea.

March 19, 2008 - View Lady Gayle on TV (or internet) Today! at 10 am and 2 pm EST on EBRU TV

Wednesday, March 19 at 10 am and again at 2 pm you may view the Daily Connections talk show segment on Mothers and Daughters at Tea.  Go to www.ebru.tv at the specified times and click on EBRU LIVE to watch the show in progress. Or if you get Ebru on your satellite television, you may view the Daily Connections show there.

March 7, 2008 - Talk Show Taping

Today was quite an adventure.  I was asked to be on a talk show!  More details will follow - how to watch - when - etc.  Basically it is a daily talk show with an upcoming program dedicated to Mothers and Daughters at Tea and the wonderful bonding experience created.  On the program, I am seated at tea with the show host and we discuss ways for moms and daughters to have tea parties together.  Whether an impromptu, fun little bonding time - or a well planned party with other moms and daughters, tea is a wonderful experience and tradition to be shared and passed on for generations to come.  ....Lady Gayle

February 26, 2008 - Notice

FYI - We will be changing web servers sometime in the next week.  If you experience any bounced back email or unable to access our website, please try again in 24 hours.  This will most likely take place on or about March 1 or March 2.

February 21, 2008 - Preview Tea Bureau

I invite you to preview a new service of The Tea House Times – TEA BUREAU.  Tea Bureau serves to connect consumers to tea room locations, retailers, tea information and more.  Tea Bureau serves to connect the tea trade to other tea businesses, associations, wholesale resources, and more.  Tea Bureau is also a Tea Speakers Bureau and a Tea News Bureau where member businesses will be allowed to post news releases and articles to be viewed by consumers and trade.   Check out our new Tea Bureau by clicking here:  www.teabureau.com     Tea Bureau will be ready for use by anyone and everyone interested in tea within the next 2-3 weeks.  Using and accessing Tea Bureau is free to everyone.  However, Listing your business or service requires a small yearly fee.   Businesses, Speakers, etc. interested in joining Tea Bureau should review the above link, check it out and refer to joining guidelines at the bottom of the web page (send requested info about your business in an email to Tea Bureau -  Click here to email. to request an invitation and rates.)  Some invitations have already been sent, others are almost ready.  .....Lady Gayle

February 1, 2008 - Pod Cast Interview with World Tea Expo Founder, George Jage

Check out Kare Anderson’s Pod Cast show at Moving From Me to We.  Her pod cast for Friday, February 1, 2008 is an interview with founder of World Tea Expo, George Jage.  Kare Anderson was a great keynote speaker at a previous expo and her current interview with George is perfect timing to help us all understand the new program choices offered for 2008 at World Tea Expo, New Business Boot Camp, etc.  Click the link below and go to the pod cast for Feb. 1 entitled: What Makes Your Expo a Must-Attend for Us?  http://www.movingfrommetowe.com/category/podcasts/

January 8, 2008 - A Recommendation to attend World Tea Expo in 2008

2008 is indeed here!  Time flies by so quickly, but believe it or not we are already gearing up for another World Tea Expo for 2008. Of course, now everyone out there on tea blogs and tea chat rooms are abuzz with questions like – Should I go?  Should I exhibit?  Should I attend? Should I sign up for classes? What about the cost?  If you ask me, the answer is yes to all of the above.  And as far as cost is concerned, it is worth every penny if you plan right and take full advantage of as much as possible that is offered while you are there.  As I said before, I am personally very excited and eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2008 expo!  WTE has announced 4 new programs for 2008 – Click here to read the news release.  Online registration for classes opens TODAY! Visit www.worldteaexpo.com to register.

World Tea Expo is THE place to be if you have anything to do with the tea industry.  If you sell tea, serve tea, educate about tea, or have any - and I mean any - type of business that can think of a way to incorporate tea or tea related merchandise into your product line, you need to be there.  The growth of this industry specific show is proof enough that tea and tea related merchandise is a profit center.  Of course your business is only as successful as the efforts YOU put into it.  If your business is your passion and you make an effort to keep yourself and your employees educated about trends in your industry, network with others in the industry, evolve with the industry, chances are you will be very successful.  Are you a TEAM player?  You might sometimes hear that the word - I - is not a part of the word - TEAM -  But - guess what - the word TEA really is!!  Join the team.  Go to World Tea Expo and learn everything you can, talk to as many people as you can.  I guarantee you will leave with such a high, wonderful feeling, refreshed and ready to bring your own business into a successful year for 2008 and beyond. 

If you have any doubts - read my full reports from past expos for a little - well a lot of details - some insight as to what goes on there.  Click here for a Recap of 2007 WTE.   Click here to view some other show reports. 

Visit me at World Tea Expo 2008 in Booth #507 - subscribe to The Tea House Times! Tea Business/Bulk subscribers receive a FREE directory listing in our publication and at our website along with other bonuses and benefits. Our advertisers are also highly regarded with special benefits of their own............See you at the end of May with some new Wholesale merchandise as well!

.....Lady Gayle

Subscribe to The Tea House Times. Click here.

January 4, 2008

Happy New Year!!   Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy year ahead. 

2008 Tea Certification course dates have been announced by the Tea Assoc. of USA.  Click here for details.

Don't miss announcements for World Tea Expo for 2008 - visit their website and sign up for their e-news. www.worldteaexpo.com

Check out our new Cameo Tea Presentation Box and purchase your Victorian Valentine cards early! Click here to shop......Lady Gayle

December 21, 2007

Have you ever experienced a Green Tea Pedicure?  Well, I had a gift certificate to a nail salon and it was almost a year old and would likely expire if not used, so I forced myself to take a break the other day and GO!  The nail salon near me now has an entire list of manicures and pedicures to choose from - priced from $20 to $60.  Well, considering I had the gift certificate - I went for the whopping $60 Green Tea Pedicure.  Was it different or better than a traditional pedicure? - absolutely!  -- Get what you pay for -- the saying goes.  The low priced pedicure gets your feet slapped around a little and you are out the door.  With this one, it was pure pampering beginning with a hot pack around the neck and shoulders followed by a foot soaking in a green tea bath - and it was green!  Next were some of the usual treatments but - with better products.  Many of the products used did indeed have green tea - real tea - as an ingredient.  So, there was an extra - extra - extra long foot and leg massage, usual pedicure treatment and then a deep moisturizing treatment whereby the feet and legs were covered in plastic wrap and then inserted into hot booties!  Legs then covered with a blanket.  While relaxing - in a really good - massaging chair, I was treated to a cup of Bigelow Organic Green Tea and then a special hand massage.  Overall, I am not sure if the green tea did anything special - although the technician kept telling me that my feet were SO soft because of it.  I think perhaps they are a little smoother.  They did seem smaller - as in pampered and massaged - and somehow reduced of the stresses of holiday shopping.  This was a wonderful experience.  ---- and who has the time over the holidays??  Nobody does.  But - you must take care of yourself too!  So go for it!  Take care.............Lady Gayle

December 16, 2007

A friend and I visited the local tea room today in Newton, NJ.  The Tea Hive is beautifully decorated for Christmas.  Fabulous Christmas trees in each room to fit the elegant, varied decor.  As usual the food was wonderful and the gift selection in the shop was super.  Have you seen any products made of felted wool?  Oh, they had some fabulous handbags I would love to have.  I recently saw someone who had handmade a felted wine gift bag - now that was truly fabulous.  Imagine a felted tea cozy!!!

Well, The Tea Hive is up for sale.  Visit www.teahive.com   It is a tea room that has been very successful with a great following of customers, but it is time for the owners to retire...........Enjoy every minute of the holidays!!  xo  .....Lady Gayle

November 20, 2007

This past weekend I enjoyed a wonderful overnight visit to the Lillagaard B&B in Ocean Grove, NJ.  The Lillagaard has 22 guest rooms and a full service Victorian Tea Room.  What a wonderful getaway to a town overflowing with beautiful Victorian homes.  The owners of this B&B - Dick & Jane - are so pleasant to be around and their passion for their business and customers is wonderful!  My friend says that we enjoyed their company so much, we felt like part of the family and almost felt we should invite them to Thanksgiving!  A very warm, welcoming couple at a beautiful B&B!   Read all about it in our March/April08 issue. 

Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving......Lady Gayle

November 12, 2007

The second Annual Red Rose Tea Fair this past weekend was great fun.  Afternoon Tea held at the Windsor Historical Society was just as fabulous as last year.  Picture a room full of approx 100 women, 10 long tables of 10 per table, each table decked out in fine china, silver and linens.  Each table was hosted by a member of the Historical Society.  Members shared use of their own china and table linens and served us tea and kept our plates full of delightful tea sandwiches and sweets.  All food was prepared and donated by members.  The entertainment was great too. Last year it was a Victorian presentation; this year Edwardian. Very entertaining!  It was truly an impressive sight.........and delicious.  The entire community pulled together a fabulous event this year......Lady Gayle

November 3, 2007

We are preparing for the upcoming Red Rose Tea Fair, Nov 9-11 in Windsor, CT.  Click here for details: www.windsorcc.org  Windsor is home to the Red Rose Tea Company.  The entire town gets involved in the fair - with shuttle stops at various shops, each presenting a little something about tea - tea tastings, tea readings, afternoon tea, various vendors and presentations, and most importantly the opportunity to purchase or swap Wade figurines and figurines from packages of Red Rose Tea - a great way to complete your collection.  Main events will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn in Windsor.  Friday night there is a dinner followed by vendors and events on Saturday and Sunday. A fun, family friendly weekend.......Hope to see you there!............Lady Gayle

October 18, 2007

What a fabulous - warm & sunny - fall day!  Today I visited the Tea Hive in Newton, and it was wonderful as always.  What's new? They now have several loose leaf teas in addition to their extensive list of regular, decaf, and herbal teas.  Today I tried Almond Joy - it was very good.  The owner, Julie, does a great job with the gift shop as well. It was stocked full of great Halloween items.  I picked up a couple cute things for the kids....  If you have been to the Tea Hive you would know their salads are fabulous because they always have a mixture of interesting ingredients and always have some fabulous, exotic cheese mixed in.  Well........Like Mother, Like Daughter ~ entrepreneurs alike ~ Julie's daughter has opened a cheese shop called Cheddar Alley in Newton, NJ.  After tea, my friend and I went over to Cheddar Alley and it was very nice indeed.  It was like taking a walk through the Fancy Food Show in NYC.  The foods were all very unique with a wide variety of cheeses, crackers, oils, specialty foods and more.....the town is already a-buzzzzz about the great cheeses.  I bought two family favorites - Manchego cheese and chorizo sausage - both from Spain!........yum!............Lady Gayle

October 15, 2007

Our NovDec07 issue is in the mail.  Click here for details about this issue.  Our first, full page, Co-op Ad - The Tea House Times & Friends is inside the newly re-launched Victoria Magazine NovDec07 Issue - More to Come!  Click here to see it. ....Lady Gayle

October 3, 2007

If you haven't checked our news page recently - click the link to the left and read about the recent Tea & Health Scientific Symposium held in Washington DC.  Also, read all about the upcoming Breast Cancer Awareness teas with the Mid-Atlantic Tea Business Association for October 13/14 ~ find one near you and make your reservations today!....Lady Gayle

September 21, 2007

Today I visited Katherine's Tea Room in Ledgewood, NJ for my birthday!  It was fabulous. It has been a while since I have been to Katherine's (see listing). I remembered it being wonderful, but today was fabulous.  Pumpkin soup with a savory scone, a delicious variety of finger sandwiches, scones and sweets accompanied by a perfect pot of tea.  It was memorable and I am really craving more of the soup and scones!!!! If I lived closer, I'd stop by frequently for lunch and/or tea. ....Lady Gayle

September 15, 2007

Today was fun.  I went to preview a home party with Tealightful Treasures.  They are doing a great job and have consultants hosting parties in many states.  They are growing and have a very nice presentation and quality merchandise for sale at the parties.  The themes of the parties are fun. For instance a Victorian Holiday Theme which we will be telling you all about in the upcoming Nov/Dec issue of The Tea House Times and then in the Jan Feb issue we will tell you more about this delightful Tealightful company.   On my way home from this party I went to a Wegman's supermarket for the first time. The place is huge with tons of incredible gourmet foods in addition to regular supermarket choices.  What do you think I found? Scones - 3 packages to be precise. A Bottle of English Clotted Cream.  And check this out - they have a TEA station in the store.  Just like you would go and measure out your own coffee to take home, this is their Tea Spot for choosing quality teas, scoop out, weigh, and take home!  Very cool.  Great selection of unusual and great teas! Enjoy the weekend!  ....Lady Gayle

September 12, 2007   

Did you hear my spot on Celebrity Chef Connection? I was asked by Debbie Hall, Celebrity Chef Connection (a one hour radio program), to be a correspondent for their new program spotlighting wonderful chefs, foodies, restaurants, trade shows, etc.  My report was about World Tea Expo 2007.  My spot airs after a 20 minute segment with chef Hubert Keller of Fleur de Lys at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.  The show date was Sept. 5 and can be viewed at the Audio Video link at www.celebritychefconnection.com   If the show has changed to the next weekly show, it can still be accessed via archived videos.  The Audio Video segments show great photos of chef prepared dishes and since World Tea Expo will be at Mandalay Bay for 2008, it is very enticing.  An audio link will be live at The Tea House Times website within a week or so.....Lady Gayle

August 12-15, 2007 Reminder

Notice to Tea Room owners and buyers.  Visit us at the upcoming New York International Gift Fair August 12-15, 2007 in New York City at the New York's Newest exhibits at the Metropolitan Pavilion. We are with Copper Beech Publishing in Booth #9617.  Take the shuttle from the Javit's Center.  (www.nyigf.com) ....Lady Gayle

August 4, 2007

Our 2007 Tea Tour featuring Charleston Tea Plantation and the stunning Woodlands Resort and Inn in Summerville, SC (where tea began) was absolutely fabulous.  Everything was perfect start to finish.  We enjoyed a formal dinner and dining etiquette program with Charleston School of Protocol founder, Cynthia Grosso. It was wonderful, we all learned a few things, and you can imagine the fun we had with what we had learned throughout the week at dinner!  Our tour included the Charleston Tea Plantation, Magnolia Plantation, Historic Charleston, shopping, teas, and Historic Summerville.  Lady Gayle was able to purchase a tea plant as well! (now to keep it alive!) 

We had a very charming tour guide who stayed with us and traveled on our bus to various destinations all week long.  She was lively and entertaining and very knowledgeable about Summerville, Charleston and more.  Our bus driver was equally charming and when we thanked him at the end of our tour, he said, " - no - Thank YOU"  Our group - all tea lovers - shared a common interest and common courtesies.  We must have been the most well behaved group the driver ever had.  Nice display of good manners!    The weather cooperated with us and our private tours and teas each day were a very special treat for the entire group.  Barely through the first day and everyone was requesting the next tour info for 2008!  Okay, Okay, we'll do it again - 2008 Tea Tour details will be announced late August to early September, 2007.  It is likely to be a cruise thanks to feedback from attendees and several email requests to run another cruise for 2008.  Beyond that - Paris - England? We'll see. 

