A Foolproof Guide to Hosting the Best Galentines Tea Party
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.”
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
What is Galentine's Day?
Celebrated on February 13th (or your preferred day!), Galentine's Day is a special celebration of the beloved gals in our lives.
This day of appreciation was made famous by Amy Poehler's Parks and Recreation character, Leslie Knope, in season two episode sixteen.
Leslie's enthusiasm and positivity is what fueled this international sensation and to this day continues to bring us joy.
Continued below
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC. Likenesses used by permission.
I often find that life can get in the way of spending quality time with my friends.
With work, COVID, seasonal illnesses, and other commitments, it can be hard to make time for socializing.
(Especially for an introvert who loves being with herself!)
But this year I'm making a conscious effort to prioritize my relationships and make sure that I'm taking the time out of my busy schedule to appreciate those around me.
Galentine's Day is a great reminder of how important it is to show gratitude towards our friends and take the time out of our lives to celebrate them.
Whether you choose to celebrate with brunch, dinner, or drinks, it's important to make sure everyone feels included and appreciated.
No matter how you decide to celebrate, just remember that Galentine's Day is all about celebrating the special bond between girlfriends!
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Galentine's Day is the perfect reminder to prioritize relationships and show gratitude to those closest to us.
This year, take the time out of your busy schedule to appreciate your friends with a Galentine's Day party.
Whether that's hosting an afternoon tea, brunch, dinner, or drinks - everyone should feel included and appreciated.
So don't forget: no matter how you choose to celebrate, Galentine's Day is all about the special bond between girlfriends!
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What do you say on Galentine's day?
Celebrate the incredible female friendships in your life and make Galentine's Day special!
Express your gratitude and admiration to the amazing women who have been there for you through all life throws your way.
A thoughtful text, card, call, or any other message of appreciation can show your appreciation for the hard work, support, and generosity of your gal pals.
Don't forget to honour the power of female relationships in your life this Valentine's Day and beyond.
Download my instagram quotes below to share with your friends.
What is a Galentine’s Day quote?
“There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves, it is not my nature.” ― Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey
“I’m so thankful for friendship. It beautifies life so much.” ― L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Avonlea
“One friend with whom you have a lot in common is better than three with whom you struggle to find things to talk about.” ― Mindy Kaling, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?
“Ultimately the bond of all companionship, whether in marriage or in friendship, is conversation.” —Oscar Wilde
“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” —Marcel Proust
“Friendship is a wildly underrated medication.” —Anna Deavere Smith
"Friends. Sisters. Mothers. Professors. When women affirm women, it unlocks our power. It gives us permission to shine brighter." —Elaine Welteroth, More Than Enough: Claiming Space for Who You Are (No Matter What They Say)
“Growing apart doesn’t change the fact that for a long time we grew side by side; our roots will always be tangled. I’m glad for that.” —Ally Condie
"The friend who holds your hand and says the wrong thing is made of dearer stuff than the one who stays away." —Barbara Kingsolver
“We made a deal ages ago. Men, babies, it doesn’t matter…We’re soulmates.” —Samantha Jones, Sex and the City
What is Palentines?
Celebrate all kinds of connections on Palentine's Day!
This relatively modern holiday - potentially first celebrated in 2011 - is an annual celebration of platonic love and friendship between friends, family, and significant others.
While it's becoming more popular amongst younger generations, Palentine's Day (February 13th, the day before Valentine's Day) is a great opportunity for anyone of any gender to appreciate and honor the special relationships in their lives.
Is there a boy version of Galentines?
Celebrated every February 13th, Galentines Day is traditionally a day to celebrate the friendship between women.
But that doesn't mean the guys have to miss out on the fun!
Male friends can easily join in with Brolumbus Day, Malentines Day, or even just by exchanging cards or planning a group outing like mini-golf or bowling.
For added impact, try organizing acts of kindness to honor the holiday, such as picking up lunch for coworkers or cleaning up a local park.
Whether it's traditional Galentines Day or a male-friendly spin on it, no matter what, celebrating friendship is sure to bring joy into the lives of you and your pals!
How to Host a Galentine’s Afternoon Tea
Discover the secrets to throwing the Galentine's Day tea party of your dreams!
Get ready for an unforgettable gathering full of fun and laughter with a beautiful tea party that your best friends will love.
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or an elaborate bash, infuse it with Valentine's Day flair using fans, streamers, and tea with a Valentines-theme.
Don't forget to serve up delicious snacks too!
