Whether you are a business or having a tea party at home, you need to know the basics.
Tea table set is what you can’t go without. Here you will learn how to it the way pro’s do.
1. Location.
First things first – the location. If the weather permits then having a tea party outdoors is one the most joyous experiences you can have. Do it the way English duchesses do!
If not, then a hotel lobby, living room or a loft – all great locations.
2. Table.
I have seen so many tea tables of all shapes, sizes as well as quality that I can say it with confidence: any table will do for a tea party. As long as it is appropriate size for your party,- it’s perfect. If it’s a very small table for two – place it next to a book shelf -now you have an extra room for a tea pot.
3. Table cloth.
Now this step can be skipped if your goal is a very casual outdoor tea party.
If not, then I do recommend white tablecloth because it looks classier and classic. It also makes the rest of the set up to stand out and not to compete for the viewer’s attention.
4. Center piece.
Tea party center piece is a must. You can try a flower in a vase, a candle or a crystal ball if it’s a psychic tea theme with a tea leaves reading. Just keep it simple.
5. Decorations.
Tea party table decorations are additions for a special occasion or theme like rose pedals or perle. Theme tea table might have a magnifying glass and cut out news paper articles if it’s a Sherlock Holmes tea party.
This step can be skipped.
6. Sugar.
Sugar cubes is a ‘must have’ for an afternoon tea table set up. As an option I like to add a little of honey next to it as another option to sweeten tea.
7. Plates.
Tea table plates don’t really need to be a part of a tea cup set or match anything. They can be plain white. But the key is to have them in somewhat the same size as a tea cup saucer.
8. Saucers and tea cups.
Tea cup saucers should be a set but if not- close enough in color or style is great. It’s important to have them on the right side of the plate.
9. Silverware.
Those have to match at least in finish. I usually go for silver but if you have a gold set- it’s good too. The knife will always go to the left side of a plate. Butter knife – the right side of the plate with the sharp part of the blade turned towards the plate. Tea spoon is placed on the left side of the saucer.
10. Tea strainers.
Tea strainers need to be placed right in front of the tea cup saucer.
If you want to learn more, here is an article on how to choose the right type of strainer for a tea party.
11. Napkins.
There’s so many ways to fold a napkin that’s suitable for a tea. Here is just an example.
Feel free to put them on a plate or in a cup.
Here is a 1 minute video on I how I do it.
So there you have it!
Enjoy your tea party and have fun!!