How to Host a Summer Tea Party: A Guide to a Charming Afternoon
Summer is the perfect season to gather with friends or family for an elegant yet relaxed tea party. Believe it or not, when planning a tea party I like to keep it minimal with planning while keeping it elegant. Here are a few tips for your afternoon tea:
1. Choose the Perfect Setting
Location sets the tone. For a quintessential summer vibe, consider hosting your tea party outdoors—your backyard, a garden, or even a shaded patio can all be transformed into enchanting venues. My garden is not all the way there yet for this summer, so I decided to keep it indoors. It doesn’t need to be fussy, your dining table works great!
2. Send Charming Invitations
Invitations can be digital or handwritten, depending on how formal you want to go. Regardless of the format, include the essential details—date, time, attire (such as “garden chic” or “tea dresses and hats”), and whether guests should bring anything. Personal touches like floral motifs or a vintage teacup graphic can hint at the theme and build excitement before the event. If it is at home with your littles you can have them write their own little menus.
3. Create a Thoughtful Menu
A classic tea party menu includes a variety of teas as well as light refreshments. Offer finger sandwiches (cucumber, smoked salmon, egg salad), scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries or seasonal fruit tarts. Include iced tea and lemonade for warm-weather refreshment, and consider gluten-free or vegan options for guests with dietary needs. For this one in particular I made the most decadent chocolate cake! If you are going for a more last minute party, just whip up one treat, you don’t have to bake dozens of pastries it can be simple yet delicious.
4. Set the Scene with Decor
Decor should be light and lovely. Use tablecloths, tiered trays, matching pillows, and floral arrangements to elevate the table. I added a vintage vase to help set the scene. Mismatched teacups and saucers add a whimsical, vintage charm, while linen napkins and pastel colors evoke a summery feel.
5. Add a Touch of Entertainment
I always like to add some light music for background along with an activity that matches the tone. For this party I added a make your own bouquet station and it was a hit! Everyone left with their own beautiful floral arrangements.
6. Mind the Details and Enjoy
The success of your tea party lies in the small touches: fresh flowers, personalized place cards, chilled hand towels, and keeping the conversation flowing. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the event yourself. Greet guests warmly, pour yourself a cup of tea, and savor the joy of summer, friendship, and well-steeped hospitality.
XOXO
Eden Stringham