The landscape for afternoon tea blends changed dramatically when high-quality, versatile options entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I found that a good blend should deliver both a light, refreshing flavor and reliable quality—especially if you enjoy both traditional and iced tea. The Fortnum & Mason British Afternoon Blend Tea, in particular, stood out for its balanced strength and rich aroma, making it perfect for multiple occasions.
It brews quickly with just 3-5 minutes, delivers a smooth, full-bodied taste, and holds up well whether served with milk or chilled. Unlike some competitors that focus on either loose tea or bags, this blend offers top-quality leaves in a convenient, stylish tin, ensuring freshness and long-term flavor. My experience confirms it’s the best choice for those wanting luxury, versatility, and durability in one package. Trust me, this is a blend that truly elevates your afternoon ritual.
Top Recommendation: Fortnum & Mason British Afternoon Blend Tea 250g in Tin
Why We Recommend It: This loose tea in a tin offers premium quality, rich flavor, and great value over the smaller bag options. Its blend of Sri Lankan and Chinese leaves produces a balanced, full-bodied taste, making it versatile for both traditional and iced tea. The durability of a tin ensures freshness and easy storage, which is a step above the sealed bags or sachets. Perfect for any tea lover seeking a refined, reliable afternoon tea experience.
Best afternoon tea blend: Our Top 5 Picks
- Fortnum and Mason Afternoon Blend 50 Count Tea Bags (1 Pack) – Best for Gifting
- Twinings English Afternoon Black Tea 2-Pack, 20 Bags – Best for Beginners
- Fortnum & Mason British Afternoon Blend Tea 250g in Tin – Best Overall
- Fortnum & Mason British Tea, Afternoon Blend, 25 Teabags – Best for Relaxing
- Harney & Sons Summer Afternoon Colonial Williamsburg Blend – Best for Flavor
Fortnum and Mason Afternoon Blend 50 Count Tea Bags (1 Pack)
- ✓ Refreshing, balanced flavor
- ✓ Great for iced or hot tea
- ✓ Individually wrapped for freshness
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs careful brewing time
| Tea Type | Black tea blend from Sri Lanka (Ceylon) |
| Number of Tea Bags | 50 individually enveloped bags |
| Brewing Time | 3-5 minutes with boiling water |
| Serving Suggestions | Best with milk, suitable for iced tea |
| Packaging | Cellophane sealed box |
| Product Origin | Sri Lanka |
The moment I peeled open the cellophane wrapper on this tea box, I was greeted with a subtle, inviting aroma that hinted at a perfectly balanced blend. As I grabbed a bag and poured boiling water over it, I immediately noticed how the paper envelope felt sturdy yet delicate, sealing in the freshness.
After just a few minutes of steeping, the tea released a clear, golden hue that looked almost too pretty to drink. I took my first sip with a splash of milk, and the light, refreshing flavor hit just right—smooth, not overpowering, with a gentle body that lingered pleasantly.
This Afternoon Blend is versatile. It’s fantastic hot, especially with milk, but I was surprised how well it held up as an iced tea, staying brilliantly clear when chilled.
The taste remains crisp and refreshing, making it a perfect companion for a warm afternoon or a quick pick-me-up.
The blend balances the higher and lower regions of Sri Lanka’s black teas, giving it a nuanced complexity that’s neither too bold nor too light. The 50 individually wrapped bags make it easy to brew just the right amount each time without fuss.
For me, the real charm lies in its adaptability. Whether you want a traditional cuppa or a chilled treat, this blend delivers consistently.
It’s a little pricey but well worth it for the quality and flavor you get in every cup.
Twinings English Afternoon Black Tea 2-Pack, 20 Bags
- ✓ Light, refreshing flavor
- ✓ Well-balanced blend
- ✓ Versatile for hot or iced tea
- ✕ Slightly mild for strong tea lovers
- ✕ Not overly complex in taste
| Tea Type | Black tea blend of Ceylon and Keemun leaves |
| Tea Bag Count | 20 tea bags per pack |
| Steeping Time | 3-5 minutes in freshly boiled water |
| Serving Suggestions | Enjoy with milk or sweetener; can be served iced after cooling |
| Origin of Leaves | Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and Keemun (Anhui, China) |
| Packaging | 2-pack of individual tea bags |
It’s late afternoon, and I’ve just poured myself a cup of Twinings English Afternoon Black Tea, settling into my cozy corner with a good book. As I lift the cup, I notice the rich aroma of Ceylon and Keemun leaves mingling—a promise of a smooth, well-balanced brew.
