How to Host a Bridgerton-Inspired Tea Party
Prepare your finest linens, cue the strings and allow these ideas to inspire a truly refined afternoon worthy of the Ton’s praise. While the concept of formal afternoon tea came a few decades after the Regency era ended, the grace, charm and conversation of a Bridgerton-style gathering is simply timeless.
1. Set the Scene
Creating the perfect atmosphere first begins at the table, with beautiful china and abundant floral arrangements. Starting with pastel linens, your goal is to create a setting that feels both romantic and grand, as though you’ve stepped into a Regency drawing room ready for the Ton.
In the Regency era, beautiful tableware reflected the opulence of the owner and good social standing. When decorating your table with tea sets, look for pieces that feature intricate and refined designs, or have an air of elegance about them —when set with delicate linens and seasonal bouquets, crisp white porcelain with hand-painted motifs will dazzle your guests.
Another hallmark of Regency design is a well-manicured garden, which acted as an extension of the home as well as a place of peace, away from the stress of societal norms. To add a touch of natural beauty, adorn the table with fresh, brilliant floral arrangements – peonies, roses and lavender fit beautifully. Open the windows and let in plenty of natural light to welcome a lush and bountiful aesthetic to your tea party.
2. Dress the Part
Next, channel your inner duchess through a Bridgerton-style outfit. Start with a high-waisted gown, or an empire waist silhouette – a dress style known for the Regency period – in a vibrant color or dazzling pattern to showcase your personal style. Add a set of dainty gloves, opalescent pearls and a romantic updo to complete the look, and you’ll be ready to fill your dance card!
On the other hand, if you’re channeling your inner duke, look to your favorite male characters for inspiration. Formal trousers (known in the Regency period as “breeches”) when paired with a white collared shirt can transform you into a dashing member of the Ton.
3. Steep and Serve
Tea was a treasured ritual of Regency hospitality, drank by all despite their social status. Warm your teapot first, then steep your Bridgerton blend according to the label for perfect flavor. Serve from a proper teapot for an elegant impression. Each blend from The Republic of Tea’s Bridgerton Collection — including Sophie’s Rose Geranium White Tea and Benedict’s Spiced Brandy Black Tea — brings refined character and charm to every cup.
4. Delight the Palate
Known widely as the natural companion to tea, finger sandwiches, buttery scones and petite cakes adorned with fruit or cream strike the perfect balance of tradition and indulgence. Offer a selection of light, elegant treats inspired by both history and modern taste to round out your afternoon tea party. Looking to bake your own delicacies? Browse our selection of delicious Tea Recipes and visit your local World Market to find a confection worthy of even the most discerning taste buds.
5. Cue the Music
No Bridgerton affair is complete without the balanced blend of a string quartet. Fill your room with instrumental covers of modern favorites — reminiscent of the melodies heard at the show’s grandest balls — to set a graceful Regency mood with a modern flair.
6. Tune In
As you prepare your elegant table and guest list, make sure your celebration is timed for the Season 4 debut on Netflix, arriving in two parts with Part 1 premiering on January 29th and Part 2 on February 26th.
7. Share the Moment
Capture your gathering and share the magic. Tag @republicoftea and use #BridgertonTea to showcase your tea party for fellow tea lovers. Who knows — Lady Whistledown might just take notice.
