Hosting a Tea Party

A tea party is a fun way to get together with friends and is a little more laid back than a dinner party. Traditionally teatime is mid to late afternoon. Here is a step-by-step guide to planning a hosting a great tea party.

Invitations:

Invitations should be sent out at least two weeks before the date of the party. A simple, yet elegant invitation is traditionally used. You can type up the information and have the invite printed on pretty embossed cardstock.

Decorations:

Decorating for a tea party is generally centered on a beautiful table. Set the tables with pretty china, silver and linen table cloths. A flower centerpiece with colors that coordinate with the china is also a good idea. Food and Tea: The food and tea are the main attraction at a tea party, so they should be planned carefully. Traditional tea parties have tea, two or three different types of sandwiches to choose from, scones, clotted cream, and a couple of different small cakes or cookies. There are thousands of recipes for tea party sandwiches and desserts. Plan your menu ahead of time and have all the food prepared before the party so you only have to focus n serving the tea. Generally the food is served buffet style or by passing around small plates with a selection of the food on them.

Some things to remember when serving tea:

• Use a ceramic kettle instead of a metal one. Metal kettles leave a metallic taste in the tea.

• Allow the tea to sit for between three and seven minutes after boiling to increase the taste.

• Pour the tea using a strainer so that loose leaves or other items do not go into the cup.

• Put additional ingredients for each guest such as milk, or lemon in the cups before pouring the tea.

• Have boiling water on hand to add to the tea pot, because the tea becomes very strong while sitting and to keep the tea warm.