Annual High Tea Party, Shangri La

"Take some more tea," the March Hare said to Alice very earnestly."I've had nothing yet," Alice replied in an offended tone, "so I can't take more"

Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland 

Bursting at the seams with ladies, couture and goodie bags, we discover a wonderland of girliness at the annual High Tea Party at the Shangri La Hotel. Billed as a gorgeous excuse to catch up with the girls, we delve into the fray to discover stalls touting every possible requirement for a girls' day in (or night out). Girls rest stilletoed feet in deck chairs while served free coffees, pose for polaroid photos with pearls and feather boas, and ascend the staircase while rifling through racks of vintage clothing. Fabulous fascinators, flouncy frocks and frilly accessories are all on hand for feminine dress ups as we navigate the various floors.

For those feeling under-groomed, solutions abound (provided one has time to wait in line). Queue for a manicure after indulging in a hand massage, have a spray tan on the spot before having your make up done professionally. Get your bra properly fitted before picking a summer bikini... and even sign up for a month of free online fitness training. Overwhelmed by choice and with an aversion to queuing, we opt to relax in the Galliano Lounge pop up bar and enjoy generous servings of Galliano Mocha Martinis – a decadent combination of Galliano Ristretto, Russian Standard Vodka, Lavazza Espresso topped with Bols Crème De Cacoa White. 

Our High Tea sitting is at 2.30pm, and we leave the female frenzy for an oasis of calm in the Shangri La ballroom. A gentleman croons Louis Armstrong’s ‘What a wonderful world’ as we sip bubbly and admire models parading elegant fashion between tables. A selection of finger sandwiches include smoked salmon, minted cucumber and York ham, followed by Sara Lee mini desserts and buttery scones fresh from the hotel kitchen. 

A ladies’ only event full of fun, indulgence and pampering, the High Tea Party was a novel opportunity to embrace quality girl time in an otherwise hectic schedule. High tea sittings were at 10.30am, 12:30pm, 2.30pm and 4.30pm and took place on October 8 and 9, 2011. Tickets were sold through OurDeal, and included cocktails at the Galliano Lounge. Every guest received a gift bag with products and special offers.

Lifeafterfive* and friend attended the High Tea Party as a guest of OurDeal.