For creative ideas, check out this incredible list of must-see Galentine's Day ideas for anyone wanting to learn how to plan a Galentine’s Tea Party, and get ready to party!
Decide on the type of tea party to host
Image: Destination Tea
A Cream Tea is the simplest of the tea parties, and consists of tea, pastries, and scones.
An Afternoon Tea is more elaborate, and may include sandwiches, cakes, and even champagne.
A Royal Tea includes a wide array of sandwiches, pastries, desserts, andteas, typically served in a grand setting.
Finally, a High Tea is more of a dinner party and includes hot dishes, cakes, and tea.
All these options can make for a memorable and enjoyable celebration of the strong bonds of friendship.
No matter which type of tea party you opt to have, it’s sure to be a special occasion that your friends will be talking about for a long time to come.
Prefer coffee? Check out these Fun Galentine’s Day Coffee Bar Ideas for Brunch by my friend Debbie at basichomediy.com
What is a Cream Tea?
For many of us, cream tea evokes images of afternoon gatherings with friends, filled with laughter, gossip and stories.
But what is the history of this delightful afternoon treat known as a cream tea?
First introduced in the 1830s in Devon and Cornwall, cream tea is an English afternoon tea tradition that has passed down through the generations.
It typically consists of a pot of tea, served with scones warm from the oven, spread with either clotted cream or a fruit preserve – commonly strawberry or raspberry Jam.
The scones are usually split in half and topped with either jam or clotted cream before being eaten.
The combination of sweet and savoury is a delectable addition to an afternoon of socialising, and is guaranteed to bring a smile to all.
Cream tea is also known by other names, such as 'Devonshire Tea' or 'Cornish Tea'.
But why are these two areas so closely associated with the dish?
In Devon, 'cream teas' have been sold as a way to make extra money for farm households since the 19th century.
Even today, Devon teashops are renowned for their delicious scones served with lashings of clotted cream.
In Cornwall, the tradition is also rich. Tea rooms in the region pride themselves on serving fresh, delicious scones made in-house daily.
This classic English afternoon tea is still enjoyed today.
Whether you choose to have a traditional Devon cream tea, or opt for the more modern cream tea with finger sandwiches and cakes – it is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
So why not take a break from your hectic life and enjoy a cream tea with friends?
After all, that is what it's all about – savouring the moment and spending quality time with your loved ones.
What is an afternoon tea?
An afternoon tea is a traditional British meal that typically consists of tea, sandwiches, scones, and other light snacks.
It is usually served in the late afternoon or early evening and is a popular social event. The term "afternoon tea" was first used in 1840 by Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford.
She found herself feeling hungry between lunch and dinner and began inviting friends to join her for a light meal and conversation in the late afternoon.
Since then, afternoon tea has become a popular event for celebrating special occasions, such as Galentine's Day.
When it comes to the food, make sure to serve light snacks that are easy to eat while chatting with friends.
Sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries are preferred, as well as a nice cup of tea.
In the UK, black teas such as English Breakfast Tea and Earl Grey are popular, but there are also different flavors available, including herbal teas, green teas, and even champagne!
When planning an afternoon tea event, make sure to pay attention to the details.
Set up a display of finger-foods on pretty tiered platters, along with individual plates and cutlery.
Decorate the area with balloons or garlands and create a relaxing atmosphere with calming music.
Organizing an afternoon tea event is not only a great way to catch up with old friends, but also an opportunity to cultivate new relationships.
Invite people to share their stories and get to know each other better.
You don't have to wait to celebrate a special occasion – why not start a tradition and host an afternoon tea every week or month?
At the end of the day, an afternoon tea is an occasion for enjoying good company, delicious food, and a cup of tea.
It's a chance to slow down, catch up with friends, and savor the present moment.
What could be better than that?
What item transforms an Afternoon Tea to a Royal Tea?
Special occasions can often be made even more special with the addition of a glass of sparkling wine.
And the addition of fizz to an Afternoon Tea is no exception.
This timeless ritual, enjoyed for centuries by kings and queens alike, deserves the touch of royalty that only a glass of sparkling wine can provide.
The effervescence of the sparkling wine not only adds an unparalleled level of sophistication and elegance to the afternoon, but it can also make for a truly unforgettable experience.
Imagine sipping a glass of Champagne or Prosecco as you savor delicious sandwiches, scones and cakes in a sun-filled garden or vintage tearoom.
You can almost feel the energy of the royal court in its heyday.
