It’s tea time every day at Kimmi’s Tea Room, but recently a special tea party was presented for tea lovers of all ages.
Tablecloths were spread, table decorations organized and an assortment of china patterns were laid out for the festivities. Dainty tea cups were repeatedly filled with assorted tea flavors, all in honor of the first "Beauty and the Beast" Tea Party. It was no coincidence they chose a "Beauty and the Beast" theme, as the play was being presented at the Park Theater.
“We just love doing this,” said owner Kimmi Taylor. “Actually we do it for the kids because they love it so much. I feel the tea party experience takes adults back to their childhood.”
In honor of the event a few extra special delicacies were added, with guests nibbling on sandwiches, quiche, brownies, scones and assorted cookies. Fruit kabobs and assorted pastries were also enjoyed.
Cookeville resident Candice Parker brought her daughter Kaylynne to the tea party, and was overjoyed with the presentation.
“She loves pretend tea parties, so this sounded fun, and we both love 'Beauty and the Beast,'” said Parker. “We didn’t know about the stage show, and it was very special to get a visit from Belle.”
Denise Osborn attended the tea party with her daughter Miranda Jenkins, who resides in Chapel Hill, and her two granddaughters, Eliza and Mattie Jenkins. The girls were adorable in their yellow Belle dresses and tiaras, sipping tea from delicate tea cups. They enjoyed the tasty sweets before attending Eliza and Mattie’s first play.
“They are excited, but are not exactly sure what it’s all about,” said Miranda. “We really like 'Beauty and the Beast,' and are having fun downtown and look forward to shopping and visiting the sights.”
Kimmi’s Tea Room is located on 110 North Spring Street, and is owned and operated by Kimmi and Mark Taylor. They have assorted desserts each day, as well as soups and sandwiches.
“She is a wonderful cook, and does most of the cooking herself,” said Mark. “She entered five desserts in the Warren County Fair, and brought home five ribbons.”
A blue ribbon was awarded for her lemon pound cake, which is served often at the tea room, with area residents forming an attachment to their scones.
“People come in here wanting a scone, and are very disappointed if they are all gone,” said Mark. “So we try to prepare as many as possible.”
The tea room days of operation are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. They can be reached by calling 941- 474-2253.
