Fancy an afternoon with friends eating cake, and want to do something for charity at the same time? Then why not hold your very own charity tea party?
Tea With Me aims to bring the community together over cups of tea and a Victoria sponge, while raising vital funds for young people with a learning disability. Holding a tea party is a great way to raise money for Mencap and ENABLE Scotland, our Charity of the Year. Plus you and your guests will enjoy a fun day – catching up, playing games and of course drinking tea!
If you’d like to get involved, here are some tips on planning a great tea party:
What kind of party will it be?
A small intimate gathering? A children’s party? A large outdoor event? A work party?
Where will you hold it?
At home? The town hall? At school? The office? Your church hall or social club?
When?
Try for a time when plenty of people will be available.
Will there be a theme?
1920s? Fancy dress? A garden party? A Mad Hatter’s tea party?
How many people will you invite?
Consider your venue and what you will need to provide for each guest.
What refreshments will you provide?
Take a look at the recipe from celebrity chef Simon Rimmer and see if it takes your fancy!
Top tips for your ‘tea with me’ party:
- Think of as many ways as you can to raise money for Mencap and ENABLE Scotland at your tea party - for example ask your guests to pay for their refreshments or charge them to take part in the fun!
- Make sure you have enough crockery and seats for your guests. Borrow from friends and family and get them to help out on the day!
- Provide some party food (cakes, biscuits, sandwiches) and perhaps some alternatives to tea (soft drinks, coffee).
- Think about some games or activities to break the ice and get everyone talking and in the party mood!
- Take some pictures and email them to cooperative@mencap.org.uk
- Remember to look out for them on our fundraising website! Or call the fundraising hotline on 020 7696 5579.
For help organising your own tea party, from health and safety advice to ideas to promote your event, download one of the packs or call the fundraising hotline on 020 7696 5579.
Need some baking inspiration?
We recently hosted our very own staff bake off, with colleagues from around The Co-operative competing with their delicious cakes. Why not try one of their recipes and let us know what you think?
1st prize: Chilli chocolate cake made by Suzanne Chapman, The Co-operative Food
2nd prize and prize for best presentation: Giant raspberry and chocolate cupcake made by Rebecca Hill, The Co-operative Food
3rd prize: White chocolate & raspberry cheesecake made by Alicia Walker, The Co-operative Membership
Prize for creativity: Red Velvet Cake made by Helen Seed, The Co-operative Group, Corporate Affairs
Prize for originality: Beetroot chocolate cake, made by Andrea Guest, The Co-operative Group, Finance