Whether it is Champagne, Prosecco or Cava, the addition of sparkling wine will instantly elevate your tea to a regal affair.
This can be further enhanced by selecting special tea blends reserved exclusively for royalty, hence creating an unforgettable event which will remain in memories for years to come.
I didn’t know it until today that I actually served my guests a Royal Tea as I served champagne in my mother’s crystal glasses that she handed down to me.
Not only is the addition of sparkling wine an effective way to transform an ordinary Afternoon Tea into a Royal Tea, but it is also a great way to bring a sense of opulence and luxury to any gathering.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a special afternoon, the addition of fizz is sure to elevate the experience.
In addition to creating a luxurious ambiance, sparkling wine has also been shown to have health benefits.
According to nutritionist and biohacker, Dave Asprey, “Sparkling wine is the healthiest form of alcohol you can drink.”
So, sipping a glass of bubbly can not only make your Afternoon Tea experience more special, but it can also be a healthier alternative to other alcoholic beverages.
With just the addition of a single item – a sparkling wine – you can transform an ordinary afternoon into a Royal Tea.
So, the next time you’re hosting an afternoon tea, consider making it extra special with a glass of fizz.
You and your guests are sure to have an experience that is fit for a Queen.
How is a high tea different from an afternoon tea?
British high tea and afternoon tea may sound similar, but they’re actually quite different.
While both involve a snack and refreshments in the late afternoon/early evening hours, British high tea is closer to an American-style supper. It is the working-class’ evening meal.
This usually consists of multiple savoury options like sandwiches or soups, combined with hot drinks.
In contrast, afternoon tea typically involves scones and other sweets served with tea or coffee. It’s meant to be light and dainty, consumed before dinner time. Most of the working class reserve an afternoon tea for special occasions.
High Tea is normally served between what hours?
High Tea is served between 5 and 7 pm.
The roots of British High Tea can be found in the blue-collar section since they used tea — together with cured meats, cheeses, pastries and warm foods — soon after their job as a compensation for not having lunch interval.
Currently, high tea is normally taken from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
What you need for a High Tea party?
High tea is a great way to entertain friends and family.
Crafting a high tea party calls for thought and attention beyond the ordinary.
It consists of a hot meal served with tea, sandwiches, pastries and cakes.
British high tea is an after-work tradition that has been part of the culture for centuries.
To serve a proper British high tea at home, start by setting the table properly with tablecloths or place mats, and make sure to include all the essential items such as finely brewed loose leaf teas, scones with butter and jam, clotted cream and cucumber sandwiches with crust removed.
Add some homemade treats such as cupcakes plus cookies or bite-size pieces of quiche or frittata to complete the experience.
It’s not just about the food; adding finer details such as using fine china in beautiful colors will make your high tea party extra special.
To finish off the display, add some fresh fruits and eclectic sweets like handmade chocolates or tarts.
Don't forget to include options for children too!
To accompany all of these delicious treats, serve steeped organic teas in dainty teacups alongside warm scones with clotted cream and jam.
British high tea and afternoon tea, while similar, are actually quite different. High tea is an evening meal similar to an American-style supper, with savoury options like sandwiches or soups served with hot drinks. Conversely, afternoon tea is lighter and consists of sweets like scones, served with coffee or tea. It traditionally occurs before dinner time and is usually reserved for special occasions. High tea is traditionally served between 5 and 7 pm and is a great way to entertain guests - with tablecloths, loose-leaf tea, scones, sandwiches, pastries and cakes, plus some extra finer details to make it extra special.
Key takeaways:
1) British high tea and afternoon tea are different.
2) High tea is served in the evening with savoury food, and afternoon tea is served with sweets before dinner time.
3) To host a successful high tea, include a hot meal, tea, sandwiches, pastries and cakes, plus extra details such as fine china and fresh fruits.
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Essentials for Your Galentine’s Tea Party
1.Free Galentine Tea Party Invitation Templates for Canva
Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Planning the perfect Galentine's Day tea party just got easier!
Invitations are an essential part of a fun and successful celebration, so make sure your guest list is accounted for and the date and time are clear.
You need to make sure your guest list is clear, the date and time of the event is included, and perhaps most importantly, you should choose or create delightful invitation designs that accurately reflect the theme you’re going for.
Depending on your style and budget, you may want to go with something simple and DIY-friendly like one-off postcards or custom printable invites; or opt for ordering unique ready-made ones from an online company to ensure everyone is in the loop about your upcoming Galentine’s Day get-together!
