The Ultimate Tea Party Checklist: Everything You Need for a Perfect High Tea Affair

Whether you're planning a classic British high tea, a whimsical garden party, or a cozy get-together with friends, hosting a tea party is all about the little details. From elegant teacups to finger sandwiches and floral decor, creating a delightful tea-time experience is easier when you're prepared.

That’s why we’ve brewed up the ultimate tea party checklist—your go-to guide for everything you’ll need to plan and host a charming, stress-free tea party.

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🫖 Tea Party Essentials Checklist

✅ Invitations & Theme

• Choose a theme: Classic, Vintage, Garden, Alice in Wonderland, Boho, etc.

• Send invitations (physical, digital, or casual texts)

• Set the date, time, and dress code (optional but fun!)

  
  
  
  

✅ Tea Selection

Offer a mix of flavors to please every guest:

• English Breakfast

• Earl Grey

• Green Tea

• Herbal Teas (Chamomile, Peppermint, Hibiscus)

• A caffeine-free option

• Sugar, honey, lemon, and milk on the side

✅ Teaware & Tableware

• Teapot(s) – at least one per tea variety

• Teacups and saucers

• Tea spoons

• Sugar bowl & milk jug

• Tea strainer or infuser (for loose-leaf teas)

• Serving trays or tiered cake stands

• Plates and napkins

• Butter knives or spreaders

• Serving tongs

See our blog on quirky tea sets HERE

✅ Savory Bites

Traditional and tasty tea party savories include:

• Finger sandwiches (cucumber, egg salad, smoked salmon, chicken salad)

• Mini quiches or tarts

• Savory scones with herb butter

✅ Sweet Treats

Add sweetness to your spread with:

• Classic scones with jam and clotted cream

• Macarons or petit fours

• Shortbread cookies or tea biscuits

• Mini cupcakes or cakes

• Chocolate-dipped strawberries

✅ Decor & Ambience

Set the mood with:

• Fresh flowers or a floral centerpiece

• Lace or vintage tablecloths

• Elegant or quirky tableware (mismatched can be charming!)

• Candles or fairy lights (for indoor settings)

• A curated playlist (light jazz, classical, or soft acoustic)

  

  
  
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✅ Optional Extras

• Place cards or name tags

• Party favors (mini jam jars, tea samples, custom mugs)

• Themed photo backdrop or props

• Games or icebreakers (trivia, “guess the tea,” etc.)

✅ Last-Minute To-Do List

• Brew tea right before guests arrive

• Prep serving trays and keep items warm/cool as needed

• Set up a self-serve tea station if you want a more relaxed feel

• Have extra hot water or thermoses available

💡 Pro Tips for a Memorable Tea Party

• Plan ahead: Prep food and decor the day before when possible.

• Keep it cozy: Don’t stress about perfection—tea parties are meant to be fun and relaxing!

• Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to combine styles, cups, or themes for a personalized touch.

🫖 Final Thoughts

Tea parties are a beautiful way to slow down, sip something warm, and share sweet moments with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting your first or your fiftieth, this checklist ensures nothing is forgotten—and everything is delightful.

So brew, bite, and bask in the elegance of your perfectly planned tea affair. Cheers, darling!

📌 Save this checklist for your next event, and share it with your fellow tea lovers! ☕💐