About Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a vibrant and historic city located in the northeastern United States. It is widely known for its sightseeing attractions, particularly those relating to its role during the American Revolution and its institution of American democracy. Most notably, Philadelphia was home to the first and second Continental Congresses which culminated in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.
But there’s much more to history than just Philly. With its magnificent cultural attractions, world-class dining, eclectic nightlife, and much-loved professional sports teams, this is a city with something for everyone.
That’s especially the case if you’re planning a tea party in Philadelphia. With a host of unique and memorable venues to choose from, not to mention a large selection of high-quality caterers and tea houses, Philly has got all your tea party needs covered.
Tea Party Options in Philadelphia
- Catering
Finding a catering company that specializes in tea parties can add an extra level of elegance and professionalism to your event. They can provide a variety of teas, finger foods, and desserts, or even set up dessert stations and handle the tablescape settings.
- Event planners
Hiring an event planner to handle the logistics of your tea party can give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on enjoying the event with your guests. Professional planners also rope in their networks of connections with vendors, including caterers and florists, to create a cohesive atmosphere for your party.
- Photography
Documenting your tea party allows you to remember the special moments and share them with friends and family. A professional photographer can also help set up unique and beautiful props to enhance the aesthetic of your event.
- Flowers
Adding floral arrangements to the tea party venue adds color and beauty. Whether it's a single bloom on each table or a grand centerpiece, flowers are a simple way to elevate the atmosphere of your event.
- Balloons
Incorporating balloons into your tea party decor introduces a sense of whimsy and festivity to the atmosphere. They can be used as standalone decorations or paired with other elements, such as flowers or streamers, for a cohesive look.
Tea Party Vendors in Philadelphia
- Angela Gaspar Photography
Angela is a Philadelphia-based photographer who has been in business since 2008. Angela specializes in headshots, wedding photography, proposals and engagements, and portraits. Angela strives to strike the perfect balance between being engaged and unobtrusive in order to capture moments that some would never see.
- 12th Street Catering
12th Street Catering believes that visually appealing food tastes better. The company is devoted to making beautiful, outstanding food displays. Not only does their team of experienced chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create stunning displays, but they are also sure to impress your guests. Their catering services not only come with great-tasting food but also beautiful and customizable décor.
- Old City Flowers
Established in 2012, Old City Flowers is a premier destination for all your floral needs. They carry a wide selection of seasonal and tropical blooms, and their experienced artisans are skilled in creating stunning arrangements for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a simple bouquet or an elaborate display for a wedding or special event, they're confident that they can exceed your expectations.
Pros and Cons of Tea Parties in Philadelphia
Thinking of hosting a tea party in Philadelphia? There are pros and cons to consider before making your decision.
Advantages
- The big town amenities packed in a small city offer a variety of resources for tea party hosts, including vendors ready to help plan the perfect event and tea shops stocking diverse blends of the tasty brew.
- You’ll find a huge range of tea party locations around the city, ranging from parks and gardens.
- Philly's prime location makes it highly accessible to guests coming from larger cities like Washington D.C. and New York.
Disadvantages
- Depending on the season, outdoor tea parties may not be feasible due to the weather.
- Being a large metropolis, the city's public spaces tend to get quite crowded and it is something worth noting when considering tea party locations near such areas.
- Traffic is a major concern in Philly and it's something to keep in mind when searching for a tea party venue.
Tips on How to Organize Tea Parties in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city steeped in history and culture, making it the ideal city to host a memorable tea party. If you're looking to plan an extraordinary afternoon tea in Philly, here are several helpful tips that will ensure your event is one of a kind:
- When planning your tea party, be sure to select a venue that is able to accommodate all of your guests. Luckily, Philadelphia has an abundance of classic buildings and homes available for rent. Prior to booking the space, however, make sure you check the venue's regulations regarding food and beverage consumption.
- Plan a delicious menu, and you can find excellent tea party recipes on the internet or even hire caterers if that's better suited to your expectations. Whichever route you take, make sure to provide an assortment of finger foods, sandwiches, and sweet treats so each guest has something tasty they enjoy.
- Most importantly, find the perfect blend for your party. Whether it be a trip to one of Philadelphia's many great tea shops, an online order, or just leaving it in the hands of the caterers, ensure that you have plenty of flavors available so everyone can find something they love.
Famous Locations in Philadelphia
- Christ Church
As the tallest building in North America at the time of its construction, it was an important symbol of the colonies' break from the Church of England. Today, it continues to be a popular destination for tourists and history buffs alike. Just a few blocks away from Christ Church is the burial ground, which features the graves of Benjamin Franklin and his wife as well as several signers of the Declaration of Independence and other early American leaders. In 2018, more than 105,000 people visited Christ Church, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Philadelphia.
- Penn Treaty Park
Nestled amongst the skyscrapers of downtown Philadelphia, Dilworth Park is a welcome oasis for city dwellers and visitors alike. Originally established in 1815, the park has undergone numerous transformations over the years. Today, it features an expansive lawn, a café, and an interactive fountain, all surrounded by beautiful plantings. But the park's most distinguishing feature is its stunning views of Philadelphia's skyline. On a clear day, you can see all of the city's iconic landmarks, from City Hall to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
- Independence National Historical Park
The five gardens at Independence National Historical Park reflect the styles popular during their creation. The Shakespeare Garden is a tranquil space that pays tribute to the Bard with flowers and plants referenced in his plays. The Colonial Herb Garden replicates an 18th-century apothecary garden. The Victorian Gardens boast a shaded arbor, gazebo, and fountain. On the first floor of Franklin Court Garage sits The Birth of Nation Garden, celebrating 100 years since the Constitution was written, and lastly, Presidents' Park contains trees connected with each U.S. president.