The Three-Tier Stand and the Manner in Which Tea is Served

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The unmistakable three-tier stand has come to be associated with afternoon tea, but have you ever wondered where this sophisticated serving method originated?

A Practical Solution

The 3-tiered stand wasn’t always part of afternoon tea tradition. First used in Victorian times as a handy solution to eating at regular tables. By serving multiple courses vertically instead of horizontally on the table, it freed up space for teapots and cups as well as conversation without cluttering. For Afternoon tea boxes, contact https://www.afternoonteabox.com/

The Perfect Order

There is a specific purpose of each tier and an order to follow traditionally. The lowest tier is made up of salty finger sandwiches, eaten initially to suppress ravenous hunger. Next tier is the quintessentially English snack of freshly baked scones smeared in jam and cream — the very heart of any true afternoon tea. From there, pastries and desserts in the uppermost layer, for when you’re already full but must have something decadent to complete the meal.

Visual Appeal

The three-tier stand is more than just practical — perched high above, it’s theatre. It turns an ordinary meal into a true meal. This vertical approach means there are no little corners or hidden surprises from guests, in one glance the table is revealed in its entirety … a very theatrical gesture that literally screams Instagrammable and this way before Instagram was even an idea.

Encouraging Sharing

And the stand is made to be sociable — it invites dialogue and exchange. Tiers are also conversation starters, guests mingle about as they take treats and make their selections. It is a way of making eating more than just about refuelling your body.

Modern Variations

Afternoon teas these days can sometimes be served on a two-tier or even four-tier stand, and the themes vary from traditional to absolutely bonkers. For all that, the three-tier is top of class.