How To Plan The Most Delightful High Tea Bridal Shower

Make your celebration one of a kind.

Planning a bridal shower is an exciting endeavor filled with endless possibilities to celebrate the bride-to-be. First we’ll answer the question, what exactly is the difference between a ‘Tea Party Bridal Shower’ and a ‘High Tea Bridal Shower’? We’ll then explore creative ideas for both Tea Party Bridal Showers and High Tea Bridal Showers, covering everything from invitations and food to decor. So, whether you’re envisioning an elegant afternoon affair or a charming garden gathering, we have you covered with inspiration to make the bride’s special day unforgettable.

What Is High Tea: Tea Party vs High Tea

High tea is not afternoon tea. High tea is often associated with elegance and sophistication but this is wrong. Venues often misname afternoon tea for high tea. High tea originated in the 19th century as a hearty evening meal for the working class, featuring a substantial spread of savory and sweet dishes. So in summary, a high tea includes the following feature:

  • Late afternoon/evening
  • Relaxing atmosphere
  • Not the same as afternoon tea (which has more delicate food)
  • Served at a high table or counter
  • One way to think of a high tea bridal shower is like you parents cooked you a light supper. It’s a relaxing atmosphere and hearty.
high tea bridal shower bench and chairs
high chair and table for a high tea bridal shower

In contrast, afternoon tea, often referred to as a tea party, is a refined afternoon gathering known for its delicate finger foods and pastries.

We thought we’d let you know about the naming conventions just to clear up any confusion. That being said, we know you probably are really after planning an afternoon tea bridal shower. Fear not, this article will include must-read information for planning either an afternoon tea party bridal shower or an evening high tea bridal shower. The decision of choosing between a tea party bridal shower and high tea bridal shower is up to you. A tea party bridal shower is much more common than a high tea bridal shower. Plus if you mention that you’re having a ‘high tea’ bridal shower, guests may confuse a high tea bridal shower for a tea party bridal shower. Ultimately, we recommend you brainstorming about the bride’s preferences and going through this article to figure out what works best.

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Afternoon Tea Party Bridal Shower

A tea party bridal shower is a delightful choice for a bride who adores elegance and timeless charm. It provides an ideal setting for her to bask in the warmth of cherished friendships while savoring the grace and sophistication of a bygone era. Whether she envisions an enchanting Alice in Wonderland-themed affair or a refined garden soiree, a tea party offers an ambiance of enchantment that beautifully complements her personality and preferences. You can find our whole article dedicated to tea party bridal shower here.

Alice in Wonderland Tea Party Bridal Shower:

Immerse your bridal shower in the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll with an Alice in Wonderland-themed tea party. Transport your guests down the rabbit hole with enchanting decorations, such as oversized teacups, pocket watches, and playing cards. Encourage your bridal party to dress up as characters like Alice, the Mad Hatter, or the Cheshire Cat. Delight your taste buds with an array of colorful, mismatched teapots, teacups, and saucers, and serve treats inspired by the tale, like “Eat Me” cookies and “Drink Me” beverages. With vibrant décor, playful games, and a touch of fantasy, your bridal shower will be a tea party straight out of Wonderland. If you’re enchanted by the idea of an Alice in Wonderland tea party, you can find a Alice In Wonderland cupcake stand, decoration and themed games.

RELATED: The Best And Most Creative Bridal Shower Alternatives

Garden Tea Party Bridal Shower:

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Celebrate in the serenity of nature with a garden tea party bridal shower. Host your event in a blooming garden or a charming outdoor venue adorned with floral arrangements and lush greenery. Embrace the natural beauty with soft pastel colors, delicate china, and rustic wooden tables. Encourage guests to wear floral dresses and garden hats for a touch of whimsy. The menu can include fresh, garden-inspired fare like cucumber sandwiches, fruit tarts, and a variety of herbal teas. With the serene backdrop of the outdoors, your garden tea party will be a serene and elegant affair.

Bridgerton Bridal Shower:

For your Bridgerton-obsessed bride, indulge in the lavish world of Regency-era England with a Bridgerton-inspired tea party bridal shower. Decorate with opulent florals, pastel color schemes, and elegant candelabras. Invite guests to dress in their best Regency-era attire, complete with corsets and top hats. Include invitations inviting guests to a ball or in the style of Lady Whistledown’s society papers. Elevate your tea party menu with decadent treats and, of course, plenty of tea. Create a sense of drama with Bridgerton-themed games like “Guess the Gossip” or a “Lady Whistledown’s Scandal Sheet.” With a dash of intrigue and Regency-era splendor, your Bridgerton bridal shower will be the epitome of sophistication and romance.

