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As with all parties, you'll want to think through the basics of your tea party before you even get to the event details, activities and games. I've summarized the basics here.  Also, each section of this book will go into more detail in helping you create a great tea party event.  And be sure to see the appendix at the end of the book for handy checklists and planning forms to help make this an effortless process.

Here are some things you'll need to consider:

Date & Time of Party

Keep in mind the potential schedule conflicts of your guests; school activities, sports, etc. Also, depending on the age of the children, you'll want to be mindful of nap times that some of the younger children may still be having. 

Although it's probably impossible to find a time that works for everyone, a little forethought will help to ensure the best possible attendance at your event.

Guests

There are many considerations that will impact your guest list.  Things such as: 

space in your home or the location of the party

budget

family members

your daughter's social circle 

Most party planners suggest that you invite the number of children to the party equal to the guest of honor's age for the best results.  You know your daughter, however, so add or take away from the number of guests as you see fit.

Invitations 

Will you be hand making your invitations or purchasing pre-made invites?  Be sure to plan ahead for invitations.  Here are just a few things to consider to help you make a decision. 

Your budget (it might be cheaper to make your own if you are on a tight budget and have the supplies necessary)

Time frame (if you’re crunched for time, consider purchasing your invitations)

*Tip: Plan to make or purchase the thank you notes at the same time as the invitations. This is a huge time saver and stress saver too! You can even pre-address the thank you notes at the same time so they'll be ready to go after the party.

Decorations

For a tea party, presentation is everything, so think about your budget and how much time you want to invest both setting up and cleaning up afterwards.  

Menu

One of the joys of having a tea party is that a majority of the party centers on the activity of taking tea, so plan your party around a meal time if you can.  Your budget will determine how elaborate the menu can be.  If budgeting requires less money for the menu, plan your party time after a meal time.  This will keep your guests from becoming hungry for more than simple snacks and tea.

Games, Crafts and Prizes

Will you play games?  How much time do you want to spend on games and/or crafts?  What type of prizes will you want to give if you're doing games? 

If you are playing games or creating crafts, remember to keep in mind the ages of your guests and be sure to choose activities that they’ll enjoy, but won’t be too difficult for them to do.

Take Home Favors for Guests

There are many options for take home gifts for those in attendance.  These favors can range in price and in amount of time to put them together. Keep all of this in mind as you begin to think about the party.