The pleasures of an afternoon tea

Afternoon tea and treats!
Photo provided by the Blue Harbor House

Nothing is more inviting than the invitation to sit for a moment to linger a cup of afternoon tea with a sweet treat (or two!). It is more than just a chance to fill ones tummy with something delicious, it is a chance to experience a few captured moments of inner tranquility. The first hint of aroma draws you in. The first sip sweeps you to a place far away from a bustling world, and for a few brief moments "none of it matters".

This recipe for Scottish Lavender Shortbread  has been graciously shared by Annette Hazzard of the Blue Harbor House, Camden Maine. Each afternoon, Annette offers guests complimentary tea accompanied by a baked treat such as the lovely lavender shortbread pictured right.



Scottish Lavender Shortbread
by Annette Hazzard - Blue Harbor House 


Shortbread
8oz butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup cornflour(cornstarch)

Mix butter and sugar together until creamy.  Gently mix in flour and

cornstarch until it all binds together. It should be a moist, not dry

mixture.  Use cookie cutters to cut  out circles.  

Bake at 325 for 20-30 minutes

Lavender and rose glaze
2tbsp crushed culinary lavender.
1 tbsp rosewater
Powdered sugar to make a thick paste.
Mix all together. Smooth on top of cooled shortbread.

A Visit to Camden, Maine and the Blue Harbor House B&B

The Blue Harbor House Camden, ME

One of the most pleasant perks of photographing B&B's is the adventure of experiencing new places! Each destination has its own charm and mystery awaiting exploration. Camden, Maine is now placed in my top ten places to visit in New England. One of the most captivating towns I have visited since my journey as inn photographer. It is a quaint yet bustling coastal village just two hours north of Portland. Settled next to the scenic harbor, it resides peacefully at the foot of  majestic (and widely photographed) Mt. Battie. No photographer could possibly visit here and not be swept away by its beauty.

The Blue Harbor House, with its signature sea blue exterior, proudly graces historical Elm Street in the heart of Camden.  This darling eleven room B&B, now owned and operated by Terry and Annette Hazzard, has been welcoming visitors for nearly 30 years. In arriving at the Inn,  there is a genuine warmth and feeling of "home" the moment you walk through the door. An absolute delight for the weary traveler drawn in for a lingering stay. Perhaps it is because of the casual yet elegant atmosphere with furnishings of soft country cottage decor. Perhaps it is the especially warm greeting by Annette and Terry. Perhaps it is the irresistible aroma of just baked cookies and freshly brewed Scottish tea that fills the air. Or perhaps it is simply a little bit of "everything". Simple touches that touch the heart. No matter what the reason for its appeal, the Blue Harbor House is undoubtedly a special place. A gently relaxing, hospitable retreat not to be missed during your stay in Camden.

In showcasing this Inn pictorially, it was clear that the images needed to highlight its natural warmth and antique charm, yet also display the modern updates of convenience. In keeping with this thought, the photos were carefully planned as a reflection. The the key was to keep it simple while using lots of natural light which is shown in the beautiful results. The Camden area and fabulous cuisine at the Inn were also a feature in this photo shoot. When elegantly placed together on the new simple design website , the story tells all.....what a welcoming invitation!

A graceful throw blanket with book invites the guest to curl up and relax

Casually tossed pillows and a shiny silver tray with tea and cakes captures the charm of Blue Harbor House

Simple composition with soft natural light

The Sea Glass guestroom photo captures country cottage warmth

A great opportunity to display cute logo mugs in the background

Cocktail Hour on the porch

Rise and shine breakfast in the sunny dining room

The sailboat filled harbor

Quaint shops lined with bright colored flower boxes are everywhere!

A sunny Camden morning complete with hot coffee and the local newspaper

A view of Camden Harbor from Mt. Battie

What is your favorite New England town, and why?

Nubble Lighthouse- York, Maine

I am humbled for the opportunity to visit some of the most charming towns here in New England. I have met many, many wonderful innkeepers; who are now good friends. The scenery is breathtaking; the waters and coast  are consuming and tranquil. A few of my favorite places are: Newburyport Ma, the Berkshires and Stockbridge Ma, Stowe Vermont, and York & Camden Maine.

New England will always be "home" to me......... and as I begin a new adventure in providing a video service to the B&B industry, I am anxious to hear your response to my question above. Perhaps I can visit your favorite place one day soon :)