How to Host the Perfect Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea | Biscuiteers Guide

Mother's Day is fast approaching, and at the Ministry of Biscuits, we’ve been brainstorming the perfect way to celebrate Mum, Grandma , and all the special women in your life. One thing we all agree on? There’s no better way to show your appreciation than with a beautifully arranged afternoon tea.

After all, there’s nothing quite like a good catch-up over a cup of tea, especially with Mum. So, this year, why not go beyond the usual flowers and chocolates and surprise her with something more personal? A lovingly prepared afternoon tea is the perfect way to show just how much thought you've put into making her day truly special.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to host the perfect Mother's Day afternoon tea, from setting a stunning table to curating a menu filled with classic favourites. Whether you're planning an intimate tea for two or a full spread for the whole family, we’ve got all the tips to help you create a memorable experience.

So, pop the kettle on, grab a biscuit (or two), and settle in for a cosy 15-minute read—let’s plan the perfect afternoon par-tea for Mum!

Table of Contents
• What is Afternoon Tea?
• Afternoon Tea Themes
• Tips to Set the Scene
• Afternoon Tea Menu Ideas
• Fun Mother’s Day Activities
• Where to Enjoy a Luxury Afternoon Tea for Mother’s Day
• Order a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea Delivery

What is Afternoon Tea?
Afternoon tea is a timeless British tradition that began in the 1840s, when Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, decided to solve the problem of the long gap between lunch and dinner—sometimes not served until 9 pm! So, she requested a tray of tea, bread and butter, and cake to tide her over, and just like that, the afternoon tea ritual was born! Before long, she was inviting friends into her drawing room, and the gathering quickly became a fashionable social affair.

Traditionally, afternoon tea featured dainty sandwiches, freshly baked cakes, pastries, and scones with clotted cream and preserves. These days, it's often a simple biscuit or small cake with a cup of tea, but the essence of the tradition remains the same: slowing down and savouring the simple pleasures of life.

☕ Did you know?

By the 1880s, afternoon tea had become a cultural phenomenon, with women of high society donning formal gowns, gloves, and hats to discuss politics, art, and social reform, transforming it from a mere tea break into a stepping stone for societal change.

Afternoon Tea Themes
The beauty of afternoon tea is that it’s incredibly versatile. To make the day truly special, pick a theme that suits Mum's personality and interests. Here are some popular themes to get you started:

Garden Tea Party
Ideal for a sunny afternoon, with floral decorations and soft pastels. Perfect for mums who love nature.
Vintage Tea Party
Think lace, antique china, and nostalgic charm. This theme is great for mums who adore a bit of vintage glamour.
Themed Tea Party
Personalise the tea based on Mum’s favourite book, movie, or hobby. A fun and creative twist!

Setting the Scene
To make the afternoon truly magical, create an atmosphere that complements your theme. The right setting will enhance the experience and make the celebration feel extra special.
Table Styling
✔ Choose a Colour Scheme – Soft pastels, Mum’s favourite shades, or classic white and gold work beautifully.
✔ Floral Centrepieces – Fresh flowers or small posies bring life to the table without overwhelming it.
✔ Personal Touches – Custom place cards, hand-iced biscuits with Mum’s name, or a handwritten menu add a thoughtful touch.
Tip: For a seamless table setting, start with a crisp tablecloth, then layer your centrepiece, plates, and cutlery in the following order:

Left: Forks

Right: Knives and spoons (knife blade facing the plate)

Center: Dessert plate, with a neatly placed teacup and saucer at the top right

Napkins: Folded neatly on the plate or to the left of the forks
Ambience
✔ Lighting Matters – Fairy lights, candles, or soft natural light create a warm, inviting feel.
✔ Music to Match – A playlist of classical, jazz, or Mum’s favourite tunes sets the mood beautifully.

Menu and Drinks
Once the table is set and looking picture-perfect, it’s time to think about the star of the show – the food! A well-balanced afternoon tea has a mix of savoury, sweet, and, of course, the perfect brew.
1. Finger Sandwiches & Savouries
Small but elegant, these bite-sized sandwiches should be neatly cut and crustless:
• Cucumber & Cream Cheese – A timeless, refreshing choice.
• Smoked Salmon & Dill Butter – A touch of luxury.
• Egg & Cress – Creamy, comforting, and full of flavour.
• Coronation Chicken – A British classic with a hint of spice.

Tip: Use fresh, high-quality bread, and don’t forget to cut your sandwiches into neat fingers or triangles.

2. Scones with Clotted Cream & Jam
Scones are the centerpiece of any afternoon tea. Here’s how to serve them perfectly:
• Warm, Freshly Baked Scones: Serve them fresh from the oven to achieve that soft, crumbly texture.
• Cornish Clotted Cream & Jam: Offer both clotted cream (Cornish style) and jam (Devon style) for variety.
And, of course, the eternal debate: cream first or jam first? The choice is yours!

3. Sweet Treats
Variety is key when it comes to sweets. Here are some delicious options to tempt every guest:
• Macarons – Crisp shells with a soft, chewy centre.
• Mini Victoria Sponges – A British classic with jam and buttercream.
• Hand-Iced Biscuits – Beautiful, personal, and oh-so-Biscuiteers.
• Lemon Drizzle Cake – Zesty and refreshing.

4. The Perfect Cup of Tea
The right tea makes all the difference in the afternoon tea experience. Here are some of the best teas to serve:
• Earl Grey – Elegant and slightly floral, great with citrusy cakes.
• Darjeeling – Light and aromatic, a perfect all-rounder.
• Assam or English Breakfast – Bold and rich, great with scones.
• Herbal Infusions – Chamomile, mint, or berry blends for a caffeine-free option.

Tip: For a celebratory touch, why not add prosecco, pink gin, or a light cocktail as a welcome drink?

Fun Add-Ons to Make Your Afternoon Tea Unforgettable
Activities
If you want to make the occasion even more interactive, why not add a few tea-themed activities?
• Biscuit Icing Challenge – Let guests decorate their own biscuits for a fun and creative twist.
• Tea Tasting Experience – Offer a variety of teas and let Mum pick her favourite:
• Afternoon Tea Trivia – Test your guests' knowledge of British tea culture.
• How Well Do You Know Mum? – A light-hearted quiz about Mum’s favourites and childhood memories.

Special Surprises
Who says afternoon tea needs to be at the table? Why not surprise Mum with a mini afternoon tea in bed—a beautiful tray with a teapot, warm scones, and a selection of her favourite treats. It’s the ultimate indulgence and a surefire way to make her feel appreciated.

Want to Skip the Prep? Join Us for a Luxury Afternoon Tea at Biscuiteers!
If you'd rather leave the baking and brewing to the experts, why not treat Mum to a luxurious afternoon tea at Biscuiteers? Enjoy a beautifully presented spread of hand-iced biscuits, delicate pastries, and expertly brewed tea—all in a charming, cosy setting.

Book a table and make this Mother’s Day extra special with a truly unforgettable tea experience.

Get everything you need for an Afternoon Tea Party delivered to your doorstep
However you choose to celebrate, it’s the thought, effort, and time spent together that truly makes Mother's Day special. So, get the teacups ready, spread out the treats, and enjoy a delightful afternoon of love, laughter, and a good brew.

Happy Mother’s Day! ☕💐