Talbot House Ministries’ Auxiliary Board invited guests to attend their 11th annual Auxiliary Rose Tea event on Sunday, March 15, 2020 at All Saints’ Episcopal Church for a special cup of tea.
More than 70 participants attended the Auxiliary Rose Tea this year. Longtime Auxiliary member Charlie Burdette welcomed guests in style, sporting a tuxedo and top hat to add to the festivity. The Master of Ceremonies, Jean Johnson, gracefully led those in attendance back in time. Interestingly enough, eleven years ago she presented this event to the Auxiliary Board as a perfect idea to help further Talbot House Ministries’ mission to help serve clients. This event has turned into a beloved tradition.
Guests sipped hand-poured tea and enjoyed delicious tea sandwiches, scones, and chocolates served by Talbot House residents.. All of the food was donated by generous supporters. Beautiful red rose center pieces brought additional elegance to the stunning background of downtown Lakeland.
Dressed in traditional Victorian-style attire, guest speaker J. Lenore shared many interesting facts about the history of Victorian tea culture and its influence on modern day culture. She taught ladies in the hidden art of fan etiquette, distributing fans so that guests could practice the gestures themselves.
Bob Alexander, Board Vice President, gave wonderful remarks celebrating how guests could directly benefit those at Talbot House Ministries. Helen, a Talbot House resident, stirred hearts with her testimony of life transformation through God’s grace. Sabrina and Gabby led the crowd in a sweet melody that captured the interest of every Rose Tea attendee. Finally, the crowd embarked on an extravagant hat parade. First, second, and third place winners of the hat parade showed off stylishness and creativity, receiving brand-new tea pots of their own. Victorious in the tea trivia contest was one of Talbot House Ministries’ own, resident Yolanda.
Patti Rose, Auxiliary Board president, stated, “We were able to do really well. This shows the ability of the Auxiliary Board to continue to provide support for current and future clients.” Next year’s Rose Tea should occur either the second or third Sunday in March. See you at high tea!
