Tea Time Treats: How to Plan the Perfect Father’s Day Afternoon Tea for Your Dad
Father’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate your dad than with a special afternoon tea? Whether your dad is a tea aficionado or simply loves to indulge in tasty treats, hosting an afternoon tea can be a wonderful way to show your appreciation for all he does. In this article, we’ll provide tips and tricks to help you plan the perfect Father’s Day afternoon tea for your dad.
Setting the Scene
When it comes to planning an afternoon tea, the setting is key. Here are a few things to consider when getting started:
1. The Venue
Will you be hosting the afternoon tea at home, or would you like to book a special venue? If you’re hosting at home, make sure to set the scene by lighting candles, adding a tablecloth, and polishing your best china. If you’re looking for a special venue, consider a local tea room or café that offers afternoon teas.
2. The Seating
Make sure to set up a comfortable seating area for your guests. This can range from patio furniture outdoors to plush chairs inside.
3. The Décor
Decorations can set the tone for the entire event. Consider adding flowers, bunting, or balloons to create a festive atmosphere. You can also add personalized touches, such as custom-made place cards or table favors.
Choosing the Menu
The menu is a crucial part of your afternoon tea. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the perfect treats for your dad:
1. Tea Selection
Be sure to choose a selection of teas to suit the preferences of your guests. You can provide a variety of tea blends, including black, green, white, and herbal teas.
2. Savories
When it comes to savory treats, you’ll want to provide a selection of sandwiches, such as cucumber and cream cheese or ham and mustard. You can also add savory pastries, such as sausage rolls or quiche.
3. Sweets
When it comes to sweets, the possibilities are endless. Consider scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries such as macarons or éclairs, and a selection of cakes such as carrot cake or lemon drizzle cake.
4. Accompaniments
Accompaniments such as clotted cream, jam, lemon curd, and honey are a must-have when it comes to afternoon tea. Certain accompaniments may taste better with certain teas so it’s important to match your menu with the tea selection.
Timing is Key
When planning an afternoon tea, timing is everything. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Setting the Time
Afternoon tea is traditionally served between 2-4 pm. Choose a time that works best for you and your guests’ schedules.
2. Preparing the Food
Preparing the food ahead of time can help ensure a seamless event. Try to prepare as much of the food as possible the day before or the morning of the event.
3. Serving the Tea
When serving tea, be sure to brew it ahead of time and serve it at the correct temperature. Tea should be served hot and should be topped up if necessary.
Making it Personal
One of the best parts of an afternoon tea is the opportunity to add personal touches to the event. Here are a few ideas to make your dad’s Father’s Day extra special:
1. Choose Dad’s Favorite Tea
If your dad has a favorite tea, be sure to include it in the selection. Alternatively, you can hide a tea bag with a personalized label as a fun surprise.
2. Add Personalized Touches
Consider adding personalized touches to the event, such as customized place cards or individualized menu cards.
3. Include Dad’s Favorite Treats
Don’t forget to include your dad’s favorite treats in the menu. It’s his day, after all!
Inviting Guests
When it comes to inviting guests, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. The Guest List
Be sure to consider your guests’ dietary requirements and preferences when planning the menu. This could include vegetarian or gluten-free options.
2. Sending Invitations
When sending invitations, be sure to give your guests ample notice. This will help ensure that they are able to attend and can also help with planning.
3. Following Up
Make sure to follow up with your guests to confirm attendance and any dietary requirements ahead of time. This will help you to prepare the perfect menu for your Father’s Day event.
Conclusion
Hosting an afternoon tea for your dad is a wonderful way to celebrate Father’s Day. By following these tips and tricks, you can plan the perfect event that your dad will never forget. The key is to pay attention to the details, make sure to match your menu with the tea selection and add personal touches to really make the event extra special. Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the time spent with your loved one on his special day. Happy Father’s Day!
