What could be more proper than throwing an afternoon tea party to celebrate Mother’s Day?! When it comes to throwing parties that are both elegant and laid-back, we asked the one and only Jenni Kayne, fashion designer and BFF of our glam Editor-in-Chief Rachel Zoe, to share her strategy for making the day feel intimate and special. The beautiful pictures from her English garden party are filled with pastel lilacs and ranunculus, a vintage gold-trimmed tea service and loads of inspiration to help you plan a memorable day. Read on to get Jenni’s secrets for creating a tea party that is both sweet and stunning.
Jenni Kayne Throws The Perfect Tea Party
Photos: Yayo Ahumada
Come Up With A Theme
"When establishing the décor for an event, it’s always good to have some form of inspiration. For our Mother’s Day Tea, the amazing ladies from Bash Please were inspired by my upcoming Liberty Print collection. The result: a get-together with a beautiful blend of modern simplicity and a sweet English garden theme."
Set Up Ahead Of Time
"Prepare ahead of time so that you’re relaxed and can enjoy the party with your guests."
Create A Seating Plan
"I love seating my table – it creates interesting conversations and, if done right, ensures that your guests will have fun and enjoy those seated next to them."
Pull Out Your Tea Service
"I really wanted to host a garden tea party with pastel pinks, purples and a liberty floral print. We did a mix of vintage glam and the natural, earthy elements that I love."
Give Out Fresh Flower Bracelets
"Fresh flowers are a must!! The lovely Kristen from Moon Canyon Design made the most beautiful arrangements and flower bracelets for all of the mamas."
Serve Bite-Size Snacks & Desserts
"As this was a tea party, scones, mini tarts, and tea sandwiches were a must! Small and bite-size is key when it comes to tea parties."
Set Up A DIY Cocktail Station
"Make your guests their first cocktail, and then leave out all of the ingredients and the recipe. That way, your guests can take it from there and you’re not playing bartender all day."
Think: Fancy, Effortless and Organic
"For me, a party must always be a balance of polished and organic, fancy and effortless."
Add An Arts & Crafts Element
Jenni set up a necklace making station so the kids could make leather and bead necklaces for their moms (Rachel Zoe and her son Skyler shown here stringing beads together). Soleil Moon Frye was also a guest at the party and captured great pictures of the arts & crafts. Check them out at Moon Frye.
Don't Forget Goodie Bags!
Jenni gave her guests small lavender sachets to grab on their way out the door. For more photos and decor tips from the party, check out Rip + Tan.
