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Tea parties are trending this summer, thanks to ‘Bridgerton’

Pukka/NEWDRIP/Sparkle and Bash

Everything you need for a proper high tea

The final four episodes of Netflix's swoony drama "Bridgerton" arrive June 13 and fans are celebrating by hosting gorgeous tea parties themed to their favorite show. To embrace the tea party trend, "Bridgerton" fans are donning their finest frocks, plating finger sandwiches and sitting down to party in Regency style. Host a tea party that's the talk of the "ton" with these tea sets, tea party tablescapes and more.

In this article: Sparkle and Bash Pink Scalloped Cocktail Napkins with Gold Foil Accents, YaoTown Stainless Steel Tea Strainer and Cuisinart PerfecTemp 1.7-Liter Stainless Steel Electric Kettle

High tea vs. afternoon tea

When Americans think of a tea party, what we’re actually envisioning is known as “afternoon tea” in the United Kingdom. “High tea” takes its name from the height of the dinner table or counter where a hearty meal was served around 5 p.m. for working-class families. Afternoon tea was also referred to as “low tea” because it was served on the lower, smaller tables found in upper-class homes.

Tea party menu ideas

Afternoon tea menus are typically light and feature dainty foods, such as finger sandwiches, scones and small sweets. Depending on how many guests you’re inviting and how grand you want the affair to be, you can opt for a simple “cream tea,” which consists of tea with scones and jam and clotted cream, or go all-out with a “full tea,” which offers multiple courses of treats.

Best tea for a tea party

Medium- to full-bodied black tea is the most common choice for a tea party, but Earl Grey and herbal teas are also popular options. Consider offering multiple tea options to ensure all your guests can have their preferred flavor and caffeine level or discover a new favorite. Provide cream, sugar and teaspoons for guests to customize their cup.

Consider adding a selection of other beverages, especially if you have guests who love the vibe of a tea party but not the drink itself. Iced tea is one option, but lemonade and even champagne are popular accompaniments to a tea party.

Tea party food

The food for afternoon tea is traditionally served on a two- or three-tiered stand. Food on the bottom level is usually savory and a little heartier, while the upper tiers display sweets and scones. Whatever you choose to serve, make sure it’s easy — and not too messy — to eat with your fingers.

These are some classic afternoon tea treats to consider adding to your party’s menu:

  • Scones: These tea must-haves can be plain, dotted with sweet dried fruit, or loaded with savory cheese and mustard.
  • Finger sandwiches: Fill them with smoked salmon, cucumber, chicken salad or egg salad and cut them down to small rectangles or triangles.
  • Clotted cream: Its name isn’t very appetizing, but clotted cream is a deliciously rich spread that can be found in specialty stores or even made in a slow cooker.
  • Jams and jellies: American palates generally prefer berry jams, but orange marmalade and lemon curd are more British choices.
  • Cakes and cookies: Make or buy petite treats, such as madeleines, mini cupcakes or bite-sized tarts, or choose a full-size store-bought dessert, such as tiramisu, and carefully cut it into party-ready squares.

Best 'Bridgerton' tea party products

Pukka Home Porcelain British Royal Series Tea Set

This delicate porcelain tea set is decorated with gold details inspired by British royalty. The ceramic pieces feature fluted sides and curved shapes that nestle in the palm of your hand. The set comes with everything you need for a tea party for six, including a stainless steel tea strainer.

ZUMELER Gold 5-Piece Metal Cake Stands

Beautifully display your teatime treats on these elegant gold-tone metal stands. The set includes one-, two- and three-tier cake stands, a cupcake stand with handle and a rectanguar dish, all with romantic laser-cut and filigree details.

Sparkle and Bash Pink Scalloped Cocktail Napkins with Gold Foil Accents

Every detail matters to the "ton," so serve your tea with these festive and fancy napkins. Their mixed pink hues are party-ready and their gold scalloped edges elevate them beyond ordinary paper napkin status.

NEWDRIP 12-Piece Gold Long-Handle Teaspoons

Stir your tea or coffee with elegance. These gold-tone spoons measure nearly 7 inches long and look lovely resting on a saucer. The set comes with 12 dishwasher-safe spoons.

YaoTown Stainless Steel Tea Strainer

This spherical tea strainer is made with durable stainless steel mesh. It latches closed to prevent leaf fragments from escaping into the tea, and it features a handy chain with a hook that hangs on the side of your teapot or cup.

Symple Stuff Unscented Flameless Tealight Candle, Set of 8

Set the tone without having to worry about wax splatters or fire risk with these LED tealight candles. The set includes eight flameless candles, plus their batteries.

DUJUST Porcelain Serving Tray

This vintage-inspired serving centerpiece features integrated handles and nonslip feet to help you transport and display treats. Its wavy edge is decorated with a gold rim.

Silver Spoons Disposable Dessert Plate, Set of 20

If you don't want to deal with handwashing fine china after your tea party, consider these upscale disposable options. They feature a vintage rose color and floral patterned edge. At 7.5 inches, they're the perfect size for finger sandwiches and tea biscuits.

Cuisinart PerfecTemp 1.7-Liter Stainless Steel Electric Kettle

Perfectly brew all varieties of tea with this electric kettle, which boasts six temperature presets, as well as a "keep warm" setting. It also offers automatic shut-off and a large viewing window labeled to measure capacity.

Garvey's Downton Abbey Best of British Traditional Organic Scone Mix

You don't have to be an expert baker to make delicious scones thanks to this trusted scone mix. Just add butter and milk, then mix and bake. One package makes up to 12 scones.

English Tea Store Buckingham Palace Garden Party Loose-Leaf Tea

Inspired by the royal tea parties hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth, this medium-bodied black tea combines the classic flavor of Earl Grey with floral jasmine. Steep 2.5 grams per 8 ounces for the perfect flavor.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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