How do you write a proper invitation to tea?

Formal invitations may be extended and accepted by telephone, face-to-face, or by mailing them at least 10 days in advance. Depending on the geographic location, perhaps two weeks or longer in advance is not unreasonable. Invitations may be handwritten or printed on one of the many word processing programs now available on your computer or online publisher.

As you plan your tea event, invite a close friend or two to assist as pourers and set up a schedule of when each will be on duty dispensing tea. No one should pour for more than fifteen or twenty minutes.

It is an honor to be asked to pour tea. The guest pourer is considered the guardian of the teapot, which implies sterling social graces and profound trust.

Time
Traditional teatime is four o’clock; however any time between two and five o’clock is appropriate.  Simply call it afternoon tea. Do not call the event high tea unless it will be held at 5:00 or later.

Guest of Honor
When you extend the invitation, let your guests know whom you are honoring. Here are examples:

Children’s Tea Party Invitations
A Tea Party in Honor of a Bride-to-Be
A Baby Shower Tea

From Tea & Etiquette by Dorothea Johnson and Bruce Richardson.