The Freed-Hardeman University Associates’ eighth-annual Victorian Tea Party will be held Saturday, May 1st. A soiree for women of all ages, the tea party is scheduled from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the N.B. Hardeman House on White Avenue in Henderson.
Upon stepping onto the lawn of the beautiful, historic home that hosts this event, guests will be whisked back to a time when leisurely afternoon tea was not only a social affair but an art form. A full afternoon tea, including delicate sweets and savory delights, will be served, and ladies will be encouraged to participate in several activity venues. These venues will include favorites from years past, the Victorian paper doll station and the Tea Boutique, but will also feature some new crafts such as "candlewicking,” a type of needlework, lessons on how to prepare and serve hot tea and a venue to make butterfly-wands.
The ticket price includes afternoon tea and access to all activities. Advanced tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children, aged three to ten. Tickets bought at the door are $18.00 for adults and $10.00 for children. Children under three are admitted free of charge. Tickets may be purchased at the Freed-Hardeman University Store, Happy Kids Consignment Store, Lookin’ Good Hair and Tanning Salon or by calling Doris Maness at the Hardeman House at 989-2641. You may also contact Kristen Hicks at 731-989-2283 or Kristen4815@gmail.com.
As in years past, the tea party will feature a dress-up room for the youngest guests. The young at heart are welcome, but not required, to dress up in traditional hats and gloves to contribute to the tea party ambiance. A photographer will be available to take photographs of guests; photographs may be purchased for a nominal fee.
The tea party is sponsored by Mary Kay (Susan Edmonds); Chester County Bank; The Peoples Bank; Lookin' Good/A-1 Realty; Dr. Larry W. Bloomingburg; FHU University Store/Bible Bookstore; Hester Publications; No Xcuse Fitness; Stillwaters Farm; Bramblett Group; Shackelford Funeral Directors (Casey Chapel); Happy Kids Consignment Store; Radio Shack; and Patricia Jones, Republican Nominee for Chester County Mayor.
The FHU Associates formed in 1963 with the purpose of supporting Christian education. All proceeds of the Victorian Tea Party go toward scholarships to Freed-Hardeman University.