If you are looking to host a special tea or luncheon, here is a collection of  very clever and inexpensive ideas to make your Mother’s Day Tea Party a sweet and special event.

Lisa Storms from Fiskars knows how to throw a party with paper flair.  I’m in love with her easy-to-make flowers and paper runner, and of course, those party favors!

No need to have matching tea sets…mix and match borrowed sets, thrift store finds and your own personal stash.  While you are at it, you may get your hands on a few vintage tins to create this lovely table arrangement from Martha Stewart Weddings.

If you have multiple tables, a teapot filled with fresh flowers is perfect for every table.  Hang paper lanterns covered with paper doilies to finish the look; I love this idea from  Kara’s Party Ideas. Here’s the  lantern how-to from Ruffled.

Sure you can serve tea sandwiches at a tea party, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use modern versions.  After all, who is wearing gloves that their fingers can’t get greasy? I love Peter Callahan’s take on foods with a mini twist…Caprese Tea Sandwiches, mini grilled cheese and even mini pies are still dainty enough to keep mother’s scowl from coming your way.

Got cookie skills? Whip up these Teabag Cookies to serve or bag a few for take-home treats.  Check out Party Frosting‘s easy tutorial.

Who says you can’t get crafty at a tea party?  Plain white tea sets can be found at specialty craft stores…I’ve seen white tea pots at Michael’s for $1.99 each, and perfect for decorating with ceramic pens.  World Market has a full set for only $12.99 if you are looking for a set little girls can paint.