In the meantime, we will be tailoring the Charleston Tea Plantation trip and will offer it to anyone interested at various times throughout the year.  If you have a private group wanting to experience a trip back in time - to the roots of tea - and the charming area of Charleston, SC - please contact us.  ....Lady Gayle

July 24, 2007

Notice to Tea Room owners and buyers.  Visit us at the upcoming New York International Gift Fair August 12-15, 2007 in New York City at the New York's Newest exhibits at the Metropolitan Pavilion. We are with Copper Beech Publishing in Booth #9617.  Take the shuttle from the Javit's Center.  (www.nyigf.com) ....Lady Gayle

July 12, 2007

This has been a seriously busy summer for our business.  I just returned from STI - Specialty Tea Institute tea certification Levels 1 and 2 and it was fabulous! Seriously - and fun to connect with my tea friends.  Immediately following those two days, a visit to High SocieTea House in Wayne, NJ to meet up with the Mid Atlantic Tea Business Association - always fantastic networking and fun and fabulous afternoon tea experiences.  Then - off to the final day of the NY Fancy Food Show.  Reports will follow sometime over the next few weeks for all of this.  Now, I'm hoping to squeeze in some summer time fun, try a new iced tea maker I purchased and start preparing for our Tour to Charleston Tea Plantation July 29-Aug 3.  More soon . . . .Enjoy the summer! ......Lady Gayle.

July 2, 2007

Gearing up for the July 4th Holiday? Prepare with plenty of iced tea!  Try some fancy glasses with some blueberries and/or strawberries to jazz up your glasses for some red, white, and blue pizzazz!  Try White Tea with blueberries and strawberries for garnish.  OOOH, sounds good. 

I just found a cool iced tea pot at Walmart. Brews the tea into a very large jug filled with ice.  Just what I needed, just the right jumbo size, now to try it to see if I like it. I'll report back when I've tried it.

Enjoy the Holiday this week! . . . . . . . .  ......Lady Gayle.

June 17, 2007

The post World Tea Expo Special Report for 2007 is ready. Click Here.

June 12, 2007

Just returned from World Tea Expo. It was fabulous as always and a true pleasure to connect with friends and colleagues in the industry.  Stay tuned for this years very extensive show coverage which will be posted via our news page with notice given to our email members. To join our email list, click here.

June 1, 2007

Lady Gayle is guest blogger at Bigelow Blog. Click here to read: www.bigelowteablog.com Then, come back and book our 2007 Tea Tour to Charleston Tea Plantation: click here 

May 31, 2007

The show reports from National Stationery Show and Accessories the show are now available. Click here.  Also, please be sure to visit Tea Radio to hear the most recent interview with Victorian House Scones. We are representing and wholesaling the FABULOUS scones at World Tea Expo, June 9-11 in Booth #130.  Hope to see you there.  Join Tea Radio: www.tearadio.com .....Lady Gayle.

May 27, 2007

Wishing everyone a beautiful, holiday weekend!  Last night I had a delicious, iced Green Tea at Panera Bread, newly opened in my home town. It was sweetened, which initially put me off, but with a little added lemon, it was quite refreshing and delicious. 

LAST CHANCE TO JOIN US FOR OUR 2007 TEA TOUR FEATURING CHARLESTON TEA PLANTATION.  Click here for tour information.  Regularly $800 per person, our group price is $536 per person plus hotel and airfare.  Payments for the tour portion are due asap.  Don't delay, click here for info.  See you this summer!.....Lady Gayle.

May 21, 2007

We've been ultra busy getting our cookbook to print and our JulyAug07 issue.  I also visited two trade shows.  Stay tuned for my special reports following the Accessories Show and the Stationary Show in NYC. .....Lady Gayle.

May 2, 2007

Have you heard about the US Tea Association Calm-A-Sutra Promotion?  The spokesperson is Justin Guarini (an American Idol).  The launch of this program was April 30 on the CBS Early Show.  Read all about it and see a video clip from the news promotion:  Click on News at the left and then scroll down to current news articles. This is a scholarship program and will help get young people interested in the health benefits of tea!  My teenage son happens to really enjoy Oolong Tea.  I think it is great they are thinking up some clever ways to get young people interested in drinking tea.   .....Lady Gayle.

April 24, 2007

Greetings tea friends!  Well, here in NJ, it seems we went directly from winter and an ice storm over Easter to HOT, summertime temperatures.  It got me to thinking, it is really time to make ICED TEA!  If you are like me, you have a very hard time passing up the tea shelf at any grocery store, tea shop, etc.  My cabinets are bursting with every imaginable type of tea.  But, it won't stay fresh forever.  So, I suggest we all get to cleaning out the cupboards and make iced tea with all those that are waiting to get used up.  Why not mix a few different ones and check out the unique results?  ..............anxiously awaiting the World Tea Expo in June. There is so much new we want to share with the tea business owners. Stop to see me at Booth #130 www.worldteaexpo.com  ......Lady Gayle.

April 16, 2007

This is the final week to enter your recipes for our cookbook project.  Click here for submission details. 

This is also the final week to receive early bird pricing for our tour. Click here for details. 

......Lady Gayle.

March 24, 2007 in New York City

English and French Tea Traditions Walking Tour with Elizabeth Knight

Elizabeth Knight is the guide of some fabulous walking – tea tours – in New York City.  Her tours vary and will be fresh and interesting each time.  On this particular day, we met Ms. Knight at La Maison du Chocolat at Rockefeller Center in NYC.  We were treated to a sampling of tea infused chocolate and cup of tea pairing and a sample of the new collection of macarons filled with flavored chocolate.  Here, the group was introduced to the differences in French and English Tea Traditions.  (La Maison du Chocolate also offers a variety of chocolate, tea and coffee tastings – visit www.lamaisonduchocolat.com )

Ms. Knight’s tour went on to include some very exclusive shopping stops: Takashimaya for Japanese inspired merchandise, unique tea sets and teas (also a Japanese tea room); we also visited Bernardaud (based in Limoges, France) for luxurious porcelain collections including the pattern first introduced by Marie Antoinette; and lastly, we were privileged to enter the ever so elegant James Robinson (212-752-6166) shop with exquisite antique tableware, tea sets, silver, jewelry and more – where the back of the shop is set up like a mini museum of silver tea sets from long ago!  Our final stop on the tour was to Arium for afternoon tea.  Arium is located at 31 Little West 12^th Street in New York City. (www.ariumnyc.com ) Please see a review of this tea room in the July/August issue of The Tea House Times.  It was fabulous!

For more fabulous tours with Elizabeth Knight, visit www.teawithfriends.com   Be sure to check out her books: Tea With Friends and Tea in the City – New York (see book reviews by clicking here)

......Lady Gayle.

March 22, 2007

Keep watching the World Tea Expo website for a new product showcase for exhibitors.  Check out the two new items we submitted: Die-cut Gift Bags and NEW CelebriTEA mugs for ChariTEA both available wholesale. Visit us at World Tea Expo Booth #130.  See our gift shoppe page for details.......Lady Gayle.

March 20, 2007

Did you know that April is National Poetry Month?  Check out our Society Page or Party Ideas page for fresh ideas for incorporating Poetry Month into your business or teas........Lady Gayle.

February 26, 2007

Has anyone seen the latest edition of Hallmark magazine?  I took my kids to the dentist tonight and there it was in the waiting area.  Inside this magazine is a full page of teapots, particularly highlighting my favorite--Mustardseed & Moonshine www.mustardseedandmoonshine.com   Also in this issue are several great looking recipes for tea breads.  Look for it where magazines are sold.  So, how did we check out at the dentist?  Great, actually -- can you believe I had NO Tea Stains!!??--must be the electric toothbrush and whitening toothpaste I use :-).........Lady Gayle.

February 5, 2007

The New York International Gift Fair Special Report for 2007 is ready. Click here...............Lady Gayle.