Tea Selection:

Selecting the right tea is paramount for a tea party bridal shower. Tailor your tea offerings to match the theme:

  • Classic Tea Party: Offer a variety of classic teas like Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Darjeeling. Include both caffeinated and caffeine-free options to cater to all guests.
  • Exquisite Tastes: Elevate the experience with premium teas such as oolong, white tea, and rare blends like jasmine dragon pearls. Allow guests to savor unique and luxurious flavors.

Tea Workshop:

To add an element of sophistication and fun, consider hosting a tea workshop or tea-related activities:

  • Tea Etiquette Lesson: Arrange for a tea expert to teach your guests about proper tea-drinking etiquette. Learn the art of holding a teacup, stirring, and sipping like true connoisseurs.
  • Tea Leaf Reading: Engage a tea leaf reader to offer intriguing insights into your guests’ futures. This mystical activity can add an air of enchantment to your tea party.
  • Tea Blending Session: Set up a tea blending station where guests can create their own custom tea blends. Provide an array of herbs, spices, and teas for a hands-on experience.

With these tea-related additions, your tea party will not only be a feast for the taste buds but also an opportunity for guests to indulge in the rituals and mysteries of tea culture. It’s a surefire way to make your bridal shower feel extravagant and fancy.

That’s just a taste-tester! We have a whole article dedicated to stunning ideas for tea party bridal showers.

high tea bridal shower with avocado toast topped with purple flowers

A Hearty High Tea Bridal Shower

While traditional high tea might have working-class origins, it has evolved over the years to become a versatile and delightful option for bridal showers. A hearty high tea bridal shower combines the best of both worlds: the warmth and heartiness of comfort food with the elegance of a tea party.

Food with Heart: For this type of bridal shower, think classic comfort foods like quiches, finger sandwiches filled with hearty ingredients, and savory pies. These dishes not only satisfy the palate but also add a sense of coziness to the event. Don’t forget to include some heartwarming soups and stews, as they’re perfect for a heartier affair.

high tea bridal shower hearty meal with meat pie and floral decor

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The Tea Selection: Offer a variety of tea options, including robust black teas, aromatic herbal infusions, and perhaps even a chai or spicy blend. While the food may be hearty, the tea selection can still be diverse, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Décor and Atmosphere: Create an inviting and warm atmosphere with rustic or shabby chic décor. Incorporate natural elements like wooden tables, floral centerpieces, and warm candlelight. Soft, earthy color palettes and vintage tableware can add to the charm.

high tea bridal shower hearty meal with sandwiches and blueberry sauce dip

Activities and Games: Consider activities that align with the theme, such as a tea-tasting session where guests can sample various tea blends or a DIY tea blending station where they can create their own tea mixtures. You could also incorporate fun games with a twist, like a tea-themed trivia quiz or a tea-infused cooking challenge.

Invitations: For invitations, choose designs that balance the heartiness of the menu with the elegance of a bridal shower. You can opt for a rustic, vintage, or even a country-themed invitation that sets the tone for a hearty high tea celebration.

Remember, the key to a successful hearty high tea bridal shower is the fusion of comforting, delicious food with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice for a bride who appreciates the sentimentality of tradition but also craves the heartiness of her favorite comfort foods.

Conclusion: High Tea Bridal Shower

In the delightful world of bridal showers, where traditions blend seamlessly with creativity, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all.’ We’ve navigated through the nuances of Tea Party Bridal Showers and High Tea Bridal Showers, unraveling their unique charm and distinctions. Whether you choose the whimsy of an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ tea party, the grandeur of a High Tea inspired by ‘Downton Abbey,’ or any variation in between, remember that the heart of the celebration lies in honoring the bride-to-be. So, embrace the elegance of fine china, savor exquisite teas and delectable treats, and let the decor transport you to a world of enchantment. Whether it’s the nostalgia of a garden tea party or the sophistication of a High Tea affair, what truly matters is the joy shared and the memories created. Cheers to love, laughter, and a perfectly brewed bridal shower!

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