Spring is a beautiful time to host a garden party. Go all old-worldly and feminine and set up a traditional tea party at your place. Think shabby-chic, romantic, pastel and pretty! This is a great idea for a girls-only event such as a kitchen tea, birthday celebration or baby shower.

• Crockery

  Scour charity shops for individual tea cups, saucers, plates and teapots in pretty patterns. Look especially for pastel designs and floral motifs. Then mix ‘n’ match to create a complete set for the garden party. A collection of old-fashioned china like this will really set the scene at your tea and coffee station.

• Napery

  Make a beeline for your local fabric store, discount linen outlet or charity shop for placemats, doilies and tablecloths in linen and lace. You could even just buy a length of pretty material and hem the edges for a cost-effective and unique DIY tablecloth. What a beautiful way to display your garden party spread of delightfully mismatched china and decadent treats! Don’t forget paper or cloth serviettes to match, in a floral or soft pattern.

• Table setting and flowers

  Cover your outdoor table with a linen tablecloth (see above), or if you’re having a crowd, get hold of a few trestles or card tables. Cluster a variety of glass bottles and rustic tins (soak off labels and tie with ribbon), in different shapes and sizes, along the tables to serve as vases.
• Head to the flower markets and you’ll get mountains of fragrant, seasonal blooms for a very fair price. Then arrange them in a casually shabby chic manner. No floristry skills required! How about a mix of hyacinth, freesias, iris, tulips and daffodils, which are all in season for spring?

• Catering

  This one’s pretty easy – a selection of boutique teas (bags are fine); plus plunger coffee. Don’t forget a cute little milk jug and sugar set. Also offer individual bottles of gourmet juice; and maybe a champagne Bellini on arrival for a touch of style.
• For nibbles, try ribbon sandwiches, scones, mini cupcakes, and savoury muffins warmed through. A tiered or single cake stand is a pretty way to offer this selection of treats to your friends. All can be pre-prepared so you can enjoy your guests’ company instead of worrying about getting hot food ready.
• Now send out one of our tea party invites and get organising!