The Fine Art of Tea is a beautiful, soothing, relaxing, intriguing, and vast subject. What is the history of tea? Where does it come from? How is it grown? What are the different types of tea and how are they different? How do I make the perfect pot of tea? How do I make tea foods? What are the health benefits of tea? How can I have the perfect tea party? What is the correct etiquette when taking tea?
Tea is fascinating! The more you know about tea the more intriguing it becomes. Tea is second only to water, world- wide, for the most drank beverage. It has been drunk for thousands of years. Bruce Richardson, famed author and owner Elmwood Inn Fine Teas and Benjamin Press says “There is so much to learn about tea that one could never be considered an expert.” There is so much to learn, and how fun it is to study about something that gives so much pleasure.
Marcia Franks became interested in tea at an early age, and began seriously studying tea in 2003 when she determined that the second half of her life would be spent enjoying tea and educating others in the fine art of tea. Marcia was a student of The Magnolia and Ivy school, The Elmwood Inn tea program, several online classes, and has attended The World Tea Expo for the last six years where she attended week long courses in all things tea. She is a member of the Specialty Tea Institute, and international foundation that certifies 3 levels of proficiency. Marcia has attained two levels and is in the process of achieving the top level. She is also certified in Tea and Etiquette by The Protocol School of Washington.
Marcia has studied under industry giants Jane Pettigrew (International Tea Consultant, Speaker, and Author), James Norwood Pratt (Father of the Tea Renaissance in America), Bruce and Shelley Richardson (Authors, Tea Room Owners, Educators, Authors and Photographers), John and Michael Harney (Tea Blenders, Wholesalers, and Educators), Richard Guzauskas (Chairman Specialty Tea Institute), Elizabeth Knight (Author, Speaker, and Merchandiser), Dorthea Johnson (Founder of The Protocol School of Washington), and many other industry giants.
Marcia plans to offer a series of classes at the Tea School (the 1880 West Harpeth School House) located adjacent to the manor house. The Tea School is the perfect environment for learning and appreciating the fine art of tea.
Marcia is planning an introduction class in tea, Tea 101. The two hour class gives the student an overview of tea history, different tea types, tea tasting, health benefits, and how to prepare the perfect cup of tea. The price for the class is $70 and includes all class materials and teas. The class will be Saturday, January 23, 2010. The deadline for reservations is Saturday, January 16, 2010. Please contact Bryana@homesteadmanor.com to reserve your place and any questions you have.
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