February 2, 2007

Off to tea AGAIN today. This time to the local stop, at the Tea Hive, in Newton, NJ.  My readers must really think I'm deprived to have to go to tea twice in one week.  Well,.......yes I am!  When we get busy here working on the latest issue of The Tea House Times, tea deprivation can be a scary thing.  Afternoon Tea is my passion.  When I can't get to tea at least once per month, something must be wrong~and that means I'm far too busy.  So, then, when our issue gets sent to the printer we have a little time to play.  Today's experience at The Tea Hive was as wonderful as always.  I am really very lucky to have four very wonderful tea rooms here in NJ within driving distance.  They are the Tea Hive in Newton, HighSocietea in Wayne, Katherine's Tea Room in Ledgewood, and Belamari in Hawthorne, and a little further out--Teaberry's in Flemington..........No excuses now........Find a tea room near you and go to tea!.......Lady Gayle

January 31, 2007 

Today was a real tea adventure.  I traveled with a friend nearly two hours for tea!  Well, okay, not JUST for tea, but if I'm going to travel that far, I will, absolutely, find a place for tea--and it was not easy, really.  My friend and I set out to visit a quilt shop and antique center in Pennsylvania.  Prior to going we searched for tea rooms online and found NOTHING for this area of PA!  So we asked the shop owner where we could go for lunch or tea.  She suggested a nearby town called Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.  So, then I searched for lunch or tea in Jim Thorpe.  Only one place popped up and that was a B&B called Hillcrest in Jim Thorpe.  Well, what a WONDERFUL tea experience.  This B&B will serve tea upon request and only by advance reservation and they treat you like royalty.........now that's all I'm saying for now.  A review will follow in the May/June '07 issue of The Tea House Times.  On February 13, I will attend another tea at a B&B.  This will be in Sparta, NJ, at the Brick House Farm B&B.  This will be their FIRST ever tea and they have created a very special, Valentine's Tea that I am sure will be wonderful.  Call them for info: 973.726.5713  The tea is Feb 13 at 2:00 pm $25 pp............Lady Gayle

January 30, 2007

Attended the New York Gift Fair this week at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.  This show just seems to get bigger and bigger.  You can NOT cover it in one day.  If you have some serious buying to do, you need time to browse.  AND it is important to do on-line exhibitor searches before attending to help find specific items you are looking for, so as to not waste valuable time!  It is still going on......try to get there if you are looking for some new, exciting products to carry in your tea shop.  Of course we did our usual........hunting out the best tea related products.........and you will see a full report shortly.  The report will be sent via email to our list members and posted at our website (accessible via our News page by scrolling down and clicking on Special Reports)............more soon.........Lady Gayle  (If you are not already receiving our emails---click on the left column where it says specials -- and join our email list)

January 20, 2007 

Received some wonderful tea samples from www.fullbloomtea.com   Blooming Teas - my favorite lately.  The box arrived so nicely packaged, it was like Christmas again, fun to open and exciting to unwrap the surprises inside.  I received a wonderful glass teapot, several blooming teas to try, and samples of some great packaging choices for party favors, regular gift packaging, etc.  Since you may order the blooming teas just as though you were sending someone flowers -- a half dozen or a dozen -- it makes a very special gift especially with the beautiful brown and green packaging........On to taste some more blooms.  A Review will be printed in an upcoming edition of The Tea House Times, keep watching.............Lady Gayle

December 24, 2006 HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Wishing you the very happiest of holidays and a healthy and prosperous New Year..........Lady Gayle

December 8, 2006 Exciting news. 

The Tea House Times is the newest perk for Red Hat Society Members. Click here to learn more...........Lady Gayle

December 4, 2006

2007 Tour featuring Charleston Tea Plantation special group hotel rates for a limited time.  Click here for booking information.............Lady Gayle

November 25, 2006

Our 2007 Tour details are ready!!!  Click here for details............Lady Gayle

November 15, 2006

We know you are all anxiously awaiting our 2007 Summer Tour to Charleston Tea Plantation details.  We are getting some very anxious emails :-) and we are thrilled you are all so enthusiastic!  We are close to finalizing the details. Just a day or two more.......if you already sent an email to us expressing interest, you'll be the first to hear about the trip.  Some of our original ideas have been modified slightly to create the most memorable experience for all, and we will limit the tour to the first 75 people to reserve hotel rooms and tour packages with deposits, with the possibility of running two tours, two weeks back to back if there is enough interest.  It has been a huge job scheduling all the tours and coordinating schedules to accommodate a large group.  You'll be pleased with the results of our labors!  Keep watching :-).........More soon..............Lady Gayle

November 6, 2006

The Red Rose Tea Fair was a spectacular success!  I definitely left with a warm fuzzy feeling.  Not to be missed next year if you missed it this year!!!  Did you know that select packages of Red Rose Tea come with a collectible figurine made by Wade in England?  Well, you should have seen all the collectors turn out in search of a rare find to complete their collections.  Red Rose Tea/Redco was there with some extra special, larger Wade figurines as well.  Many tea related vendors and antiques and tea wares were also on display. Please see our full report about the Red Rose Tea Fair at our Special Reports and/or News Pages............Lady Gayle

October 30, 2006

Please visit me this coming weekend in Windsor, Connecticut at the first annual Red Rose Tea Figurine Fair.  Held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Windsor CT with other great tea themed activities.  Visit our website event page for more details and a quick link to the Windsor Chamber of Commerce and contact info for the hotel discounted rate.  Hope to see you there!!  Nov 3-5.  Click here for details...........Lady Gayle

October 23, 2006

Plans for our 2007 tour are underway.  This will be a trip to Charleston Tea Plantation and will include other points of interest in Summerville, SC and Charleston, SC.  This will be a summer trip (don't worry, we'll drink plenty of iced tea!!).   This trip will be the last week of July overlapping into the first week of August 2007.  If you have any interest in this trip, please send us an email ASAP since we are beginning to acquire group hotel rates and will need an approximate number of attendees.  Click here to email. .....Lady Gayle

October 10, 2006

Our Nov/Dec 06 issue is in the mail!!  This celebrates our Third Anniversary, our first issue being Nov/Dec 2003.  The Tea House Times publication has grown over the years and we have received an overwhelming amount of positive comments and support from our readers, tea room owners, tea business owners, our advertisers, family, and friends.  A big thank you to all!  Click here for a list of all published issues and comments.

Still working on the Cookbook!!!  Send your recipes. See your name or your business name in our book!  

Click here for guidelines!.............Lady Gayle

September 27, 2006

This has been a busy and fun week.  I attended opening night at the Metropolitan Opera House in NYC to see Madame Butterfly.  The Red Carpet was full of celebrities and the house was packed!  Everyone was dressed in their finest, formal attire.  With tickets available in a wide price range, the opera is very affordable and not just for the rich and famous!  Something you should do at least once in your lifetime! This was my first opera experience.  A dear friend of mine knows I have been wanting to go for years, and so she decided it was high time I got there esp. since I was celebrating one of those big milestone birthdays!  -- You know the one -- 29 AGAIN! ;-)

for the 12th time!  Seriously--in this very busy world in which we live--you absolutely must make time for yourself to unwind--go to tea, go to the big city in your area, experience plays, operas, visit museums, expose your children to the arts and widen your horizons.  On that note--I also attended another tea with Tracy Stern ( www.salontea.com ) at the National Arts Club in NYC.  Tracy promotes the arts bringing people who enjoy tea together with a different artist each month.  A glorious way to widen your horizons, catch a little city culture and enjoy tea with friends while meeting some new people at the same time.

