Hosting an elegant afternoon tea party at home is a delightful way to celebrate with friends and family. It brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering and offers a unique opportunity to enjoy exquisite tea, scrumptious finger foods, and pleasant company. Below, we’ll walk you through some essential tips for hosting an elegant afternoon tea party your guests will love.
Make a Guest List
Choose a mix of friends and family who enjoy the refined atmosphere and engaging conversation. Aim for an intimate group size, ideally between six to ten people. Send out your invitations several weeks in advance so your guests have ample time to RSVP. Likewise, sending invitations early on gives you enough time to plan a menu and decor.
Decide What You’ll Serve
Focus on serving a variety of finger foods that are easy to eat and visually appealing. Classic options include cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon canapés, and mini quiches. These savory treats will satisfy your guests’ appetites and set the stage for the sweets.
Choose an assortment of sweets to delight your guests in addition to your savory offerings. Traditional options such as scones with clotted cream and jam, macarons, and petit fours are always a hit. You may also serve many decadent types of chocolate, such as truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or homemade fudge.
Selecting the perfect tea to complement your menu is essential. Offer a variety of high-quality teas, such as Earl Grey, Darjeeling, and herbal blends. Doing so lets guests choose their preferred flavor profiles and enhances the overall experience.
Set The Table
Lay a clean, crisp white tablecloth to create a blank canvas for your elegant setting. Use cloth napkins with a simple fold and add place cards to assign seating. Additionally, set the table with delicate cups, saucers, teaspoons for each guest, and sugar cubes or honey in a small dish.
Arrange plates, silverware, and glassware in a visually appealing manner to create a place setting for each guest. Doing so not only elevates your tablescape’s overall look but also makes it easier for guests to navigate their assigned seating.
Bonus Tip
Add an extra touch of elegance by decorating the table with fresh flowers and placing a centerpiece on the table.
Enjoy Your Afternoon Tea Party
Our final tip for hosting an elegant afternoon tea party is to simply enjoy yourself. Indulge in delectable treats while enjoying your company. Preparing and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the occasion with your guests.
Set up a small tea station beside the main table so guests can pour their tea and replenish their plates with more food as desired. This setup allows for a casual and comfortable flow of conversation without any interruptions. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a dash of elegance, you can host the perfect afternoon tea party that your guests will remember for years to come.
