Themes We Love: Vintage Tea Party
You know we love a good party theme here at OLH, but they have to be subtle, tasteful and always inspiring. The vintage tea party theme is no exception! A long time favorite of mine, (I decorated my daughter’s 2nd birthday according to this aesthetic) it is a stunning and eclectic mix of patterns, florals and colors that depict an ethereal, feminine and whimsical vibe. It can work for everything from a bridal or baby shower, a birthday and, with February right around the corner, it would even be perfect for a Galentine’s party.
Teacups Are The Star Of The Show
When choosing to execute this party theme, vintage teacups are truly the star of the show. Work them into the decor in any way that you can. Need a vase for your floral centerpieces? Use teacups. Serving champagne? Use teacups! It’s part of the fun and novelty and really allows your guests to fully immerse themselves in the theme. Floral designs are going to be the most ubiquitous but any vintage print would do! And don’t be afraid to mix and match.
Image via Blush and Bashful Books
Get Creative With Placecards
How adorable would these be as baby shower place cards? The deckle edge cotton paper adds a vintage touch, as do the custom wax seals. Paired with the chiffon silk ribbon and the tassle all in the same color, these place cards would be a whimsical touch to any event and would make excellent keepsakes as well.
Image via Truly Madly Ink
Set The Table
Leave it to Love Shack Fancy to throw this elaborate shindig where the table linens match their dresses. Talk about inspiring! The pink florals are to die for and those stunning pink bouquets are the perfect complimentary centerpieces. Finally, they added height without obstructing conversation by accenting the table with tall taper candles.
Image via Love Shack Fancy
Finger Foods
What would a vintage tea party be without tea sandwiches, of course? In addition to tea sandwiches, consider serving biscuits and scones, macarons, crostini bites, pastries served on tiered servers, fresh cut fruit and veggies and perhaps a cake drizzled with pink icing!
Image via Dish’d Co
Floral Pièce De Résistance
For a vintage tea party theme, the more florals the better! This is especially true if they are of the fresh floral variety. Consider putting together a show-stopping floral arrangement for your fête. The vessel? A wicker basket, of course! Display your creation proudly at the entrance of your party (so guests can see it as soon as they walk in) or at the foot of the table (as shown above). Refrain from placing it at the center of the table to avoid obstructing the flow of conversation.
Image via Wedding Sparrow
Borrow From Bridgerton
How stunning is this Bridgerton inspired concept wedding by Elegant Weddings? We love all of the silver serveware, the lace tablecloth and the butterfly accents throughout. The powder blue taper candles complement the soft, pink hues beautifully.
Pro Tip: Check out the Bridgerton Collection by Williams Sonoma for additional Bridgerton inspiration for your party!
Image via Elegant Weddings
Mix & Match Plates
Remember that part of the appeal of a vintage tea party theme is that it comes together beautifully without having to keep things too matchy-matchy. Look at how much visual interest the layering of these plates provides. At a quick glance, however, it all looks very cohesive and on theme. It is only when you stop and closely dissect that you notice it doesn’t all match. And that’s part of the charm!
Image via KB Styled
Centerpieces That Double As Favors
If you are crafty, this may be an irresistible project to try for your party. Use vintage teacups as the vessel for homemade candles. I have had great luck finding beautiful teacups at pretty affordable prices at stores like Homegoods, Etsy, Replacements and in person at thrift stores. You could use these to decorate the table(s) at your event and then encourage guests to take them home as favors once the party is over!
Image via Southern Living