LIVING | REVIEWS A tea party is a great way to host both formal and informal get-togethers. It's sophisticated yet understated, and a fun alternative to going out to lunch or brunch. While it might feel upscale, there are plenty of ways to host a classy tea party without spending a fortune.
Selecting a tea Black tea is the standard for tea parties, but you can serve any tea you like. Loose tea tends to provide a richer experience than individual tea packs, but either is acceptable. Make sure to have caffeinated and non-caffeinated choices.
Give your guests the option to customize their tea with sugar, lemon, honey or milk. It's a good idea to off er alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk or skim milk to accommodate different dietary needs. Planning a menu One benefit of a tea party is that much of the food prep can be done ahead of time.
This means that when it comes time to socialize, you get to enjoy your guests instead of running in and out of the kitchen or worrying about hot trays. Finger sandwiches are a tea-party staple. They are easy to store and to eat, without much mess or fuss.
Depending on your guests' dietary restrictions, include vegetarian or gluten-free options. A tea party isn't like a birthday party with one big cake. Instead, an assortment of scones, tea cakes or pastries are suitable.
Include assorted jams and creams on the side. You can lay out refreshments buffet-style on a separate table or prepare tiered trays as centerpieces for each table. Either.
