A Sparkling Afternoon Tea with Laura Vann

This May, for two weeks only and for just £70 per person, each Afternoon Tea will be served with a glass of English Simpsons sparkling wine and a side of jewellery — a beautiful demi-fine necklace worth over £70 (yes, you read that right) from the coveted V by Laura Vann collection. Here, we caught up with founder and designer of the brand, Laura Vann, to find out more. 

Tell us about your brand, V by Laura Vann.
 

I founded V By Laura Vann in 2013, having moved home to Birmingham from London after graduation. I started helping out at my dad’s wholesale jewellery business and it was during that time I saw a gap in the market for fine quality jewellery at an accessible price point. Wanting to create a collection with longevity, I was largely inspired by Art Deco jewellery which is so timeless yet notoriously expensive. Crafting our pieces in recycled Sterling Silver meant we could create incredible stone-set designs that were affordable. Today the V by Laura Vann brand has been worn by the likes of Meghan Markle and Katy Perry and we’re so proud to be stocked in some of the best retailers in the UK including Selfridges, Liberty and Fortnum & Mason!

What can customers expect from the Sparkling Afternoon Tea experience?

Guests will enjoy a delicious afternoon tea in the chic Salon of Madeleine bar, complemented with sparkling wine and one of our best-selling demi-fine necklaces worth over £70. It’s the full package and a perfect gift or self-treat!

Why did you want to create this experience, and collaborate with The Grand in particular?

Given our Art Deco aesthetic I feel such alignment with the Grand Hotel. The décor is beautiful and it’s a landmark everyone in Birmingham is so proud of. I’m a huge champion of Brum and so when the Grand Hotel opened it became my go to spot for taking friends and colleagues to really show off what our city has to offer!

You grew up in Birmingham. What’s your favourite thing about the city?

My favourite thing about Birmingham is without doubt the people. Growing up here, I’ve always appreciated the diversity of cultures, the thriving arts and hospitality scenes, and the genuine warmth and pride of our community. Our ability to not take ourselves too seriously and to work collaboratively makes it such a fulfilling place to live and work.

Sweet or savoury? What’s your favourite bite on the Afternoon Tea menu?

I’ve definitely got a sweet tooth! Give me the tangy passionfruit custard all day every day.

Quick fire questions

Champagne or cocktail?

Cocktail!

Tea then milk, or milk then tea?

Tea then milk - who on earth does milk first?!

You’re loading up your scone. Which comes first — cream or jam?

Cream then jam, no brainer.

The V by Laura Vann Sparkling Afternoon Tea will be served for two weeks, Wednesday to Sunday, 1pm-5pm, at The Grand Hotel Birmingham, from Wednesday 29 May 2024. Book your table here.