How to Plan Your First Tea Party
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How to Plan Your First Tea Party
The first step in planning your tea party is to decide what type of tea party you want to have. A classic English style tea, a relaxed cozy mid-day tea or a crazy whimsical Mad Hatter tea experience. Any one of them can make for an unforgettable afternoon.
First Things First - Your Invitation
When your guests receive their invitation in the mail, that's the moment the party starts. This is where you get to describe the type of event you are planning.
The style of invitation you send says a lot:
Is it formal with a monogram or family crest indicating to be on your best behavior?
Is it a teacup cutout with polka dots and hearts indicating a less formal affair?
Take your time in choosing the right one; remember it's all about the details.
Let them know if it will take place inside your home or out in the garden. Is it formal, cozy or crazy, if children are expected and what they need to bring or do to participate fully in your planned activities. For example, should they wear beautiful spring dresses and fabulous hats or is the attire Mad Hatter crazy? Will there be contest they need to prepare for? Your invitation will get everybody's imagination going so be sure to send them out at least 2 week in advance.
Plan Your Menu
Traditional tea parties all have four components to their menus:
· Finger sandwiches also known as savories
· Fabulous deserts
· Scones
· Tea (some have tea and cocktails)
There is an endless array of finger sandwiches that can be made. Try the traditional cucumber and cream cheese or smoked salmon sandwiches but don't be afraid to experiment. Serve what you like. They only need to be made from thinly cut bread, crustless and cut into decorative shapes. The choice of bread is yours (white, wheat, pumpernickel, rye).
Scones should be served with a clotted cream spread and jams they are easy to make and only take minutes to bake (best if served warm).
Deserts can be a colorful assortment of Tea party treats (cupcakes, cookies, tarts and pastries).
You should also offer a variety of teas, for example; black tea, green tea and an herbal tea so everyone is sure to find something that will suit their taste.
Now it's time to set the ambiance, this is where you let your personality shine.
And a great time to bring out that beautiful china you inherited and never use. Or round-up those one of a kind pieces you've been collecting along the way. When setting your table be sure to use your finest linen tablecloths and cloth napkins to add a little sophistication and glamour. Use a variety of different Tea pots for interest and a bit of whimsy. Add colorful and festive serving trays to hold your delicious finger sandwiches, desserts and cute Tea party favors. Try using a three-tiered server to give some height to your tablescape. Tie ribbons and bows on your chair backs, then fill the table and surrounding area with brightly colored flowers, lots and lots of flowers. It's amazing how these few little tips can transform any space into a truly breathtaking Tea party atmosphere. Have fun!
I Love My Teas features Gourmet teas from around the world, both loose leaf tea or tea bags. Scrumptious tea party treats, Flowers, Gift Baskets and more. We have everything you need for a wonderful Tea party or special gift.
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Visit: http://ilovemyteas.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Brookstone
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8632177
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