Afternoon tea is something that many of us think of as a throwback to bygone times, however it may surprise you to know that in recent times they have had something of a renaissance. This is due to the fact that social media and films have brought them back into the psyche and made tea parties fashionable especially among people looking for a different kind of social gathering.
As we alluded to above when you mention a tea party most of us think of groups of ladies and gentlemen sitting around drinking tea and eating cucumber sandwiches or maybe a scene from the Lewis Carroll novel “ Alice in Wonderland”. Even though there will always be a certain amount of tradition attached to holding a tea party things have undoubtedly moved on, meaning that you now have so many more options available that can turn this once staid and formal event into an afternoon of fun and enjoyment.
When Would you Hold a Tea Party
The versatility of tea parties mean that they are suitable for all manner of celebration including birthdays, baby showers or even company corporate days. This is because it gives you the opportunity to relax and chat with friends without needing to worry about preparing food during it, as with a tea party you have everything prepared in advance especially if you employ the services of a reliable high quality caterer.
Whether your event is for just a few close friends or a larger more diverse group it is the ideal way to sit and talk in a way that is both formal and relaxed at the same time. Never forget the main aim of a tea party like any social event is for people to get together and enjoy themselves, so here are a few tips to help ensure yours goes with a swing.
Send out Invites
The first thing you need to do is send out invites to all your guests to make sure they have all the details such as time and place. As technology has moved on many people now use things like whatsapp to make arrangements, however if you want to make it a bit more fun and add some mystique to your event why not think outside the box and maybe send out hand written cards. You could even place a tea bag in with your invite so that your guests have some sort of idea what type of event they will be attending.
Accessories
If you don’t have them then you need to ensure that things like tea pots, cups, serving trays and cake stands are purchased or rented in advance. If you employ the services of an outside caterer like the team here at Sadlergates. While simple white China is perfectly ok if you want your display to stand out from the crowd why not choose more intricate patterns or colours.
Plan your Food
From finger foods and sandwiches to cakes, sharing boards, and platters, why not have a bit of everything? Mixing sweet and savoury treats isn’t just fun; it’s a classic approach that dates back to Victorian times. This is how they used to do it in Victorian times and it is a tried and tested method.
The key is to keep it simple. Browse online for easy sandwich recipes, experiment with new flavours, and try different combinations. Don’t be afraid to get creative. The most important part? Make sure everything can be prepared ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy.
Clearly if you choose to use a professional caterer they will be able to advise on your menu. Here at Sadlergates we offer clients a wide range of options meaning that will allow you to cater for all different tastes and dietary requirements.
Don’t Forget the Tea!
People often treat tea as a secondary element where afternoon tea is concerned however this can be a mistake. Some people now include alcoholic drinks like prosecco and gin but that changes the overall feel of your event. Of course there is no problem with having a refreshing G&T but if your aim is to hold a traditional tea party then the tea and how you serve it is the really important thing.
Maybe offer a number of different types and serve in different ways such as with lemon, cream, sugar, milk. That way you will be able to cater for the different tastes of all of your guests.
Make Sure you Have Fun
Party games are always a fun addition, but if you’re looking to add a traditional twist to your tea party, why not try reading tea leaves? It’s a charming way to bring some light-hearted entertainment to the table. You can find plenty of guides online or pick up a book to learn the basics. It’s all just a bit of fun, but it’s a memorable way to wrap up the day with laughter and good vibes.
Why Choose Sadlergates for your Tea Party Catering
When you Choose the team here at Sadlergates for your tea party catering you will be treating your guests to a truly delightful and memorable experience. Known for our attention to detail and passion for quality, we bring a unique touch to every event. No matter whether it’s a relaxed garden gathering or an elegant celebration Our beautifully presented finger foods, delicate sandwiches, and indulgent cakes are the perfect choice. We offer a perfect balance of sweet and savoury options to suit all tastes, and dietary needs. What sets Sadlergates apart is our commitment to making your event stress-free and special. From setup to service, we take care of everything, so you can simply enjoy the moment. With years of experience and a love for creating unforgettable tea parties, Sadlergates is your go-to choice for catering that is as charming as it is delicious.
