Tea for two, with one clear shelf of space
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Tea for two can look generous with very few things. Two cups, a pot and a small plate form a group that is easy to understand. Leave an open patch of tabletop beside them so a guest can put down a cup without hunting for a place.
Arrange the cups empty before filling the pot. Check its lid, handle and spout, and choose a stable surface with suitable protection for heat. Pour in a way that is comfortable for the person using the pot, rather than reaching across a plate or a decorative stem.
If you offer milk, sugar or snacks, ask what people prefer and give each its own clear place. A separate spoon or serving utensil keeps the arrangement straightforward. Use the dishes you enjoy, allowing one coloured cup to be the point of interest against quieter pottery.
A napkin folded beneath the snack plate can echo that colour without becoming a full tablecloth. Clear spills promptly and keep any ornamental material away from food. The intention is a small welcome with room to linger, not an elaborate miniature of a formal dinner.