Afternoon tea parties are a wonderful way to catch up with friends, commemorate a special occasion, or simply relax on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re planning an elegant tea party or a casual get-together, hosting one can be a lot of fun if properly planned. In this article, we’ll discuss how to host an afternoon tea party and what essentials you should have on hand.
Plan the Menu:
The menu is the first step in planning an afternoon tea party. The menu should include a variety of sweet and savoury items that are simple to eat and go well with a cup of tea. Finger sandwiches, scones, muffins, cupcakes, cookies, and fruit can all be included. Teas such as black tea, green tea, herbal tea, and flavoured tea can also be included. Check your pantry for milk, sugar, and lemon.
Image credit: https://pin.it/3NqfVeT
Set the Table:
The table setting is an essential component of any tea party. A tablecloth, napkins, tea cups, saucers, and teaspoons are required. To serve the tea, use a teapot or a tea kettle. Ensure there are enough chairs and space for your guests to sit comfortably. You can also decorate with flowers or candles.
Image credits: https://pin.it/7fy9m6C Image credits: https://pin.it/1BYYDzP
Timing:
Afternoon tea parties are typically held from 2 to 5 p.m. Plan for the party to last between 2-3 hours, depending on the number of guests and the amount of food and drink you have prepared. Make sure your guests know when the party begins and ends so they can plan their day accordingly.
Dress Code:
A dress code, such as “smart casual” or “semi-formal,” can be established for your afternoon tea party. This can enhance the party’s ambience and make it feel more special. Make sure you inform your guests about the dress code ahead of time so they can dress appropriately.
Image credits: https://pin.it/1o1xOUY Image credits: https://pin.it/6ypnJfZ
Entertainment:
You can add entertainment to your tea party by playing classical music or playing cards or board games. This can help to break the ice and create a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Must-Haves for an Afternoon Tea Party:
Tea Set:
A tea set is a must-have for any afternoon tea party. A teapot, tea cups, saucers, and teaspoons should be included. You can go with a theme-appropriate set or a classic design.
Image credit: https://pin.it/3FXNU6Q
Tiered Cake Stand:
For any afternoon tea party, a tiered cake stand is a must-have. It can hold a variety of sweet and savoury items, such as finger sandwiches, scones, and cupcakes. Depending on your taste, you can select a stand with a classic or modern design.
Image credit: https://pin.it/3DVpexh
Napkins and Tablecloths:
Any tea party requires napkins and tablecloths. They should be a complementary or matching colour and design to your tea set and other decorations. Ensure that you have enough napkins and tablecloths to accommodate all of your guests.
Image credit: https://pin.it/125DVd3
Food:
The main draw of any afternoon tea party is the food. Include a variety of sweet and savoury items that are easy to eat and go well with a cup of tea. Classic options include finger sandwiches, scones, and muffins, while cupcakes and cookies are more modern. Ensure that you have enough food for all of your guests.
Image credit: https://pin.it/4uqSgzy
A tea party in the afternoon can be a fun and enjoyable experience for you and your guests. You can create a memorable event that everyone will remember if you follow these tips and must-haves. Remember to plan the menu, set the table, time the event, establish a dress code and include some entertainment. Don’t forget the essentials, like a tea set, tiered cake stand, napkins and tablecloths, and, of course, plenty of tasty food. So, plan your next afternoon tea party and have a wonderful time with your loved ones.