How To Host A Proper Tea Party

Dreaming of a tea party this summer? Live out your childhood playtime and host an adult afternoon tea this season! Here are our tips for a delightful way to gather friends for a refined and elegant afternoon.

The Vibe

I have hosted my own tea parties and I’ve been to some fabulous tea parties hosted by others. The most important aspect is the vibe, which is largely determined by who you invite. Good company is a big part of a tea party. Comprise your guest list of people you want to spend time with and who will contribute to the ambiance and leisure while savoring their tea and treats. Invite guests who can engage in conversation and enjoy each other's company.

The next step to setting the mood is the dress code. Don’t dress as if you were going to a casual lunch. Tea party dress should be more formal. Maybe a dress or a breezy blouse and linen pants. Guests could wear sun hats and gloves to a garden tea party.

Set the scene with appropriate decor.

Opt for a theme that complements the occasion, whether it's a classic Victorian tea party with delicate lace and floral arrangements, a modern minimalist affair with sleek tableware, or a whimsical garden party complete with vibrant colors and natural accents. Ensure that the space is well-lit and comfortable, with ample seating for guests to relax and converse.

Presentation is key to elevating the tea party experience. Use tiered serving trays, elegant teapots, and fine china to showcase the food and beverages in style. Pay attention to details like garnishes, napkin folds, and table settings to create a polished and inviting atmosphere.

Set the tea table properly.

Choose a tablecloth that fits your theme. Each place setting should have a small plate in the center. A salad fork is placed to the left of this plate. A small butter knife is placed to the right of the plate. The teacup on its saucer is placed to the right of the butter knife. The teaspoon is placed on the rim of the tea saucer and the napkin is placed to the left of the fork. Place the teapot and the tiered serving tray in the center.

The Tea & The Treats

Curate a selection of teas that cater to various preferences and tastes. Include a mix of traditional favorites like Earl Grey and English Breakfast, as well as herbal and exotic blends for those seeking adventurous flavors. Provide options for both hot and iced tea to accommodate different preferences and weather conditions. Pair the teas with an assortment of sweet and savory treats, such as scones with clotted cream and jam, delicate finger sandwiches, petit fours, and fruit tarts.

Etiquette is important.

Afternoon tea has unspoken rules of etiquette for both host and guest. The host pours the tea for the guests first and then themselves. Remember to pass your teacup with the saucer to the host when they request it to pour your tea. Don’t just hand them your teacup.

When dipping your spoon, you should never clink it on the side of your cup. Don’t swirl your tea with a big stir; go forward and backward gently. As the saying goes, your tea is not soup! Only use your spoon to dissolve the sugar. Hold your cup with your pinkie down. The stories of pinky-up are just silly speculation. The proper way to hold your teacup is to pinch your thumb and first finger on the handle, support the cup with your middle finger, and keep your elbow down. Eat with your hands, only use your knife to spread jam or clotted cream. The napkin should go in your lap with the fold toward your body. If you need to use it, gently dab with the corner and place it back in your lap. When leaving the table, place your napkin on your chair and never on the table. And most importantly no phones! Snap a photo and then be present with your guests.

A proper afternoon tea party is served in courses. These should start at the bottom of the tiered serving tray and go up. Typically this means you work your way from savory delights to sweet treats. Start with finger sandwiches such as crustless cucumber, salmon and veggie, or herb spread. The second tier consists of croissants or scones served with jam and clotted cream. The top tier features desserts such as macarons, tarts, tea cakes, or mini eclairs.

At the end of the festivities, express gratitude to your guests for attending by sending them home with a small token of appreciation, such as a sachet of loose-leaf tea or a personalized tea cup. A handwritten thank-you note adds a thoughtful touch.

We hope with these tips your tea party will be a memorable one; delighting the senses and fostering meaningful connections among your guests.

XOXO

Baylee Dymock