Overview of the Day
Aria Court hosted a beautifully curated Morning Tea Party, held in conjunction with the home’s regular Community Café (Dementia Café). The event brought together residents, families, and members of the local community for a morning of music, hospitality, and heartfelt connection. The home also welcomed the FACET Young Adults with Disabilities group, who joined earlier in the day for a hospitality training session led by our Head of Culinary & Hospitality and our Head of Lifestyle & Community Engagement.
Resident nd Community Engagement
The morning began with a practical training session where the FACET young adults were guided through the art of hosting, learning how to lay a table, arrange floral centrepieces, and understand how the sights, sounds, and scents of an event all contribute to an inviting atmosphere. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, from the hand-embroidered tablecloths to the flowers matched to the pastel tones of the vintage teacups and saucers.
Following their training, the FACET group joined residents and guests for the main event, serving tea, handing out sweet treats, and engaging in conversation. Their confidence and enthusiasm created an uplifting atmosphere, and residents enjoyed the energy and kindness the group brought to the home.
Meaningful Engagement and Outcomes
This event fostered a genuine sense of inclusion and purpose. Residents took pride in sharing their experience of traditional hospitality, while the FACET participants gained practical skills, confidence, and the joy of seeing their efforts appreciated. The collaboration demonstrated the power of partnership in creating meaningful, person-centred experiences that enhance wellbeing and promote community connection.
Culinary Experience
The culinary team at Aria Court created an indulgent spread of mini cream-filled éclairs, frangipane tarts, and buttery shortbread, all freshly made by the chefs and presented on elegant, tiered stands. The delicate pastries complemented the vintage theme perfectly, and the aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the room. Every element reflected the home’s commitment to delivering restaurant-quality experiences within a homely, welcoming environment.
Music and Atmosphere
The King and Rackham duo provided live music throughout the morning, performing a beautiful mix of classical and dance favourites including the tango, foxtrot, and A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square. The morning concluded with a moving performance of Nessun Dorma, which brought many guests to tears.
One resident, deeply touched by the music, held hands with her two daughters as they listened together, a truly emotional moment. Another resident, a former ballet performer, delighted everyone by standing to demonstrate graceful ballet movements, inspiring staff and visitors to join her in dance.
Feedback and Reflection
Families and community guests described the event as “beautiful”, “elegant”, and “one of the most memorable mornings at Aria Court.” They praised the chefs for the quality of the homemade bakes and expressed admiration for the FACET group’s contribution, which added warmth and inclusivity to the occasion.
One-to-One Moments
Throughout the morning, staff and volunteers took time for personal conversations with residents, reminiscing about favourite teatime traditions, family gatherings, and memorable dances. These small, individual connections added emotional depth and a sense of belonging to an already joyful event.
Summary
The Community Café and Morning Tea Party showcased Aria Court’s commitment to enriching residents’ lives through community connection, culinary excellence, and creative engagement. It was a morning of elegance, learning, and shared joy , a celebration of what can be achieved when generations and communities come together in harmony.
