Vintage and retro have been all the rage for years now, so you can find readily available props, decorations and menu ideas for birthday party planning with this theme in mind.

With thoughts of times of gone by and perhaps Alice in Wonderland in mind too, as one well known story featuring a birthday party (or should we say unbirthday party), this is the type of theme that lends itself well to a garden party, if the time of year is right for it.

Start your theme off strongly from the get go with your tea party invitations; pick out those that feature tea cups, bunting, cakes and anything else we view as quintessentially tea party.

When it comes to food for your guests the great thing about tea parties is how simple the menu can be. You can put out a cold buffet, which saves you time and reduces stress because you can pre prepare the day before. Make dainty sandwiches, scones, home made lemonade and the most beautiful cup cakes.

Decorate your party area with vintage accessories such as tea cups, saucers and tea pots (visit your local charity shop), cake stands and paper doilies, which you can make yourself by cutting into paper. If you want to go the extra mile, throw in a Victorian bird cage or two.

Bunting is pretty much essential but don't worry about breaking the bank, it's very easy to make your own. Cut out equal triangles of paper, use a hole puncher to create holes in the upper corners, and then thread some rope string through them all. Extra tip: Make your paper more durable by spraying it with clear acrylic spray.

And finally, a decorative idea perfect for outdoor birthday parties held when there is a risk of rainfall (which is pretty much always in the UK) - string a range of different coloured umbrellas together above your party area for an eccentric vintage vibe, with the benefit of rain protection should you get a few sprinkles on the day. Picture Mary Poppins!