Expert Advice from wedding guru, Sharon Naylor

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Question:

Hello, my name is Catherine and I'm getting married in January. I was wondering about how to run a tea party reception. Any tips?

Answer:

Hi Catherine:

That sounds like a lovely idea! Your timing would be in the afternoon, with a start time of 1pm to 4pm -- overseas and on islands, 'tea time' starts at 4pm. I'd go with the 1-2pm timeframe so that guests don't assume that dinner is going to be a part of the deal.

Ask your caterer to set up different stations for the food, such as different kinds of finger sandwiches: cucumber, goat cheese and red pepper, tuna, lots of fun options. Visit www.Foodtv.com if you're self-catering, and also to get ideas to share with your caterer. In addition to the three to five different finger sandwich stations, add in a soup station since this is a January wedding and soups do work -- on a budget! -- with this theme. Talk with your chef about the different kinds of soups that would coordinate well with your sandwiches...potato leek is a popular one, as is a colorful acorn squash or broccoli soup. Lobster or shrimp bisque is also popular when served in little tiny bowls with spoons, or for non-chunky soups serve them in pretty teacups.

Baked items are a big part of the tea party, so set up a station or buffet table with lots of fabulous scones, mini muffins, fresh-baked cookies, breads, and spreads like cream cheese, softened butter, and an array of jellies. When you provide really unique baked items, guests love it since it's not something they get every day. You can even add your own favorites, such as sticky buns (glazed pecan buns) or hot crossed buns with raisins in them. The baked goods table is always a hit, and then you have cake and petit fours, which are a staple at tea party receptions.

You'll also have a tea bar with lots of different types of teas and coffees. You can serve champagne or wine at this type of reception, but that's usually all you need to have in addition to iced tea and other soft drinks. This too keeps your budget down.

Decor is simple, modestly-done fresh flowers on each table, and provide plenty of tables for guests to sit and mingle, eat and drink more comfortably. Guests hate it when there's not enough seating at a reception, so don't make that mistake.

There you have it! Your caterer or hotel manager can suggest additional special touches, since the tea party is such a growing trend!