So you breezily suggested a coronation lunch way back when the bank holiday was announced but, with just a few weeks to go until the big day, you still have no bunting – or coronation chicken recipes – to your name. Yes, it’s time to get planning. 

To ensure everything goes without a hitch, first decide what kind of lunch you’ll host. Here, we’ve outlined a few options to suit everyone (even the last-minuters).

The coronation will be one of the most significant moments in recent British history, and perhaps the most fitting (and traditional) way to commemorate it is to host a tea party for your neighbours. 

If your street allows, set up outside and welcome all who pass by, or make it a smaller affair and invite neighbours to your home. 

There is also no better occasion to support some of the very best makers and Royal Warrant-holders, of which Chelsea has many. So how about an outfit from John Smedley, Johnstons of Elgin (both at Harvey Nichols), or Burberry – all longstanding British retailers and suppliers of wares to the royal family. A platter of strawberries and cream is simply essential, as are sandwiches with traditional fillings like cucumber and coronation chicken (obviously). Bread Ahead, a London institution, is a great place to find sweet treats, which will look beautiful piled on a Diptyque cake stand.

Source your coffee from Taylors of Harrogate (another royal supplier, and available at Waitrose on the King’s Road), and tea from Partridges on Duke of York Square. If your guest list is small, bring out Smythson’s Panama tea set – the ultimate way to enjoy a cuppa.

The food and guests are the focal points of the tea party, so opt for minimalist decor that makes everyone feel warm and welcome. Fill your home with softly scented candles from Jo Malone London and chic bunting from The White Company (or string it up outside your house), and put spring flowers from the garden into stem vases.

For this most regal of lunches, only the finest will do – particularly as you are in the Royal Borough itself. This gathering is about refinement rather than excess and should feel every bit the grand luncheon.

Set the tone with luxurious invites from Smythson (another Royal Warrant holder). On Pavilion Road, The Sea, The Sea can supply fresh oysters, whole fish, caviar and more. Go across to Ottolenghi for delicious starters and a truly exceptional dessert – we love the flourless chocolate and rum fondant cake. And don’t forget to drop into Mother Vine for a case of champagne. 

Set your table with David Mellor’s English sterling silver cutlery, Armani/Casa’s placemat and napkin sets, and Hermès’ Art Deco serveware. Sprinkle floral designs from Moyses Stevens throughout (it is London’s longest continuously-running florist and a Royal Warrant holder, too), and finish with clusters of candles from Dior.

Last, but certainly not least, there is the outfit. Emilia Wickstead’s elegant dresses – a favourite of the Princess of Wales and Princess Eugenie – are ideal for the occasion, while a Tank Française watch from Cartier (yes, also a Warrant holder) will help you to keep track of cooking times. And don’t forget Armani/Casa’s apron to protect your outfit in the kitchen.

Left everything until the week before? Don’t worry, we have a plan for you, too. Eschew postal invites because – let’s face it – they’ll never arrive in time, and send an email instead. 

At the newly opened Waitrose on the King’s Road, you’ll find plenty on offer in the King’s very own Duchy range. Sophisticated pre-made treats are your friends here, too – think blinis, the finest quality finger-sandwich platters, and pre-mixed gin and tonics. And did you know that the supermarket is the only one to hold a Royal Warrant? Drop this into conversation when your guests compliment the spread.

Anya Cafe’s fun cakes will be great for dessert, or if you don’t have time, order boxes of biscuits from the brand’s new online delivery service, Anya Hindmarch Food. 

Then, head up to Peter Jones (another Royal Warrant holder) for decorations – a few strings of bunting will transform a space for festivities, while its selection of melamine cups and plates makes for child-friendly serveware. 

Speaking of little ones, don’t forget to stock up on a selection of monarch-themed games to keep them occupied throughout the afternoon.

Are you the host whose lunches turn into dinners that turn into parties? Is sybaritic Lillie Langtry your kindred spirit? If yes, this all-out coronation celebration is for you. Think: a proper party to see in the new King’s reign. 

You’ll need an outfit to carry you from day to night, and Saint Laurent’s silky polka-dot co-ord will do perfectly. For sparkle and comfort in equal measure, see Anabela Chan’s earrings and Roberto Cavalli’s slingbacks. 

Offer guests champagne on arrival, and dot bottles throughout your space so no one’s glass is ever empty. The food mood is elevated-classic – think canapés with coronation chicken, truffle, and vegan options served on eclectic china platters from Fiona Finds. Charbonnel et Walker at Peter Jones’s chocolate truffles will go down a treat, too. As night falls, keep everyone going with a round of espresso martinis and later, a selection of maki rolls from Sumosan Twiga’s delivery menu. 

Guests will appreciate small touches, such as a selection of Diptyque essentials in the bathroom for freshening up. And don’t forget to scatter a few cosy blankets around for those taking a disco nap.