Prepare your teacups and don your elegant gowns; it’s time to host an exquisite afternoon tea party! Here are five essential elements to arrange for the perfect British-style Afternoon Tea Party right in the comfort of your home.
Indians have a deep love for tea, sipping it throughout the day. Why not elevate the experience by throwing a tea party? Celebrate the joy of tea-drinking in a traditional British manner without the need to travel to London. You can create your English-style tea party at home and invite friends and family to join in. Wondering how to get started? No worries; we’ve provided all the details you need to turn this idea into a delightful reality.
To add a unique twist, consider hosting a themed tea party, such as emulating the characters from Bridgerton! Women can dress in elegant gowns with matching bows, while men can don vintage tailcoat jackets and hats. What a delightful and exciting way to enjoy tea!
Wondering about the ideal time for an afternoon tea party? The perfect timing falls between lunch and dinner, typically in the mid-late afternoon, around 4 pm to 6 pm. To guide you through the preparations, we’ve outlined a five-point checklist to ensure a sophisticated afternoon tea party.
- Send Invitations: Start by selecting a date and crafting fancy, royal-style invites for an authentic British feel. While digital invites are convenient, avoid using text messages on chat groups for this special occasion.
- Arrange Tea Varieties: Since it’s a tea party, focus on the quality and quantity of tea. Begin with classic options like black and green tea, then expand to include flavors such as chamomile, hibiscus, citrus, and peppermint. Include British favorites like Earl Grey and cater to desi tea lovers with masala chai. Be sure to have plenty of hot water and individual tea bags for variety.
- Choose Teatime Foods: Enhance the tea-drinking experience with delectable snacks such as finger sandwiches, scones, macarons, cookies, pastries, cupcakes, and mini tarts. Adjust the quantity based on your guest list.
- Cutlery and Table Setting: Set the right vibe with appropriate teacups, teapots, spoons, serving plates, bowls, and other essential dishes. If possible, invest in a vintage tea set for an authentic touch. Alternatively, select existing cutlery that exudes simplicity and sophistication. Neatly arrange the table with crockery, use a vintage-style table spread, and add fresh flowers and a centerpiece for an appealing setup. Don’t forget the napkins.
- Final Touches: Once everything is in place, take the time to dress up in vintage English fashion. Enhance the ambiance by playing a Bridgerton playlist or vintage violin sounds in the background. Engage with friends, share laughter, sip tea, and don’t forget to indulge in some delightful ‘tea-spilling’ conversations!
