For my 24th birthday, I wanted to do something nice without all of the hassle. I had little time on my hands to plan and I refused to do anything generic. After checking to see no concerts were in town, I almost gave up on finding plans. That was until I checked a local restaurant’s menu for lunch and saw they offered an “afternoon tea.” My eyes lit up! Floral dresses, my favorite girls, cute sandwiches all flashed before my eyes. It was settled– I was having a tea party. And the best part was all I had to do was show up.
Here are some tips I would give you for having tea on your special day:
Research and Reservations:
I planned on having my tea at The Whitney, a quaint restaurant in Detroit that is known for its historical charm. Cute, right? Well, when I called to make my reservation they were closed for a film shoot. I panicked. Now, what? Luckily, I found a few restaurants not too far that offered afternoon teas. I settled on The Madhatter Bistro. Teas have to be set up so there’s no showing up the day of. Make reservations immediately!
Here are some of the top places for afternoon tea in the U.S. And if your city isn’t on there I’m sure restaurants that offer it are only a Google away.
Invites and RSVPs:
Tea isn’t like another restaurant birthday gathering– guests will need to put a tad bit more effort. RSVPs are crucial because teas require table settings. Too many or too few people will ruin the vibe at the very start of it.
Also, make sure that you let everyone know the cost per person if you’re not covering the bill. It’s just the most considerate thing to do.
Dress Like a Southern Belle:
But we knew this already. Remind your friends and family to show up in cute dresses and floral skirts. Who would want to have all of that beautiful china on the table paired with jeans and a tee-shirt? If nothing else it will make for better pictures.
Enjoy the Treats:
I would suggest you choose a tea out of your comfort zone. The tea is typically endless and you can try as many kinds as you like. Also, let no sandwich or pastry go untasted! They’re small for a reason. Enjoy the experience.
Be Grateful:
Since I was turning 24, I gave all of my guests small gold jewelry ($1-$3 at Forever 21) to commemorate me becoming #24caratsofgold. I also gave them special thank you notes. Requiring people to dress up and pay for finger foods isn’t all that easy. Though they loved it, I wanted to let them know I appreciated them coming.
As you can see my birthday tea was lovely. I hope yours is just as special.
xoxo,
Shanel
Comments
What a lovely way to celebrate your birthday. You look so adorable and the table is set to perfection. I have thrown lots of tea parties for my friends in my home but this is even better. Having the party at a restaurant where you get to enjoy all the fun and leave the work to someone else is perfect. Thanks for sharing.
Shanel, afternoon tea is my favorite way to celebrate anything! I love that you dressed the part, too — you looked glam and gorgeous and ladylike. If you ever want to give an afternoon tea at home, I have lots of teatime recipes and tips. I always say of afternoon tea, “It’s what I do; it’s who I am!” Glad to find out where I can go for tea next time I’m in Detroit.
Great idea- the Whitney is a gem but I’ll have to try the other venues you mentioned.