In this day and age, I think creating a Facebook Event to invite your friends will work. I still created a digital invitation to share with them as shown above with Canva. Canva is free to use, although I pay for the Pro version.
You can download a Canva template of my Galentine’s Tea Party invitation here.
Select Day, Time, and Location.
What day is Galentine’s Day?
February 13. Galentine’s Day is considered the day before Valentine’s Day. If the 13th falls on a weekend, that works great. However, if it falls during the work week, you may want to consider hosting it on the weekend before or after.
Since February 13th in 2023 is a Monday, and couples might celebrate Valentine’s Day the weekend before, I chose to pick the first Sunday of February for my Galentine’s Party.
What time of day is best for a tea party?
For those looking to host a memorable galentine tea party, the best time of day for the event is late afternoon.
Traditionally served between 3 and 5 o'clock, the party can be enriched with delectable accompaniments such as artisanal sandwiches, freshly-made scones, and pastries.
Tea cakes, jams, and cream are also popular options.
High Tea has been a longstanding tradition in the English-speaking world, featuring high-grade teas, as well as exquisite foods to tantalize taste buds and create a one-of-a-kind experience.
Plan your galentine tea party for the late afternoon and make it an event to remember!
Where should a Galentine’s Day tea party be held?
For a memorable galentines tea party, consider hosting it in a picturesque setting that evokes a sense of peace and tranquility.
If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, soak in the sunshine and create a lush ambiance with decorative touches.
Or, take it up a level by booking a luxurious venue in the city.
No matter where you choose, make sure to serve tasty, decadent treats like cakes, tarts, cookies, and teas.
Don’t forget the tiered plate stands and pretty tea cups so your friends can enjoy a delicious spread.
Celebrate your bond and make your galentines tea party one to remember!
2. Galentine’s Tea Party Menu
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
How do you plan a tea party menu?
Planning the perfect galentine tea party menu needn't be a challenge.
To make sure your menu dazzles your guests, start by choosing a theme, like Asian-inspired or British-style afternoon tea.
Next, create a balanced and flavorful menu, with the right hors d'oeuvres, scones, sandwiches, desserts, and beverages that fit your theme and budget.
For the best flavor, opt for fresh, local ingredients.
Consider presentation to make each dish look as inviting as it will taste.
Most importantly, accommodate dietary preferences and food allergies to ensure all guests can enjoy worry-free.
With some creativity and planning, you'll be able to craft a tea party menu that exceeds even your highest standards.
To make the menu pop, try some tea and food pairings like
hibiscus tea with creamy desserts, cheese, and green apple;
green tea with chicken, watercress, or turkey sandwiches;
jasmine tea with berries, smoked salmon, and chocolate; or
black tea with egg sandwiches, fruit tarts, and sweet desserts.
Pot-Luck Menu
Since my friends all asked me what they could bring to the tea party, I posted a sign-up sheet for finger foods, but did not make bringing food or drink mandatory. The categories for the sign-up sheet included:
Appetizers
Finger sandwiches
Desserts
Drinks
You can download the free Canva template of my Galentine’s Potluck Finger Food Sign Up Sheet here.
Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
What food is served at an afternoon tea or a Royal tea?
A (Galentine’s) afternoon tea typically consists of light snacks such as finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats.
Finger sandwiches are a staple of afternoon tea and can be made with a variety of fillings. Popular options include cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and cream cheese, egg salad, ham and mustard, or chicken salad. You can also make sweet finger sandwiches with peanut butter and jelly or Nutella.
Everyone wanted to contribute so the snacks, so I allowed them to select their own recipes. The Galentines Tea Party snacks that were brought included:
Green Goddess Crunch finger sandwiches
Italian finger desserts from a local bakery
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC. Likenesses used by permission.
Varieties of Tea for Galentine’s Day
Tea is usually served alongside the food, but coffee or other beverages can also be offered. For a Galentine’s tea party, a variety of teas such as black tea, green tea, herbal tea or fruit infusions makes for an enjoyable experience for everyone at the table. For my party, I served champagne (thus turning it into a Royal Tea), varieties of tea, and water.
I asked my guests to vote on a variety of tea flavors, and they selected two. I also had on hand a variety of green and black tea. I am not that familiar with loose leaf teas, so I looked for ones with tea bag options.
The dessert teas that were served included:
Red Velvet Chocolate Herbal Blend, Republic of Tea (found on Amazon)
Caramel Vanilla Cuppa Cake Blended Fine Black Tea, Republic of Tea (found on Amazon)
Other teas that I had considered included:
If you’re looking for loose-leaf Galentines Day teas, check out:
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
How many ounces does a traditional tea cup hold?
A traditional teacup typically holds 6 to 8 ounces of liquid.
Depending on the size of the cup, this could be anywhere from 3/4 of a cup to 1 full cup.
Depending on the style or design of the cup, it may be designed to hold up to 12 ounces or even more.
It is best to check whatever type of teacup you have in order to ensure you know how much it can hold and that you are not over filling it.
How do you make tea more interesting?
Making tea more interesting can involve a wide variety of additional ingredients and methods.
Satsuma Designs suggests the following DIY Valentine Tea combinations:
Lemon-ginger
Orange-cinnamon
Peach-ginger
Mint
Lemon-Star Anise (licorice flavor)
Another great way is to add fruits and spices like oranges, strawberries, cinnamon sticks or cardamom pods into your tea.
For an iced version of your concoction, try adding herbs and spices like lavender flowers or ginger pieces to boiled water before letting it cool completely.
All these techniques will give you something deliciously out-of-the-ordinary! More ideas are given with the next question.^
What are good combinations for tea for Galentine’s Day?
For a Galentine’s, you could create thematic combinations like rooibos red velvet tea and chocolate chai, decaf rose petal caffeine free tea, or something with spices like gingerbread chai or herbal fireside marshmallow.
Not only are these flavors exceptionally fun, but they all offer pleasant health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties, improved brain function, and good digestion.
With the variety of artisan tea brands available today, there are plenty of choices to mix up the best tea to delight your guests.
What pairs well with different types of tea?
For Hibiscus tea, pair with cheese, creamy desserts, and apple pie.
Green tea pairs well with turkey, chicken, or watercress finger sandwiches.
Jasmine tea tastes great with berries, smoked salmon, and chocolate.
Black tea is best with egg sandwiches, fruit tarts, and sweet desserts.
What should never be added when adding lemon to the tea?
When adding lemon to tea, it is important to remember that there are certain things that should never be added.
These include sugar, honey, or any other sweetener.
Lemon can add a tart flavor to the tea and adding sweeteners can make the tea too sweet and overpower the natural flavor of the tea.
Additionally, adding milk or cream to the tea with lemon can also alter the flavor of the drink.
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
What sides do you serve at a tea party?
A traditional tea party includes a variety of foods, from sweet snacks to savory dishes.
Sandwiches such as cucumber sandwiches, egg salad sandwiches and coronation chicken sandwiches are all classic choices.
Finger foods like scones with butter, jam & cream along with finger pastries and biscuits provide a sweet treat to the guests.
Tea is usually served with a selection of fruits and cheeses as well as other accompaniments like honey and lemon.
What do you serve first at a tea party?
The lowest tier of the multi-level platter will provide finger sandwiches and tartelettes.
On a cake stand's second tier should be more robust baked goods such as scones or muffins.
After snacking on the savory treats, these goodies can be eaten without having to move onto the culminating course.
The daintier sweets should occupy the top level of the display.
Remember that afternoon tea is mostly intended for conversing.
Over-supply or providing items that will be overly substantial should be avoided.
Guests must be able to savor through to the highest tier.
Galentine’s Tea Party Dress Code
When it comes to galentines tea parties, dress code can be a tricky thing.
After all, you want your guests to look their best but also still feel comfortable.
For my Galentines tea party, I decided that the dress code should be casual because I wanted everyone to feel relaxed and enjoy the day without having to worry about their outfit.
It also gave everyone an opportunity to express their personal style in a more relaxed way.
Everyone was able to mix and match different items from their wardrobe and ultimately make unique looks without going too out of the box. In the end, my galentines felt comfortable, confident and stylish!
In order to pick the perfect outfit for a casual galentine's tea party, start by considering the dress code.
If it is a casual event, you will want to keep your look comfortable and chic.
With that in mind, why not go all out and opt for a pink cardigan with red hearts?
This would perfectly capture the fun and festive mood of such an event while still keeping things stylish yet relaxed.
To complete the look, think of pairing your cute sweater with a sequin tank top and black pants.
Another option is to pair it with a simple maxi skirt or wide-legged trousers in a neutral shade like beige or navy.
Accessorize with some statement earrings and bold red lipstick – and don’t forget to sport your best Galentine’s Day smile!
