Afternoon tea doesn’t have to be an expensive indulgence. With a little creativity and planning, you can recreate the charm of a classic British tea party on a budget.
Bake your own treats
Instead of buying pre-made cakes and pastries, try baking your own. Classic options like scones, Victoria sponge, fairy cakes, and shortbread are easy and inexpensive to make. You can even get friends or family involved for a fun group activity.
Serve budget teas with style
You don’t need premium blends to impress. Supermarket own-brand teas can be just as delicious, especially when served in a proper teapot with lovely cups and saucers. Offer a few basic options like English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and a tasty herbal tea.
Use your best mugs and dinner plates
You don’t need fancy crockery, or tiered cake stands to create a charming setup. Use your best mugs, dinner plates, or even stack a few dishes to mimic a cake stand. A nice tablecloth or even a scarf can dress up your table. Visit discount shops or supermarkets for deals on biscuits, cakes, and accessories. Pound shops also have affordable serving pieces and decorations.
Keep your sandwich selection simple
Traditional finger sandwiches are a staple of any afternoon tea. Use ingredients like cucumber, egg mayo, ham, and cheese. Cut them into dainty triangles or fingers and remove the crusts for that authentic touch. Afternoon tea is a British tradition that has crossed the Atlantic too. If you want to indulge at home, or celebrate a special occasion, try one of the many afternoon tea boxes available from retailers such as https://www.afternoonteabox.com/.
Make it a potluck afternoon tea
If you are hosting with friends, ask each guest to bring one item. Friends can opt for sandwiches, a cake, or tea. It cuts costs and adds variety to your spread without the stress of doing it all yourself. With a bit of effort and imagination, you can host a lovely afternoon tea that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. After all, it’s more about good company and conversation than price tags.
