Cuppa time
Afternoon tea is the new happy hour
In 2022, people will choose darjeeling with a friend over drinks after work. Afternoon tea is more than a meal—it’s a moment, an aesthetic, a pose. Searches for “tea party aesthetic” and “drinking tea pose” are climbing across all age groups. Pinkies up: you’re royal-tea now.
Creator spotlight
Tea time takes on a new meaning with Michael Tran. This boba-loving creator shares his fantasy-like recipes for flavored teas, pastel drinks and sweet bites. Follow Michael to create your own tea time aesthetic.
“Drinking tea isn’t new. But I’m starting to see tea time as a whole mood this year. You plan a date around pastel strawberry milk tea or splurge a little more for the teddy bear-shaped glass bottles. It’s about more than just sipping tea now.”
Local spotlight
Cuppa time in the US
The US may have boycotted tea at one point, but in 2022, we predict it will be one of the leading countries steeping into this trend. Some Americans will engage with tea time in the traditional sense—collecting tea cups, exploring photography or trying their hand at tea sandwiches—while others will give the occasion a whole new twist. Enter: hot tea bombs.
Bring this trend to life
If you’re a food or retail brand...
Food brands can offer up ideas for tea sandwich recipes and tea tasting menus. And retail brands can showcase modern kettles or traditional tea towels for an elegant cuppa time aesthetic.
If you’re a paper goods brand...
What’s a tea party without an elegant invitation? Lean into high tea party invites (print and digital!) or suggest a post-party photo book.
If you’re an entertainment brand...
Share a tea-time music playlist! Create the perfect “pinkies up” party vibe with mellow music for entertaining.
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