On Saturday, “the most anticipated event of the year” was held at Kirstenbosch Gardens. However, it didn’t quite live up to expectations.

When one thinks of what a high tea entails, you think exceptional service, delicious treats and, well, tea. So when those who attended The High Tea Festival hosted by The Tea Princess, people were stunned at the lack of all three.

At R300 a ticket, people were poorly fed, had to buy their own champagne and sat around wondering what was going on. Here’s what they expected:

Join us for the most anticipated, exclusive event of the year. South Africa’s first Annual High Tea Festival, is proudly brought to you by The Tea Princess. Ladies and Gentleman, it’s time to dress up to the teas and feel like a Lord and Lady, if just for an afternoon. Everyone loves a little indulgence and The High Tea Festival is the perfect way to enjoy a grand tradition with a modern twist. Sip on champagne while enjoying caviar, tantalising food and tasting teas of the world. Book your tickets today and you could be jetting off to Thailand with your partner in the lucky draw competition that will be held on the day. Tickets are available from Computicket.

Feeling like a Lord and Lady is the last thing anyone felt. Rather, both the event’s and host’s Facebook pages were littered with angry complaints from attendees demanding their money back.

There was one post by Madge Gibson, which was a little kinder on the matter and provided a run down on how Capetonians saved the day. Sort of: