Flat lay of art tea menu, pastries, macarons, and a cup of tea at The Merrion.

A luxurious Art Tea experience featuring curated menus, artistic pastries, and perfectly brewed tea, served with timeless elegance.

How to Host a High Tea Party at Home Inspired by The Merrion in Dublin

At Michelle Norwood Living, we believe that hosting a high tea party at home should feel just as luxurious and thoughtful as my favorite experiences around the world — from the Art Tea at The Merrion in Dublin to a private high tea party I once designed for a legacy client on St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans.

Creating a high tea party at home is easier than you think when you focus on intentional, elegant touches that set the mood for an afternoon of indulgence.

Set the Scene with Thoughtful Decor

A successful high tea begins with setting a beautiful and inviting space.
Layer your table with luxurious linens, vintage bone china (bonus points if it’s a family heirloom), and fresh florals in soft, romantic hues. Consider adding candles, handwritten place cards, and even a live string soloist to enhance the ambiance.

Elegant high tea room with vintage decor, floral centerpieces, and layered table linens.

A beautifully styled high tea room featuring layered linens, vintage china, and fresh florals inspired by the luxury of The Merrion in Dublin.

For inspiration, explore our favorite tips in this guide by Redfin on how to throw a high tea party at home.

Curate a Delicious High Tea Menu

Three-tiered tray with scones, pastries, and tea sandwiches at an elegant high tea party.

A classic high tea assortment of buttery scones, colorful pastries, and savory tea sandwiches — a must for any luxurious tea party.

Serve an assortment of delicate bites:

Savory: Cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon, and egg salad on artisan bread.
Sweet: Buttery scones with clotted cream and jam, petit fours, colorful macarons, and artful pastries.
Tea Selection: Offer a curated mix of classic Earl Grey, soothing chamomile, and vibrant herbal blends, poured with grace and care.

Remember — it’s not just about the food, it’s about creating a story. At Michelle Norwood Living, we encourage you to think about the full sensory experience.

Colorful high tea pastries inspired by art, topped with raspberry and intricate designs.

Artfully crafted high tea pastries inspired by famous artworks, adding a creative twist to an afternoon tea experience.

Encourage Guests to Dress the Part

Ask your guests to arrive in their finest afternoon attire — romantic ball skirts, pearl necklaces, and chic fascinators. Dressing the part adds a playful and elevated touch to the experience.

Personal Stories and Inspiration

My love for high tea was further deepened by the experiences I’ve had around the world. From sipping tea at the Four Seasons in Egypt to planning a legacy high tea for a private client in New Orleans, each event was a reminder: it’s the little luxuries that make the biggest impact.

Female violinist performing live music at a high tea event.

Soft classical music by a live violinist creates the perfect elegant ambiance for a high tea gathering.