Sure, little girls host cute tea parties, with plastic play sets and stuffed toy guests, but just because you’re a grown-up it doesn’t mean you can’t have some tea-party fun!
Like this week’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, afternoon tea is something of a British institution, and summer is the perfect time to host an outdoor get-together with your nearest and dearest – or pick a sunny summer day as a great excuse for a catch-up!
Take the opportunity this season to go al fresco and celebrate the impending summer with panache. Keep reading to see how you can host your own summer soiree, inspired by the season of sun!
– The Setting –
The classic setting for an afternoon tea is a stately home, so bring some of that grandeur to your own event. It only takes a few key items to properly set the scene – think beautiful bouquets upon crisp white tablecloths. String up some bunting above the door or around your patio to bring extra colour and add refined English charm to proceedings.
We love the look of antique crockery – it can be easy to get hold of pretty pieces in charity shops. Don’t worry about procuring a matching set; unique cups and saucers can add to a quirky, ‘Mad Hatter’ sort of vibe that creates a magical Alice in Wonderland effect.
A cake stand finishes your table setting perfectly. A 3-tiered stand is ideal. This way, you’ll raise your food from the table, creating more space for plates.
– The Food –
There aren’t any rules when it comes to the food, but a standard afternoon tea comprises a layer of sandwiches, a layer of cakes and a layer of scones with fresh clotted cream and jam.
We love utilising our home-grown herbs when creating the spread, adding a quintessential, personal touch to the ritual. Add floral garnishes to your sandwiches (egg and home-grown cress, anyone?) bake fresh bread with rosemary, cook up some home-grown veg or why not brew your own botanic tea blends?
Sandwiches – sandwiches require minimal effort, but we’re always ones for being prepared! Make your fillings in advance, but don’t assemble them until just before the event – nobody likes a soggy sarnie! Cut them into little triangles for an authentic finishing touch.
Scones – best served the day they’re made, scones are a straightforward recipe. We’re also huge fans of making our own preserves – simply decant into a pretty pot and serve with lashings of cream.
Cakes – can anything beat a classic Victoria Sponge? (Read how we made this classic bake here!) Of course it’s also a great idea to offer a chocolate option, and finish with a selection of shortbreads, ginger snaps and cookies. Don’t be ashamed to dunk!
– The Drinks –
Tea really goes without saying, but it’s always good to offer options. Most people will enjoy a classic English Breakfast, but the options of Darjeeling, Earl Grey and green tea are often popular and won’t overwhelm anyone who may not be a tea connoisseur.
A hot chocolate (with whipped cream and marshmallows, naturally) will be welcomed, especially if the British weather decides to blow a few clouds your way, and it’s always a great idea to have a coffee option – a cafetière adds distinction.
Of course, if you want to make a truly special occasion or are enjoying a get-together with the girls, you might want to add a touch of sparkle. Prosecco always goes down a treat, or choose champagne if you’re pulling out all the stops!
We’re also cocktail fans here at Clinkards! We’ve previously shown you how to stir up a Kir Royale, Ponsettia Punch and easy-peasy Bucks Fizz, but for Afternoon Tea we think a tea-themed cocktail makes the perfect aperitif!
– Earl Grey Cocktail –
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz lemon juice
- 2 parts Organic Earl Grey Tea brewed and chilled
- 2 parts dry gin
- Ice
- Rose buds or petals (to garnish)
Directions:
1. Brew and chill the tea as directed on the label. After steeped, pour into a jug and let cool in fridge.
2. Pour 2 parts tea, 2 parts gin into shaker with lemon juice and mix. Pour mixture into glass filled with ice and garnish if desired.
Top Tip! Brew your tea the evening before and leave it to chill in the fridge overnight so it’s ready to serve when your guests arrive!
Make sure you place a just of water on the table to keep your guests hydrated! Add a few sprigs of mint from your herb garden, or a few slices of cooling cucumber for a delicate yet refreshing taste.
– The Attire –
Make sure the only thing more charming than your tea party spread is your adorable ensemble!
Greet your guests while dressed to delight in dainty floral prints, paired with beautiful ballet pumps. Flat shoes are the perfect answer for long summer days of being outside, enjoying the sunshine, so pack away those heels and opt for some friendlier footwear. After all, with beauties like these available, why wouldn’t you?
A teatime treat can easily turn into evening drinks so make sure you’re stocked up with plenty of gin and elderflower – the perfect afternoon tipple – but don’t forget to keep the water flowing!
Finally, don’t forget to be adaptable and enjoy yourself!
