How to Host a Traditional Tea Party
- 1). Choose your location. The location of the tea party is very important, as it sets the mood for the event. It can be at your home or in a small restaurant hall that can be rented. If you are having your event on a warm spring day, consider an outdoor tea party at a local garden or in your backyard.
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For a traditional tea party, suggest that your guests wear hats.Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Send out invitations at least two weeks before the tea party. Have personalized invitations printed at your local print shop; embossed card stock is perfect for this occasion. If you are on a tight budget, many greeting card stores offer beautiful "fill in the blank" invitations in packs of five or 10, and include envelopes.
Indicate whether the tea party is formal or casual; you may also make it fun by asking that your guests wear hats for a truly traditional tea party feel. - 3). Decorate the space with style. Tea parties are known for being intimate, feminine and sophisticated. Decorate with vintage white lace and silk linens, floral arrangements of tea roses, baby's breath and greenery; adorn the table with your finest china and silverware. Don't forget your ceramic kettle.
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Use your prettiest china teapot.Zedcor Wholly Owned/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
Offer a variety of teas. Many different teas are available; make sure you have plenty for your guests to choose from, such as Earl Grey, green tea, Darjeeling or rooibos. For a traditional tea party, brew with loose tea rather than using tea bags. - 5
Make sandwiches small and fresh.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Make the finger foods with love. Because a tea party is not intended to be a meal, offer your guests small sandwiches and freshly cut vegetables with dips. Scones with clotted cream are perfect for the true tea party experience. - 6). Let them eat cake. Cupcakes are the perfect alternative to expensive custom cakes. Orange, strawberry and lemon cupcakes with vanilla or butter cream frosting are delicious, and will not compete with the natural sweetness of the tea.
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Treat your guests to pretty presents.Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
Thank your guests with gifts. Fill white or ivory gift bags with variety packs of teas, sweets such as petit fours, and a sterling teaspoon as a keepsake. Top with pink or pale green tissue paper for a touch of elegance.
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