Anniversary High Tea Checklist
Use this anniversary high tea checklist to plan the event in a sensible order, from booking the room and sending invitations to setting the tables and serving tea. The plan covers 48 tasks and 43 items, including dietary requirements, tableware, chilled food, sandwiches, scones, quiches, fruit and pastries. Start with guest numbers and menu choices, then leave enough time for preparation and setup on the day. The details below focus on the steps that are easiest to overlook or leave too late.
The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.
Tips
- Collect dietary requirements when guests register, not a few days before the high tea. Use the final responses to create a separate diet menu and clear allergen cards.
- Confirm the venue, hall layout, tables, chairs, buffet tables and coat racks before invitations go out. A high tea needs space for both seated guests and a practical serving area.
- Check tableware against the guest list at least one week ahead. Count dinner plates, cake plates, cups, teapots, glasses, teaspoons, cake forks and serving utensils rather than assuming the venue has enough.
- Prepare the foods with different deadlines in mind. Sandwich fillings, sandwiches, fruit and desserts can be staged ahead, while scones and hot savoury bites should be planned close to serving time.
- Plan cold and hot holding before shopping day. Keep chilled products in coolers, and confirm that coffee machines, hot-water dispensers and hot trays are available and working before guests arrive.
Frequently asked questions
- How far in advance should I send anniversary high tea invitations?
- Send invitations about 6 to 8 weeks before the event. Set the registration deadline at least 2 weeks before the high tea so you can confirm portions, dietary needs, name badges and seating.
- How much food should I plan for an anniversary high tea?
- Plan the menu after you know the confirmed guest count, then add about 10% extra portions for popular items. Include enough sandwiches, scones, quiches, savoury bites, fruit, cakes and pastries to cover both dietary menus separately.
- When should I prepare sandwiches and scones for a high tea?
- Prepare sandwich fillings and assemble sandwiches as close to serving as practical, usually on the same day. Bake scones on the day of the event so they are ready while the tea service is still fresh.
- How early should I set up the high tea tables?
- Allow at least 2 hours before guests arrive for tables, chairs, tablecloths, place settings, buffet displays and allergen cards. Finish the food setup later, especially chilled products and hot savoury items, so they stay at the right temperature.