Worried about the weather?

This is the blog post for you! Come rain or shine, we’ll help make sure your Afternoon Tea is a smashing success.  

It’s safe to say that British weather is unpredictable, and it's something we love to talk about. A 2018 survey suggested that the average Brit spends 4 and a half months of their life talking about the weather! 

When it comes to Afternoon Tea, many hosts plan outside events to get the most of the summer sun. But if you’re wondering what to do if it’s raining or too hot outside, then read on for some tips.

Top tips to help you prepare 

We hope the only drizzle at your event will be lemon, but it’s always a good idea to plan for different forecasts.

• Look at outside shelter: A marquee or gazebo is a brilliant way to shelter guests from sun or rain. We know not everyone has one, so if you don’t, you could ask your family, friends or neighbours if they’ve got one you could borrow. There are apps you can use like Nextdoor too
• Put up parasols: Parasols can shade you and your guests, and they help keep food and drink cool. Again, if you don’t have one, see if you can borrow one from a friend or neighbour 
• Use ice to keep drinks cold: Pop a bucket outside, put a bin bag over it (this keeps it water tight), fill the bag with ice, and put your drinks in the bucket. The ice will keep the drinks cool, and guests could help themselves
• Stay safe in the sun: You could have a sun safety station with suncream, water or fans for guests - ideally this would be somewhere in the shade where guests can cool down   

• Have a backup. If the weather isn’t on your side, you could try and find an inside space. Depending on how many guests you have, you could do it at home. Top tip: If you’re worried there isn’t enough room, why not make the event a ‘drop in?’ That way, you can spread guests throughout the day. If your event won’t fit inside your home, why not ask about your local village hall?  

• Talk to other experienced hosts. If you have any concerns about the weather (or anything else tea related), we have an incredible Facebook group you can join. You can talk to supporters, get some brilliant tips, and see what everyone is up to. 

Thank you so much for your support  

No matter the weather, your Afternoon Tea will help us improve the lives of people affected by breast cancer - now and for generations to come. We can’t thank you enough.