Eileen Donaghey

Eileen Donaghey is a leading afternoon tea expert, author and marketing consultant who has built a reputation for transforming the traditional afternoon tea experience into an engaging and educational occasion. Having spent years seeking out, tasting and comparing afternoon tea offerings across the UK, Eileen combines first-hand expertise with professional training, including completing the Tea Champion course from the UK Tea Academy. Known for her insightful and entertaining approach, she advises audiences on what makes the perfect afternoon tea, from etiquette and presentation to the finer details of tea service and baking. Eileen is regularly hired by corporate groups, hospitality venues and private events to deliver memorable afternoon tea experiences filled with fascinating history, culture and practical insights.

Eileen’s career reflects a strong blend of hospitality expertise and commercial marketing knowledge. Alongside establishing herself as a recognised authority on afternoon tea culture, she has developed an accomplished career in marketing and communications. She holds a Chartered Institute of Marketing qualification and has worked in senior marketing positions for respected organisations, including Doughty Street Chambers, Anthony Gold and FC Business Intelligence. Eileen also served as Editor of the Clapham Omnibus, further strengthening her communications background and understanding of audience engagement. Today, she continues her consultancy work as a Marketing Consultant at Donaghey and Chance, while also speaking at afternoon tea events where she shares her knowledge of traditions, etiquette and the enduring appeal of this iconic British pastime.

Throughout her career, Eileen has gained significant media recognition for her expertise and thought leadership within the world of afternoon tea. She is the author of 'A Beginner’s Guide to Afternoon Tea at Home', a practical and accessible guide designed to help readers recreate high-quality afternoon tea experiences themselves. Her work and commentary have been featured in major media outlets including the BBC, Forbes, The Sun, The Mirror and The Irish Independent. These appearances have further established Eileen as one of the most respected voices championing afternoon tea culture and etiquette in the modern era.

Whether speaking to corporate audiences, hosting immersive afternoon tea experiences or advising on hospitality standards, Eileen delivers every engagement with warmth, expertise and enthusiasm. Audiences value her ability to combine entertaining storytelling with practical guidance, covering everything from the history of afternoon tea to napkin folding, tea pouring and the art of enjoying the perfect scone. Her sessions are designed to be informative, interactive and highly memorable, making her a popular choice for organisations looking to offer guests a unique and sophisticated experience centred around one of Britain’s most cherished traditions.