While a new coffee shop seems to open daily on high streets around the U.K., we’ve never lost our passion for the beloved British cuppa. In fact, high tea has never been in such high demand. As vintage shops struggle to keep old-fashioned tea sets on the shelves and we learn about new cake recipes daily, there’s no time like the present to up our game and throw a glam tea party.
Hosting like a
fab hatter
As vintage shops struggle to keep old-fashioned tea sets on the shelves and we learn about new cake recipes daily, there’s no time like the present to throw a glam tea party.
Where to begin? After all, tea parties aren’t just child’s play anymore. Luckily, we’ve some starters for 10 to get you on your way.
Choose your theme
Some of the most obvious tea-time moments, like the Jubilee, may have come and gone but, with autumn upon us, there are plenty of new ideas to warm the longer, cooler nights. Halloween presents a great opportunity for clever fancy dress while Bonfire Night might bring out some pyrotechnics.
You can also count on vintage themes to work. Burlesque, in particular, pairs well with the glamour and decadence of high tea so consider getting a bit racy. Search the web for inspiration. Pinterest is full of recipes and table settings that are sure to set your creative wheels in motion.
Put time into handmade invitations
Now that your theme is in hand, paper invitations should be, too. As convenient as internet tools are for correspondence, think how excited your guests will be to receive a hard-copy invitation by mail. Set the stage for your party by weaving your theme into the invites and watch the RSVPs roll in.
Create your playlist
Music is a must-have for any fab soiree. Be sure you’ve got a playlist to match your motif. For example, if you went vintage, make sure you load up on some static-y retro classics. Remember you want your playlist to support but not distract from the mood… at least in the beginning. Always have some back-up crowd pleasers at hand to make sure you don’t sacrifice fun for style.
Set the mood with lighting
Whether it’s tea lights, lanterns or a strand of Christmas tree bulbs, lighting always creates a sparkle that lends a glam touch to any late afternoon or evening do. Or, for fail-safe decadence, go overboard with candles.
Feed the senses with flowers
Nothing says opulence like swathes of blooms. Find markets, such as London’s Columbia Road on a Sunday, to get beautiful posies at a decent price.
Feed your hunger with a glam menu
Tea-party menus are often pretty standard: dainty finger sandwiches, beautiful cakes and petit fours — and we see no reason to fix what isn’t broken. The good news? Cookbooks, shops and the blogosphere are positively filled with new cake recipes and tea-party menu ideas, including the latest dessert fads to hit our shores — cake pops and whoopie pies.
Plan some activities
Yes, sipping tea and eating cakes are already brilliant ways to pass the time but you can make your tea party more memorable with some bespoke activities — and give your guests a keepsake from the day. For example, if you were going down a burlesque route, you could find an accessories designer like Gaby Kennedy to help guests make their own pasties and tassels. Or consider adding a shopping event. Find a Stella & Dot hostess or perhaps hold a lingerie party. Make this something for the ladies.
Spike those tea pots
Just because it’s a tea party doesn’t mean you are limited to one potable option. Mixologists are doing amazing things with tea all the time and you should, too. Again, look to the internet for a recipe that suits your party.
Finally, pop the champagne. Nothing says glam like bubbles.
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