It's not easy being a tea party lady on a budget. 
But it is possible to create a setting elegant enough for even the most demanding TPL, without spending a whole lot of money. This was important to me, because I didn't want lack of funds to stifle my inner TPL! I needed to find ways to make things pretty and satisfy my TPL, without breaking my budget. Some creativity was required, however, and a bit of time.
The first to get over is - things don't have to match, or be "traditional" in order to be charming and pleasing. Can't afford a silver tea set? Don't have matching china? Don't sweat it. You can create a colorful and elegant tablesetting with completely mismatched tea things. Cups and plates don't have to match. One great way to find tableware on the cheap is to browse flea markets and garage sales. You can often find pieces being sold for very little, simply because there is only one of the set.
Napkins really should be cloth of some kind, but they don't need to be fancy or expensive. Again, garage sales and estate sales are a good source for old linens. Handkerchiefs can be converted into napkins. So can old clothing, if the material is right. I used a sheet as a tablecloth once. It needed some "dressing up" so I sewed a bit of bric-a-brac along the edges, and voila! Instant tablecloth.
Here are some ideas for things you can make yourself. Even if you're not crafty, these projects are easy, and a great way to dress up your party for very little money:
- Decoupage Tea Tray
- Make Your Own Napkin Rings
- Make Your Own Tea Cozy
- Invite Your Guests with Victorian Style Lace Fan Invitations
- Recipe Book Favors to Give Your Guests
Have fun!~
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