Is your business name in our cookbook yet?  Keep sending in your recipes!  Click here........Lady Gayle

September 22, 2006

I had tea at our local tea room today--The Tea Hive in Newton NJ.  If you have ever visited there, you know that each room is decorated a little differently.  One very Victorian, one all white and beautiful, one is very country, and one is all garden decor.  I was never in the garden room--I think they call it the Keeping Room.  Today I was seated in this room and it was just as lovely as the other rooms.  The Tea Hive is always a nice experience and I could be seated in any room and be happy.  Just take me to tea!!!!! Check out the tea event at the Tea Hive in October to benefit DASI.  See our website events page/Tea Room Bulletin Board for details.......Lady Gayle

September 15, 2006

The cookbook project is coming along fine, but TODAY IS THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING RECIPES!  Okay, we have extended the deadline until we reach our goal of 300 recipes.  BUT, don't delay because we will stop at 300.  Be sure your business name is included in our book, send your 3 recipes today.  Go to our Cookbook info. page to learn more about submitting recipes and to see the growing contributor list--get your name on the list too!  Click here........Lady Gayle

August 30, 2006

Read about our new Cookbook Project.  Be a part of it!  Click here........Lady Gayle

August 4, 2006

Our Tea House Times Tea Cruise to Canada July 29-Aug 3 was a HUGE success.  We all had a fantastic time and connected immediately through our common tea interests.  Our on-board seminars, tea tasting with Portsmouth Tea Company, and private tea parties were spectacular.  Our two port tours and tea shop visits and Chinese tea ceremony were also enjoyable --every minute.  More about the cruise in our Nov/Dec 2006 issue.  Suggestions for future tours should be sent to our email  Your suggestion should include location, time of year, duration of trip, etc.  If you are a tea room owner, indicate what time of the year you are willing to close up shop and join us for an unforgettable experience! .......Lady Gayle

July 15/16, 2006

Visit The Tea House Times at booth #202 at the First Annual Coffee/Tea Festival to be held at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York City, Saturday & Sunday, July 15 & 16, 2006.  This is a consumer show.  Bring the family.  Food, music, tea & coffee demonstrations, tastings, and much more.  See you there!!  Click here for more details:  http://www.theteahousetimes.com/coffeeteafestival.htm

July 10, 2006

Visited the Fancy Food Show in NYC yesterday.  The Javit's Center was sold out, so you can imagine what a job it was to find all the companies you would be interested in visiting.  It was very busy.  I sure wish they would put all the same products in one row!  And there must have been over 100 companies offering tea as part of their product line or full line.  Sooooooooooooo, expect a very long report sometime in the weeks to come.  Sign up for our e-news at the "specials" page to receive the link to the report by email as soon as it is ready. 

Re: TEA CRUISE:  All attendees should have received a package from Patty with Carnival cruise documents.  Don't forget to pre-register on-line by following the directions given by our travel specialist, Patty.......Lady Gayle

June 27, 2006

Check out www.tearadio.com to listen to my Travel Log of Charleston, SC and the Charleston Tea Plantation........Lady Gayle

June 22, 2006

Patty, our travel specialist, and I visited the Carnival Victory cruise ship today for a preview along with hundreds of other travel agents and tour leaders.  Now things are really getting exciting.  Our cruise aboard this ship is July 29-Aug 3.  See our event page if you want details.  More about the ship~~~If you care about exercising, the on board fitness facility is incredible with all types of machines, treadmills, two huge hot tubs, and it is all included at no extra charge.  (There is a fee for spa services, however)  The food offerings and dining options are endless and besides your scheduled mealtimes in the dining room, you can access Pizza and Ice Cream 24 hours a day!  The children's program is also complimentary and it looks fabulous.  They have thought of everything for the very young on up to young adults.  The cabins are pretty typical of cruise ship cabins and look pretty comfortable.  Our seminar room is called the Piano Bar and it looks fabulous as well.  The room is able to be closed off from the public, so it will be very nice.  Tea time will be special.  We did not get to see the room for tea since the ship was hosting 2 weddings during our preview, but I hear it is beautiful.  We enjoyed a delicious lunch on board, so we know you will really enjoy the food and special selections in the formal dining room.  Any questions about the ship, send us an email and we will try to answer:  email ........Lady Gayle

June 21, 2006

Summer time is here.  Time for a tea party!  Just in time for summer, we now have 4 different designs of Tea Party Paper Goods.  See our Gift Shoppe page for details.  Photo is not ready yet--soon.  Also, new scone pans for a perfect scone every time.  Now you can make your scones look perfect just like the ones you eat at your favorite tea room. Triangular shaped scones: Pans make16 mini or 8 large scones.  Coming very soon:  Instant Tea Party including an extra large scone mix, lemon curd, strawberry/cranberry preserves, and clotted cream.  Keep watching our Gift Shoppe page for new photos and new products just in time for summer tea party planning. Don't forget to pick up some teapot tablecloth tamers too!  Use them to hold down your tablecloth outside on a windy day, or use them to drape pretty fabrics, tulle, or ribbons onto chairs or other clever places to decorate.  ........Lady Gayle

June 7, 2006

Off to visit The Tea Hive in Newton, NJ today (the local tea room here).  Might as well hand deliver their shipment of The Tea House Times and bring a friend to tea, right?  ~ Everything was delicious as usual and it is always a treat to run into Julie, the owner of the Tea Hive.  She is very warm and friendly and you can immediately see why her business is such a huge success.  Today I purchased 2 hats and well, now I have 3 marvelous hats so I better get to wearing them.  I think I'll wear them on the Tea House Times cruise this July so our attendees can find me easily :-)  Speaking of the cruise, Patty and I are finalizing dinner seating plans and putting together our fabulous tote bags full of goodies for attendees.  It is getting very exciting now.  Can't wait to meet some of you this July!  Until then.........Lady Gayle 

May 28, 2006

Okay, the report on National Stationery Show in NYC is ready. Click here.

Also, more about Charleston Tea Plantation, click here.

Here's the scoop on the artist's tea I attended on May 25.  Tracy Stern SalonTEA hosted an Artist's Tea Party at the National Arts Club in New York City to present Forbes magazine "hot artist" Damon Johnson.  Elegant to say the least!  The National Arts Club was founded in 1898 and is housed in the Historic Tilden Mansion built in the 1840s.  What a step back in time that was.  The furnishings and beautiful artwork are stunning; the perfect place for Ms. Stern to present an artist's tea.  Mr. Johnson presented a unique variety of art, something to please everyone, I think. Ms. Stern's tea party was elegant start to finish.  Rose petals strewn on the tables with 3 tiered servers filled with delicious tea sandwiches which were also passed by waiters as at a fine cocktail party.  Perfect scones and incredible pastries and petit fours and Tracy Stern's SalonTEA completed a perfect, enjoyable afternoon tea.  SalonTeas include The Society Hostess-a decaf vanilla black tea, The Artist-ceylon tea, The Fashionable Dandy-china black tea w/bergamot oil, The Writer-Indian Chai, The Musician-Herbal Rooibos w/garden notes, and The Romantic-green tea w/jasmine.  At this event Tracy Stern served The Artist tea, of course, and it was delicious.  Learn more about Tracy Stern SALONTEAS: Visit www.salonteas.com  Visit our events page to read about Tracy Stern's upcoming June class at the Learning Annex in New York City.....Lady Gayle 

May 24, 2006

Attended the National Stationery Show in NYC yesterday.  Found a few unique tea and/or Victorian related items to report on; stay tuned.  Visited a new tea room in Warwick, NY today.  Fabulous! Charlotte's Tea Room has been open for about one week and the food was very fresh and wonderful.  The scones were HUGE and served with REAL clotted cream--my absolute favorite!!  Off to an artist tea at an art gallery in New York City tomorrow. .  More soon on all these things.  Keep watching our print publication, here at the blog, and at various parts of our website.  Just posted a new tea party idea from Lady Dawnya--Big Fat Greek Wedding Tea Party.  See the party ideas page for that.  Oh, coming soon a special bit from me about the Charleston Tea Plantation at Tea Radio ( www.tearadio.com ) Enjoy this wonderful weather and if I don't write again before the holiday weekend have a wonderful time with friends and family! ....Lady Gayle 

May 22, 2006

The July/August issue is out to print.  This issue will mail early June AND it has expanded by another 4 pages!  This issue will highlight our trip to Historic Charleston, S.C. and celebrate the grand opening festivities at the Charleston Tea Plantation.  More on the plantation and our trip will also appear here at our website ASAP.  Have a nice week everyone!  ....Lady Gayle 

