Ways2Raise

What is it?

Afternoon Tea Delivery is a delightful fundraising idea where you bake and package classic treats like scones, finger sandwiches, and cakes, then deliver them to customers right at their homes. It's perfect for UK teenagers who enjoy baking and want to raise money over a weekend for exciting trips abroad.

Why does it work?

This fundraiser taps into the popularity of home-baked goodies and the convenience of doorstep delivery, especially among busy families or neighbours who appreciate a treat without the effort. Offering a well-packaged afternoon tea experience makes the sale feel special and worth the price, encouraging generous spending.

What you'll need

Basic baking equipment (mixing bowls, oven, baking trays, measuring cups)
Ingredients for your chosen afternoon tea menu (flour, sugar, eggs, etc.)
Packaging materials (boxes, napkins, decorative paper, labels)
A reliable cooler bag or insulated box for deliveries
Smartphone or computer to take orders and coordinate delivery
A parent or guardian to supervise and help with transport

Step-by-step plan

Plan your menu carefully: choose a simple yet classic afternoon tea selection such as scones with jam and clotted cream, cucumber or egg sandwiches, and a small cake or biscuit.

Calculate ingredient amounts based on how many afternoon teas you want to prepare. Make sure to budget the costs carefully to price your boxes competitively but profitably.

Purchase all ingredients and packaging materials in advance, aiming for bulk-buy options to save money.

Bake the items fresh on the morning of delivery or the afternoon before, storing them carefully to keep them fresh and presentable.

Package each afternoon tea neatly in boxes or wrap them attractively with napkins and labels that include your contact details.

Confirm delivery addresses and times with your customers ahead of the weekend. Plan an efficient route to save time and fuel.

Deliver the afternoon teas personally, maintaining good hygiene and a friendly attitude. Ask for feedback or photos to share on social media.

Collect payments either in cash at delivery or via online payment apps like PayPal or bank transfer, with a clear record of transactions.

How to advertise it

Create a simple flyer with your menu, prices, and contact details to distribute in your local neighbourhood and community centres.
Use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp groups to showcase your baking, share photos, and take orders.
Ask friends, family, and teachers to spread the word and recommend your afternoon tea delivery.
Post in local community Facebook groups or on Nextdoor to reach people nearby who love supporting local fundraisers.

Realistic earnings

Most teenagers can expect to earn between £80 and £200 over a weekend, depending on how many orders you take and the price point of your afternoon tea boxes. With good planning and marketing, hitting the higher end is very achievable.

Top tips

✅ Test your recipes beforehand to ensure everything tastes great and can be made in batches.

✅ Keep portion sizes consistent and attractive to justify your price.

✅ Offer options for dietary requirements (e.g., gluten-free or vegetarian) to widen your customer base.

✅ Communicate clearly and professionally with customers from order to delivery to build trust and encourage repeat sales.

Common mistakes to avoid

⚠️ Underpricing your afternoon teas and not covering ingredient or packaging costs properly.

⚠️ Not planning your delivery route, which wastes time and can reduce the number of orders completed.

⚠️ Failing to keep food fresh and presentable, leading to unhappy customers.

💡 TOP TIP — easyfundraising

Buy your baking ingredients and packaging supplies through easyfundraising partner supermarkets and kitchenware shops online to earn cashback towards your fundraising total.

Set up your easyfundraising cause free →