How to Host Your Own Tea Party

Throwing a tea party is the ultimate way to blend elegance and sweet fun! Whether you’re planning a bridal shower, a birthday bash or a cozy catch-up with friends, tea parties are perfect for every occasion. With tasty treats, cute decorations and a splash of creativity, you can easily create a charming event that everyone will enjoy. Let’s spill the tea on how to host your own party!

The Menu

What’s a tea party without a fabulous spread? Think finger foods, sweet treats and, of course, perfectly brewed tea. A carefully planned menu will make your party feel extra special and gives your guests something to talk about (besides how great you are at hosting).

Snacks

Snacks are essential to any tea party! They’re fun, bite-sized and oh-so-easy to enjoy between sips of tea.

Put together a tray of finger sandwiches like cucumber or smoked salmon.
Make mini charcuterie boards for guests with assorted cheeses, meats and crackers.
Add some SKINNYPOP Original Popped Popcorn to bowls for a light and crunchy snack.
Offer an assortment of luxurious chocolates like HERSHEY’S NUGGETS Assortment and CADBURY CAREMELLO Miniatures Milk Chocolate & Creamy Caramel Candy.

Desserts

Desserts are the highlight of any get together and will add a touch of sweetness to your tea party table. Bite-sized and handheld treat options are the perfect way to snack without having to break the conversation. You can also have all your guests bring their own desserts so there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy!

Tea, of Course! Consider These Tea and Dessert Pairings:

The perfect tea and dessert pairings will take your party to the next level. We’ve got some delightful flavor combos to impress your guests.

Almond Shortbread Cookies with Chocolate Filling paired with Earl Grey tea.

Toffee Bits Cookies paired with Chai tea.

HERSHEY’S Premier White Chips and Macadamia Pieces Cookies paired with Matcha tea.

Special Dark Chocolate Chip Scones paired with Jasmine tea.

Setting the Scene

Creating the right atmosphere is half the fun of hosting a tea party. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, your space can set the tone for the entire event. And don’t forget to pick a theme! It’s a simple way to add some special personality and charm.

Consider these fun themes:

Whimsical “Alice in Wonderland”Vintage Bridgerton-inspired elegance
A floral garden party with fresh blooms and pastels

Decorating Tips:

Use thrifted tea sets, vintage tableware and pretty linens.
Add candles, fairy lights and small flower arrangements for an elegant touch.
Arrange chocolates and snacks on tiered trays or platters for a polished presentation.
Play soft background music to create a cozy and inviting vibe.

Setting the Table

Your table is the centerpiece of your tea party, so make it beautiful and functional. With a little attention to detail, you can create a space that’s both Instagram-worthy and welcoming.

Use elegant teacups, saucers and plates.
Arrange treats on tiered trays or stylish platters.
Fold napkins for a polished, put-together look. Add personalized name cards and small favors for each guest.

For an extra special touch, create a centerpiece with fresh flowers or decorations that match the theme of your tea party.

Games & Entertainment

Keep the fun flowing with a few activities! Tea parties are the perfect opportunity to get a little creative and playful, so add some entertainment that fits the mood.

Here are some ideas to try:

Let guests create flower arrangements or crowns—bonus points for wearing them!
Play this Guess the Candy in the Jar Game for a bit of competitive fun.
Prepare party favors, like cellophane bags or paper boxes, so guests can take home leftover desserts.