Having an afternoon Christmas tea party can become one of your favorite stress-free Christmas party ideas. Actually!

The holidays are one of the busiest times of the year, but it is also a time to enjoy friends and show our gratitude for those who mean so much to us. There is no better time than during the holiday season.

For stress-free entertainment, please do so as far in advance as possible. In fact, the best part of hosting a holiday tea party is that you most likely have the house decorated. Many of us like to have a reason to show off and use our special Christmas plates and tea sets. If you love to show off your gourmet skills, head to town to bake delicious scones and tea cakes, but if you don’t like spending time in the kitchen, take advantage of cyberspace. You can have the most delicious and beautifully made groceries delivered to your doorstep. .

A small, intimate gathering is usually easier to plan. Inviting 3-4 friends is the perfect number. If you are an individual who wants to have a larger event, a buffet-style gathering would be more appropriate to cater for all of your guests.

More tips for organizing a Christmas afternoon snack. One of the stress-free Christmas traditions

Of course, it is important that at this time of year you get your invitations out early. Remember, invitations set the mood and expectations of your guests. For some hosting an afternoon tea party, a simple vacation email may be appropriate. For others, a more elaborate and creative homemade invitation is appropriate.

Some suggestions can be a cookie in the shape of a teapot, with the invitation written on it. Or a tea bag, your favorite loose leaf tea, and a spice bag with the invitation. I suggest that if it is important to you that your guests come dressed in party outfits: let them know this. It amazes me to see wrinkled jeans and sweatshirts at absolutely any type of party. If casual is your thing, that’s fine too.

For a light afternoon tea, expect your guests to arrive around 4pm. Of course, if you prefer to serve “high tea”, this is later and the food served is more substantial. However, in today’s world, you can choose any time frame that suits you and your guests.

The menu can be as simple as scones, homemade cookies and tea sandwiches, to several different savory dishes, cookies and mini cakes with a fabulous and elegant dessert to finish off the meal.

Of course, it is important to have a variety of hot teas and herbal teas. Be sure to offer some of your holiday favorites, like peppermint and special Christmas tea blends. You might even consider serving up some T-cocktails to add a fun touch to your guests.

You have your menu planned and your invitations sent. Now is the time to plan your tea party decorations. Do you have a room with a fireplace? That is a great area to serve afternoon tea. Don’t have a fireplace, don’t worry; create an area that is cozy and warm and suitable for visiting with friends. Christmas party decorating ideas are easy and inexpensive. With a tea party, you can mix and match your porcelain to complement your colors. Let the beauty of nature decorate your table. Holiday greenery, pine cones, and fruit wreaths can complement any setting. Flickering candles, twinkling Christmas lights, and holiday music add to the atmosphere.

If you’re not sure how to put things together or are looking for something different, take the time to scour the magazines for some new ideas.

Taking the time to prepare as much as possible before your guests arrive will give you time to enjoy your friends and the warmth of the holiday season.

After all, a Christmas afternoon tea is all about making everyone feel special and important. Be sure to prepare a thoughtful keepsake for your guests when they leave. A small tin with your favorite loose leaf tea, a small gift box with a special tea decoration are just some of the ideas that will help your friends remember and appreciate your special afternoon tea party.