Residents coming down with a case of royal wedding fever over the pending marriage between Prince William and Kate Middleton can get a taste of British royalty without leaving the country this weekend.

Members of the American Association of University Women’s Huntley branch and Women of Mystery Book Club are planning the poshest party in town with a Royal Tea Social on Saturday in Woodstock.

“To most Americans, there’s always been something a bit mysterious or magical about royalty, especially the British royals,” said Diane Ayers, Huntley AAUW member. “Instead of just watching on TV, at our Royal Tea you can celebrate in refined British style right here at home.”

The Royal Tea Social will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Tarts and Truffles tearoom on the historic Woodstock Square, 124 Cass St.

During the event, a selection of gourmet teas imported from the English Tea Store and coffee will be offered, including a variety of loose-leaf teas such as Lady Londonderry, Earl Grey, English breakfast and Bingo Blueberry, among others.

Gourmet European-style pastries will accompany homemade scones and breads, lemon curd and Devon cream served with raspberry jam.

Later, for those who may have missed the royal wedding or want to relive it, a slideshow will take place featuring photos from Friday’s proceedings.

“Royal weddings appeal to the romantic in all of us,” Ayers said. “We still want to see the beautiful princess marry her handsome prince and live happily ever after.”

Participants are encouraged to wear their nicest hats, gloves and dresses, but no dress code is required.

“At this event, anyone – even grown-ups – can get dressed up, enjoy a lovely tea party and lift a ‘cuppa’ good cheer to the royal couple,” Ayers said.

Culminating the event will be an appearance from novelist Patricia Rockwell, founder and owner of Cozy Cat Press independent publishing house in Aurora. One of her writers, Diane Morlan of Sycamore, also will appear. Morlan’s first novel, “Too Dead To Dance,” debuted in May 2010.

The event will conclude with a short discussion of “Her Royal Spyness” by Rhys Bowen, which is this month’s Women of Mystery Book Club selection.

The event costs $10 for non-members and $8 for members.

lsynett@tribune.com
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