The mention of a garden tea party triggers many things in people’s minds. Do you think of certain scenes from Alice in Wonderland, blue-haired ladies, the British gentry, pinky fingers floating in air or Victorian décor? Since the old days, tea parties are elegant affairs held in the late afternoons. However, customs have changed over the years and a tea party can start as early as mid-day.

Originally intended to entertain business clients, biscuits or scones, savory, bite-size sandwiches, sweets and, of course, a good tea pot, are typical of tea parties. Unlike dinner parties, tea parties aren’t involving. Whether you’re planning a retirement, baby shower, birthday or bridal party, or just organizing a casual session with friends, you won’t go wrong with a tea party.