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If you’ve ever dreamt of hosting a sophisticated gathering reminiscent of grand soirees from bygone eras, high tea might just be the perfect event for you. Introduced in England during the 19th century by the seventh Duchess of Bedford, high tea has evolved into a refined and elegant late-afternoon affair, offering fine teas, delicate pastries, and refined conversation.

Luckily, mastering this timeless tradition doesn’t require a royal pedigree. With these practical steps, you can host a high tea immersed in elegance and luxury.

1. Curate an Exquisite Tea Menu

As its name suggests, the heart of any successful high tea lies in the selection of teas. To cater to different palates, offer a curated tea menu that includes classics like Earl Grey and English Breakfast and delicate floral blends like Jasmine Green. Consider including herbal and fruit infusions for those who prefer caffeine-free options, and include loose-leaf teas for an extra touch of sophistication. Don’t forget the final touch: a beautifully arranged tray of tea, served with delicate teacups and saucers, to delight your guests

2. Cater Diverse and Delicate Culinary Delights

No high tea is complete without an accompanying array of delicate culinary delights. The key is to offer a balance of sweet and savoury options, all presented in bite-sized portions that are easy to enjoy while engaging in conversation.

For savoury offerings, consider finger sandwiches and mini buns with versatile fillings like ham or egg mayo. On the sweet side, muffins—with a variety of flavours such as chocolate, blueberry, and banana walnut—and tarts are quintessential staples.

To ensure a flawless and stress-free experience, consider opting for a mini high tea catering service. This not only takes the burden of preparation off your shoulders but also guarantees that each item is crafted to perfection, allowing you to fully enjoy your event.

3. Set the Right Ambience

Setting the right ambience is just as important as the food and drink, setting the tone for the entire affair, Focus on presentation by creating a visually pleasing table arrangement with elegant tablecloths, fine china, and polished silverware. Adding floral arrangements will also add a touch of colour and fragrance. Finally, use soft ambient lighting or natural light to create a warm and inviting environment. These elements will come together to create a delightful experience.

4. Pay Attention to Etiquette and Service

Impeccable service is what truly sets a high tea apart from a casual afternoon tea break. It is crucial that your guests feel pampered throughout. Offer tea first and allow your attendees to choose their preferred brew. Serve food on tiered stands, beginning with savoury items and progressing to sweet treats like tarts and pastries. Finally, napkins should be readily available to ensure your guests’ comfort and hygiene. This thoughtful approach to service will elevate your event, making it a memorable and refined occasion for all.

Learn more: A Host’s Guide to Mastering the Art of Afternoon Tea

Enjoy Professional High Tea Catering With Swee Heng

Planning a high tea may seem daunting at first, but with these tips, you can create an unforgettable event that’s both sophisticated and stress-free.

At Swee Heng, we offer a variety of halal high tea catering packages, each featuring a curated selection of pastries and delicious desserts ready to be enjoyed by all. With our high-quality baked goods and convenient delivery service, you can ensure a seamless and elegant event like no other. 

Contact us to get a detailed quote today.