Aug
Hosting an afternoon tea party is a lovely way to gather friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a beautiful day, an afternoon tea party offers a setting to savour good company, tasty treats, and of course, a selection of fine teas.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to throw a memorable afternoon tea party, from choosing the perfect teas, crafting a menu, and setting the perfect atmosphere.
Choosing the Perfect Teas & Teawares
The heart of any tea party is, naturally, the tea. Offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes:
- Classic Black Teas: Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Darjeeling are timeless choices.
- Green Teas: Sencha or Jasmine Green Tea provide a lighter, refreshing option.
- Herbal Teas: Consider Chamomile, Peppermint, or a Fruit Tisane for guests who prefer caffeine-free options.
Ensure you have some teawares to match the occasion. A beautiful teapot, matching teacups and saucers, and a tiered cake stand add a touch of sophistication. If you’re going for the fully polished setup, don’t forget sugar bowls, creamers, and tea strainers.
Crafting the Menu
A traditional afternoon tea menu features a variety of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Here’s a selection of popular favourites you might like to consider:
- Finger Sandwiches: Cucumber with cream cheese, smoked salmon with dill, egg salad, and chicken salad are all classic choices.
- Scones: Serve plain or fruit scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
- Pastries and Sweets: Mini tarts, macarons, and bite-sized cakes are all fan favourites.
You can also include a few savoury items like mini quiches or a mini cheese board with cured meats to balance the menu.
Setting the Theme and Ambiance
Choose a theme to give your tea party a cohesive and festive feel. A vintage garden party, a floral spring theme, or a Victorian-style afternoon tea are all great options. Decorate with fresh flowers, elegant table linens, and soft, classical music to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Make sure you have enough seating for all your guests. Arrange tables and chairs to encourage conversation and create an inviting space. If your gathering is outdoors, provide shade options like umbrellas or a canopy to keep guests comfortable.
Add Some Finishing Touches
If you really want to go all out, you could personalise your tea party with some extra finishing details, such as:
- Place Cards: Handwritten place cards can add a personal touch and help guests find their seats.
- Party Favours: Small jars of homemade jam, packets of tea, or dainty cookies make lovely take-home gifts.
- Games and Activities: Incorporate light activities such as a tea trivia game or a DIY tea blending station for added fun.
An afternoon tea party is a wonderful way to bring people together in a relaxed and elegant setting. By carefully selecting your teas, crafting a delightful menu, and paying attention to the details of your theme and decor, you can create an unforgettable experience for your guests!
