How to host to perfect summer tea party

It’s the summertime and, hopefully, perfect weather for sitting in your outdoor space and entertaining friends and family.

One of the nicest ways to eat al fresco is to host an afternoon tea party.

It’s a wonderful way to while away a few hours socialising and the good news is you can keep it simple and throw a fabulous tea party on a modest budget too.

Here are our top tips:

Teapots, cups & plates

One of the lovely things about afternoon tea is having a proper teapot, as well as some lovely cups and plates to use. If you have your own tea set and are having a small gathering, then you should be amply covered for this.

If you’re going bigger, or don’t have any crockery that you can use, have a look in charity shops or at jumble sales, or see if a friend has something you can borrow. You don’t have to go vintage, modern sets will do just as well or if you prefer them. It’s also trendy not to have matching items and shabby chic is very ‘in’.

Serving plates

If you have one, it’s traditional to use a three-tiered cake stand to serve your tea items. If you don’t, then an attractive serving platter or decorative plates will do just as well to show off your sandwiches and cakes. Part of the fun of the occasion is making a great display for your guest or guests. Or even just for yourself to enjoy.

Table dressing

It’s always a good idea to dress your table if you can, as this adds to the ceremony and the idea of making it a special occasion. It’s not like any other meal. It’s one to savour and linger over.

Take some time to dress your table with a cloth and napkins if you have some. Again, you can often pick things up in charity shops. Matching items are not essential. If you can get some flowers in a low vase for your table centre or pick something from your garden, foliage is just as good as having blooms.

Comfort

If you have a large gathering planned be sure to have ample comfortable seating so everyone can sit down and enjoy their food. If it looks like it might be very hot and you’re outside, don’t forget to think about shade options or even having a plan B for eating inside. The same goes for rainy weather.

Food & drink

For the perfect afternoon tea go for a selection of finger sandwiches based on what you and your guests like to eat. Modern spreads can also include open sandwiches, filled delicate rolls and toasted items, as well as sausage rolls. Follow these with scones with cream, butter or a similar spread and jam. Traditional also dictates the need for cake or cakes.

You don’t have to have tea if you’re not a tea drinker. Protocol would suggest tea only but for a relaxed event at home, you can also have coffee, soft cold drinks and even fruit teas.

Get bread & cakes from us

If you’re not big on making your own sweet treats or cake, or would like some special bread for your sandwiches, don’t forget to pop in and see us to pick something up.