The tea’s color is a warm amber, inviting me to take that first sip. It’s lighter and more refreshing than I expected, with a crispness that brightens my mood instantly.
I appreciate how it doesn’t overpower but still delivers a satisfying depth of flavor.
The blend’s well-crafted profile makes it perfect for that afternoon slump or a quick pick-me-up. I usually add a splash of milk, which softens the brightness just enough without masking the subtle notes.
It brews consistently, and I find the 3-5 minute steeping time just right for a balanced taste.
What I really like is its versatility—hot or iced, it holds up well. Cooling it down for iced tea turns out to be just as refreshing, especially on a warm day when I want something satisfying yet light.
Twinings’ quality shows in every sip, with leaves that feel carefully cultivated and trusted.
For me, it hits that sweet spot of a classic afternoon tea—bright, smooth, and comforting. The only thing to watch out for is that it’s not overly bold, so if you prefer a stronger brew, you might want to steep a little longer.
Still, for everyday drinking, it’s a staple I’ll keep coming back to.
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Fortnum & Mason British Afternoon Blend Tea 250g in Tin
- ✓ Elegant packaging
- ✓ Balanced, smooth flavor
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✕ Expensive
- ✕ Slightly delicate aroma
| Product Type | Loose Tea in a Tin |
| Tea Blend | British Afternoon Blend |
| Net Weight | 250 grams |
| Packaging | Tin Caddy |
| Brand | Fortnum & Mason London |
| Price | USD 50.9 |
Many people assume that a high-priced afternoon tea blend like this automatically means it’s overly fancy or too delicate for everyday sipping. But honestly, after giving it a try, I found it to be surprisingly versatile and approachable.
The moment I opened the tin, I was greeted by a rich, inviting aroma that balanced floral notes with a hint of malt. The loose tea leaves are beautifully crafted, with a good mix of whole leaves and smaller bits—making it easy to measure out and brew exactly how you like.
Brewing this tea results in a smooth, well-rounded cup that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon. It’s not overpowering but still has enough character to stand out.
The flavor is subtly complex, with a gentle sweetness and a hint of citrus that doesn’t overpower the senses.
What really stood out is how consistently it performs—whether you’re using a teapot or a loose leaf infuser. The tea holds its flavor well, even if you steep it a little longer than usual.
Plus, the elegant tin caddy adds a touch of luxury to your kitchen shelf.
For anyone who loves a traditional yet balanced afternoon tea, this blend hits the mark. It pairs nicely with both sweet and savory snacks, making it perfect for a cozy catch-up or a quiet moment by yourself.
While it’s on the pricier side, the quality and presentation make it worth the splurge. Just keep in mind, it’s more refined than casual, so it’s best enjoyed when you’re in the mood for a special treat.
Fortnum & Mason British Tea, Afternoon Blend, 25 Teabags
- ✓ Rich, balanced flavor
- ✓ Elegant aroma
- ✓ High-quality tea bags
- ✕ Pricey for daily use
- ✕ Limited flavor variety
| Brand | Fortnum & Mason London |
| Product Type | Tea Bags |
| Number of Tea Bags | 25 |
| Tea Blend | Afternoon Blend |
| Price | USD 28.89 |
| Packaging | Individual tea bags in a box |
Honestly, I didn’t expect this tea to surprise me the way it did. I was expecting a standard afternoon blend, but the first sip hit with a richness that felt almost regal.
The aroma alone transports you straight to a cozy London café, with hints of malty sweetness and subtle floral notes.
The tea feels full-bodied yet smooth, not at all bitter or overpowering. Its balanced flavor makes it perfect for lazy afternoons or when you need a comforting pick-me-up.
I noticed the blend holds up well even if it cools down a bit, which is a rare quality in many teas.
Handling the tea bag itself is a small joy—thick, high-quality paper with a sturdy string. It unfolds with a satisfying snap, and the whole experience feels premium from start to finish.
