This table started with the Victorian Valentine Tea Cakes, for which I take no credit; they’re available from Ginger Lily Sweets on Etsy. Aren’t they lovely?
Made from Springerle moulds, the little cakes are coated with a thin layer of crisp frosting, which accentuates the pattern. They come in eleven different flavours, from anise to strawberry. These are the light pink raspberry.
For about 30 seconds, I contemplated making them myself. But the thought of tracking down the variety of moulds (not inexpensive) and climbing the learning curve … uh, no. So once I had ordered the tea cakes, I began plotting the rest of the eats: Raspberry and White Chocolate Scones.
And Red Currant Cream Cheese Tea sandwiches made with Boston Brown Bread.
The plates were a gift from my good friend, Maura. The Johnson Brothers Rose Bouquet Pink pattern had been Maura’s mother’s china, and I was honoured to receive it.
Champagne coupes in the Buttercup pattern by Fostoria await filling.
Pink-edged Lucy scalloped placemats and napkins from Rebecca Udall accent each place setting against a Monique Lhuillier Rose Bouquet Jacquard Tablecloth from Pottery Barn.
Trader Joe’s came through with branch roses and pink Hypericum berries (also known as St. John’s Wort).
All set for a happy Valentine’s Day with toothsome goodies, champers and tea.
Have a wonderful weekend, all!
We are down to the short strokes now in seeing winter on its way. But, before we know it, we will be splashing our way through March and emerging into daffodil-filled April. I can’t wait.
Lovely tea table! I covet your beautiful etched stemware. So delightful. Moulded tea cakes are works of edible Art.
Happy Valentine’s Day ❤
I was very taken with how beautiful those tea cakes were! The person who made them is clearly very talented.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you, too!
The Valentine Tea Cakes are delightful and I love the beautiful table setting .
Thanks, Rachelle. I can’t believe it’s been over six weeks since New Year!
Dear Helen,
Thanks for this very pretty and feminine setting. I like patterns with a centre that can be covered if desired; it’s like having two plates in one. And ruffle edges; toujours ruffles! I had a springerle-mold rolling pin when I was young…wonder what happened to it? I didn’t know hypericum came in pink–it makes an unusual and textural counterpoint to the softness of the roses. A bottle of Jouet is always welcome, and it deserves those lovely coupes. Although it’s cold, the skiing is fabulous on these glittery days. Still, it will be nice to see the crocus soon.
The ruffles are a lovely touch on the plates – they complement the tiny rosebuds so nicely.
The Hypericum was a surprise to me, too. So used to seeing it in green and maybe yellow.
I’m eagerly awaiting spring bulbs, too. Going to the UK in April where we will be awash in daffodils. Can’t wait!!