How to Throw A Fancy Tea Party For Little Girls

To truly throw a proper tea party, one must do more than simply serve tea. From the setting to decorations, from the attire to the guest list, this tea party will be special beyond her wildest dreams. How to throw a fancy tea party? Just read on.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• $10-$20
• Trip to the thrift store
• Special guests
• Jelly & graham crackers
• A willingness to play along

1. 
   A fancy tea table ready to go

   THE SETTING: Make enough changes to the dining room or kitchen table that it looks completely different than normal. The novelty of the decor is what makes today so special. Begin with the table. Get out that old fancy tablecloth - or get one at a thrift store. For some reason, Lace makes all the difference. A fancy center piece and various floral arrangements around the room will do wonders to spice up the setting for such a special event. And don't forget the ceiling. A few streamers or even balloons will top of the decor perfectly. Color coordinate the flowers with the tea set and other decorations if possible - and don't be afraid to go with the obvious - pink or purple.

2. 
   Gloves, purse, fan, hat, necklace, FANCY

   OUTFITS MATTER: All "Ladies" in attendance should have fancy gloves if possible, and fancy sun hats are a must. Ribbons, flowers and other fancies can spice up any old hat to ready it for tea time. Sun dresses are preferable - unless you plan to go all out and get formal - but then you sacrifice comfort. Men should get as formal as possible - the presence of a gentleman in a tie can make or break a tea party. Don't forget the little things, jewelry, purse, Japanese fan, feather boa, makeup - anything to make it a little more fancy.

3. 

   THE GUEST LIST: One of the most important factors in making this more than just an ordinary tea party is the guest list. Bring in the Grandma, Dad, or another special guest. The presence of the special guest can make all the difference - especially if the child is allowed to host/serve when the festivities begin.

4. 

   ETIQUETTE: Think British and French aristocracy circa 1800's. Use "Madame" "Good Lady" and "Kind Sir". Giving guests fancy names can take things to a whole new level - Grandma gets to be queen for a day, Dad is the Prince of Ellington. Also, don't forget to keep those pinkies extended. Tea wouldn't be tea if you didn't end up with a cramp down the side of your hand from being sooooo incredibly fancy. Attend to the details, they will make a difference.

5. TEA AND ?: Crumpets of course. Even if they are just graham crackers with jelly smeared on them, crumpets are an absolute must. Try having cookies or pastries that are novel to the children and look fancy. It isn't hard to impress a 4-year-old when your already wearing gloves, a floppy hat, or a necktie.

Tips & Warnings

• A maid or butler to wait on the guests can be great fun and adds a whole new layer of imaginary play to tea time.
• Kids can play at this for hours, while adults are bound to wear out. Try working the party in shifts to keep fresh adults in the mix. Otherwise you're in for what could be a whole afternoon of girlyness.
• Don't serve real tea - kids and caffeine just don't mix. Try a special juice blend the child's never experienced before.

[jblain]

on 9/10/2009 Love this article. Well written and fun to read. Love the pictures!