French Afternoon Tea Party Ideas & Decorations. An Elegant Style Guide

Elegant Ideas for a Parisian Afternoon Tea

A French-style high tea is less about abundance and more about refinement.

Inspired by Parisian salons and countryside gatherings, French afternoon tea favours simplicity, balance, and beauty — where every element feels considered, but never excessive.

This guide will help you understand what defines French high tea style and how to recreate it for elegant gatherings, weddings, or intimate celebrations.

To recreate this look at home, these are the pieces that matter most.

What Makes a High Tea “French”?

French high tea is guided by a few quiet principles:

Fewer items, chosen well
Soft, harmonious colour palettes
Quality over quantity
A relaxed, unhurried atmosphere

Rather than elaborate displays, French tea tables feel effortless, as though everything simply belongs.

This French High Tea style is especially popular for bridal showers and wedding teas.

👉 Bridal Tea Party page

French High Tea Table Styling

A Soft, Neutral Colour Palette

French tea tables often feature:

Whites, creams, blush, and soft pastels
Muted gold or antique silver accents
Natural textures such as linen or cotton

Avoid strong contrasts or busy patterns — restraint is the signature.

Create a very special-looking table by using a table skirt. We love this Pretty Blush Rose Chiffon Table Skirt that reaches to the floor and drapes beautifully.

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Shop the French Table Look

Flowers: Natural and Loosely Arranged

Florals should feel organic rather than structured.

Garden roses, peonies, or seasonal blooms
Simple vases or low arrangements
A slightly imperfect look

Think freshly gathered, not formal centrepieces.

French Afternoon Tea Menu: Simple & Refined

A French-style tea menu is light and balanced.

Typical offerings include:

Delicate finger sandwiches
Small pastries or cakes
Fresh fruit or lightly sweet treats

The goal is to offer a few beautiful options rather than an overwhelming spread.

A Simple French Afternoon Tea Menu

A French-style high tea menu is intentionally modest.
Rather than offering many choices, focus on a few beautifully prepared items that feel light and balanced.

A classic French tea menu might include:

One savoury option
Delicate finger sandwiches such as cucumber, egg, or lightly seasoned chicken
One sweet pastry or cake
A small slice of cake, madeleine, or refined patisserie
Fresh fruit or a lightly sweet bite
Berries or a simple fruit tart to keep the table feeling fresh
Tea, served simply
One or two quality teas, without an overwhelming selection

The aim is not abundance, but harmony — each item complementing the others.

Serve these on small plates and tiered stands to keep the table light and elegant.

French Teas pair beautifully with pastries – here’s how: A Guide to Perfect Tea Pairings

French High Tea for Weddings & Special Occasions

French high tea is particularly well-suited to:

Tea party weddings
Bridal showers
Elegant afternoon celebrations

For weddings, keep the table styling cohesive and understated. Soft linens, porcelain teacups, and a limited colour palette create a romantic atmosphere without feeling staged.