The Ultimate Tea Party Checklist – Must-Have Essentials for a Perfect High Tea Gathering
- Mummsy
- Apr 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 8
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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Choose a location that feels calm, elegant, and intimate. This could be your garden, a cozy indoor nook, or even a picnic setup in the park. Add a tablecloth (lace or pastel tones work beautifully), fresh flowers, and tiered serving trays for that quintessential high tea ambiance.
✅ Outdoor or indoor space
✅ Date and Time
✅ Color Theme
✅ Tablecloths or runners
✅ Fresh floral arrangements
✅ Coordinated napkins and place settings
✅ Elegant signage or name cards (optional)
🍵 2. A Selection of Teas
No tea party is complete without—you guessed it—tea! Offer a small selection to cater to different tastes. Aim for at least one black tea, one herbal option, and a green or fruity infusion.
✅ Earl Grey
✅ English Breakfast
✅ Chamomile or Peppermint
✅ Jasmine or Green Tea
✅ Unique Tea Flavors
✅ Sugar cubes, lemon slices & honey
✅ Milk jug and cream
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🧁 3. Savory Bites & Sweet Treats
A proper high tea includes a mix of savory and sweet delicacies, beautifully arranged on tiered trays. Remember: dainty is key!
Savories:
✅ Cucumber sandwiches
✅ Smoked salmon with cream cheese
✅ Egg salad on mini croissants
✅ Mini quiches
Sweets:
✅ Scones with jam and clotted cream
✅ Macarons
✅ Mini cupcakes
✅ Shortbread or tea biscuits
✅ Fruit tarts
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🍽️ 4. Tea Party Essentials
Make sure you have the essentials to serve and sip in style. Bonus points for vintage finds or mismatched sets—they add extra character!
✅ Teapots (1 for each tea variety)
✅ Teacups and saucers
✅ Dessert plates
✅ Cake stands or tiered trays
✅ Sugar tongs and teaspoons
✅ Linen napkins
See our blog on quirky tea sets HERE
🎩 5. Dress Code & Decor
Encourage your guests to dress the part—floral dresses, pearls, fascinators, or even gloves! Keep your decor soft, romantic, and cohesive with your color scheme.
✅ Vintage or garden-party dress code
✅ Bunting or soft string lights✅ Place cards or menu cards
✅ Soft background music (classical or jazz)
✅ Optional photo area with props
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🎁 6. Party Favors & Little Extras
Leave your guests with a sweet memory of the day. Small tea-themed party favors or handwritten notes add that final thoughtful touch.
✅ Mini jars of tea leaves or honey
✅ Tea infusers
✅ Scented candles
✅ Handwritten thank-you notes
✅ A group photo moment!
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💡 Bonus Tip: Create a Timeline
Having a relaxed timeline can help your event run smoothly:
Guests arrive & mingle
Tea is served
Food is enjoyed (savories then sweets)
Optional games, stories, or toasts
Photo time & farewells
🫖 Ready to Host Your Own Dreamy High Tea?
Hosting a tea party is a timeless way to gather loved ones and celebrate life’s sweet moments. With this checklist in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a graceful, unforgettable high tea experience that feels just as special as it looks.
So polish that silver, warm the teapot, and let the tea (and laughter) flow. 💐
Download Our Checklist For A Fantastic Tea Party.
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