LAURINBURG — Scotland County recently observed one of its longest standing local traditions —afternoon tea.

More than 70 ladies from Scotland and surrounding counties came together Sunday at the Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast.

“We have been doing the event for almost 18 years … and I thoroughly enjoyed it,” said Sheila Swift, Ladies Spring Tea chairwoman. “All of the tea hostesses are here and have done a wonderful job setting up tables.”

The theme of Sunday’s tea was “Vintage Garden Party,” and featured more than 10 tables, decorated and hosted by volunteers such as Nancy Reichner, Ellen Smith, Brenda Johnson, Madeline Colon, Jan Schmidt, Clara Hulon, Tarrah Jennings, Tiafricia Woodard, Judy Fageol, Beth Bingham, and Iris Cousar.

“I think it turns out much nicer than what most people think it’s going to be,” Reichner said, who believes the event is as much “lady-like” as it is a Southern tradition.

“It’s not a competition to say who has the prettiest table, but it brings you to your best because you want your table to be as pretty as everyone else,” Reichner said.

The origins of afternoon tea can be traced back to the early 1800s, a period when dinner was taken late in the evening. Anna Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, annoyed by hunger pains caused by only having two meals a day. The Duchess scheduled time to take tea and enjoy a snack in the afternoon.

Each table for the bi-annual tea had a different decor, ranging from a Japanese garden to a Victorian garden display. Hosts decorated with flowers, artifacts, artwork, fine china, and table linens, which all gave each table its own unique experience.

“We want ladies to relax, stop what they are doing, come here, and have a good time with us, and just enjoy some delicious refreshments — just take a moment for themselves,” As well as get to know others in the community,” Swift said.

Those in attendance were able to enjoy all kinds of tea, ranging from black tea and green tea to Earl Grey and chai.

The Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast puts on two tea events a year, one in the spring and another for Christmas, typically during the first week of December.

“I look forward for this twice a year, It is a great opportunity to meet new people. I didn’t know the ladies beside me before today,” said Marilyn Hall, who made the trip from Fayetteville.

Tickets for the tea were $14 each and the event was open to women of all ages. Proceeds go to support the work of the Arts Council of Scotland County.

Sunday’s event also had performances from Brenda Gilbert, who told a story called “Orange Cheeks,” Haley Chavis recited poetry, and Leslie Knauss preformed a musical selection.

In addition, attendees were able to participate in a silent auction, and walk away with multiple door prizes.

Nolan Gilmour | Laurinburg Exchange Nancy Reichner, a volunteer and table host of Sunday’s Ladies Spring Tea, shares some homemade finger foods with her guests Lilian Boger, left, and Marilyn Hall.
https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/web1_tea.jpgNolan Gilmour | Laurinburg Exchange Nancy Reichner, a volunteer and table host of Sunday’s Ladies Spring Tea, shares some homemade finger foods with her guests Lilian Boger, left, and Marilyn Hall.

By Nolan Gilmour

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Reach Nolan Gilmour at 910-506-3171