Planning the perfect tea party themed party can be a daunting task. It takes a lot of time and attention to detail to make sure your guests enjoy the experience. To help you plan the perfect tea party, here are some ideas on selecting the perfect location, designing a tea party theme, creating an invitation list, decorating and setting the table, choosing the perfect tea selection, making special desserts, and organizing activities to create an enjoyable atmosphere.
Selecting the Perfect Location
The perfect location for a tea party depends on the size of your guest list, the type of event, and your desired atmosphere. For larger events, consider a venue that can accommodate all of your guests comfortably. If your goal is to create a more intimate atmosphere, then consider a smaller, more private location. Indoor or outdoor spaces can both work, depending on the weather. The most important thing is to select a location that meets your needs and suits your theme.
Designing the Perfect Tea Party Theme
A great tea party requires a well thought out theme. You’ll want to consider the type of event you’re holding such as an afternoon tea, a high tea, or a shower tea. You’ll also want to consider the occasion and the season. Depending on your theme you may wish to choose a certain color scheme, tea service, decorations, desserts, and attire.
Choosing the Menu for a Tea Party
Creating the right menu for your tea party is essential. You’ll want to consider the time of day, the size of your guest list, and the theme of your event. Sandwiches and tea cakes are typically part of a traditional afternoon tea, while a high tea menu could include soup and savory dishes. Don’t forget dessert! Small pastries such as tartlets or petits fours are perfect for a tea party.
Creating an Invitation List
Before you can plan the perfect tea party you will need to create an invitation list for your guests. Your invitation list should include the total number of people you wish to invite and their contact information such as their name, email address, phone number and any other pertinent details necessary for the event.
Decorating for a Tea Party
Choose decorations that reflect your theme and colors. You may want to include table decorations like floral centerpieces or garlands, as well as appropriate wall hangings. Consider adding some fun items like hats and boas, especially if you’re hosting an event like a hen’s night. Don’t forget to have enough chairs for your guests.
Setting the Table for a Tea Party
Your choice of tableware will help set the tone of your event. Choose something that fits with your theme and color scheme, as well as something practically sized for your guest list. Include enough plates and cutlery for each guest and plan for a few extra just in case. Consider adding small favors or name cards for each guest.
Choosing the Perfect Tea Selection
A tea party isn’t complete without the perfect selection of teas. You’ll want to consider the type of event you’re hosting and the preferences of your guests when choosing teas for your tea party. You may want to include black teas such as English breakfast, green teas like jasmine green, and herbal teas such as chamomile. Don’t forget to select a few specialty teas like oolong or flavored tisanes!
Making Special Desserts for a Tea Party
No tea party is complete without some tasty desserts. Depending on your theme and menu, you may want to consider small treats like macarons or cookies or something more elaborate such as petits fours or cake pops. Whatever you decide, make sure to provide enough for each guest.
Organizing Activities for a Tea Party
Let your guest know that you have some fun activities planned by printing them on your invitation card in advance. Afternoon tea activities could include things like reading classic books aloud or playing more interactive games. High teas might include activities like creating flower arrangements or crafting light garlands while dining. Make sure they know that they can participate at their own pace and comfort level.
Creating an Enjoyable Atmosphere for Your Guests
To help make sure that your guests have an enjoyable time start by greeting them as they arrive. Set up your venue with enough seating and comfortable chairs so that no one feels crowded. Put together an interesting conversation starter for those times when conversations begin to lag. Finally, be sure to serve good food and drinks in an orderly fashion, starting from your lightest dishes first.
Planning Ahead and Making Sure Everything Goes According to Plan
Once you’ve planned out all of the details it’s important to plan ahead and make sure everything goes according to plan on your special day. Buy or hire any decorations or rentals ahead of time to ensure that everything is ready when you need it. Decide on specific tasks for different people so everyone knows their role to ensure the event runs smoothly. Be sure to make backup plans in case something doesn’t work out as expected.
Organizing the perfect tea party themed event takes time and effort but following these tips will help you create an event that’s sure to impress your guests!