What I Wore
Oversized Heart Cardigan Pink and Red (Available in Mommy and Me)
This cardigan is also available in White and Red, and Pink on Pink
Sequin Tank Top
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Decor
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
SETTING THE SCENE
What color is Galentine’s Day?
Celebrate Galentine's Day with the colors of your favorite romantic hues. Consider using a color combination like pink, red, and white to create a romantic atmosphere. You want your color scheme to make you feel happy and evoke delight in your spirit. Think about the colors you like best and use those to determine your theme. If you're fond of pink, for instance, you might want to consider different shades from pink to red for decorations. Or, go with softer hues such as white and blush pink if you'd prefer something more subtle.
Image by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Can green be a Valentine’s color?
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Green is typically associated with spring and nature, not hearts and flowers.
However, green can be used to create a unique and beautiful Valentines Day look. Shades of emerald green for centrepieces, decorations, or even the clothing on your special someone can add an unexpected element to the day.
Greens like jade, olive, teal and seafoam create a softer feel to the holiday with hints of romance.
Green is a color that typically signifies growth, prosperity and health. For those reasons, it can be a great color to represent the love around Valentine's Day.
Green also symbolizes passion, fertility and luck, all of which you need in a healthy and long-lasting relationship.
For your gals that are expecting a proposal, let them know to wear green. If they are yearning for a certain individual to confess their fondness, then green is the shade for them. Green emotionally bonds people together.
Galentine Color Palettes that Include Green
How do you make a Galentines tea party feel special?
When preparing for a Galentine's Day tea gathering, you need to generate an atmosphere that is cozy and joyous. Begin by arranging your tables with a beautiful tablecloth or lace runner in colors that coordinate with your concept. Suspend heart-shaped paper cutouts from the ceiling or walls. Hang streamers in pink, red, and white from the ceiling or around doorways. You can also include decorations such as honeycomb hearts, bunting, and confetti to give the room a jubilant feel. If you want to go all-out, you can even suspend some fairy lights or paper lanterns for an additional special touch. I was inspired from Pinterest to hang tissue paper flowers on my chandelier.
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
I think I may have gone overboard with the decorations as shown in the photo below. What do you think?
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
When decorating for a Galentine's Tea Party, table decor such as centerpieces are a great way to add a festive touch to the event. Place centerpieces on each table with items that reflect the theme of the party. For example, you could use pink and red roses in vases or mason jars filled with candy hearts for additional table decor. You could also use small tea sets as decorations.
Before the party, I had a centerpiece of frosty peonies and leaves along with white hydrangeas. The arrangement’s finishing touch was a chinoiserie ginger jar in the middle. Scatter hearts were a simple addition. Once the party started, I removed the chinoiserie vase, and replaced it with tiered trays.
Arrange your own fresh or Faux flowers.
An arrangement of flowers is a great way to decorate for a Galentine's Day Party. Consider using lilies, peonies and carnations in addition to pink roses. Begin by gathering the flowers, greenery, and other materials needed. You will need a vase, floral foam, scissors, and of course the flowers. Cut the stems of the flowers to a uniform length. Start by placing the larger flowers in the center of the vase and then fill in with smaller blooms. Add greenery to give the arrangement texture and depth. Create an interesting pattern with different colors and shapes. Once you have your floral arrangements ready, place them around your party space.
Having a black thumb, and wanting to keep an arrangement out year-round, I opted for 4 bunches of faux peonies that I found on Amazon.
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
Galentine Tea Party Table Settings
What do you put on a tea party table?
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
A tea party table should include a few staple items. Most importantly, of course, is the tea. Select a few varieties of tea bags or loose leaf to offer your guests as well as milk, sugar, spoons and teacups to serve everyone’s beverage. Also make sure to have some delicious snacks for your guests: sandwiches, scones, cookies, petit fours and other bite-sized desserts are popular and will help foster conversation amongst guests! Finally, top it off with flowers or decorations that match the occasion. A tea party setting should be relaxing and inviting so make sure to keep the décor simple yet elegant for an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
This answer is continued after the image….
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
When it comes to decorating for a Galentine's Tea Party, setting the table with fine china is an essential part of creating a special atmosphere. Start by choosing a beautiful tablecloth and napkins in colors that match your theme. Place a centerpiece on the table, such as a bouquet of flowers or candles. Then, set out your fine china plates, vintage tea cups, and saucers for the delicious treats. You can also add in some fun elements like heart-shaped chocolates or scatter heart confetti.
