Tea for One, Two, Three ... everyone!!!!! (+ Giveaway)

(Let me tell you up front, you will get an extra chance to win the butterfly pendant if you follow my blog. OK, now carry on ... :o) )
The ladies in my family do high tea once in awhile for an extra special treat. It is usually once a year, or more if we have something special to celebrate. It is difficult to find a quaint little tea house that does things extra special, so my mother, aunt, cousins and I have all dreamed of opening our own little tea room that does things just right. Last month Grandma hit a milestone in her business that she felt she wanted to celebrate with the ladies. So we all got dressed in our little summery outfits, dropped the children off at the sitters, and met the ladies for tea. The chatting and laughing with the ladies is always fun, and this tea room where we met added a little extra something on top. They had you pick out your cup from the tea cupboard, and after the tea was over they wrapped it up for you to take home as a keepsake. Nice touch. I love the little blue cup that I was able to make a part of my mismatched tea set. I have to say, my overall favorite tea is at the Ritz Carlton in downtown Phoenix. There are several reasons why. First, it is decorated beautifully with amazing, giant chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. Just so ya know, I have a thing for glass. My etsy shop will probably indicate that more later on (when it is done). And a light fixture like that just does it for me.
Secondarily, the food is presented in such an artful manner and tastes every bit as good as it looks. They also have a giant selection of teas to chose from. AND everyone at your table can pick a pot to share or each have their own.
I am a freak for scones with Devonshire cream and lemon curd. If you don't serve both at tea, it seems like something is missing. The Ritz serves both and a fruity compote, as well. Oh, and they serve them in little chocolate cups. Cute!
I also adore the little deserts that they serve at the end. I like how there is a bite of each one for everyone. My favorite is the fruit tart, followed closely by the French macarons.
But, overall, I have to say the best part of tea at the Ritz is your tea server, Jeffrey. On more than one occasion has he made me choke back tears with a special song for a birthday girl or, like last time I was there, saying just the right things to the terminally ill child who was visiting the head chef to fulfill his Make-A-Wish foundation wish of being a chef for a day. Jeffrey is an amazing person with a knack for making everyone feel absolutely beautiful inside.

On that note ... I am leaving this party for you all to enjoy. Please take some of the macarons to munch on as you visit other tea parties.

I almost forgot. (Don't know how) But I am having a give-away you don't want to miss! For the lucky winner, I will custom create a 3D butterfly shadow box pendant. Please just comment below with your favorite color (I will use it for the background). The photo doesn't do this piece justice, but this pendant is now owned by my sister-in-law who has it on every time I see her. I think she loves it. :o)

For one additional entry you can follow my blog by clicking on the link up and to the right, under where it says "Followers."
And for another Follow me on Twitter ... or be my friend on FaceBook.
Make sure your comment indicates what you did for additional entries, 'cuz it is likely I won't go hunting for you. The drawing will be held and announced on Wednesday, June 30th.

Peace out, tea partiers!!!!!