Looking for some garden Spring party ideas? Welcome the season with elegance and charm by throwing a classy High Tea Party. Enjoy delicious treats, floral teas, and beautiful decor with your loved ones.
There’s nothing I love more than planning a party and a tea party is great for an intimate gathering that’s classy yet pretty informal.
Whether you’re hosting a bridal shower, a birthday, or just a casual gathering, discover below everything you need to plan the perfect High Tea Party.
Invitations
Set the tone with floral-themed invitations.
- DIY idea: Press real flowers onto cardstock or use watercolor-style stationery.
- Digital option: Send charming e-invites with vintage teacups or garden designs.
- Wording: “Join us for a delightful afternoon of tea, treats, and blooming conversation!”
Setting the Scene
Start by picking a location. A backyard garden, botanical park, or even an indoor space with floral decorations are great options.
If you’re hosting outdoors, consider setting up vintage-style bistro tables with delicate wrought iron chairs, or opt for long wooden tables adorned with floral runners for a more rustic feel.
For a cozy, picnic-style approach, lay out pastel or lace-trimmed blankets with oversized cushions, encouraging a more relaxed gathering.
If you’re hosting indoors, transform your space by incorporating botanical elements like potted plants, hanging vines, or floral wall backdrops to bring the beauty of a garden indoors.
The table décor should feel delicate and whimsical, with soft colors, floral patterns, and elegant details. Check out your local thrift store for fun vintage dishware.
Start with lace or floral tablecloths as the base, layering with decorative chargers and gold-rimmed or vintage china for an added touch of sophistication.
Arrange fresh flower centerpieces in teapots, mason jars, or antique vases, using seasonal blooms like roses, peonies, and hydrangeas.
Teacups and saucers in mismatched pastel patterns add a touch of charm, while delicate candle holders, fairy lights, or hanging lanterns can create a warm and inviting ambiance, especially for an evening gathering.
To complete the setting, place name cards in mini flower pots or tuck them into folded linen napkins for an extra special touch.
Here are some decor ideas from Amazon:
The Tea Bar
Offer a variety of tea flavors to suit every guest’s preference:
- Classic choices: Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Chamomile, Jasmine
- Fruity blends: Berry Hibiscus, Peach Oolong, Lemon Ginger
- DIY idea: A “Make Your Own Tea Blend” station with loose-leaf teas, honey sticks, lemon slices, and edible flowers
Bonus: Provide elegant sugar cubes, honey, and milk in decorative pitchers.
Delicious Bites
A tea party isn’t complete without an array of light and elegant treats. You’ll want to have a mix of savory and sweet options – preferring finger foods.
Savory options
You can serve mini sandwiches like cucumber & cream cheese, smoked salmon & dill, or egg salad on mini croissants – bruschettas and pinwheels are also great options.
Pastries & Sweets
Serve mini tarts, cookies, cupcakes, macarons, scones… and some fresh fruits.
Dress Code & Accessories
Encourage guests to dress up for the occasion:
- Attire: Flowy floral dresses, pastel skirts, and linen suits
- Accessories: Wide-brimmed hats, pearl necklaces, lace gloves
- Fun addition: Have a “Best Hat Contest” with a prize for the most creative or elegant hat!
Entertainment & Activities
Keep guests entertained with fun and relaxing activities:
- Live music: A soft jazz or classical playlist in the background
- Flower Crown Making: Provide faux or real flowers, floral tape, and wire for a DIY craft
- Tea Leaf Reading: Research simple fortune-telling techniques and have fun reading each others’ future
- Poetry or Book Reading: Encourage guests to bring their favorite short poems or springtime quotes
- Charades: A fun and easy game to set up
Party Favors
Send guests home with a thoughtful keepsake:
- Small tins of loose-leaf tea with custom labels
- Mini potted succulents or fresh herbs
- Personalized teacups
- Scented sachets with dried lavender
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