To elevate the experience, use tiered trays, elegant china, crystal champagne glasses, and fancy teapots. Pink, red, or heart shaped plates are a bonus!
What item should never be invited to the tea table?
When it comes to decorating for a Galentine's tea party, there are certain items that should never be invited to the table. These include anything that could potentially cause harm or discomfort to your guests, such as sharp objects, candles, and open flames. Additionally, any items that could potentially create a mess or disrupt the atmosphere of the event should also be avoided. All phones should be put away and checking of emails is not recommended.
Galentines Music
You can check out my Spotify playlist here or get a free download PDF link to save along with my free printables.
You can choose to create your own playlist or search for tea party playlists, or Galentines playlists.
For a tea party with my girlfriends, I selected uplifting music that reflects the cozy, celebratory mood of the event. My playlist includes artists like Rihanna, Natasha Bedingfield, Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and Beyonce. Additionally, some upbeat tracks from Black Eyed Peas and P!nk was thrown in to add an extra spark of joy to the day’s festivities. This combination of inspiring and upbeat sonic energy will create just the right mood for celebrating friendship!
Screenshot: Spotify
Galentine Tea Party Activities
What activities can you do at a tea party?
One of the best ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day is with a tea party. A Galentine’s Tea Party is a great way to show your appreciation for your closest friends and have some fun. To make it even more special, you can plan some fun games for the ladies to do a your tea party.
Here are some ideas for games that you can play at your Galentine’s Tea Party.
My guests especially enjoyed the game “Find The Guest Bingo.” I purchased the printable bundle download from Etsy, which came with five other games such as What’s On Your Phone and Name Your Wine Brand. They even wanted to continue playing after someone won Bingo because they so enjoyed getting to know each other.
The "Find The Guest Bingo" game is a great way to engage guests at an event by encouraging them to meet and chat with each other.
The basic concept is that each person receives a bingo card with questions about their fellow attendees and as they speak with someone, they cross off their answers on the bingo sheet.
After all of the bingo boxes have been crossed off, the winner can be determined.
Not only does this provide entertainment during an event but it also allows everyone to get to know each other better in a fun and exciting way.
Some of the bingo spaces can say things like:
(Find the guest who) has traveled solo for fun
Has owned/owns their own business
Has visited a foreign country recently
Incorporate "What's on your Phone" into this year's Galentine's Day party as an exercise in casual indoor scavenger hunting for adults!
Individuals receive points dependent upon what they have on their device.
The rarer the item, the more points gained.
The contender with the most points ends up as the victor!
An awesome Valentine gathering game suitable for parties of any size!
Love Letter Writing
Another game is “Love Letter Writing.”
Have each guest write a love letter to themselves, or to someone they admire.
Then, have everyone read their letters out loud and share why they wrote it. This is a great way to show appreciation for yourself and others!
Name That Tune
Another fun game is “Name That Tune”.
This game is a great way to get everyone involved in the Galentine's Tea Party.
Plus, it's a great way to get everyone singing and dancing! To play, you'll need to create a playlist of love songs that are popular or have special meaning for your guests.
Then, when it's time to play, start playing each song and have your guests guess the title and artist of each one.
The person who guesses the most correct answers wins a prize.
The Love Quiz
Finally, you can play “The Love Quiz”.
This game is perfect for a Galentine’s Tea Party because it encourages your guests to think about love in different ways.
Create a quiz with questions about relationships, romance, and friendship.
Then have each guest answer the questions and see who gets the most answers right.
The game could be a conversation starter.
Give a Door or Game Prize
Giving out a door or game prize during your Galentine's Tea Party is an excellent way to express appreciation for your guests. With the door prize, one lucky winner will receive something special and unique that perhaps no other guest had.
With a game prize, everyone can take part in some entertaining friendly competition and the top winner will have won something nice.
Either way, such prizes are sure to bring more energy and excitement during the party making it even more enjoyable for all attending and getting everyone in the Galentine's spirit!
What is a good Galentines gift?
A great idea for a Valentine's Galentines game prize would be self-care items. These can include spa gift baskets, luxurious bath bombs, facial masks or even subscription boxes filled with special beauty or wellness products.
It’s always nice to give the winning friends something that they’ll enjoy - whether it’s an item from their favorite store or something to help them relax and recharge after a long work week. Self-care gifts are a great way to let your friends know you appreciate them and care about their wellbeing.
