How to host a tea party

Have you always wanted to know how to host a tea party or "high tea" as some call it?  It is so much fun!  If you have never hosted tea then I would suggest it for sure, it is especially fun to do with little girls or your girlfriends!

When hosting a tea party you need to decide on your theme.  Is it going to be formal or casual?  Formal teas are my personal favorite.  You can use China, Crystal and Silver and it gives you a great start.  I like using linen napkins too! If you go with a casual theme you can mismatch china that you pick up at garage sales or thrift stores.  Even with a chip on the plate it can be used.  You can also mix and match silverware and use a variety of linen napkins to really keep your theme eclectic.  It is up to you so enjoy your theme whether it is formal or casual.

For this Formal Tea Theme which is pictured above - I chose to use my personal China.

I used a black table cloth and napkins, pearl napkin rings and pearls around my centerpiece.  My centerpiece was a very heavy crystal vase that I got as a wedding present filled with black gravel (which I spray painted myself) and ivory roses.  I used silver chargers to bring out the rim of my China.

On each of the chairs I had an ivory ribbon tied into a bow with a ivory crocheted starched tea pot.  I borrowed a black and ivory teapot from my Mom as well as a few other tea accessories including the silver teapot place card holders. All of my guests really enjoyed my Ebony and Ivory Tea Party.

Some menu items that you may like if you host a tea party:

How to make cucumber sandwiches

Olive Nut Cream Cheese Spread

Chocolate Croissant

Two Step Pound Cake

Cream Cheese Scone

I also suggest that you visit my Mom's blog Friendship Tea - filled with recipes and inspiration.

Visit our Party Planning and DIY Ideas Pinterest Board for more ideas.