As Father’s Day approaches, many of us are looking for ways to celebrate the dads in our lives. While traditional gifts such as ties and tools have their place, why not switch things up and honor Dad with a relaxing afternoon tea?
Gone are the days when afternoon tea was just for ladies. Today, tea houses across the country are welcoming men, offering a wide variety of teas and tasty treats that are sure to please even the pickiest of dads. Read on for tips on planning the perfect afternoon tea to show the dads in your life just how much you care.
Choose a Venue
The first step in planning an afternoon tea is choosing a venue. Many cities now have tea houses that offer a range of tea blends and snacks, making it easy to find a location that matches your dad’s tastes and interests. Do some research online to find tea houses in your area, and be sure to read reviews so you can get a sense of the atmosphere and quality of service.
If there are no tea houses in your area, you can still create a cozy tea setting at home. Simply set up a table in a quiet corner of your house, decorate with flowers and candles, and set out some beautiful teacups, saucers, and plates. Make sure you have a variety of teas on hand, and don’t forget to add some tasty snacks to your spread.
Select Teas and Snacks
One of the most enjoyable aspects of afternoon tea is trying out new teas and tasty treats. When choosing teas, don’t be afraid to try something new. Many tea houses have knowledgeable staff who can help you select the perfect brews to match your dad’s palate.
Some popular tea blends for men include black teas like English Breakfast and Earl Grey, as well as green teas like Sencha and Genmaicha. If your dad is a fan of herbal teas, try something with a bit of spice like ginger or cinnamon.
As for snacks, the possibilities are endless. Finger sandwiches with fillings like egg salad and roast beef are sure to please, as are light and flaky scones served with jam and clotted cream. For a touch of sweetness, serve some delicious French macarons or buttery shortbread cookies. Dark chocolate is also a great choice, as it pairs well with many tea blends.
Make it Personal
To make your afternoon tea even more special, it’s important to add a personal touch. Think about what your dad likes and find ways to incorporate those things into the celebration. For example, if he’s a fan of jazz music, consider playing some smooth tunes in the background.
Another way to personalize your afternoon tea is to create a signature cocktail. Moscow mules or gin and tonics made with tea infusions are excellent choices for a refreshing and unique cocktail.
If you’re hosting your tea at home, consider having your kids create handmade invitations or place cards to give the event a personal touch. And don’t forget the gifts. Tea-related gifts such as tea blends, teapots, or tea-infused skincare products make excellent Father’s Day presents that your dad is sure to appreciate.
Include Activities
While the main draw of an afternoon tea is the opportunity to relax and unwind, it’s always fun to include some activities to keep guests entertained. For example, you could set up a photo booth area with props like boater hats and monocles, allowing guests to take fun photos together.
Trivia games centered around tea-related facts are another option that’s sure to delight. For example, did you know that tea was first brought to Britain in the mid-17th century by traders from China? Or that the official tea supplier to the British royal family is Fortnum & Mason?
Finally, consider hiring a tea expert to give a short talk about different tea blends and their origins. This is a great way to add an educational element to the afternoon, while giving guests a chance to learn more about their favorite brews.
Don’t Forget the Thank You Notes
After the event is over, don’t forget to send thank you notes to your dad and any guests who attended. This is a great way to show your appreciation and keep the warm feelings of the event going strong.
When writing your thank you notes, be sure to personalize them. Mention something specific that you enjoyed about the day, and thank your dad or guest for taking the time to celebrate with you. Handwritten notes are always appreciated, and they’re a great way to show your affection and gratitude.
In Conclusion
An afternoon tea is a wonderful way to celebrate Father’s Day and honor the dads in our lives. With a little planning and creativity, you can create an event that’s both relaxing and entertaining, while showing your loved ones just how much you care. Choose a venue, select teas and snacks, personalize the event, include activities, and don’t forget the thank you notes. With these tips in mind, your Father’s Day afternoon tea is sure to be a resounding success.
