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Harp, Sweets & Tea at the Belmond El Encanto

Writer:  Valerie Saint Martin Valerie Saint Martin

Updated: Mar 17

How harp, sweets and a cup of tea can save the day when the weather is not perfect, even in Santa Barbara.


As a Santa Barbara harpist, I recently played at the Belmond El Encanto for a tea party. The hotel rests in Santa Barbara Hills. It has breathtaking views and beautifully manicured grounds. I must admit I often get lost there! Thankfully, the staff is always kind, attentive, and ready to help. I’ve played at the venue for various Belmond El Encanto events. And each time, I discover new hidden corners. Once, I even performed for an intimate elopement on the grass outside a private suite.


A rectangular table with a light blue tablecloth is set for afternoon tea at the Channel Islands Terrace, Belmond El Encanto in Santa Barbara. It features white china, silverware, glasses of water, plates of pastries and small sandwiches, and a floral centerpiece with yellow, orange, and white flowers. Two beige upholstered chairs are pushed against the table. In the background, through a doorway, a wooden harp is visible against a patterned wallpaper.

This time, the setting was a charming tea party by the Channel Islands Terrace, a spot I had never played. The day was a mix of rain and sunshine, with bursts of showers passing through. Fortunately, by the time I left, the rain had stopped, and I could load my harp without getting drenched. When I arrived at the venue, a very kind staff member helped me carry my gear and guided me to where I would perform.



As I waited for the guests to arrive,

I watched in fascination as a graceful ballet of fine china, delicate trays of sweets, and vibrant floral arrangements came together to prepare the table for the tea party. It reminded me of an orchestra preparing for a concert, with each element falling into place

in perfect harmony.


For this occasion, I performed classical and baroque pieces by Debussy, Satie, Brahms, Handel, and Purcell, sprinkled with a few popular tunes to add a touch of familiarity to the tea party music set.


Are you planning a tea party or an elegant luncheon? 

I’d love to help you create an enchanting atmosphere with live harp music.

Let’s make your event unforgettable!



Click the link below to check my availability for your event.




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COPYRIGHT © 2025 VALERIE SAINT MARTIN - HARPIST | OPERA SINGER | SANTA BARBARA | CA

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