Whatever happened to the old school kitchen tea party? Has it been surpassed by the bridal shower with its abundance of bubbly, non-domestic related gifts, balloons, and robes?

According to leondabytheyarra.com.au,

Traditionally, a Bridal Kitchen Tea is just that – an afternoon tea in which guests bring a gift for the Bride suitable for the kitchen only.  A Bridal Shower, on the other hand, sees guests bring a gift of any description to “shower” the Bride with. At either event, it’s usually only close female family and friends invited who are there to help support the Bride to Be and prepare the marital home before the wedding. 

Whether you decide to host a kitchen tea or a bridal shower, here are 5 things to consider.

Gifts

Speaking from personal experience, I preferred the kitchen tea, as it meant I got to receive a lot home related registry stuff that I didn’t own. In addition, I felt it would be easier on guests (especially close family) because they could buy one larger item that would also cover the wedding, or buy a set of items and give half at the kitchen tea and a half at the wedding. Even if you and your partner are living together, I still think there are useful appliances that can be put on a registry and purchased for the event. Let’s be real – the stuff is expensive and people usually like to buy something nice for a wedding – whether individually or pooling with others.

Family and Location

Most kitchen tea functions tend to be hosted at private venues. Not only can you save money this way, but it is also less stressful. Also, most Kitchen Teas are chilled affairs and a great opportunity to get together with the women in your family for a nice quiet afternoon.

Decor and Themes

Kitchen Teas lend themselves to such cute themes. Mad-hatter tea party, English high tea, or garden tea party to name a few! Plus, who can resist teacup and kitchen themed ideas?

Kitchen Tea Photobooth Backdrop by Mr&Mrs WTF
Kitchen Tea Photobooth Backdrop by Mr&Mrs WTF

 

Kitchen Tea Cupcake by Sassy Sprinkles Cakery
Kitchen Tea Cupcake by Sassy Sprinkles Cakery

Traditions

Along with all the standard wedding-themed games, another integral part of kitchen teas are the gorgeous traditions such as bringing a recipe or a marriage tip from the bride. Such a beautiful sentiment.

Of course, a lot of these ideas can be used at a bridal shower too. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you do it the way you want to!

 

kitchen tea, 4 reasons to host a kitchen tea party before your wedding