Tea parties -what to do the day before
Get things done the day before, relax tomorrow
We want to enjoy our tea parties as much as our guests will. I find that doing as much as possible the day before allows me to be more relaxed the day of.
I realized I hadn't mentioned a list for the day before or the day of one of our tea parties. So here goes on my day before.
I will have been checking things off my cleaning list as they have been getting done. Of course, this will have been started the day before the party.
I like to place decorations out ahead of time.
It is inviting to have a wreath on the entrance door. It may already be there if you put something out each season. It's a nice touch, but not a must do. Things can be as simple or as elaborate as you are comfortable with.
I may want to use special chair covers or just tie a sash around my chairs. Doing this the day before will give me less to do the day of. It also has the added benefit of revving up my anticipation of the tea party.
I will get out special dishes, trays and tea pots. I'll make sure all serving utensils are where they need to be. I definitely don't want to be looking for things I must use on the day of my party.
The cloth I will use to cover the table, if I'm using a table. The napkins I'm using can be folded in whatever special way I've chosen for this particular tea party.
In fact I may choose to completely set the table. If I do this I will cover everything with a large enough cloth to keep curious kids from moving things. This also works if I plan to place things on a buffet.
If I'm planning to use candles to add softness or a special scent to the area, I will set them where I will light them for the party. It's a good time to check for matches or some lighting device so they are on hand.
Flowers can be arranged a day ahead.
My daughter works in New York City, she stops in Manhattan to buy flowers on the way home from work. They will arrange a lovely bouquet and place a band around the whole thing. When Lindsey gets home all there is to do is place water in the vase she's using.
Many grocery stores have nice flower departments. If you have a knack for arranging buy some flowers there and let you creativity shine.
If you are lucky enough to have a flower garden, show off your green thumb. Pick them and arrange your own flowers
The whole appearance of a room becomes so cheerful and colorful when flowers are added. I want my guest to remember special things that they saw and tasted at my tea party.
Note: I like to add a small arrangement of flowers and candles to the powder room. What a special welcoming touch. Hand cream is something else guests will appreciate in the powder room.
I prefer to assemble my tea sandwiches on the day of my party. Some fillings though, can be prepared the day before. This will depend on your choice of menu.
These are the things that have popped into my mind tonight. I just wanted to share them with you. If anyone can add a helpful bit of advice for tea parties feel free to share.
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