If there's one nation that knows how to throw a tea party it's us Brits, and what better excuse than National Tea Day, happening on the 21st April this year. The event itself will take place at Kensington Roof Gardens in London with "artisan tea blends available to sample, snacks galore and a celebrity baking masterclass." But you can have just as much fun at home by hosting your own tea party, and getting together your friends and family to celebrate the humble brew. Remember to stock up on our award-winning teas, from Earl Grey to camomile, chai to assam; we've got the lot!
Whether you're celebrating National Tea Day, or organising a tea party for a birthday, baby shower, or hen do, the thing that pulls a fabulous tea party together is a great theme and table setting. We've scoured Pinterest to bring you the ultimate tea party inspiration plus cute crockery and tableware so you can recreate each amazing look at home...
Vintage
For a theme that never goes out of style, go vintage. Think high tea meets Downton Abbey, complete with an ornate tea pot, cute tea cups and saucers and sweet little milk jugs. This theme is delicate, with blush pink tones and ideal for creating that extra special atmosphere. Why not fill a spare teapot with fake peonies to create a beautiful centrepiece?
Countryside
There's nothing like enjoying a crumbly scone loaded with jam and cream out in the countryside. Transport your guests to the rolling hills of the Lake District, with floral and fauna inspired prints in duck egg blues and spring yellows. We can't get enough of this quirky bunny shape teapot, complete with a cosy knitted jumper to keep your tea extra hot before serving, and these dainty floral teacups will add some sunshine to your table. Don't forget the daffs!
Modern Pantry
For a fresh, modern spin on a traditional tea party, opt for this springtime look. Incoporating neutral tones with glassware, mini succulents and loose leaf teas, this theme is all about relaxing and getting back to nature. Ditch the cupcakes in favour of traybakes, opt for homemade quiches and create thick cut sandwiches with fresh, crusty bread. Enjoy fruit teas with this glass infuser teapot or pimp your sparkling water with lemon, lime, grapefruit and cucumber and serve in this glass drinks dispenser for the perfect fresh, summer drink.
Best of British
There's nothing like a good old fashioned British tea party to celebrate everything that is great about tea. If you missed out on having your own street party back in 2012 for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, fear not, you can throw your own 'best of British' inspired party anytime you like. Hang bunting, collect everything red, white and blue that you can find, and dine on Victoria sponge cakes and good old English Breakfast tea. We've got our eyes on this super cute tea bag rest and these retro milk bottles - perfect for smoothies or milkshakes.
Beauty and the Beast
Ever since the new Beauty and the Beast film came out we have been obsessed! Get your little ones involved in National Tea Day and throw them a mini tea party with this great Beauty and the Beast tea set - complete with teapot, tea cups and saucers, sugar bowl and teaspoons. Let them make believe or fill the teapot with fruit juice for an afternoon of fun.
For more tea party inspiration, check out the rest of our range at George.com or visit your local store