Homemade English Party Decorations
English tea parties work well for a variety of occasions, whether special events or casual catch-up sessions with friends. You'll want to prepare a few snacks, such as scones, shortbread cookies or mini sandwiches to go with your tea. Since you'll be busy cooking, choose easy-to-make homemade decorations using household goods and simple supplies.
Elegant Table Settings
Cover each table with a lace or white tablecloth, and purchase paper doilies to set under each guest's teacup. Don't worry if all your teacups don't match; a variety of cups will add personality to your party. Create a festive atmosphere by placing small votive candles around the table. Make your own centerpiece by filling a clear glass bowl or vase with simple Christmas ornaments or marbles.
Ambience
Place fresh flowers from your garden or local grocery store on empty surfaces and tables. Choose brightly colored flowers, such as daisies, sunflowers or tulips. Display lemons, limes, cinnamon sticks or mint leaves in small crystal bowls. These ingredients make stylish and functional decorations; they are colorful and visually pleasing, and guests can add them to their tea. If you are having the party outdoors, hang lanterns and twinkle lights from the trees. If the party is indoors, you can still drape twinkle lights over the mantle.
Menus and Place Cards
Print menus on light-colored paper and mount them on contrasting cardstock cut in the shape of a teacup or flower. Punch a hole in the top of the menu and tie some ribbon through it for an elegant touch. Make place cards if you want to determine the party's seating arrangement. Print each guest's name in a formal, cursive-style font and mount the names on contrasting cardstock or construction paper. Add cut out flower shapes for a fun look.
Child's Tea Party
Decorate a child's tea party with streamers made with ribbon or inexpensive pastel fabrics. Place small stuffed animals and dolls on the table with the scones and other treats to create a friendly atmosphere. Or, if your guests will be bringing their dolls, create individual place settings for the dolls as well. Don't forget to make place cards for them too.
Tags: contrasting cardstock, each guest, English Party, English Party Decorations, Homemade English, Homemade English Party