How to Have an Afternoon Tea Party at Home

How to Have an Afternoon Tea Party at Home

As many of you know I was born in London and I often joke that afternoon tea is a birthright of mine. Afternoon tea is more of a relaxed version of high tea which many hotels and restaurants offer. It often consists of tiny finger sandwiches, bite-sized desserts, pastries, and of course, tea. Everyone in my family is a fan of a good afternoon tea and growing up we would have them quite often, especially on long weekends. My mom would place an assortment of biscuits, savory pastries and tea. Sometimes there was even cakes or tarts. 

{Similar Reads: Indian Afternoon Tea}

My daughter loves when I have tea parties with her, so when it came time to celebrate her birthday under quarantine, I decided to give her the Afternoon Tea Party she’s always wanted.

Below I’m sharing ideas on how how to have an Afternoon Tea Party at home.

Sweets & Savories 

• Finger sandwiches with assorted fillings: some of our favorites include jam sandwiches, egg salad, & cucumber with cream cheese
• Scones with jam and freshly whipped cream
• Biscuits (cookies)
• Chocolate éclairs
• Mini cupcakes 
• Muffins
• Cakes
• Fruit or jam tarts
• Fresh fruit
• Biscotti 

Here are some recipes from the blog that would be perfect for an Afternoon Tea at home: Pistachio Rose Cake, Cardamom Walnut Chai Cake, Indian Tea Menu, Strawberry Cardamom Cake, Mango Mousse, Strawberry Rose Custard, Roasted Corn + Mushroom Turnovers, Vegetable Masala Puffs, Homemade Chai and Pineapple Coconut Spritzers.

Brews  & Beverages 

• Depending on everyone’s preferences at home, include an assortment of teas, we love Earl Gray and Indian Chai for our Afternoon Teas.
• Don’t forget the milk and sugar, this way everyone can make it the way they prefer.
• For tea parties with kids, put some juice or flavored water in a mini tea pot for them.
• If you’re celebrating an anniversary or Mother’s Day, add some champagne or rose to the menu. 

Table Decor & More

• Start with a clean, neutral canvas, I used our coffee table but you can use your dining table or kitchen counter. Remember your tea spread should steal the show so if you need to, lay a white tablecloth to start with.
• Use the good stuff, you know the tea sets that are for special occasions. I highly recommend this if you’re celebrating an occasion at home. 
• Avoid paper plates and cups, the crockery adds to the beauty of your table scape.
• Add color with fresh flowers or berries. 
• Display your food on dishes with varying height: cake stands, dessert platters, cheeseboards. 

Mood & Music

• Ask everyone to dress up for your afternoon tea, it’s an excuse to be fancy at home!
• Light some candles or incense for some added ambience.
• Play your favorite soft instrumental music, it’s your party, make it beautiful!

I hope you all are staying home and staying safe. Even if you don’t have any celebrations coming up, there is always a reason to have a fun afternoon tea party at home!

Enjoy,