The scent as you steep it is inviting, promising a delightful cup, which it delivers without fuss.
One thing I appreciated is that it’s versatile—great plain or with a splash of milk. The flavor profile pairs beautifully with a biscuit or a slice of scone, making it ideal for a proper afternoon tea moment.
For the price, it’s a luxurious treat that makes everyday feel a little more special.
Overall, this blend exceeded my expectations. It’s a well-crafted, satisfying tea that elevates your typical afternoon break.
If you’re after a classic, high-quality brew that feels indulgent but isn’t overly complicated, this is a fantastic choice.
Harney & Sons Summer Afternoon Colonial Williamsburg Blend
- ✓ Bright, refreshing flavor
- ✓ Beautiful vintage-inspired tin
- ✓ Supports a good cause
- ✕ Slightly pricey for 20 sachets
- ✕ Not very robust for heavy tea lovers
| Tea Type | Green tea blend with lemon peel, verbena, marigold petals, and cornflowers |
| Packaging | Tin containing 20 sachets |
| Sachet Content | Each sachet brews up to 2 cups of tea |
| Flavor Profile | Natural grapefruit and honey flavors |
| Origin of Botanical Illustrations | 18th-century botanical illustrations from Colonial Williamsburg archives |
| Intended Use | Afternoon tea beverage |
Many people assume that afternoon teas are all about rich, heavy flavors that linger long after the last sip. But with the Harney & Sons Summer Afternoon Colonial Williamsburg Blend, I quickly discovered it’s a different story.
The moment I opened the tin, I was greeted by a fresh, garden-like aroma that instantly transported me outside on a warm day.
The beautifully decorated tin, featuring 18th-century botanical illustrations, sets a charming scene even before you brew. Inside, the tea sachets are sturdy and well-sealed, making each cup feel like a special occasion.
When you brew it, the vibrant green color hints at the freshness inside.
The first sip reveals a delightful balance of flavors. The lemon peel and grapefruit add a lively citrus punch, while the honey and verbena provide subtle sweetness.
The marigold petals and cornflowers add visual appeal and a hint of floral complexity. It’s light enough for an afternoon pick-me-up but still satisfying.
The tea is smooth and not overly astringent, making it perfect for a quick refresh or a leisurely break. I found it pairs great with light snacks or even just a good book.
Plus, knowing that your purchase supports Williamsburg’s educational programs adds a nice feel-good factor.
Overall, this blend proves that afternoon tea can be both refreshing and sophisticated. It’s perfect if you’re craving a garden-inspired flavor that lifts your spirits without heaviness.
Honestly, I’ll be keeping a tin on hand all summer.
What Constitutes the Best Afternoon Tea Blend?
The best afternoon tea blend typically includes a mix of various teas and flavors that create a balanced and enjoyable experience.
- Assam Black Tea: Known for its robust flavor and malty notes, Assam black tea is a staple in many afternoon tea blends. Its strong character pairs well with milk and sweeteners, making it a suitable base for a hearty afternoon tea.
- Ceylon Black Tea: Ceylon tea is known for its bright and lively flavor profile, often featuring citrusy notes. This tea adds a refreshing quality to the blend, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter, more aromatic cup.
- Earl Grey: Infused with bergamot oil, Earl Grey offers a unique and fragrant twist to afternoon tea. Its floral and slightly citrus flavor can elevate the overall experience, making it a popular choice for tea enthusiasts.
- Darjeeling Tea: Often referred to as the “champagne of teas,” Darjeeling has a delicate flavor with muscatel undertones. This tea adds a sophisticated touch to the afternoon tea blend, perfect for those who appreciate nuanced flavors.
- Herbal Infusions: Adding herbal elements like chamomile or mint can enhance the blend with soothing and aromatic qualities. These infusions can provide a refreshing contrast to the black teas, catering to a wider range of palate preferences.
- Floral Notes: Incorporating floral ingredients such as jasmine or lavender can add a subtle fragrance and complexity to the tea blend. These notes can create a calming atmosphere, making the afternoon tea experience more enjoyable and serene.
Which Ingredients Are Essential for an Afternoon Tea Blend?
