Planning a tea party? You're in the right place. Whether it's your first time hosting a tea party or you just want a refresher, we'll cover the basics.
The most important thing to remember is that teatime is quality time. Everything else is optional (even the tea). Some tea parties are fancy celebrations with lots of guests. Others may be part of a simple afternoon at home. No matter how you host, your tea party is special because it has you and the people you care about.
Now, let's make it one to remember...
Preparing for a tea party
To set up for success, consider doing a few things ahead of time.
Choose a time and place
Anytime is a good time for a tea party. Your party can last 15 minutes, all day, or any time in between.
Where you host is up to you. Consider where everyone will be comfortable. Popular choices include a dining room table or a coffee table with floor seating. If you have favorable weather, take advantage with a picnic. Wherever you decide to host, expect spills.
Make invitations
This one's optional, but it can be a lot of fun. Whether you're inviting human friends or stuffed animals, invitations make it a special occasion. Get creative and make them by hand or grab some from the store and add a personal touch.
Decorate
If your tea party has a theme, embrace it. Hang decorations from the walls, ceiling, or chairs. If your tea party is low-key, take this time to set the table. Lay a tablecloth to zhuzh it up, arrange place settings at each seat, and add any extras you'd like, such as fancy napkins, teaspoons, or fresh flowers.
Prepare treats and tea
If you plan to serve snacks and drinks, get them started ahead of time. Young hosts might enjoy helping. If they aren't ready for time in the kitchen, cookie or cupcake decorating (aka adding sprinkles) can be part of the tea party. When choosing snacks, remember to keep it simple—finger foods work best.
During the tea party
There's no shortage of things to do at a tea party. Make it your own. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Dress up
Depending on the occasion (and the theme), you might want to dress up for your tea party. Guests can arrive dressed up, or you can make it part of the party. Having an accessory station with hats, gloves, boas, and costume jewelry makes a fancy tea party extra fun. Or, if your guests enjoy arts and crafts, include an activity to make your own headwear, like a crown or fascinator.
Bring in the entertainment
A good host keeps their guests entertained. Choose a couple of activities for fun!
- Games, like bingo or a sugar cube stacking contest
- Crafts, like coloring or crown making
- A fashion show in dress-up garb
- Story time
- A sing-a-long or dance party (prepare a playlist of favorites!)
Serve the tea
Once you fill the teapot (with tea, lemonade, or whatever you like), bring it to the table. Usually the host or guest of honor pours the first cup of tea. Afterwards it's best to have one person pour for everyone. Treats can be placed on the table, on a tiered tray or colorful plate, and guests should take turns getting their treats.
Pretend play
Remember, tea parties don't need tea. Imaginary tea tastes good too. Especially if you're in a magical land where teddies talk and adventure reigns. The most important ingredients for tea parties are good company and imagination.
After the tea party
Once the tea party comes to an end, see your guests off in style. Thank them for coming and bid them farewell. It's important to make sure each guest leaves with something special. This could be a party favor, craft, or simply a smile.
After your guests have departed, young hosts should help clean up the party. This is a good time to talk about your favorite moments and what you'd like to do at your next teatime.
Make memories
That's it! With a little planning and creativity, you can host a tea party that your child will cherish for years to come. Have fun, embrace the silliness, don't stress about spills—just make memories.
How to host a tea party, step by step
- Choose a time and place
- Make invitations
- Get supplies
- Decorate and set the table
- Prepare treats and tea (if serving)
- Dress up
- Welcome guests
- Enjoy the party!
- Say farewell to guests
- Clean up