A good party game prize should match the theme of the party, make all of the players feel like winners and bring an additional element of fun to the event. Good prizes can range from simple objects such as books or candy to more sophisticated items such as electronics, gift cards and jewelry.
Depending on your budget and type of party you’re hosting, prizes varying in size and cost can be given out. With a little bit of creativity and thought, you can find some great prizes that will make every player go home with a smile.
My game prize was a mini waffle maker that creates heart-shaped waffles.
A heart shaped mini waffle maker is a small kitchen appliance that is designed to make miniature heart-shaped waffles. This device usually features two grids with a hinge in the middle. When the device is closed and heated up, the two halves of the grid press together to form one heart-shaped waffle. These machines are often used for making quick-and-easy single servings of healthy desserts or snack foods. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use and the wide range of recipes available online for them.
Galentines Day Tea Party Essentials Checklist
1.Pink banner with red hearts | 2. Boxwood Valentine Wreath | 3. Strawberry Shortcake Tea | 4. Red Velvet Chocolate Tea | 5. Heart Macarons | 6. Pink Doilies | 7. Pink Tea Set |
8. Faux Peonies Bunch | 9. Fancy Teaspoons | 10. Pink and cream pom pom set | 11. Fabric Wrapped Pink Cone Trees | 12. 5 Piece Cake Stand Set with 2x Large 3-Tier Cupcake Stands + 3X Appetizer | 13. Valentine Gnomes | 14. Door and Porch Banners | 15. Valentine Party Fans Decor | 16. Chenille Hearts on a Stand | 17. Cupid’s Sweetheart Cafe Valentine Sign^
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Additional Essentials That I Used for My Galentines Tea Party
English Tea Pots (I used two, on at either end of the dining table)
Vintage Teacups or Personalized Teacups as guest favors
Almond Milk (little known fact: putting milk in your tea can prevent staining!)
Heart-shaped baking supplies
Ruffled heart ceramic dish for pies or other items as shown in product description
Williams Sonoma Ware Nonstick Cast Aluminum Floral Heart Bundt Pan
Premium Chocolate Heart Candy and Candy Holder Cups/Baking Liners
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Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
People Also Ask:
What is the “fanciest” of tea ceremonies? The "fanciest" of tea ceremonies is typically considered to be the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, also known as the Way of Tea. This highly formalized ceremony consists of a sequence of gestures involving preparing and serving powdered green tea known as Matcha. During this ceremony, all movements are done with great attention to detail and tender respect for each item that is being used. This can range from how gracefully the Host serves the Matcha to appreciating every ingredient that goes into it. Therefore, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony is usually seen as being the most elaborate and sophisticated among other tea ceremonies.
What is a tea basin? A tea basin is an important tool used in the practice of Gong Fu Cha, or Chinese Tea Ceremony. A tea basin is usually shallow and round, similar in shape to a small bowl or plate. It typically has a bowl-like compartment that holds water, and which can be heated using items such as a brazier.
What should you not do at a tea party? According to invaluable.com, “A hostess gift is not required, but loose tea would always be appreciated. Avoid placing too much food on your plate. Tea service is intended to be a snack rather than a full meal. Only pick up your saucer if you are standing. If that is the case, pick up your cup and saucer together, holding your cup in one hand and the saucer in the other. Do not leave your spoon in your saucer or on the table. Tea can quickly stain linens. Scones are not to be eaten with a fork or knife. Do not place the sugar spoon in your saucer as a courtesy to other guests.”
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC. Likenesses used by permission.
Photo and Design by Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
In conclusion, a Galentine's Tea Party is a great way to show your love and support for the special ladies in your life. From learning what Galentine's Day is, to knowing how to make your tea party feel special, this article gave detailed information on decorations and activities that can be used to make the event special. Everyone who reads this will be well prepared for their own Galentine's Tea Party and able to impress all of their gal pals with a stunning and memorable event. It doesn't matter if you are hosting an intimate tea party with just a few close friends or an extravagant event with dozens of guests, the important thing is that you make it memorable by creating the perfect atmosphere and providing delicious food and drinks. Through activities, games and conversation during the party, enjoy reminiscing with old friends and making new ones while celebrating friendship. Remember that holidays such as Valentine’s Day don’t always have to be about romantic relationships; festivals like Galentine’s Day also offer us plenty of opportunities to appreciate our closest friendships. With these ideas in mind, we hope you have an unforgettable Galentine’s Day tea party!
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