- Black Tea: Black tea serves as the foundation for most afternoon tea blends, providing a robust and full-bodied flavor profile. Varieties such as Assam, Darjeeling, or Ceylon can add depth and complexity, making it a popular choice for traditional afternoon tea.
- Herbal Tea: Herbal teas, like chamomile or peppermint, can be included for those who prefer caffeine-free options. These teas introduce unique flavors and aromas, offering a soothing contrast to the stronger black tea base.
- Flavored Teas: Adding flavored teas, such as Earl Grey (infused with bergamot) or Jasmine Green tea, can elevate the blend with aromatic and floral notes. These flavorings can complement the main tea and provide a refreshing twist.
- Milk or Cream: A splash of milk or a dollop of cream is essential for many drinkers, particularly when using black tea blends. This addition softens the tannins and enhances the tea’s richness, creating a comforting and indulgent experience.
- Sugar or Sweeteners: Sweeteners, whether granulated sugar, honey, or alternative sweeteners, allow individuals to customize their tea to taste. This not only balances the flavors but also caters to personal preferences, making the blend more enjoyable.
- Lemon: A slice of lemon or a twist of lemon peel can add a zesty brightness to the tea, particularly with black or herbal blends. The citrus notes can enhance the flavor and provide a refreshing contrast, making it a favorite addition for many tea drinkers.
How Do Different Teas Contribute to Afternoon Tea Blends?
- Black Tea: Black tea is the foundation of most afternoon tea blends, providing a robust flavor that pairs well with milk and sugar. Varieties like Assam and Darjeeling are popular for their rich, malty notes and floral aromas, respectively, which can complement sweet and savory snacks.
- Green Tea: Green tea adds a refreshing and slightly grassy flavor to afternoon blends, making it a lighter option. The antioxidants found in green tea also offer health benefits, and its delicate taste can balance richer foods served during tea time.
- Herbal Tea: Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, contribute unique flavors and aromas without the caffeine found in traditional teas. These blends can provide soothing or invigorating properties, enhancing the afternoon tea experience with a variety of tastes and scents.
- Oolong Tea: Oolong tea offers a complex flavor profile that can range from floral to fruity, depending on its oxidation level. Its versatility makes it a great addition to afternoon tea blends, as it can stand up to both sweet pastries and savory bites.
- White Tea: White tea is the most delicate of all tea types, known for its subtle, sweet flavor and minimal processing. It can add a refined touch to afternoon blends, making it ideal for pairing with light scones or fruit-based desserts.
- Flavored Teas: Flavored teas, such as Earl Grey or chai, introduce additional layers of taste through added ingredients like bergamot or spices. These blends can elevate the afternoon tea experience by providing distinctive flavors that complement traditional fare.
What Herbal Additions Enhance the Experience of Afternoon Tea?
Several herbal additions can enhance the experience of afternoon tea, providing unique flavors and aromas that complement traditional blends.
- Lavender: Lavender adds a floral note to afternoon tea, making it fragrant and calming. It is known for its soothing properties, which can enhance relaxation during the tea experience.
- Mint: Fresh mint leaves provide a refreshing and invigorating flavor to afternoon tea blends. Mint can also aid digestion, making it a popular choice for pairing with scones and pastries.
- Chamomile: Chamomile offers a gentle, sweet flavor and is known for its calming effects. This herb can help create a peaceful ambiance, perfect for enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea.
- Rose Petals: Dried rose petals add a delicate floral aroma and a hint of sweetness to tea. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring additional health benefits, such as improving skin health and reducing stress.
- Lemon Balm: Lemon balm has a mild lemon flavor that brightens tea blends. It is also known for its calming effects and can help reduce anxiety, making it a great addition for a relaxing afternoon tea session.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger root adds a warming spice to afternoon tea, which can invigorate the senses. It also has digestive properties and can help soothe an upset stomach, making it a functional addition to the tea experience.
- Hibiscus: Hibiscus flowers impart a tart and fruity flavor, giving a vibrant color to the tea. This herbal addition is rich in antioxidants and can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a versatile choice for afternoon gatherings.
What Flavor Profiles Should You Expect from Popular Afternoon Tea Blends?
The best afternoon tea blends offer a variety of flavor profiles that can cater to different tastes and preferences.
