Dear Jacquelyn,

My sister’s birthday is coming up and I am considering hosting an afternoon tea as a way to celebrate. It seems like there are a lot of details to consider and it is a little overwhelming. Other than serving tea, what else would be needed to have a successful tea party?

Dear Reader,

An afternoon tea party is suitable for many celebrations including birthdays.

Hosting any event comes with its share of responsibilities and can easily become overwhelming.

Here are some ideas to help you host a fabulous tea party celebration.

Hosting a perfect tea party begins by selecting a date and sending out your invitations. The invitation will establish the theme for the event.

Consider a frilly paper invite. It’s a thoughtful touch that will set the tone for your get-together. The preparation that goes into it shows thoughtfulness and kind consideration for the person invited.

The tea party table is the focus and takes center stage for the event.

Consider creating the perfect ambiance with an assortment of vintage tea cups, tea pot and lace doilies. A lovely floral arrangement is a beautiful addition.

Three courses are traditionally served with afternoon tea: sandwiches, sweets and scones.

Food items are often served to the guest on a decorative tray. Food may be eaten with the fingers unless cake is served. A fork would then be set on the table along with the napkin, tea cup, saucer and teaspoon.

Offer an assortment of fine teas. It’s good to have at least two teas on hand to serve: a black or green caffeinated tea and at least one herbal or decaffeinated.

It’s also a show of a good host to know a little about each tea to make recommendations to each person’s taste.

Even though hosting an afternoon tea seems a little daunting, with a little planning your tea party will be a success. The magic is in the details.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

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