May 17, 2006

Okay, today's entry has nothing at all to do with tea, BUT if you are someone who never has time to rest, never having time for tea, or even a lunch break, take a break now.  Check out how I found an extra 2 hours of time this week.  Someone told me about ordering groceries on-line at shoprite.com with their shop from home service.  Takes a little while to set up a master list for the first time, but then all you do is check off your list, add to your "cart", choose a pick up time, and click send.  Then go to the grocery story at the appointed time and pick up your groceries!  They charge a $10 fee for the service, but think of all the money I saved not buying impulse items.  It was raining when I arrived at the store.  I parked in the special Up-front parking spot and someone came to my car window immediately to take my name and credit card.  A few minutes later they were rolling out cartons filled with my order.  They loaded it into my trunk, handed me the receipt AND a bouquet of fresh flowers to thank me for my first time using the shop from home service!  I had a grin from ear to ear all the way home!!  You should have seen the mother in the car next to me grinning with her car FULL of children.  This was great and I'll do it again for sure.  A normal shopping trip takes me 3 hours door to door since we are at least 18 minutes away from the store and I do a lot of shopping at one time.  NOW off to a cup of tea and extra time to finish my Charleston Tea Plantation article!  Think of me if you try this service; you'll be giggling the whole way home too! :-) ....Lady Gayle 

May 14, 2006

Happy Mother's Day.  I will be enjoying a quiet day with my family. I wish you all a wonderful day with family and friends.  Have a nice relaxing POT of tea and sit back and enjoy!....Lady Gayle 

May 13, 2006

The Charleston Tea Plantation was UNFORGETTABLE!  If you are in the tea business in any way or if you simply enjoy drinking tea, it is a trip you absolutely must plan to take.  Admission is free.  Bring a picnic lunch.  Enjoy the tour while viewing the tea processing equipment through glass windows and watching an informative movie at each step of the processing. The gift shop has great souvenirs of the tea plantation as well as local South Carolina favorite products.  A full report is forthcoming and our July/August print edition of The Tea House Times will be a treasure to include our trip to Historic Charleston, Summerville, and the Charleston Tea Plantation.  Need a suggested itinerary for a trip of your own?  Visit our event page now.....Lady Gayle 

May 8-11, 2006

Off to Charleston South Carolina for a pre-grand opening Press only event at the Charleston Tea Plantation and the Golden Age of Inns event in Summerville.  Expect a full report in the upcoming July/August print edition of The Tea House Times.  See a suggested travel itinerary for Charleston at our event page.

Start planning your summer activities to include a visit to our booth at the first annual Coffee & Tea Festival in New York City July 15 & 16 and our Tea Cruise July 29-Aug 3 to Canada.  Full details at our event page.  Check out the update to our finalized plans for the cruise seminars, teas, and port activities.  ....Lady Gayle 

May 2, 2006

We have started another blog!  Check out our new Tea Health Blog by clicking here. ....Lady Gayle 

April 20, 2006 

A few interesting things for you to check out when you have time.  Here is a great Tea Blog called Tea Guy Speaks.  The author, Bill, offers extensive tea information and also a new e-newsletter entitled Tea Industry News.  Click here to check out his blog: http://wileng.blogspot.com/  Click here to check out his Desert Island Tea segment where he asks tea industry professionals what they would need with them to survive on a desert island.  Check out my response! Click here: http://search.blogger.com/?as_q=desert+island&ie=UTF-8&ui=blg&bl_url=wileng.blogspot.com 

Let's see.  Don't forget to visit www.TeaRadio.com for the latest live reports from World Tea Expo.  If you don't already receive the free broadcasts to your email, sign up today.

On the personal side, I had lunch with a friend yesterday.  She is Chinese, and I mention this because she knows the BEST Chinese restaurants to go to.  Always a great experience.  She finds restaurants that really cater to Chinese and offer authentic, delicious dishes.  AND the tea is SO good.  I always order Chicken Soong.  It is a mixture of chicken and I don't know what else, but you wrap it into lettuce leaves and pick it up and eat it.  Great for low-carb dieting!  The tea they always serve is fresh brewed, loose leaf Jasmine Tea.  Beautifully fragrant and delicious.  (I've tried some tea bag Jasmine tea elsewhere and was very disappointed since it was far too perfumey and too pungent).  I have to also mention they don't strain out the leaves.  You simply pour the tea into your cup and allow the few leaves to settle to the bottom and then sip away.  We drink the entire pot very quickly, so no problem with the leaves stewing too long  :-) 

Here is a question to our readers:  Have you heard of a Coffee & Tea show to be held in New York City in July?  It will be a consumer show.  If your business is exhibiting, email us some details and feedback.  We will add this show to one of the many shows we have been reporting on.  We will attend and, of course, do our usual write up afterwards which you can find at our website news page.  (By the way, if you have not yet read my EXTENSIVE report following World Tea Expo, click here.)....Lady Gayle 

April 12, 2006

The kids are off from school this week.  A perfect opportunity to visit American Girl Place in New York City.  They offer brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.  We had already visited for lunch.  Today we visited for Afternoon Tea.  Served at 4:00 pm  It was a fun time and one you will hear more about in a future issue of The Tea House Times.  The afternoon tea was reasonably priced and quite good considering they are trying to satisfy adults and children with one, three-tiered server.  If you are not familiar with American Girl Place, it is THE place to go with little girls. They can bring their doll or purchase an American Girl doll.  The place is huge.  Like going to a real department store, escalators/elevators and all.  Clothing, pjs, furniture, hair salon, all for your dolly (bring a fat pocketbook).  Then you dine with your doll seated in a clip-on high chair right on the table.  Cute.  More soon.  The weather is looking up here in the north.  It was a nice day to visit NYC.....Lady Gayle

April 5, 2006

Our World Tea Expo 2006 Special Report is complete.  Visit our news page to view it.  It's a long one and you'll want to print it out and go have a nice, relaxing, long tea break.  Enjoy reading.  By the way 3 days left to book your spot on our Tea Cruise to Canada this summer.  See our event page for details and how to make your deposit.....Lady Gayle

March 31, 2006

WHEW! We have returned from the World Tea Expo and it was a whirl wind as usual.  It was a great show, extremely well attended and our table was very busy as well!!  Special thanks to our tea friends--those of you who stopped by to introduce yourselves, those of you who stopped by just to say "hey, we met you way back at the beginning and wanted to tell you how impressed we are with your growth & the beautiful improvements to your publication!", those of you who ordered from us, and those of you who are our regular customers who continually re-order and re-subscribe for bulk shipments of The Tea House Times.  We were thrilled to see you all at the expo and thank you sincerely for visiting.  Thanks for sharing your heart felt passion for afternoon tea with us! 

Well, the cruise is looking great!  So many people rushed over to our table to sign up or take information so they can get all their girlfriends to sign up too.  (This will be a great trip for sharing a cabin to catch up with friends as well as a quality family trip--Carnival offers an extensive selection of activities and delicious meals.)  We will have two morning seminars.  One will focus on the scientific/health benefits of tea, the second one will be lighter and more on the history of tea along with some fun interactive activities.  We are using our amenity points for a private afternoon tea for our group and some other great surprises.  Shore excursions pertaining to tea are being organized (for an additional fee) and more details will be available soon.  Also our goodie bag is looking good with some great products donated by tea and food businesses relating to tea!  Such fun!

So, what went on at the expo?  Our new satin gift ribbons with the word Tea printed in 3 languages were HOT, HOT, HOT!  Also HOT was our teapot shaped boxes-great for packaging, party favors, centerpieces, takeout lunches, or takeout afternoon tea.  Our new teapot hole punch was a great hit as was Cheryl Dunbar's Tea Time Bingo game and a brand new game we are distributing called the Tea Party Game (for young children--very cute).  If you want the expo specials we offered, send us an email before April 5, 2006. (wholesale to qualified buyers with resale ID #).

