Hosting a high tea in your garden is a delightful way to celebrate life’s special moments, whether it’s a bridal shower, a birthday, or a summer get-together. Gathering for an afternoon tea party filled with flowers and friends is the perfect combination of elegance meets nature. Unsure how to organize such a party?  

In this blog, you’ll gain 5 fun and practical party planning tips to get you started as well as refreshing and affordable wine recommendations to make the moment extra special.  

Add Pops of Colour 

One of the hallmarks of a memorable garden high tea is the ambiance. Flowers play a crucial role in setting the mood. Start by incorporating beautiful floral arrangements throughout your garden space. Use a variety of blooms to add colour and fragrance. Peonies, roses, and hydrangeas are excellent choices. Place small bouquets on the tables and larger arrangements around the garden to create a cohesive and inviting look. 

In addition to flowers, consider preparing colourful pitchers ahead of time for your guests. Think pitchers filled with cucumber-mint or strawberry-lemon infused water as well as refreshing and fruity sangria with bright wheels of oranges, lemons, and mixed berries. Guests can easily help themselves while you’re free to enjoy the festivities as well.

Serve Fuss-Free Garden Party Food

The key to a successful high tea is delicious, yet fuss-free food. Tea sandwiches are a classic choice and easy to prepare in advance. Offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes. Some popular combinations include: 

• Cucumber and cream cheese 

• Tuna salad with alfalfa sprouts 

• Ham and cheese 

• Mozzarella, tomato, and basil 

For a touch of sweetness, serve scones with an assortment of jams, fresh fruit, and delicate macarons. These treats are tasty and aesthetically pleasing, adding to the overall beauty of your high tea party.

Present Your Food Beautifully

The presentation of your food can elevate your high tea experience. Use tiered stands to display your sandwiches and treats elegantly. Arrange a variety of fresh fruit and cheese on a wooden board for a rustic yet sophisticated touch. The layered presentation adds visual interest and makes it easy for guests to help themselves. Consider using decorative labels or small chalkboards to identify each item, adding both charm and clarity for your guests.

Offer a Selection of Refreshing Beverages

In addition to an assortment of teas, provide an assortment of great Canadian wines. Sparkling wine, white wine, and rosé wine are all excellent choices for a warm-weather gathering. Here are some top picks for your high tea: 

BASK Pinot Grigio: This light and crisp Pinot Grigio has 0g of sugar per 3/4 cup (188mL) serving. It boasts bright aromas of pear and lime, with a clean and refreshing finish, making it an ideal option for a garden party. 

Saintly Heavenscent Non-Alcoholic Rosé: For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, this vibrant and refreshing rosé offers a delicious hit of freshness with raspberry, strawberry, and floral aromas – all with zero* alcohol. 

Sandbanks Sparkling Secco: A beautiful, locally grown sparkling featuring flavours of green apple, juicy peach, and mandarin orange. Its subtle notes of brioche and stone fruit aromas make it a delightful addition to your high tea. 

Jackson-Triggs Sparkling Moscato: This lush and flavourful Moscato has lively notes of citrus fruits, juicy pineapple, and ripe peach, with a smooth and lengthy finish. It's a perfect complement to the sweet and savoury treats you'll be serving. 

Enhance Your Table Settings

Dress up your table to make the occasion feel special. Use your tiered stands of scones and sandwiches as centrepieces as well as big bowls of fruit to add freshness. If seating is an issue, bring indoor chairs outside. Scatter outdoor pillows and blankets to ensure guests feel comfortable.  

Tall candles can add height to your tables, and cloth napkins bring an extra touch of colour and texture. Incorporate string lights or lanterns for a warm, inviting glow as the evening progresses. Personalized place cards can add a thoughtful touch, making each guest feel special. Don't forget to have a selection of music that complements the mood of the gathering, enhancing the overall ambiance.

Shop Quality & Affordable Wines from Wine Rack

Wine Rack offers a wide selection of wines perfect for any occasion. Whether you have a fondness for red wine blends, crisp Chardonnays, fruity rosés, or lively sparkling wines, you'll find something to suit your palate and budget. Discover a wonderful collection of local wines from renowned Ontario wineries like Sandbanks, Jackson-Triggs, and Inniskillin. These quality yet affordable wines are ideal for elevating your high tea party. With over 160 Wine Rack locations across Ontario, it's easy to find a store in your neighbourhood.  

Not in the mood for wine? No problem! Wine Rack also offers a variety of refreshments and ciders perfect for grab-and-go moments, such as visits with friends or patio hangs. From bubbly spritzes and hard sparkling waters to crisp ciders, there's something to refresh any palate. If you prefer to shop online, you can explore our wide selection and order your favourites with doorstep delivery. This convenience allows you to plan your high tea without the stress of last-minute shopping. 

By incorporating these tips and tricks, and making thoughtful choices, your garden high tea will be a delightful experience for all. Enjoy the company of friends, the beauty of your garden, and the flavours of your carefully curated menu. Cheers to a fun-filled summer!