Tea Fit for a Queen:

 One of our  Homemaker clubs has been going to our Assisted Living  for 3 years as part of their community outreach, doing various craft projects with the  residents. This year they decided to have a “Tea Party” with the residents during their regular meeting. They worked to plan their menu of various teas and finger foods, and desserts. They decided to use china tea services  and decorate with antique tea sets and flowers to make it truly special. They also began the “Tea Party” the same way they begin their club meeting with a brain game activity and a devotion. They included a short lesson on tea, tea etiquette, and traditions. One member made invitations to put on the residents’ doors prior to our party. Everyone had something to bring whether food, decorations, table cloths, treat bags, game, prizes or music.

Although the winter weather was questionable they had 20 club members and 19 residents to attend and the night was a huge success! The food table was overflowing with cookies, fruit, tea sandwiches, brownies, cupcakes and many varieties of tea, punch and water. Flowers were on tables, in teapots and vases.  The residents were escorted to the food table and assisted with getting food.  Club members sat with the residents and got to know them which was probably the most rewarding part of the evening.  They passed out treat bags and gift bags with lap blankets, lotion, pens and paper and a variety of items, which had been donated by a church. They also delivered these items to those residents who did not attend. 

 The activity director posted pictures on Facebook after the “Tea Party” and the response was amazing. She described the party as “fit for a queen”(although they actually had several men in attendance too). Facebook comments from the public included; “this was such a great idea”,  “such a wonderful thing to do!”, “beautiful tea”, “a great tea  party, nice job ladies”, “so sweet”, “Mom said this was her favorite event yet! She  loved it!” just to mention a few.

 When planing this event nothing was said about it becoming a yearly event, but after the response of the residents and club members they are planning to make it an annual event. Many club members made connections with the residents and want to go back and continue that relationship. One or two or people could not have provided the “Tea Party”, but  the impact a group of people can make is limited only to our imagination. It was truly a great night for not just the residents but for the club members and the community as a whole.