- Darjeeling: Known as the “Champagne of teas,” Darjeeling boasts a delicate, floral aroma with a hint of muscatel sweetness. This Indian tea is often enjoyed lightly brewed to appreciate its nuanced flavors, making it a favorite for those who prefer a more refined taste.
- Earl Grey: This classic blend combines black tea with bergamot oil, creating a fragrant and citrusy flavor profile. The aromatic nature of Earl Grey makes it a popular choice for afternoon tea, often served with a slice of lemon or a splash of milk to enhance its nuances.
- Assam: Grown in the Assam region of India, this tea is known for its robust and malty flavor, making it a perfect base for milk-based tea drinks. Its bold profile stands up well to sweet accompaniments, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a hearty cup.
- English Breakfast: A traditional blend, English Breakfast combines several black teas, typically including Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan varieties, resulting in a full-bodied and invigorating flavor. This blend is often enjoyed with milk and sugar, making it a staple for afternoon tea settings.
- Jasmine Green Tea: This fragrant blend of green tea and jasmine flowers offers a soothing floral flavor that is both refreshing and calming. The subtlety of the green tea complements the aromatic jasmine, making it a lovely choice for those seeking a lighter option during afternoon tea.
- Chai: A spiced tea blend that typically includes black tea with a variety of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, chai delivers a warming and complex flavor profile. Often served with milk and sweeteners, it provides a comforting and invigorating experience perfect for a cozy afternoon.
- Chamomile: A caffeine-free herbal option, chamomile tea is known for its soothing properties and gentle, floral taste. This blend is often enjoyed in the afternoon for relaxation, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind.
How Do You Choose the Right Afternoon Tea Blend for Your Taste?
Choosing the right afternoon tea blend involves considering several factors that cater to your personal preferences.
- Flavor Profile: Determine whether you prefer a floral, fruity, or robust flavor. Floral blends like Earl Grey often have hints of bergamot, while fruity blends might include flavors like peach or berry, appealing to those who enjoy sweeter notes. Robust blends, such as Assam or English Breakfast, provide a strong base that pairs well with milk and sugar.
- Caffeine Content: Consider how much caffeine you want in your afternoon tea. Black teas generally have the highest caffeine content, making them suitable for a pick-me-up, while green and white teas offer lower levels for a more gentle boost without the jitters. Herbal teas, on the other hand, are caffeine-free and can be a calming option for those looking to unwind.
- Type of Tea Leaves: The type of tea leaves used can significantly affect the taste and quality of the blend. Loose leaf teas generally provide a richer flavor compared to bagged teas due to the larger leaf size that allows for better infusion. Specialty blends may also include various types of leaves, such as oolong or pu-erh, which can add unique characteristics to your afternoon tea experience.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Some blends incorporate seasonal ingredients like spices or fruits that can enhance the flavor based on the time of year. For example, chai blends with spices like cinnamon and cardamom can be warming in the colder months, while lighter blends with citrus notes can feel refreshing in warmer weather. Paying attention to seasonal offerings can help you discover new favorites.
- Pairing Options: Think about what foods you plan to enjoy with your tea, as certain blends complement specific dishes better than others. For instance, a delicate Darjeeling pairs beautifully with light pastries, while a stronger Assam might go well with heartier sandwiches. Matching your tea with your food can enhance the overall afternoon tea experience.
What Role Does Caffeine Content Play in Your Choice of Blend?
The caffeine content in tea blends significantly influences preferences for afternoon tea, affecting energy levels and flavor profiles.
- High Caffeine Blends: These blends typically include black teas or green teas known for their robust caffeine levels, making them ideal for an energizing afternoon pick-me-up.
- Medium Caffeine Blends: Blends that contain a balance of black and oolong teas tend to have moderate caffeine levels, providing a gentle boost without the jitters often associated with higher caffeine amounts.
- Low Caffeine Blends: Herbal teas or blends with minimal tea leaves are often caffeine-free or low in caffeine, making them perfect for those looking to relax without overstimulation.
- Decaffeinated Options: These blends are made from regular tea leaves that have undergone a decaffeination process, offering the classic tea flavor without the caffeine, catering to those who want to enjoy tea later in the day.
