Meadow Brook Downton Abbey Tea with Barb's Tea Service: Sold-out reschedule in March serves up a delightful afternoon!

A wonderful sold-out Downton Abbey tea with BTS at Meadow Brook Hall, just slightly delayed

We've been presenting at Meadow Brook Hall's Downton Abbey-inspired afternoon teas since 2016 and this was the first year weather forced a reschedule. But, we're thrilled that the event returned this week and that we could, once again, be part of this great event.

Rachel and Barb of BTS at Meadow Brook Hall

This year's theme was a potpourri of Downton Abbey topics with an added focus on the impact of the Gilded Age. It dovetailed with BTS' meet-up with Lady Carnarvon, Countess of Highclere Castle (aka, the "real Downton Abbey") last June when she visited Newport, Rhode Island as part of blended Gilded Age-Downton Abbey celebration.

BTS has been presenting at MBH since 2016, pictured here in 2017, complete with parasol

We also talked about the "royal connection" of Downton Abbey, including the true story of the quiet, but formidable, Princess Mary. We referenced her latest biography, "Princess Mary:  The First Modern Princess", which makes the case for the only daughter of King George V as being the trailblazer for future royals stepping outside of traditional imperial roles. (We've corresponded with the author and we'll be featuring this book in an upcoming "Tuesday Tea and Tomes" - stay tuned!).

Books, magazines and teacups ready for display at BTS' tea table for MBH tea talk

Over 80 guests were in attendance and many, to our delight, were attired in period dress. Rachel and I noted that we no longer stand out in fashion at these Downton Abbey affairs and we love the enthusiasm of the DA fans (or, some who also join us in the category of "fan-atics"😀💓).

We're no longer in the minority of donning period dress, which we love!

Although an ice-storm in February put a hold on the Downton Abbey-inspired Afternoon Tea at Meadow Brook Hall, it couldn't keep it Downton-down for long. 

A special thank you to all the folks at Meadow Brook Hall for supporting another fabulous tea and for all the guests who joined us!