A collection of hosting guides for classic and themed afternoon tea parties.
Hosting a tea party is less about rules, and more about atmosphere.
Whether you’re planning a classic English afternoon tea, a whimsical Mad Hatter’s party, or an elegant French high tea, each style has its own rhythm, traditions, and small details that make it special.
Here you’ll find our complete collection of tea party hosting guides — each one designed to gently walk you through how to host that style of tea party, from setting the tone to choosing food, table details, and finishing touches.
What You’ll Find in Each Guide
Each tea party hosting guide includes ideas for:
• Setting the mood and theme
• What food and drinks work best
• Table styling and accessories
• Outfit inspiration
• Helpful recipes, tools, and booksYou can follow them step by step, or simply use them as inspiration.
Choose Your Tea Party Style
Classic Afternoon Tea
If you’re not sure which style to choose, start with our guide to hosting a classic afternoon tea — a timeless foundation that introduces the essential elements of tea, food, and atmosphere.
→ Read the Classic Afternoon Tea guide
Vintage Tea Party
How to Host a Vintage Tea Party
Romantic and nostalgic, vintage tea parties draw inspiration from antique china, soft colours, and old-fashioned recipes.
→ Read the Vintage Tea Party Hosting Guide
Bridal Tea Party
A bridal tea party is a graceful way to celebrate a bride, blending wedding elegance with the timeless charm of afternoon tea. Perfect for bridal showers, pre-wedding gatherings, and intimate celebrations.
Link → Bridal Tea Party page.
English Afternoon Tea
How to Host an English Afternoon Tea
Classic, timeless, and elegant. Learn how to host a traditional English afternoon tea with tiered trays, classic sandwiches, scones, and a relaxed but refined atmosphere.
→ Read the English Afternoon Tea Hosting Guide
French High Tea
How to Host a French High Tea
Inspired by Parisian cafés and countryside tables, French high tea is elegant, relaxed, and understated — focused on quality, simplicity, and beautiful presentation.
→ Read the French High Tea Hosting Guide
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
How to Host a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
Playful, whimsical, and a little bit chaotic in the best way. A Mad Hatter’s tea party invites creativity, unexpected details, and fun food ideas inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
→ Read the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Guide
Garden Tea Party
How to Host a Garden Tea Party
Light, fresh, and seasonal. A garden tea party celebrates outdoor tables, floral details, and relaxed food perfect for spring and summer afternoons.
→ Read the Garden Tea Party Hosting Guide
Retro / 1950s Tea Party
How to Host a Retro Tea Party
Bold, fun, and full of personality. Retro tea parties mix classic afternoon tea with mid-century style, playful colours, and statement details.
→ Read the Retro Tea Party Hosting Guide
1920s Tea Party
How to Host a 1920s Tea Party
Elegant and slightly glamorous, a 1920s tea party draws inspiration from the Jazz Age. Think refined details, soft metallics, Art Deco touches, and a sense of occasion without heaviness.
→ Read the 1920s Tea Party Hosting Guide
Royal Tea Party
How to Host a Royal Tea Party
A royal tea party is all about tradition, formality, and timeless elegance. This style celebrates classic afternoon tea etiquette, refined table settings, and an atmosphere of quiet luxury.
→ Read the Royal Tea Party Hosting Guide
Tea Party for Two
How to Host a Tea Party for Two
Intimate, thoughtful, and personal. A tea party for two focuses on simplicity, beautiful details, and creating a special moment — perfect for celebrations, quiet afternoons, or meaningful occasions.
→ Read the Tea Party for Two Guide
Christmas Tea Party
How to Host a Christmas Tea Party
Warm, festive, and indulgent. A Christmas tea party combines seasonal flavours, cosy styling, and elegant holiday touches — perfect for winter gatherings.
→ Read the Christmas Tea Party Hosting Guide
Looking for specific recipes or styling ideas?
You may also enjoy browsing our:
• Afternoon Tea Cakes
• Tea Party Sandwiches
• Tea Party Drinks
• Best Teacups for a tea party
• Tea Party Essentials