How to Set Up a Tea Party

A tea party can be a great way to relax and enjoy the company of friends.

Having a group of friends over for a tea party is a way to relax, unwind and enjoy their company. For added fun, make it a formal affair, with cups, saucers, and "fancy" dress, or host a more casual gathering, with mugs and a laid-back atmosphere.

Things You'll Need

• Tea, cups, and condiments such as sugar, lemon, milk and honey
• Coffee, creamer
• Small snacks or sandwiches, pastries or cookies
• Napkins
• Plates
• Silverware

Instructions

1. 

   A buffet-style beverage table allows guests to fix their tea or coffee however they want.

   Set up your coffee and tea station. Include multiple varieties of tea, artificial sweeteners, honey, lemon, sugar and plenty of hot water. For those who don't drink tea, provide coffee options as well; flavored creamers add a fun touch. Napkins, spoons, and coffee stirrers complete the beverage table. If kids will be in attendance, have lemonade or juice.

2. 

   Decorate the table with some seasonal flowers.

   Set the table. Cover the table with a tablecloth, and have silverware at each guest's place. Decorate the table with flower arrangements or candles. If you have a theme for your party (fancy tea party, relaxing casual party, Japanese tea party, etc.) include appropriate decorations. Have hot pots of tea and coffee on the table so that guests won't have to get up to top their drinks off. Napkin holders and extra napkins are a good idea for the table as well.

3. 

   Serve sweet treats as the perfect accompaniment to coffee and tea.

   Place trays of food on a separate buffet-style table. Decide beforehand what you will be serving. Finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, muffins and cookies are all good food for a tea party. If the party will be between lunch and dinner, sweets will be welcomed. Have butter or margarine, flavored jams and jellies, and several kinds of cookies on hand for guests.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you have all the items you'll need well beforehand, so that you can avoid last-minute trips to the store. Make a list of what you'll need before you set up and check things off as you place them where they go.

References

• Revolution Tea: Throw a Tea Party
• Martha Stewart: Tea Party Birthday