HOST AN AFTERNOON TEA PARTY

Have you heard? Tea parties are a thing and the thing about them is, they're perfect for wedding showers, baby showers, a bridesmaids party or just a reason to get together with the girls and take some time for yourself. For just a few hours you can be work-free, spouse-free, kid-free and just 'adult' for an afternoon. Trust me, it's well deserved and therapeutic.

A tea party is not a gathering to spend hours planning. If you have a matching tea set - great, pull it out. If not, borrow teacups, head to a thrift store on a vintage hunt or have everyone bring their own. Mix and match colors, styles and maybe even some family heirlooms. It's about getting together, fancy or not.

Here are few ideas to plan a tea party fête:

• Keep the party simple by choosing a color palette or a theme. It makes it easier to plan and organize.
• Pull out your best china, pretty napkins and feel fancy for a few hours. I love the combination of this sweet Rose Confetti Tea Set from Royal Albert set on simple white tablecloth and accented by Marchesa by Lenox gold flatware. And, while I always say go with seasonal floral accents, this table obviously called for sweet pink roses.
• There’s no right or wrong when it comes to setting a tea party. Move things around on the table until it brings a smile to your face. That’s when you know everything is perfect.

On the Menu:

• Serve a variety of fingertip sandwiches, a seasonal salad with a baguette, cupcakes, cookies or fresh fruits. For a smaller group, throw together a cheese and meat board, add some olives and whatever works from the refrigerator or pantry and you're done. I was feeling ambitious and made these Tea Bag cookies I found on Pinterest. If you don't have time to bake, pick up something from the bakery and set it on a pretty platter, cake-stand or a mirrored tray.
• Add a signature cocktail or your favorite rosé and get ready to create conversations.

Feel like throwing a tea party? Head to the Inspired Home for all the details.

SHOP THE INGREDIENTS:

1. Royal Albert Confetti Rose Tea Set; 2. Royal Albert Small Serving Bowl; 3. Royal Albert Serving Tray; 4. Chilewich Dahlia Coaster; 5. Hester & Cook Camellia Placemat; 6. Mark and Graham Cocktail Glass.

Pink Camellia paper placemats from Hester & Cook.

How sweet is this Candy Heart Tray? It arrived just in time for Valentine's Day, along with tin of Wedgewood English Strawberry Tea. Thanks again to my new friend, Michelle!

And, finally, get out of your yoga pants and put on something that makes you feel like a million bucks. Throw on some lipstick, a pair of heels and enjoy some girl time. It's good for the soul.

xx, Deborah