Essential Guide to Hosting an Afternoon Tea Like a Pro

Posted by San Set on May 13th, 2021

There is something elegant about hosting an afternoon tea. Every aspect is well planned and thought out. However, don't be intimidated by the event; putting together a tea is easier than you might think. Afternoon teas are the perfect setting for getting together with friends, baby showers, bridal showers, or anytime that you want to do something special.

Elegant and dainty

A tea party should bring to mind elegance, grace, and beauty.

• You'll need a tea set with tray. A traditional teacup set is dainty and pretty. Teacups should be pleasing to look at and use.

• Use quality linens, including the tablecloth and cloth napkins. Again, keep things dainty and beautiful.
• A tiered tray for arranging snacks is customary.

The star of the event

The star of your afternoon tea is the tea. There are several flavors of tea that are perfect for this afternoon event. Mint and chamomile are both soothing and tasty. Earl Gray is a favorite black tea for afternoon tea.

No matter which tea you choose, opt for tea leaves rather than tea bags. Loose tea leaves have superior flavor, and they are a higher quality tea. Even when making tea for yourself and no one else, you should treat yourself and opt for loose tea.

Yummy snacks

Afternoon tea isn't complete without an assortment of snacks. Serve finger sandwiches with afternoon tea. Cucumber sandwiches, egg salad, roast beef, and chicken salad are all tasty choices for sandwiches. Like the tea set and table setting, the snacks should be dainty and light as well. Arrange the sandwiches on a tiered tray.

If the sandwiches take up each tier of the tray, you'll want a second tiered tray for scones, tarts, and other small pastries. If you can add these snacks to the sandwich tray, that is fine as long as they have their own tiers and don't have to be mixed with sandwiches. Never add full-sized pastries to the trays; miniature snacks are the perfect choice for afternoon tea.

Larger, heavier options are served at high tea. High tea is later in the day and meant to be more filling, like an evening meal. Keep things light for afternoon tea.

An afternoon tea is an excellent choice for any elegant event. The entire event from start to finish should make guests feel special and welcome. Have fun putting together your next afternoon tea.