Is there anything more delightful than tea, conversation, and the charm of a Jane Austen novel? Whether you’re celebrating Pride & Prejudice, planning a book club gathering, or simply longing for a touch of Regency-era elegance, this guide will help you host a tea party even Elizabeth Bennet would approve of.
1. Invitations with a Literary Flair
- Use soft floral designs or vintage book graphics.
- Wording ideas:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a lady in possession of good taste must be in want of tea.” - Handwrite invitations if possible or use a cursive script font for a period-appropriate look.
2. Encourage Jane Austen-Inspired Attire
Invite guests to channel their inner Austen heroine:
- Empire waist dresses
- Gloves, bonnets, parasols
- Simple jewelry: pearls, cameos
- Encourage fans of Mr. Darcy to dress accordingly, too!
Optional: Set up a small “fashion station” with shawls or fans for photo fun.
3. Set the Scene with Regency-Era Decor
- Tea cups with saucers, lace tablecloths, fresh flowers in vases
- Candles, soft lamplight, writing desks with quills and parchment
- Display your Austen novels or print favorite quotes as part of the décor
- Soft classical music or piano sonatas playing in the background (Mozart, Handel, etc.)
4. A Proper Regency Menu
Focus on light, dainty fare perfect for tea time:
- Cucumber sandwiches
- Scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam
- Lemon tarts, Victoria sponge, shortbread cookies
- Madeleines or petit fours
- Tea served in china cups (Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or herbal varieties)
Optional: Serve “Mr. Darcy’s Lemonade” (a soft, sparkling option for those who prefer it over tea)
For a full list of my favorite high tea recipes, visit my Out of the Box Baking site!
5. Entertain Like the Ladies of Longbourn
Ideas for lighthearted, literary fun:
- Read a favorite scene aloud from Pride & Prejudice (bonus points for dramatic flair!)
- Host a “Wit and Wisdom” game with famous Austen quotes
- Provide writing paper and ask guests to pen a letter “in the style of Jane Austen”
- Play Regency-themed charades or parlor games like “Consequences”
- Share your favorite Austen-inspired books or adaptations
6. Party Favors with Literary Charm
- Miniature editions of Austen novels
- Bookmarks with famous quotes (“Obstinate, headstrong girl!”)
- Lavender sachets tied with ribbon
- Personalized tea bags or small boxes of biscuits
7. Set the Mood with Regency-Era Music
No Jane Austen tea party is complete without a carefully curated soundtrack. Music during the Regency era played a vital role in social gatherings—evoking elegance, refinement, and heartfelt connection.
Try These Regency-Inspired Spotify Playlists:
- “Regency Romance” by Natalie Catalina – A calming blend of classical and instrumental pieces designed for that Jane Austen atmosphere SpotifySpotify+1Spotify+1.
- “Regency Era Music” by Kayla Glendenning – Includes piano sonatas, minuets, and light orchestral works perfect for afternoon tea ambience Spotify.
For a modern twist, you can also use softly performed instrumental covers of contemporary pop hits—like what’s featured in the Bridgerton soundtrack—to give your gathering a stylish nod to present-day Regencycoreen.wikipedia.org+14Spotify+14glamour.com+14.
Optional Activities:
- Invite a musically inclined friend to play light piano or harp pieces live.
- Teach guests how to identify a minuet or waltz—just for fun.
- Offer a “guest musician” slot to those who play instrument at your party.
Tip:
Create a public playlist on Spotify titled “Tea with Jane: A Regency Soundtrack”, combining tracks from the above lists. Share it on Pinterest or embed it in your blog post so guests can continue to enjoy the mood long after the party ends.
Closing Thought:
Hosting a Jane Austen-inspired tea party isn’t about perfection—it’s about slowing down, sipping tea, savoring good company, and celebrating the stories that continue to enchant us. In the words of Miss Austen herself: “There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.”
