Host the Perfect Afternoon Tea Party at Home

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a classic British tradition. It started in the 1840s with Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. She wanted a snack between lunch and dinner. So, she asked for tea, finger sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. In 1841, Queen Victoria joined her, making afternoon tea a popular social event. Today, it’s a special treat you might enjoy at a fancy hotel. Now, you can learn how to create the perfect afternoon tea at home.

The Three Key Parts

Afternoon tea has three main parts:

  • Sandwiches: Light and simple sandwiches, like cucumber, are a good choice.
  • Scones: Freshly baked scones are always the best.
  • Cakes and Pastries: Buying these from a shop is perfectly fine. It saves time and stress.

A cake stand is great for showing off your treats. It makes the experience more special. Offer a choice of teas like Earl Grey and English breakfast. Earl Grey is fragrant, and English breakfast is a favorite with milk.

Set a Beautiful Table

A beautiful table setting makes your afternoon tea even better. Flowers add a nice touch, but don’t let them block the view or conversation.

Here’s how to set a lovely table:

  • Choose a Theme: Pick a theme for your table setting, like flowers and nature.
  • Use a White Tablecloth: It looks elegant and clean.
  • Start with Plates: Use larger dinner plates as a base.
  • Add Smaller Plates: These are for eating.
  • Place Cutlery: This helps you see how much space you have for glasses and teacups.
  • Add Decorations: Use small dishes or other items that fit your theme.
  • Use Linen Napkins: Starch them for a fresh, crisp look.
  • Add Napkin Rings: These can add a touch of fun to the table.
  • Choose Champagne Glasses: Use glasses in pastel colors to brighten the table.
  • Select a Tea Set: A favorite tea set can make the occasion more special.
  • Serve Jam and Cream: Use small dishes and spoons for a luxurious touch.
  • Don’t Forget the Essentials: Have milk, sugar, and lemon ready.

Tip: Use flowers to decorate, but keep them low so people can still talk easily.

Relax and Enjoy

When entertaining, it’s important to create a relaxed environment. The most important rule is to have fun. But, here are some tips if you want some guidance:

  • Stir Tea Correctly: Stir your tea gently, and then give it a little flick to avoid spills.
  • Break Scones: Don’t cut scones with a knife, break them with your hands.
  • Add Cream and Jam: Put cream and jam on the side of your plate and then use a knife to spread them on your scone.

Should you put jam or cream on first? It’s up to you. Some people like cream first, but it’s a personal choice.

Final Thoughts

Afternoon tea is about more than just the food and drinks. It’s about creating a special experience for your guests. By paying attention to the details and creating a relaxed atmosphere, you can host an afternoon tea party that everyone will remember.

Ready to host your own afternoon tea? Use these tips to create a memorable and enjoyable event for your guests.

Best Afternoon Tea in London | Online Booking | UK Guide

The Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Paris: Our Picks

12 British Cake Recipes to Sweeten Your Celebration

Uncover further inspiration in our blog.

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Picture of Aveline Lux

Aveline Lux

Aveline Lux is a visionary writer and digital storyteller, using her blog on CitiWell Shop as a platform to explore the intersection of creativity, commerce, and culture.

Traveling extensively across continents, Aveline draws inspiration from different cultures and global trends, infusing her articles with unique perspectives and practical insights.

Aveline enjoys photography, hiking through nature trails, and curating playlists that fuel her creative process.

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