Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to show your love and appreciation for your dad, and what better way to do that than by treating him to a delectable afternoon tea spread? An afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition that has become popular around the world, and it’s a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones. Whether you’re planning a Father’s Day celebration at home or at a fancy hotel or restaurant, a carefully chosen selection of sweet and savoury treats is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll show you how to put together a Father’s Day afternoon tea that will make your dad feel loved and appreciated. From choosing the perfect location to selecting the right food and drink, we’ll provide you with all the tips you need to create a memorable and delicious Father’s Day celebration.
The location you choose for your Father’s Day celebration will depend on your budget, the size of your party, and the preferences of your dad. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, a fancy hotel or restaurant with a reputation for their afternoon tea may be the perfect choice. However, if you’re on a budget, you can also create a beautiful setting at home or in a park by packing a picnic basket full of delicious treats.
If you’re planning to head outside, make sure to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. You may want to bring a picnic blanket, folding chairs, or an umbrella depending on the forecast. Alternatively, if you’re planning an indoor celebration, you can decorate your living room or dining area with flowers, candles, and other decorations to create a special atmosphere.
Afternoon tea traditionally consists of a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of sweets and pastries. However, you can also include other savoury items and beverages depending on your dad’s preferences and dietary restrictions.
When choosing your food and drink, remember to think about the presentation as well as the taste. Afternoon tea is all about indulging in small treats, so make sure everything looks as beautiful as it tastes. You can use tiered stands, cake plates, and mismatched teacups and saucers to create a charming and whimsical display.
Here are some menu items that you might consider including in your Father’s Day afternoon tea spread:
Finger sandwiches are a classic component of afternoon tea, and there are countless variations to choose from. You can go with traditional fillings like cucumber and cream cheese, egg salad, or smoked salmon, or get creative with your own creations.
Scones are another essential part of an afternoon tea spread, and they’re perfect for pairing with clotted cream and jam. You can choose from plain or fruit scones, or experiment with more unusual flavours like chocolate or lemon.
Pastries such as tartlets, macarons, and éclairs are a great way to add some colour and variety to your tea spread. You can also include cakes, cupcakes, or brownies, depending on your dad’s preferences.
If your dad prefers savoury snacks, you can include items such as miniature quiches, sausage rolls, or cheese and crackers. You can also include fruit, nuts, and other snacks that are easy to eat and will complement the other items on your spread.
Tea is, of course, the star of an afternoon tea party, but you can also include other beverages like iced tea, coffee, or sparkling wine. Make sure to choose teas that complement the flavours of the food you’re serving; for example, an Earl Grey tea would go well with citrus and lavender flavours, while a Darjeeling tea would pair nicely with chocolate or fruity pastries.
You can choose to create your afternoon tea spread from scratch, or you can hire a professional caterer or book a reservation at a hotel or restaurant that specializes in afternoon tea. While creating your spread from scratch allows you to customize everything to your preferences and budget, hiring a professional can make the experience more special and stress-free.
If you decide to do it yourself, make sure to start planning early and allow plenty of time for shopping and preparation. You can create a shopping list, and make some items in advance to save time on the day. You can also enlist the help of family and friends to make things easier.
If you’re opting for a professional afternoon tea spread, make sure to research different venues and caterers to find the right fit for your preferences and budget. You can read reviews online, and book well in advance to ensure availability.
To make your Father’s Day afternoon tea even more special, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
– Include some personal touches, like his favourite type of tea or a gift that you know he’ll love.
– Plan some activities or games to keep things fun and interesting.
– Make sure to take plenty of pictures to capture the memories.
– Don’t forget to say thank you and express your love and appreciation for your dad.
In conclusion, an afternoon tea party is a perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day with your loved ones. Whether you decide to plan the spread at home or book a fancy venue, the key is to choose food and drink items that your dad will love and make it as visually appealing as possible. Keep in mind the importance of adding personal touches that make the day memorable. With these tips, you’re sure to create a memorable and delicious Father’s Day to remember.
