Henderson, Tennessee – (May 7, 2024) – The Freed-Hardeman University Associates are once again inviting women and girls to don their finest summer dresses and perfect their pinky raises for “a unique event for tea lovers everywhere.” A Victorian Tea Party, hosted by the FHU Associates, will be held Saturday, May 18, from 12-4 p.m., at the historic Hardeman House at 307 White Avenue. Tickets may be purchased at fhu.edu/teaparty, and all proceeds will go towards FHU student scholarships.
Tea Party Committee Co-Chair Kristen Hicks looks forward to sharing this unique experience with both new and returning guests. “We really love being able to create such a special event for tea lovers of all ages,” she said. “Whether it’s three generations of ladies or a group of friends or a daddy and daughter, we do our best to make sure they are served the most delicious treats and have plenty of activities to make sweet memories together.”
Now in its 22nd year, A Victorian Tea Party is one of the largest fundraising events regularly organized by the FHU Associates. This immersive experience invites guests of all ages to partake in a full afternoon tea and charming activities with their friends and loved ones. Though the event is popular with mothers, daughters and female friends, fathers are also invited to show off their chivalrous side during a special father-daughter tea time from 3-4 p.m. Corporate sponsors and individual patrons have reserved tea times, and general admission ticket holders will be seated by table availability.
This year’s dining room venue and food selections will showcase a garden theme. Menu options are as follows: Tea Party Cucumber Sandwiches, Roast Beef and Radish Sandwiches, Dill and Feta Scones with a Sundried Tomato and Garlic spread, “Peter Rabbit Scones” (carrot cake) with Cinnamon Cream, Orange Fennel Fudge, Tropical Lime cupcakes, Smoked Paprika Parmesan shortbread, Strawberry Shortcake cookies, “Berry Good” Salads (topped with blackberries, blueberries and poppy seed dressing) and fresh in-season fruit. Tea selections will include Maple Cream tea, Yorkshire Harrogate tea and a Springberry iced tea.
Gluten-free options are available, and allowances can be made for nut allergies. Guests are asked to please specify these needs when ordering tickets.
While waiting to be seated, guests may take advantage of various activities for both children and adults, such as a Little Ladies Dress-Up area, designing Victorian fashions (paper dolls), a Peter Rabbit display and matching themed photo booth, creating beribboned bunny ears, and outdoor croquet and shuffleboard. A Tea Boutique will sell various tea-themed items and samples from the day’s menu selections. Family and individual portraits will also be taken with packages available to order upon request.
The magic of A Victorian Tea Party is created after many months of planning and preparation by a dedicated committee of ladies, including: Co-Chair Debbie McLaughlin, Co-Chair Kristen Hicks, Marah Collins, Courtnee Williams, Sherry Thompson, Bridget Lamb, Margaret Payne and Shirley Eaton. Many other volunteers from the local FHU Associates chapter are integral in helping the committee’s plans come to fruition, either by creating hundreds of teatime treats in the weeklong baking marathon or by working and serving at the actual event.
Adult tickets are available for $25 ($28 at the door); children ages 3-10 are $18 ($21 at the door); and admittance for children ages two and under is free. All tickets will be emailed electronically. Please visit the event Facebook page at facebook.com/avictorianteaparty for up-to-date news and information.
The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees.