Hosting a well-planned tea party should be a fun time for the hostess as well as the guests. Following a few simple guidelines, your tea party can be a well organized event that will be relaxing and memorable for everyone.
After deciding on a date, time, and venue, the real planning can begin by making a list of guests and food preferences. It is important to ask at least one helper to assist with invitations, decorating, and food preparation. Pre-party planning with a close friend or family member can be a wonderful, fun time of fellowship also. Choose someone who is organized, reliable, shares your work ethic, and appreciates the fun and teamwork involved in party planning.
Take a light approach to formal rules and concentrate on fun rather than absolute perfection. If you love to cook, use a few of your recipe favorites and compliment them with store bought foods such as scones or cookies. This is the perfect time to show off your favorite trifle which always makes a great presentation. In addition, there are always a few guests that are more than happy to bring a special dish.
Focus on light decorations to add atmosphere and ambience to your special event. Using one color for flowers and linens creates a sophisticated look while bowls of floating candles are simple, yet elegant.
An English tea party is traditionally decorated with mix and match patterns of bone china and porcelain teapots in floral motifs. Linens and napkins can also complement the tea table in floral or solid colors. Organize your tea party by keeping a notebook with lists that include guest list, shopping list, supplies, and so forth. Using a systematic approach to tea party planning ensures a successful and less stressful party.
Invitations should be mailed two weeks before the event and should include all of the following information:
-Guest name in appropriate format
-Hostess Name
-Occasion or reason for the party
-Venue or location
-Day and Date
-Time (Tea parties are usually scheduled for 3 p.m.
-RSVP date with phone number for replies.
-Dress Code
Finally, the most important aspect of hosting the perfect tea party is great atmosphere, created with a genuine warm welcome form the hostess. If you encourage guests to mingle and make them feel at home, then your tea party will truly be a time of fun and fellowship.
Enjoy the Fellowship of a Well-Planned Tea Party