Exeter College staff member publishes elegant guide to the authentic British afternoon tea

Exeter College staff member Melissa Thiesen has published her first book, Chá das Cinco: O Ritual do Afternoon Tea, offering an elegant and affectionate guide to the British afternoon-tea tradition through a Brazilian perspective. 

Melissa brings a unique voice to the subject, blending personal narrative with practical detail, as the book explores the history, etiquette, and comforting ritual of afternoon tea. As a member of the College’s catering team, she brings her everyday insight into the world of food service and hospitality, and this new work channels that expertise in a fresh direction. In Chá das Cinco, Melissa writes with warmth and precision about how tea, small cakes and layered traditions intersect to create something more than a meal: a pause, a ritual and a space for connection. 

The book covers the origin of tea in England, the birth of afternoon tea in the Victorian era, and the distinction between afternoon tea and high tea. It includes step-by-step guidance on how to set the perfect table—covering crockery, cutlery, teapots, milk jugs, sugar bowls, and tea strainers—as well as the correct order of service on a three-tiered stand and the etiquette of stirring, serving, and enjoying the full afternoon tea experience. 

In addition to contextualising classic teas like English Breakfast, Earl Grey and Darjeeling, the book offers essential recipes for scones, finger sandwiches, and petit fours. Melissa includes tips on flavour pairings and elegant presentation, making it easy for readers to recreate the experience at home, at events or as a thoughtful gift. Practical checklists and hosting advice help to demystify the ritual and encourage readers to embrace the joy of hospitality. 

Interspersed throughout the chapters are personal stories from women who took part in an afternoon tea hosted by Melissa. Their reflections speak to the sense of belonging, friendship, and memory that a shared table can inspire. 

Exeter College warmly congratulates Melissa on this creative achievement and look forward to seeing how her writing continues to reflect the spirit of hospitality and care that she brings to College life. 

You can purchase your copy of Chá das Cinco: O Ritual do Afternoon Tea (in Portuguese) from Amazon, with an English edition due to be released soon.

Images of the launch of Chá das Cinco: O Ritual do Afternoon Tea, held at Exeter College