An engagement tea is a refined yet intimate way to celebrate a couple’s upcoming wedding. Unlike a large engagement party, this gathering is designed for close friends and family to share the couple’s joy over an elegant afternoon tea. From invitations to table settings, food selections, and a detailed timeline, this guide will help you plan a flawless event.

Step 1: Invitations – Setting the Tone

Invitations should reflect the elegance of the event. Choose from:

• Printed Invitations – Floral, vintage, or classic designs with gold-embossed lettering.
• Digital Invitations – Platforms like Paperless Post or Evite offer stylish online options.
• Handwritten Notes – Handwritten invitations add a personal touch to an intimate gathering.

Be sure to include:

• The date, time, and location
• A note about the occasion
• Attire suggestions like “Garden Party Chic” or “Afternoon Elegance.”
• RSVP details

Step 2: Choosing the Perfect Venue

The venue should be elegant but welcoming. Consider:

• A Botanical Garden – A scenic outdoor space with fresh air and natural beauty.
• A Quaint Tea House – Many specialty tea rooms offer private event bookings.
• A Historic Estate or Library – Ideal for a vintage, sophisticated ambiance.
• A Home Garden or Conservatory – A beautifully decorated backyard or sunroom can create a charming atmosphere.

Step 3: Guest List and Seating Arrangements

An engagement tea is typically a small affair. Consider inviting:

• Close family from both sides
• The couple’s closest friends
• Bridesmaids and groomsmen
• Special mentors or family friends

Since the tea is a seated event, arrange tables to encourage conversation. Place immediate family near the couple and mix friend groups to encourage mingling.

Step 4: Setting the Table for Elegance

A well-set table enhances the experience. Key elements include:

• Table Linens – Use lace, soft pastels, or floral designs.
• Fine China – Mismatched vintage teacups add a whimsical charm.
• Centerpieces – Fresh flowers like roses, peonies, or lavender in low vases.
• Candles and Fairy Lights – Soft lighting creates a warm atmosphere.
• Personalized Place Cards – Elegant handwritten name cards or calligraphy-style printed ones.

Each guest’s place setting should include a teacup and saucer, a dessert plate, silverware, and a folded linen napkin.

Step 5: A Thoughtful Tea Menu

Tea Selection

To accommodate all tastes, offer a mix of black, green, herbal, and floral teas. Provide honey, sugar cubes, lemon slices, and cream for customization.

Suggested options:

• Classic English Breakfast – A bold choice for traditional tea lovers.
• Earl Grey with Lavender – A floral-infused blend for a sophisticated touch.
• Jasmine Green Tea – A light and refreshing option.
• Chai Spice Tea – A warm, aromatic choice with cinnamon and cloves.

Savory and Sweet Bites

A balance of small, delicate foods pairs well with tea.

Savory Options:

• Cucumber and dill cream cheese tea sandwiches
• Smoked salmon and chive mini toasts
• Whipped goat cheese and fig tea sandwiches (recipe below)
• Egg salad with microgreens on whole-grain bread
• Brie and pear crostini

Sweet Treats:

• Lemon lavender scones with clotted cream and jam
• Raspberry almond tartlets
• Chocolate-dipped strawberries
• Mini rosewater cupcakes
• Shortbread cookies in heart shapes

Whipped Goat Cheese & Fig Tea Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of thin white or whole-grain bread
• ½ cup goat cheese softened
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 6 fresh figs, thinly sliced
• ½ cup microgreens (arugula or baby basil)
• 2 tablespoons crushed walnuts (optional)
• Butter for spreading

Instructions:

1. Mix the softened goat cheese with honey and sea salt in a bowl.
2. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread a thin layer of the goat cheese mixture onto four slices of bread.
4. Layer with fresh fig slices and microgreens.
5. Sprinkle with crushed walnuts if using.
6. Top with the remaining bread slices and gently press down.
7. Trim off the crusts and cut into elegant triangles or rectangles.
8. Arrange on a serving tray for a polished presentation.

Step 6: Creating a Menu Card

A printed menu at each place setting adds a refined touch. A simple yet elegant card printed on cream or pastel-colored cardstock with a floral border can also be used.

Example Menu Card Text:

Engagement Tea Menu

Hosted in honor of [Couple’s Names]

Tea Selections:

• English Breakfast
• Earl Grey with Lavender
• Jasmine Green Tea
• Chai Spice

Savories:

• Cucumber & Dill Tea Sandwiches
• Whipped Goat Cheese & Fig Tea Sandwiches
• Smoked Salmon & Chive Mini Toasts
• Brie & Pear Crostini’s

Sweets:

• Lemon Lavender Scones
• Raspberry Almond Tartlets
• Mini Rosewater Cupcakes
• Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Step 7: Event Timeline

A structured timeline ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1:00 PM – Guest Arrival & Welcome Drinks

Greet guests with a welcome tea cocktail or chilled iced tea. Allow time for mingling before seating.

1:30 PM – Seating & First Round of Tea

Invite guests to their seats and pour the first selection of tea. Serve the first round of tea sandwiches and savories.

2:00 PM – Speech or Toast

A close friend, parent, or the couple themselves can give a brief speech celebrating the engagement.

2:15 PM – Sweets & Dessert Tea Pairings

Serve scones, pastries, and additional tea selections.

2:45 PM – Socializing & Interactive Element

Offer a fun, optional activity like:

• A tea leaf reading station
• A DIY flower crown-making area
• A “write a wish” station where guests leave well wishes for the couple

3:30 PM – Closing Remarks & Favors

Guests can take home personalized tea blends in small sachets as a thank-you.

Final Touches for a Memorable Event

• Music – Soft classical, jazz or acoustic covers create a relaxing ambiance.
• Photo Moments – Set up a vintage-inspired backdrop with fresh flowers for guests to take photos.
• Personalized Touches – Custom teacups or monogrammed napkins add a thoughtful element.

An engagement tea is a perfect way to celebrate love with elegance and intimacy. Thoughtful planning ensures a memorable experience for the couple and their loved ones.