Tea Time for Dad: How to Plan the Perfect Father’s Day Afternoon Tea
Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for something special to do for your dad, a Father’s Day afternoon tea could be just the ticket. After all, what could be better than spending quality time with your dad, enjoying delicious tea, cakes, and sandwiches?
In this article, we’ll show you how to plan the perfect Father’s Day afternoon tea for your dad, complete with tips on how to choose the right tea, the perfect snacks, and even some ideas for decorations that will make the occasion extra special.
A tea for every taste
When it comes to choosing the right tea, the choice can be overwhelming. There is a tea for every taste, and it can be hard to know where to start. Some teas are light and refreshing, while others are rich and full-bodied. Here are a few popular options to consider:
– Earl Grey: This classic tea has a light, floral flavour and is a perfect choice for those who like their tea with a splash of milk.
– Assam: This strong, full-bodied tea is perfect for those who like a brew with a bit of kick.
– Darjeeling: This light, refreshing tea has a subtle musky flavour and is best enjoyed black.
– Chamomile: This caffeine-free tea is perfect for those who prefer something a little more gentle. Chamomile is known for its calming properties and soothing flavour.
– Green tea: This health-conscious choice is full of antioxidants and has a mild, slightly sweet taste.
Of course, there are many other teas to choose from, so be sure to consider your dad’s preferences when making a choice.
The perfect snacks
No afternoon tea would be complete without some delicious snacks to accompany the tea. Here are a few ideas:
– Sandwiches: Finger sandwiches are a classic choice for an afternoon tea. Try making cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and cream cheese, or egg salad sandwiches.
– Scones: It wouldn’t be an afternoon tea without scones. Serve them warm with clotted cream and jam.
– Cakes and pastries: Miniature cakes and pastries are a great way to add a touch of elegance to your afternoon tea. Consider petit fours, macarons, or miniature quiches.
– Fruit: Add some freshness to your afternoon tea by serving up some fresh fruit, such as grapes, strawberries, or melon.
– Tea biscuits: Serve up some traditional tea biscuits, such as shortbread or ginger snaps, for a classic touch.
Decorating for the occasion
Decorations are an important part of any Father’s Day afternoon tea. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– Tablecloth: Choose a nice tablecloth for your table. White or cream are classic choices.
– Tea set: Invest in a nice tea set to set the tone for your afternoon tea. You can find a variety of styles and designs online or at your local department store.
– Flowers: Fresh flowers add a touch of elegance to any occasion. Consider a simple bouquet of roses or daisies to create a beautiful centrepiece for your table.
– Napkins: Choose some nice cloth napkins to add a touch of class to your afternoon tea.
– Place cards: Consider making some place cards for your guests. This is a great way to make everyone feel special and cater to any special dietary requirements or preferences.
Getting the timing right
Timing is important when it comes to planning the perfect Father’s Day afternoon tea. Here are a few tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:
– Start early: Begin planning your afternoon tea well in advance of Father’s Day to avoid any last-minute stress.
– Set a time: Decide on a specific time for your afternoon tea and let your guests know well in advance.
– Pre-prep as much as possible: Many of the snacks and treats can be prepared in advance, such as scones, sandwiches, and cakes. This will save you time and allow you to focus on the more intricate details of your afternoon tea.
– Don’t rush: Allow plenty of time for everyone to enjoy their tea and snacks at a leisurely pace.
– Offer refills: Be sure to offer refills of tea and snacks throughout the afternoon.
Making it special
Beyond the tea, snacks, and decorations, there are a few other ways to make Father’s Day afternoon tea extra special. Here are a few ideas:
– Personalised touches: Consider adding some personalised touches to your afternoon tea. For example, you could make a special sandwich with your dad’s favourite filling, or bake a batch of cookies with his favourite flavours.
– Activities: Consider organising some activities to keep everyone entertained during the afternoon tea. This could include quizzes, games or even a mini treasure hunt.
– Memories: Make sure to take plenty of photos or even video throughout the afternoon. This will provide you and your dad with lasting memories of the special occasion.
– Gifts: If you’d like to give your dad a gift on Father’s Day, consider presenting it during the afternoon tea. This is a great way to make the occasion even more special.
In conclusion
With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can create the perfect Father’s Day afternoon tea for your dad. Be sure to choose the right tea, prepare delicious snacks, and decorate your table with elegance and style. By adding a few personalised touches, organising some activities and taking plenty of photos, you can ensure this will be a Father’s Day to remember.
