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Rosemary and Thyme High Teas to hold

"Comfort & Joy Holiday Tea" including a Fundraiser for

Monterey History & Art Association's Casa Serrano Adobe 

October 17, 2025. Monterey, CA. Save the date as this fundraiser event will sell out! In fact, seats fill faster than a kettle boils.

Rosemary and Thyme High Teas is holding a special holiday-themed tea fundraiser to benefit Monterey History & Art Association's (MHAA) historic Casa Serrano Adobe in Downtown Monterey.

At a Glance:

What: Rosemary and Thyme High Tea "Comfort & Joy Holiday Tea" and Fundraiser for Casa Serrano Adobe

Join in the fun of a proper festive afternoon at Casa Serrano on Saturday, December 7th from 3–4:30 PM — where holiday magic meets the charm of a traditional British tea!

Enjoy: Holiday Tea Menu

Cranberry Noel Scone with clotted cream & jam

Traditional Yuletide Scone with clotted cream & jam

Holiday Sandwiches

Mistletoe Cucumber – English cucumber with fresh mint & cream cheese

Santa's Orchard – Ham, apple butter & shaved English aged cheddar

Holiday Cheer Chicken – Basil chicken salad with lemon zest

Festive Petit Fours

Assorted English Biscuits

Served with piping hot tea in eclectic china — a joyful holiday tradition to share laughter, warmth, and the flavors of the season

Several Holiday Gift Basket drawings will benefit MHAA

Tasty Scottish Tablet Confections & Holiday Baskets for Sale

Cost: $75 per guest — gratuity not included

Click here for tickets: https://www.rosemaryandthymehighteas.com/shop/p/comfort-joy-a-holiday-tea-rosemarythyme

Location: Casa Serrano, 412 Pacific St, Monterey

Parking: Free Sunday street parking or lot across the stree

Locals and visitors are invited to be part of this Rosemary and Thyme High Teas Fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting the preservation of Casa Serrano Adobe, managed by the Monterey History and Art Association. Participation in this event helps ensure the continued protection of this important piece of Monterey's history. Bring friends or family for an afternoon of elegance and history, all while supporting a meaningful cause and enjoy a long-term popular English tradition.

About the Monterey History and Art Association

Founded in 1931, the Monterey History and Art Association (MHAA) is dedicated to preserving the rich and diverse histories of the people, stories, and places that have shaped Monterey. Over the past several decades, MHAA has partnered with the City of Monterey, the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and other organizations to ensure the protection of Monterey's historic landmarks. MHAA's primary mission is to preserve the irreplaceable artifacts of Monterey's heritage, such as the Casa Serrano Adobe. In collaboration with local and state entities, MHAA has successfully restored more adobes in Monterey than anywhere else in California. It also manages extensive collections of historical items, including furnishings, paintings, photographs, costumes, books, manuscripts, and other significant artifacts.

MHAA's initiatives and properties include:

 Casa Serrano Adobe (1843): One of the oldest adobes in Monterey, Casa Serrano was built in 1843 and is a prime example of early California architecture. It now serves as an event space and is central to MHAA's preservation efforts. Casa Serrano also hosts various educational and cultural events, such as this fundraiser plus wedding receptions, parties and more for up to 50 people. • Doud House (1868): A charming wooden frame house, the Doud House is a prime representation of the Victorian era. Its preservation allows visitors to step back in time and experience 19th-century Monterey life. • Mayo Hayes O'Donnell Library (1876): Originally a church, this 1876 building now functions as a library. The library contains images and documents from Monterey's extensive historical collection, providing valuable resources for historians and researchers alike. • Stanton Center: Currently featuring "Bounty of the Sea", an exhibition by the Italian Heritage Society. The Stanton Center is also home to exhibits of notable artists such as Jo Mora, Paul Whitman, and others.

More details are on www.MontereyHistory.org.

About Dot Findlater

British Native Dot Findlater recently launched Rosemary and Thyme High Teas. Discover the perfect way to unwind with a relaxing and memorable outing that features an authentic British high tea experience. Dot Findlater, a London-born entrepreneur who has lived in Monterey for 5 years, is pleased to establish Rosemary and Thyme High Teas, a unique service dedicated to bringing the charm of traditional British high tea to Monterey County. This new venture caters to both large and small gatherings, offering the perfect setting for wedding and baby showers, family reunions, friends' afternoon out, children's tea parties, fundraisers for non-profit organizations, or spouse outings during conferences…or anytime.

Experience the essence of British elegance with Rosemary and Thyme High Teas, where tradition seamlessly blends with innovation to create a perfectly crafted and unforgettable afternoon. Dot Findlater offers a personalized tea service at a home, office or preferred location, and has also established relationships with stunning local venues to host your special gathering.

"I'm thrilled to bring a touch of British culture and tradition to Monterey through bespoke high tea experiences," Dot states. "My goal is to entertain and delight, offering a taste of England's grace and charm right here in the heart of this beautiful region."

Dot is also the owner of Mirror Images Global Entertainment, offering a selection of talented entertainers to enhance teatime or any gathering. She works with over 1500 lookalikes ("mirror images") and other talented performers from all over the world and books them for films, tv, commercials, parties and corporate events.

About English High Tea

High Tea is a traditional English meal, typically served in the late afternoon or early evening, featuring a variety of savory, sandwiches, scones, and pastries, accompanied by tea.

At High Tea, guests enjoy a fine tea paired with finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and delicate pastries. It's a relaxed, social gathering focused on savoring delicious treats and tea in an elegant, timeless setting at Casa Serrano.

About the History of English Tea

English High Tea gained immense popularity during Queen Victoria's reign in the 19th century, transforming it into a cherished social event designed to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner, typically served between 4 and 6 PM. Originating from the Duchess of Bedford's innovative idea, it evolved into a fashionable affair featuring delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of delectable pastries presented on tiered stands. This delightful tradition, which combines exquisite treats with the joy of socializing, continues to be a beloved way to enjoy tea and light refreshments.

For more interesting insights into this timeless practice, visit www.rosemaryandthymehighteas.com

To reach Dot Findlater to arrange a tea, call 831-888-4036 or email hello@rosemaryandthymehighteas.com

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