Timeless Hosting Tips!
Tis the season and a busy one at that! Whether it’s an intimate gathering of a few friends or an all-out shindig, the last thing your holiday get togethers should be is stressful. We’ve come up with some tweaks that will ensure your event is a success, and that you get to enjoy it as much as your guests. And these tips apply to any kind of party at any time of year!
French 75 - Blink Tea
Drinks!
The number one rule? Get creative and have fun. This goes for alcohol or alcohol-free drinks recipes.
Seeing as we’re a tea company and that you are tea lovers, we’re going to suggest using tea in a special cocktail, like a French 75. It’s frosty and fabulous, and a great drink to mark a special occasion any time of year. As an option, teas infuse nicely into spirits, which create a great base for drinks. Think Earl Grey in gin for an Earl Grey Gin Martini, or bourbon-infused Pu’Erh for a warm and welcoming old-fashioned. Enjoy responsibly!
Ultra Violet Fizz - Blink Tea
There are even more options for non-alcoholic tea-based drinks. It could be as simple as hot teas with different sweeteners or milks. How about tea flights presented in fab little cups? We all drink with our eyes first! Cold brews make a refreshing and exotic base for wisps of cold foam art. Think about pairing a concentrated tea brew with exotic sodas or non-alcoholic mixers. Teas make amazing simple syrups.
Ice & Garnishes - Ann H, Pexels
As important is to make sure your fridge or bar is stocked with other drinks. Juices, sparkling and flat waters are alternatives for people who wish to keep their alcohol intake to a minimum, need to rehydrate, or have a glass in hand as they’re chatting with others. You’ll be surprised how much this will be appreciated.
And don’t forget the ice! Lots of ice! Lemons, limes, berries and other fruits and botanicals will go a long way in spicing up any sip. Have fun in any way you can!
Matcha Popcorn - Oh How Civilized!
If you’re not planning on serving tea at your event, how about offering a tempting treat created using tea? A sweet or savoury pass-around is a great way to introduce tea to those who think tea is just a morning drink. What better reward than telling your guests they’re enjoying a creation made using your favourite tea? Guaranteed it’ll be a conversation starter, with asks to share the recipe.
Savoury Treat Ideas:
Buttery Matcha Popcorn: this recipe from Jee Choe of Oh How Civilized makes for a delightful little passed treat. This recipe has a bit of a win-win appeal. As a rule, popcorn isn’t fattening. And Matcha has a ton of health benefits!
Organic Lapsang Souchong and Hummus Dip: the smokiness of the Lapsang Souchong tea is a perfect pairing for hummus. Add some crisped naan or pita bread plus freshly cut vegetables, and you’ve got a party favour that’s a winner! 
Masala Chai Yogurt Loaf - Blink Tea
Masala Chai Yogurt Loaf Cake: this is an easy to make loaf recipe, with a taste that gets even better after a day or two. This loaf slices easily into little bites for teatime service. Your home is also going to smell so good while this loaf is baking!
Earl Grey Tea Cookies: this is one recipe from blog Indecision & Cake I’ve been wanting to try for a while. The earl grey tea with the added orange zest makes these cookies a fragrant and delicious addition to tea with friends. That is, if they last until your guests arrive.
Cedric Fauntleroy - Pexels
Vibe!
Whether a large event or small gathering, here are a few little tweaks I’ve found that make guests feel welcome in your home. As important, these tips will help make sure you are prepared for any eventuality. Remember, the goal is to make this event worry-free so you can enjoy as much as you’re your guests.
Food and drink: depending on your event size make sure you’ve got enough napkins, serving ware, flatware and glassware on hand. If you’re hosting a large party, you might want to check out event rental companies. They’re surprisingly accessible price-wise and will give you peace of mind that all of this is taken care of.
Lighting: if this is an evening party keep lighting low and intimate. If there aren’t enough lamps in your living room, steal the from the bedrooms for the evening. If you are using candles, make sure they are non-scented.
Music: not too much to say on this one. Create your own playlist or choose your go-to streaming service and done. Keep the volume nice and low, but just noticeable enough to help the conversation flow. Picking music is one my favourite parts to planning any party large or small!
These are just a few tips, or tweaks, to help make any gathering a success. Surely, you’ve got your own too. The most important thing is to do a bit of planning and to be prepared, so that you can enjoy your event without worry!