Stay tuned and keep watching our website news page for a complete report about World Tea Expo.  We will tell you about some new, very interesting products we found as well as some great helpful tips learned at the seminars.  More soon......Lady Gayle

March 22, 2006

We are getting ready to leave for the World Tea Expo, www.worldteaexpo.com   We will be there exhibiting from Monday, March 27 through Wed. March 29.  Please visit us at Table #1.  All who place any order or deposit for the Tea Cruise will receive a free tea themed wall calendar, other bonuses with various levels of purchase, and our new revised and updated Tea Health Guide EBOOK.  Visit us to view our new Tea Ribbons from England, subscribe to The Tea House Times, order bulk shipments, see our Reader Favorites including Tea Time Bingo, Lady Dawnya's training seminar CDs, our teacup hole punch program, teapot boxes, a new tea party game for young children, and more.  OR just stop by to say hello.  See you soon. .....Lady Gayle

March 20, 2006

Time goes by so quickly and I have so much to tell.  Today was one of those days that made me smile all day long.  Ever have one of those great days that makes you believe in and remember why you set out to do something?  Sharing my passion for afternoon tea brings many rewards.  Today I was invited to a local B&B right here in my own town of Sparta, NJ called the Brick House Farm B&B.  The owner, Diana, found me through my ad in Southern Lady's Tea Time Magazine.  She read that my business was in her town of Sparta and wanted to find out about The Tea House Times.  It isn't often that I can meet with someone so close by, so I said to her "why don't we meet for lunch?"  Her reply was, "oh, why don't you just stop by, I won't take up much of your time."  So, we set a date for today at 10 a.m.  When I arrived at the doorstep of the B&B, Diana greeted me and led me inside her gorgeous home/B&B.  She took me into the dining room where she had prepared a beautiful table set with a gorgeous table cloth, fine china, cloth napkins, a hot pot of water waiting for tea, and freshly baked scones, jam, and lemon curd!!!!  How nice is that!?!  We sat down and had such a nice visit.  I learned about the history of the old house (built in the 1800s).  This is only my second time setting foot inside a B&B.  My first visit to a B&B was when I was invited to Cape May for Victorian week and stayed with the Queen Victoria B&B property.  I had always wondered what it was like to stay in a B&B.  Wow, it is wonderful.  The owners take such pride in their business.  I can see that Diana has the same gift for hospitality as the owners of the B&B I visited in Cape May.  Diana enjoys cooking and making most things from scratch, completely homemade and fresh.  The scones she baked for our visit were so incredibly delicious, warm, and in the shape of hearts!  A very heartwarming experience too.  I could have sat there all day long.  It was wonderful.

On another note, my mom went to visit my grandmother in Florida last week.  They visited a tea room in Ormond Beach called Margaret's English Rose Tea Room, and brought back rave reviews for the wonderful hospitality and delicious food, and HUGE scones and incredible, freshly made clotted cream.  When they told the owner they were my relations, she treated them extra special.  I'm so jealous that I wasn't there too since you all know how much I LOVE clotted cream (the REAL stuff) and scones!  Just a week prior to their visit, some of my grandma's lady friends had visited the same tea room and told the owner they know "Lady Gayle's grandmother"  and they too were treated extra special.  How nice!!  I have full reports from grandma's friends (they are Red Hatters!) and a full report from mom about the tea room.  Watch for it in our July/August issue and here at our website tea room page.

Regarding our Tea Cruise set for the end of July to Canada, I'm really getting excited now.  I put in my deposit for my entire family to attend.  So, it's final, it's a go.  We looked into the cruise brochure tonight to see what's onboard.  My kids are so excited.  Pools, waterslide, arcade games, computers, internet, FOOD, some more food, incredible entertainment, and so much more.  The perks we will receive for booking the group cruise include our private afternoon tea function and two seminars while at sea.  Several businesses are donating items for a gift bag for all attendees.  It's going to be fun.  Can't wait to meet some of our Tea House Times devotees......Lady Gayle

March 8, 2006

Off to the local tea room today.  The Tea Hive in Newton, NJ is always a special treat.  The selections of tea sandwiches, sweets, and scones change frequently, so you will never be bored.  Today my favorite was asparagus wrapped in phyllo dough with parmesan.  Yum. The Elegant Tea Luncheon also includes soup and salad.  They always offer an onion soup or the soup of the day, and the salad is always a little different every time you visit. The gift shoppe at the Tea Hive is just as good as the food.  Sometimes we can't wait to finish our food so we can go visit the gift shop upstairs.  The selection of things to buy is ever changing, and the prices are great.  We never leave without buying something......Lady Gayle

March 6, 2006

Be sure to visit our website Events page frequently.  We have been hearing from a lot of people lately who are hosting tea fundraisers.  What a great way to relax and raise money for a good cause at the same time!  Way to go!  If you hear of any tea themed fundraisers, tell them to email the details to us, we will list them for free at our event page......Lady Gayle

February 24, 2006

Busy day today.  Visited our supplier for the gorgeous TEA Ribbons we will be showing at the World Tea Expo in March.  Wait until you see the incredible new colors.  Our ribbon supplier keeps on top of the newest trends in hot colors and you will want them all!  We can't wait to show them to you.  Be sure to visit us at the World Tea Expo in Las Vegas March 27-29, 2006.  Also see our news page for a news release just sent in about the World Tea Expo Selling OUT.  Really, it is growing so much that they have run out of exhibit space.  Very exciting news.  The expo organizers are a great group of people and the speakers are very much worth your time and money, and, of course, the exhibitors are all great with high quality tea products and merchandise.  What else did we accomplish today?  A visit to T Party Antiques in Darien CT.  A lovely experience--food was incredible & so was the tea!  Stay tuned for our full review at our website tea room page, and a portion of the review in our next issue.....Lady Gayle

February 22, 2006

Just returned from a few days off and a trip to Palm Beach, FL.  Ahhh, a much needed break and the weather was fabulous.  We had all good intentions to visit the Flagler Museum for Afternoon Tea, but it just didn't happen.  The weather was unexpectedly 81 degrees and so we didn't waste a minute indoors.  Leaving NJ and 18 inches of snow for Palm Beach and 80 degrees was not so hard to do.  Check out our upcoming May/June 2006 issue for a little peak into High Society in Palm Beach, FL.  A perfect little something for this edition's Society Page :-)....Lady Gayle

February 14, 2006 

Happy Valentine's Day!!  We just finished posting some new products on our Gift Shoppe page.  And we just placed our first --actually your first--story on our Society Page.  Please do send us your stories relating to tea and friendship.  Our report about the New York International Gift Fair has been posted at our website news page (a very helpful tool for busy tea room owners!).  We already heard from Susan, owner of Teaberry's in Flemington, "Thanks for compiling another list for us (aka Tea Room Owners Short on Time!)  I always find it useful and enjoy scanning the sites."    You are welcome, Susan, and all the other tea room owners that find this information helpful.  Once again, we strive to help busy tea room owners in every way possible.  (Tea Room Owners--Don't forget, if you order bulk shipments of The Tea House Times, you may post your special tea room events here at our website "Tea Room Bulletin Board" via our Events page for free.~Help get your special events noticed!).....Lady Gayle

February 2, 2006

On Monday, Jan. 31 we visited the New York Gift Fair.  If you haven't attended, it's worth a visit to find unique, high quality gifts and jewelry, and tableware, and much more.  You really need a full day or 2 days to see it all.  We are presently working on our show report and will post all the great tea related vendors that we found that may be of interest to tea room owners.  You can watch for it over the next several days at our website news page. .....Lady Gayle

January 21, 2006

New Year, New Products.  We are receiving shipments daily of new products soon to be offered on our gift shoppe page.  Available immediately is a newer, wider range of the tea ribbon with lots of new wired choices.  We now have teapot key chains and teapot table cloth clip-ons (to hold a tablecloth down in windy conditions, or to dress up a table, or to help swag the tablecloth).  If you are interested in these items, email for availability, but they will soon be featured on our gift shoppe page when the rest of our new products arrive.  Some great new Victorian inspired table service pieces are coming, an adorable teapot shaped bulletin board, and much more.  We'll announce via email when our gift shoppe page has been updated.  Be sure to join our email list if you haven't already done so.  Click on the left column where it says "specials".....Lady Gayle

January 14, 2006

Happy New Year, everyone!  What are your resolutions?  Mine is to spend more time with my children.  Time flies by way too fast.  Before you know it, it's Christmas again.

