It’s tea time in Cranbury

The Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society’s fourth annual Marilyn Lyn Green Tea to be held on June 9

By: Lacey Korevec
   Whether wearing modern sundresses or adorned in white gloves and Victorian inspired dresses topped off with big, dramatic hats, community members will sip tea and talk table settings at the Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society’s fourth annual Marilyn Lyn Green Tea on June 9.
   The event, to be held in the Cranbury Museum’s exhibit room at 2 p.m., is titled Ancient Times to Modern Chic and will feature a discussion led by Cranbury resident and table setting specialist Marna McDermott. She works for Royal Doulton, a company that specializes in china and tableware.
   The annual event is held in honor of Marilyn Green, a former Cranbury resident and dedicated Historical and Preservation Society member who was involved with the Cranbury Museum. Ms. Green died in 2004.
   Historical and Preservation Society member Lisa Beach, who is coordinating this year’s program along with members Karen Kelley and Karen Fiorentini, said the tea party is sure to be a real treat.
   "It’s a popular event," she said. "I think women just like to get out and be with other women. It’s also a nice setting for a young person’s first tea."
   Ms. McDermott will give a presentation on table setting and how it has changed through the years, Ms. Beach said.
   "She’ll really bring us through the years and show us how dishes were used a long time ago and right through to modern times and show us what the modern trends are, what brides are looking at and how to set tables for holiday events," Ms. Beach said.
   Those who attend the event also are invited to participate by bringing in their own dining treasures, Ms. Beach said.
   "This year we’re inviting guests to bring in one piece of their favorite China if they want to and then Marna can share what she thinks about each one and explain how it might have been used when it was first created," she said.
   A variety of different teas will be available, as well as homemade, traditional tea sandwiches and deserts.
   Ms. Beach said the exhibit room will be appropriately decorated for the event, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere for the Victorian-style luncheon.
   Tickets to the event are $20 each. Historical and Preservation Society members can receive a 20 percent discount. Food and tea is included in the cost.
   To purchase tickets, contact Ms. Beach at (609) 409-1289.