How to Host a Summer Tea Party

Hosting a tea party can be a lot of fun, but also a lot of work. Nowadays some are worried that a tea party is too formal and old fashioned, but it is actually lots of girly fun for all ages. I have known teenagers to be dragged to a tea party and discover that they loved it!

Instructions

1. The first thing to decide is how many guests you are having. Tea parties can range from an intimate 3 to a crowd of 50. Many bridal showers and church get-togethers have been made memorable and fun because someone decided to host a tea party.

2. Once you have decided who to invite, you need to send them a lovely invitation. The prettier the better. Remember to include any dress code, (i.e. semi-formal), the date, the time, the location, and if you dont have enough china, suggest that they each bring a cup and saucer.

3. You may already have an image in your mind of how you want the tea party to look, but if not, just remember that you cant go wrong with lace, doilies, flowers, and all lovely delicate things.

4. The table is very important as it will be the focal point of your tea party. Use a clean tablecloth. For a chic look, layer a lace tablecloth over a solid colored tablecloth. Create a lovely centerpiece with a bouquet of flowers. Each place setting could also include a favor if you so desire. A small trinket such as a ceramic egg trinket box, or a pretty handkerchief with their initial embroidered in the corner.

5. Setting each place setting is simple. Place a teacup and saucer where your water glass would normally go (the top right of your plate). Use a dessert plate (or a salad plate) in the center of each place setting. A napkin can be placed on the left under a tea spoon, or can be shaped into an ingenious shape and placed on the dessert plate.

6. The menu should consist of simple yet pretty finger foods. Small cookies, tea sandwiches, and small pastries are wonderful. Scones are popular as well as cupcakes (although the frosting can be too rich for some). Cucumber and mayonnaise sandwiches are always a crowd pleaser, as well as chicken salad sandwiches. Cut with cookie cutters for a fancy look.

7. The tea you serve can be plain green tea, or can be an herbal combination. A little lavender with some bilberry is very tasty and helps with emotional balance. Peppermint awakens the senses, but be careful about over-steeping because it can get too strong quickly. Rose hip tea is also lovely and improves a sense of well-being.

8. Arrange your treats on pretty dishes (a three tiered dish is fun!) and either place the tea on a tea cart, a side table, or on the table if it is large enough. Make sure that cream and sugar are also on the table.

9. When your guests arrive, make sure that each feel welcome and include each in the conversation (as any well-breed tea hostess would).

10. Lastly, enjoy yourself! Tea party hosting is work, so now you deserve to enjoy your delicious treats, tea, and friends.