This past Friday, I visited a new tea room here in New Jersey called Katherine's Tea Room in Ledgewood, NJ (review in our Mar/Apr 06 issue).  What a delight!  Do you ever think to yourself, "I don't have time, I can't get out this week, etc."  Oh, the excuses we make!  Well, I was feeling a little tight on time since the next issue of The Tea House Times is due to the printer, BUT guess what, I forced myself to go out and boy am I glad I did.  We really need to make time for ourselves in these busy lives we lead.  Once you get out, clear your head, spend some time with a good friend, you will be so refreshed!  That's what is so wonderful about going to afternoon tea.  It is not a hurried lunch.  It is a wonderful, relaxing experience in which you can really, truly take the time to visit with those dear to you.  (OR really give your full, undivided attention to a business associate).

When I visit tea rooms to write a review for The Tea House Times, I also try to take notice of how other people are enjoying themselves.  And, I don't mean to eavesdrop, but sometimes I overhear some great conversations about people's tea selections, other tea rooms they have visited, and also the wonderful, fun time they are having, enjoying one another's company.  At a table close by to us were seated a mother and two older children (a boy and a girl), probably a nice outing with mom before they return to college after their break or something.  Well, I continue to be amazed at how teens and older "children" are becoming so interested in tea drinking.  They sounded like experts.  Well, Katherine's Tea Room, did have an impressive selection of teas and yes, they were all loose, and prepared properly!  The boy sounded very well versed in tea varieties and even though this tea room was a "bit feminine for his tastes", he was happily enjoying his tea and great company.....Lady Gayle

December 30, 2005

So, what did Santa bring?  --Tea Related?  I received a beautiful teapot/cup combination from a dear friend of mine.  The perfect size pot for 2-3 cups and a lovely matching cup that the pot nests into when not in use.  I received several books about tea and also collecting of china, silverware, etc.  My mom bought me a beautiful platter in the shape of a lady with a red hat!  So cute.  I'm a pink hatter, and I'm sure I can put the platter to some good use.  Mom also brought me some beautiful delft Christmas ornaments as she does every year, but this time, guess what--they are teapots!  So beautiful.  It was a wonderful Christmas and I hope you enjoyed yours as well.  Write to me and tell me what you received to satisfy your tea passions! 

Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy new year!....Lady Gayle

December 10, 2005

I've surrendered to the internet shopping experience!  I never thought I could do it since I have always wanted to hand pick everyone's holiday gift, but it's such a busy time of year!  So, I decided to try it.  Why not "hand pick" something over the internet?  Well, someone in my family wants a gift card to Neiman Marcus and a friend of mine wants petit fours from Neiman Marcus, so why not, I ordered on-line!  Well, I couldn't resist browsing their site and did a search for tea.  What did I find?  A really cool, or warm, shall I say, teapot cozy--IN CASHMERE!  It looks like a knit, cashmere sweater for your teapot (actually it comes with a teapot I think).  A bit pricey, but very unique!  (No, I didn't buy it :-(  Just thought I'd share that with you.  Happy holiday shopping everyone!  ....Lady Gayle

November 30, 2005

Today I attended a Victorian Afternoon Tea at the Peapack Library in New Jersey.  I was invited to speak about the history of tea and how to serve afternoon tea easily to guests in your own home.  It was a great time.  We played a game from our website; our bingo game along with a story (learning can be fun, even for adults!!)  What a beautiful job they did preparing for this tea.  The library has a glass display case at the entrance filled with a beautiful teacup collection.  The Director of the library brought in her own collection of fine china teacups for the patrons to use and enjoy.  She also purchased several different types of loose leaf teas giving everyone a nice selection to choose from.  The teas were brewed and strained; served immediately to guests.  Three basic types of tea sandwiches had been prepared in advance including cucumber, chicken salad, and egg salad.  The platters of sandwiches, sweets, and scones were beautifully presented and everyone had a wonderful time, including me!  ....Lady Gayle

November 11, 2005

So busy here!  We attended the Chocolate Show in New York City today.  Wow, it was so crowded, I really couldn't believe it.  We found 4-5 businesses selling chocolate infused with tea!  A report will be posted at our news page.  The most delicious were the earl grey flavored chocolates.  Others flavored with green tea were good, but much lighter as far as tasting the tea.  This show was initially open to the trade only, and then following days open to the public as well, so I was able to take my daughter with me since she was home from school (NJ teacher convention).  An exhibit displayed the process of making chocolate and it was a real learning experience.  Making chocolate is very labor intense, not unlike tea!  Well, I say labor intense = extraordinary results.  Chocolate YUM, Tea YUM. There were also children's activities (for much younger children), and there was also a mini exhibit on the history of chocolate; very interesting.  We tasted everything from chocolate flavored teas to dessert wines to brownies, truffles, chocolates of every variety size and shape, hot chocolate and more.  I'll have a sugar headache and a caffeine buzz for a month!  There was even an artist with chocolate oil paintings!  Yes, you could eat them apparently (if you could afford to!).  I asked the artist if we could lick the paintings like on Willy Wonka and the Chocolate factory.  He said if you you buy it you can lick it!  Imagine our surprise that he was serious the art could be eaten!  Unbelievable.  A fun day.  ....Lady Gayle

November 9, 2005

Today was a lovely day.  Spent the day with 4 other ladies and went to afternoon tea at the Tea Hive in Newton, New Jersey.  The Tea Hive never disappoints.  The presentation of the tea sandwiches and desserts is always different and always beautiful AND delicious.  What else did we do?  If you have visited our gift shop page recently you will have seen that we are now offering a service to custom frame bridal invitations and baby announcements with custom matting and hand paper filigree or paper quilling.  Paper quilling (aka Paper Filigree is a lost art and adds charm and beauty to a wedding invitation when elegantly framed.)  A very good friend of mine has a custom framing business and she has been doing custom framing and paper quilling for approx 20 years.  It is the most elegant, most appreciated gift every single time.  She is very talented and creative and every quilling and frame job is unique and special.  So, anyway, spent the day in her frame studio gathering samples and pictures to show you along with more information about paper filigree that we will be posting soon in an article.  ....Lady Gayle

November 2, 2005

Guess what?  The Tea House Times is now an official distributor of beautiful ribbons from England.  We visited the ribbon warehouse today.  We found ribbon with the words Tea, Te, The' printed on a one inch wide ribbon and decided to carry the entire line of this ribbon from England.  The high cost associated with importing a product makes some products too costly for individuals and businesses to buy, so we are now distributing this fine ribbon along with an easy bow maker from England so all tearoom owners, tea party businesses and individuals holding tea parties can benefit.  Check out our gift shop page for more details.  You should have seen the warehouse!  Aisle after aisle of every ribbon imaginable.  And the quality is superior to any ribbon I have seen in the craft shops here in the U.S.  The ribbon holds it's shape very well for making large gift basket bows, and the tea ribbon is very unique and special for making beautiful goodie bags or gift basket bows, or for designing stand-out packaging for any product line.  We will be demonstrating the bow maker at the World Tea Expo in March, but we have begun taking retail and wholesale orders for the ribbon already.  This is exciting news and we couldn't wait to share it with you.  You'll love the tea ribbons!  And the colors will fit with every one of your tea party themes!....Lady Gayle

October 26, 2005

My son had a great project tonight for his Social Studies class in school.  He had to create correspondence from officers in the Revolutionary War.  So, how did we make the paper look old?&