High teas may appear like a simple event to put together but it’s no easy feat. Over the years, we have organised many buffet caterings for high tea sessions. As such, here are a few things to consider before organising one.
- Location is Key
For most people, the word “high tea” conjures up an image of a lavish feast in a hotel-like setup or a breezy garden. But that’s not how it works all the time. The first thing that to be penned is the location and its capacity. Predominantly we have had high tea events at corporate spaces, hence the overall theme needs to follow suit. It’s either held at communal areas or the working space itself, often requiring a pleasant ambience rather a party-like setup. If it’s a spacious garden you’re looking at, feel free to stretch your imagination. According to your buffet line space, we can work on the presentation.
2. Comfortable Seating Space
Often in large gardens or courtyards, the goal is to allow guests to walk around while having their meals. And tables and chairs can be scattered according to the theme or convenience. But that’s not the case at smaller gardens and office spaces. Therefore, filling up the area with ample tables and chairs can feel a little claustrophobic (fear of confined space). Allow guests to dine at cocktail tables as the high tea menu is often light and easy. Mix up both banquet and cocktail tables according to the number of guests. Let us know your layout and vision of the high tea buffet, we can advise what suits your event.
3. Opt for Finger Food Dishes with a Malaysian Twist
High tea tradition may be a British tradition, but our Malaysian taste buds can never settle for scones and quiches. Do opt for what do you think you and your guests would prefer to eat rather than settling the British way. You will definitely agree, no high tea party is complete without curry puffs and a frothy teh tarik.
Here are the common picks for a high tea:
Savoury:
- Sandwiches (Egg/Tuna)
- Curry puffs
- Fried Samosa
- Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
- Chicken Pie
- Fried Chicken Wings
- Fried Potato Wedges
- Seafood Dumplings
- Chicken Satay
- Boneless Belacan Fried Chicken
- Black Pepper Chicken
- Nasi Lemak (In little packets)
- Roti Jala with Chicken Curry (small portions)
- Fried Noodles (Small portions)
- Fried Spring Roll
- Fried Lobak Yam
- Mushroom Soup + Garlic Bread
- Garden Salad
Sweet:
- Cream puffs
- Assorted Cakes
- Assorted Cupcakes
- Assorted Nyonya kuihs
- Muffins
- Fruit tarts
Beverage:
- Juices (Orange, Lime, Apple, Tropical)
- Hot Coffee
- Hot Tea
- Ginger Tea
Others:
- Assorted fruits
- Ice Kacang stall
- Popiah Basah stall
- Char Koey Teow stall
4. Proper Plates and Cutlery
If you’re going all-out lavish, ceramic plates and teapots can be used. However, if budget and space need to be ticked, then opting for disposable plates and cutlery would be ideal. Moreover, it’s all about convenience, to set up and wrap up the day effortlessly. With kids running around and lots of walking, it would be wise to reduce the fragile options. Yet that does not mean the presentation is overlooked. Our biodegradable plates, wooden cutlery and napkins are obtained from Green Eco Paradise, among the pioneers of eco-friendly food packaging. Don’t forget to grace up the dining space with beautiful tablecloths and linens.
5. Enhance the Moment of Togetherness
High teas often have a sense of fun. Exchange gifts and place greetings cards on the tables to have your guests smiling from ear to ear. If your high tea session is kid-centric, add a clown service and watch the little ones have a good time.
