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Keeping in mind that humility is a key element of afternoon tea, do not arrive with a large pizza or a full-sized layer cake announcing that this burnt almond cake is the best and everybody has to try it. Can you see that this feigned act of generosity really just draws attention to yourself? It is also disruptive to the host who has already planned the menu, including both savory and sweet foods. He is not prepared to serve large wedges of pizza and layer cake to his guests. Finally, do not sabotage the party’s purpose and theme by showing up with a Halloween related gift. This is a mid-October Italian tea party, not a Halloween party. Similarly, it would be inappropriate to arrive at a Japanese New Year’s tea in your favorite team’s football jersey and try to turn the event into a Super Bowl party.