FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: VICTORIAN VALENTINE

Haven't quite embraced the romantic vibe of the season yet? Suffice it to say... today's post may not be your cup of tea. Camille Styles here, and this week's fantasy takes a cue from the girliest of all palettes in cotton candy, blushing peach and pearl.

It's the month of love, so why not get inspired to host a decadently sweet afternoon tea for your most-adored gal pals? Whether single or attached, let everyone indulge their romantic side by donning a frilly frock and whiling away an afternoon, laughing over macaroons & crumpets.

In the age of evites, a handwritten card sent to your besties will speak volumes of your affection. This vintage-inspired one by Rifle Paper perfectly announces the Victorian vibe of our fête.

Now's not the time for sensible eating, m'dears. Cake stands and lovely pedestals piled high with sweet treats serve as delicious centerpieces. Leafy ferns and blooming orchids add to the english conservatory vibe. Homemade macaroons sound a bit intimidating? Try this easy alternative for a just-as-pretty option.

Serve Earl Grey from a teapot that's feminine and refined. Every hostess should learn to brew a proper cup of tea, and this seller has an amazing collection of vintage pots.

Although I'm usually not much of a collector, I can never have enough cake stands and apothecary jars. Just ordered loads of gorgeous pieces from this fantastic source, and I'm sure they'll be making appearances at future parties for years to come. Check out the recipes for our full Valentine's Tea menu, including radish & butter tea sandwiches, pastel whoopie pies, & rhubarb meringue cake.

*images: {row 1} food fashion friends, 100 layer cake, australia entertains {row 2} fashion is a playground, absolutely ladylike {row 3} shannon jayne via joy de vivre, mary ruffle tumblr, martha stewart weddings, brookman harris {row 4} martha stewart, bruno marchioro flickr. party images from food fashion friends.