Things You'll Need:
- Teapots, cups
- Flowers
- Tableware
- Baskets
- Napkin rings
- Linens
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Step 1
Set the tables. Gather teapots, dishes, tea cups and utensils. Stay away from paper if you want an elegant, traditional tea party. Create a place-setting for each guest.
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Step 2
Use layers of fabrics for tablecloths. Lean toward flower prints with a layer of lace or smaller-sized white fabric over it and frilly accents. Combine toile prints (French pattern fabrics depicting various scenes) on tables with solid napkins and possibly chair covers.
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Step 3
Consult Rachel Ashwell's book "Shabby Chic" for decorating know-how available at Amazon (see Resources below).
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Step 4
Place a centerpiece at each table. This should act as a focal point, but not so tall as to obstruct eye-contact. Your guests should be able to socialize while enjoying their tea.
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Step 5
Add fabric napkins to each place-setting. Select vintage-looking napkin rings such as rustic wood, rhinestone-trimmed or silver. Otherwise, use a piece of twine to tie a fresh flower to a napkin and place it over the top of the first dish. If it's a summer party add a seashell.
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Step 6
Decorate tables with a teapot, fresh flowers in a painted metal watering-can, and fruit in vintage glass bowls (such as a milk glass--a sturdy embossed glass).
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Step 1
Have baskets, lined with a free napkin, filled with the food you will be serving. These can be at the guest tables or on a serving table.
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Step 2
Secure decorations to the ceiling and other areas if an indoor party. Utilize soft, pastel paper balls to hang, and tulle (fine netting) to line staircases or other areas of the room. Visit Jo-Ann Fabrics online for supplies and fabric (see Resources below).
