I love tea and think that a teatime event for lady friends is a lovely way to entertain. Begin by creating a list of close friends with whom you would like to share an intimate event. For an intimate tea party, three or four friends is a nice number. Pick a theme and mail suitable invitations well in advance, at least asking guests to hold the date.
For a light afternoon tea, 4:00 is a good starting time. If friends need to be home earlier for preparing family dinners, 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. is not traditional, but may be more convenient.
For a feminine tea party, ask girlfriends to wear pretty floral or fancy dresses, or whatever is appropriate for the group.
An RSVP request assures the correct amount of food and chairs will be ready and waiting for guests.
Pick a beautiful spot for the tea. Choose or create a charming spot in the home or garden, depending on the weather.
Table Settings and Tableware for Afternoon Tea:
Plan the tableware and decor to coordinate with the theme of the tea party. Pull out the nicest or most fun items in the home.
A charming “mix and match” of eclectic items that complement each other in color or theme make a pretty table.
Low centerpieces or bouquets can be lovely on the table.
Decorate in a personal way. The hostess sets the tone and the style.
Planning and Preparing the Teatime Food, Beverages, and Treats:
A quality tea is essential, of course. Earl Grey is a tasty standard, but flavored herbal teas can also be very nice.
Tiny Sandwiches and sweet little treats are small enough to allow conversation and time for laughter and sharing. A collection of tea sandwich ideas can be found at Glenbrook Farms.
For a light afternoon tea, 4:00 is a good starting time. If friends need to be home earlier for preparing family dinners, 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. is not traditional, but may be more convenient.
For a feminine tea party, ask girlfriends to wear pretty floral or fancy dresses, or whatever is appropriate for the group.
An RSVP request assures the correct amount of food and chairs will be ready and waiting for guests.
Pick a beautiful spot for the tea. Choose or create a charming spot in the home or garden, depending on the weather.
Table Settings and Tableware for Afternoon Tea:
Plan the tableware and decor to coordinate with the theme of the tea party. Pull out the nicest or most fun items in the home.
A charming “mix and match” of eclectic items that complement each other in color or theme make a pretty table.
Low centerpieces or bouquets can be lovely on the table.
Decorate in a personal way. The hostess sets the tone and the style.
Planning and Preparing the Teatime Food, Beverages, and Treats:
A quality tea is essential, of course. Earl Grey is a tasty standard, but flavored herbal teas can also be very nice.
Tiny Sandwiches and sweet little treats are small enough to allow conversation and time for laughter and sharing. A collection of tea sandwich ideas can be found at Glenbrook Farms.
2 comments:
Funny you should mention this. I was browsing party city the other day and came across a clearance bin. (Clearance, that's my main man! LOL!) I found the cutest little paper ware. Kind of an oriental style. I bought them and thought to myself that it would force me to have a gathering with my girlfriends. I have never had many, but I think I should start seeking them out. The older the better! Wise counsel.
Tigga,
Now you have no excuses. You bought the cute paperware and I gave you a great theme and ideas. Let me know how it turns out once you have your gathering.
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