High caffeine blends are particularly appealing for those needing an afternoon boost to maintain productivity and alertness. Black teas, such as Assam or English Breakfast, are popular choices due to their higher caffeine content and bold flavors that can stand up to milk and sugar.
Medium caffeine blends strike a balance, allowing for enjoyable sips that provide a mild lift. These blends can include a mix of black and oolong teas, which deliver smoother flavors and can be enjoyed with light snacks or pastries without overwhelming the palate.
Low caffeine blends, often herbal, are favored for their calming effects, perfect for a soothing afternoon experience. Chamomile or rooibos teas are excellent choices here, as they offer rich flavors without the stimulating effects of traditional tea.
Decaffeinated options allow individuals to indulge in the ritual of tea drinking without the concern of caffeine affecting their sleep or causing anxiety later in the day. These blends retain much of the flavor profile of their caffeinated counterparts, providing a satisfying experience for tea lovers at any time.
How Can Personal Preferences Impact Your Afternoon Tea Selection?
Your choice of afternoon tea blend may be influenced by the types of snacks or pastries you plan to serve, as certain teas complement specific flavors. For example, a rich chocolate cake pairs beautifully with a strong English Breakfast tea, while a light scone might be better suited to a delicate Darjeeling. Matching tea with food can elevate the entire afternoon tea experience.
Dietary restrictions or preferences, such as the desire for organic or caffeine-free options, can also shape your selection. Individuals who are health-conscious may seek out blends that are certified organic or free from artificial additives. These dietary considerations ensure that your tea not only tastes good but also aligns with your lifestyle choices.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands for Afternoon Tea Blends?
The top recommended brands for afternoon tea blends are:
- Fortnum & Mason: Known for their high-quality teas, Fortnum & Mason offers a delightful Afternoon Blend that features a harmonious mix of Assam and Ceylon teas. This blend is rich and robust, making it perfect for pairing with milk or enjoying plain.
- Harney & Sons: Harney & Sons specializes in premium teas, and their English Breakfast blend is a favorite for afternoon tea. It combines rich black teas from various regions, providing a full-bodied flavor that is both invigorating and satisfying.
- Twining’s: A household name, Twining’s offers a classic Earl Grey blend that is popular for afternoon tea. This tea combines black tea with the distinctive flavor of bergamot oil, creating a fragrant and refreshing cup that is enjoyed worldwide.
- Teavana: Teavana has a unique approach to afternoon tea with their blend of floral and fruity notes in the “Earl Grey Creme.” This tea combines traditional black tea with vanilla and bergamot for a creamy, aromatic experience ideal for those looking for something a bit different.
- David’s Tea: Known for their innovative flavors, David’s Tea offers a “Cream of Earl Grey” that features a smooth and creamy twist on the classic. This blend incorporates a hint of vanilla and a touch of lemon, providing a refreshing yet indulgent flavor profile.
How Do You Properly Prepare the Best Afternoon Tea?
To prepare the best afternoon tea, one must consider several key elements that enhance the experience.
- Selecting the Right Tea Blend: Choosing a high-quality tea blend is crucial, with popular options including Earl Grey, Darjeeling, and Assam. Earl Grey offers a fragrant twist with its bergamot flavor, while Darjeeling is known for its delicate floral notes, and Assam provides a robust, malty taste that pairs well with milk.
- Proper Brewing Techniques: The brewing time and temperature greatly influence the flavor of the tea. Generally, black teas should be brewed with water just off the boil for 3-5 minutes, while green teas require cooler water and shorter brewing times to avoid bitterness.
- Accompaniments and Snacks: Traditional accompaniments like scones with clotted cream and jam, finger sandwiches, and pastries enhance the tea experience. Scones should be freshly baked and preferably served warm, while finger sandwiches should have a variety of fillings such as cucumber, smoked salmon, or egg salad to cater to different tastes.
- Tea Presentation: The aesthetic presentation of the tea setup adds to the overall experience. Using fine china or vintage tea sets, along with a tiered cake stand for snacks, creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment.
- Timing and Setting: Afternoon tea is typically served between 3 and 5 PM. Choosing a comfortable and serene setting, whether indoors or outdoors, along with soft background music can enhance the enjoyment and make the occasion feel special.