Not long ago, a group of Wine Sisters took a girls bucket list trip to London. Along with exploring castles, cathedrals, museums, and shops, one of our best memories was high tea at a posh hotel. The art of tea and conversation in an enchanting atmosphere is something you can recreate back at home. Whether it’s a casual gathering or an elegant event, this classic tradition is a way to celebrate connection, creativity and delicious tea and treats. Who doesn’t love sandwiches with the crusts cut off?
Our modern DIY version can be as chic or as casual as you want. The essence of the modern tea party lies in the experience of sipping tea and savoring light snacks while engaging in good conversation—or friendly gossip.
Set the Scene
Even if you don’t live in a palace, creating the right atmosphere is key. A modern tea party can happen anywhere—from a sunny backyard to a cozy living room to a rooftop terrace. Soft lighting like fairy lights and candles and a well-curated play list set the mood. A springtime gathering could feature colorful florals and wicker furniture, while a winter tea party might invite with velvet pillows cozy throw blankets, and a roaring fire.
Tea Selection: A World of Possibilities
Gone are the days when the tea choices were limited to basic black or green tea. The modern tea party embraces variety, with a multitude of tea types to suit every taste and preference. Think herbal blends, fruity infusions, chai, and even matcha.
If you don’t have a butler to pour the tea, set up a tea bar where guests can choose their own blends and add personalized touches like citrus slices, fresh mint, honey, or brown sugar cubes. You can even serve iced tea or bubble tea in warmer weather.
Open the festivities with a flute of fizz or a Champagne-based cocktail like a French 75
Treats to Delight: Savory and Sweet Bites
A hallmark of any tea party is the food, and modern parties have evolved beyond the traditional cucumber sandwiches and scones (though those are still lovely). Think mini pastries, finger foods, or bite-sized sandwiches with more adventurous fillings, like smoked salmon and dill cream cheese, goat cheese and roasted red peppers, or even vegan-friendly options.
For sweets, you can offer classic scones with clotted cream and jam, but also consider macarons, petit fours, or fruit tarts. For an even more creative twist, serve up desserts inspired by international flavors—matcha-flavored treats, baklava, or tea-infused cakes can elevate the experience.
If you want to impress your guests, consider build-your-own scone stations with toppings, or let guests design their own tea sandwiches with an array of spreads and fillings. This encourages mingling and creates a sense of fun.
Tea Party Themes: Let Your Imagination Run Wild
One of the best parts about a modern tea party is the freedom to choose a theme. While a traditional high tea might evoke formal thoughts, you can make your event unique with a modern or quirky theme. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Garden Party: Embrace nature with extravagant floral displays, fresh herbs in tea, and a garden setting.
- Brunch-Inspired: Serve tea alongside waffles, avocado toast, or mini quiches for a more modern twist.
- Wellness Tea Party: Focus on health-conscious teas and bites, like green tea, turmeric lattes, match, and smoothie bowls.
- Cozy Winter Tea: Serve warm spiced teas, mulled cider, and comfort foods like soup and scones by a crackling fire.
- Bohemian Tea Party: Go for a relaxed, eclectic vibe with mismatched teacups, boho decor, and light bites.
The possibilities are endless, and a fun theme can make your gathering stand out and spark creativity. A tea party is also a great idea for a birthday celebration, wedding or baby shower.
Embrace Sustainable Practices
A modern tea party doesn’t just celebrate old traditions; it can also embrace contemporary values like sustainability. If you don’t have a cabinet full of heirloom plates and sterling silver for a crowd, check out options such as compostable plates and bamboo cutlery. If you’re setting out tea bags (it’s ok, this is a modern tea party), look for biodegradable or compostable options. Visit your local thrift stores or estate sales for affordable china teacups that your guests can take home as a party favor and use again and again.
Supporting local producers can also give your tea party a modern touch—consider sourcing your teas from small, artisanal brands or local markets, and serve organic or fair-trade options.
Modern Etiquette: It’s All About Enjoying the Moment
While the rules of formal tea etiquette still apply (such as holding your teacup by the handle and no slurping), modern tea parties are less about rigid don’ts and more about fostering a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. Encourage your guests to chat, enjoy the food, and take their time. There’s no rush here—just the simple pleasure of sharing a drink and conversation.
One fun aspect of a modern tea party is the possibility to mix old-world elegance with new-age tech. Consider having a photo booth with quirky props or use a playlist from a music streaming service to set the mood.
If your guests are tech-savvy, you can even host a virtual tea party. Using video conferencing tools, you can invite friends from across the globe to join in, sip tea, and exchange stories, making it a truly modern experience. Like a virtual wine tasting, make suggestions to your guests on types of teas to have on hand to sip and savor. You can compare tasting notes! Tip: ask a pro tea sommelier to lead the tasting to provide education and answer questions.
The next time you’re looking for a reason to gather your besties, skip the usual dinner party and opt for something a little more intimate—a modern tea party that’s equal parts tradition, fun, and innovation. Cheers to tea, good company, and moments that matter!
