How to Host a Summer Garden Tea Party (Irish Style)
There’s nothing quite like a garden tea party to celebrate sunshine, friendship, and a proper cup of tea. But what if you gave it a distinctly Irish twist? Inspired by rolling green lawns, homemade bakes, and the ever iconic Mrs Doyle from Father Ted, here's your go-to guide for throwing an unforgettable Irish-style summer tea party, complete with the perfect brews from Mrs Doyle’s Tea.
1. Set the Scene: Garden Charm, Irish Soul
Think quaint and cosy, not overly formal. Your setup should feel like a warm Irish welcome.
Tips:
- Use vintage crockery, floral linens, and lace doilies.
- Hang bunting or fairy lights for a magical touch.
- Add fresh-cut wildflowers in jam jars for table centrepieces.
Pro Tip: A little Celtic music in the background and a teapot or two filled with Mrs Doyle’s Dublin Breakfast Tea instantly sets the tone. "Go on, go on, go on… have another cup!"
2. Build the Menu: Irish Comfort Meets Summer Freshness
Balance hearty Irish flavours with light seasonal bites. Keep everything small, shareable, and charming.
Savoury Ideas:
- Mini smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches on brown soda bread
- Warm sausage rolls with wholegrain mustard
- Cucumber and herb butter finger sandwiches (a British classic with Irish butter!)
Sweet Pairings:
- Classic Irish scones with clotted cream & jam
- Tea brack (a must, especially when soaked in Mrs Doyle’s Irish Breakfast blend)
- Lemon drizzle cake or fresh strawberry tartlets
Pair with:
Try Mrs Doyle’s Organic Wild Berry Tea for fruity dessert moments or Mrs Doyle’s Shamrock Mint Green Tea after heavier bites for a fresh palate cleanse.
3. The Tea Station: Heart of the Party
Every good Irish host knows; the kettle must always be ready. Set up a dedicated tea station so guests can sip and sample different blends.
Must-Have Teas:
- Mrs Doyle’s Irish Breakfast Tea(bold & rich)
- Mrs Doyle’s Happy Tea (tart & refreshing)
- Mrs Doyle’s chill out Mint Tea (light & cooling)
- A coldbrew Peach Iced Tea option for the warm weather
Label each tea with little handwritten signs and place them beside coordinating treats. You’re not just serving tea; you’re curating moments.
4. Add Some Irish Fun: Games & Stories
- Share funny Irish sayings or a few lines from Father Ted
- Set up lawn games like croquet, giant Jenga, or ring toss
- Hold a "best hat" contest with whimsical prizes like Mrs Doyle’s Tea Gift Sets
Remember: Irish hospitality is about fun, stories, and never letting a cup go empty.
Tea, Laughter & a Bit of Irish Magic
Hosting a summer tea party, Irish style, is about more than a table full of treats; it’s about warmth, humour, and a kettle that never goes cold. With a little planning, some floral touches, and plenty of Mrs Doyle’s Tea, you can turn your garden into a scene straight from a storybook.
So go on, go on, go on… plan your tea party. Your guests (and their taste buds) will thank you.