How to Plan a Mad Hatter Tea Party

When the Mad Hatter throws a tea party in "Alice in Wonderland," it is not the sedate and dignified affair we usually associate with a tea party. It is a let-loose, crazy, fun time. Planning a Mad Hatter tea party can be almost as much fun as actually having one, from the crazy hats to the table settings. Plan your Mad Hatter tea party with the following steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Invitations
• Tables
• Chairs
• Croquet set or horse shoes game
• Decorations
• Playing cards
• China
• Refreshments

1. Choose a location. Choose somewhere outside that has plenty of green lawn and places for tables. A location with a lot of flowers or trees will also help when it comes to transforming the space for the party.
2. Plan a menu. A tea party is just not a tea party without finger foods. Plan a menu that is both easy and appetizing. Guests must be able to talk and eat, so finger-food is the best option. A variety of small desserts and several teas and punches will add just the right touch to your final menu.
3. Arrange for entertainment or games. Since this is a Mad Hatter party, hats would be fitting attire. Arrange for guests to decorate their own crazy hats to wear at the party. Include a game of croquet in your party plans as well as other lawn games, like horseshoes or bocce ball. A few card games set at individual tables will give those who don't want to participate in a physical game something to occupy their time.
4. Decorate for the party. Fresh flowers are always a good idea at a tea party, and this one is not exception. Move your armchairs outside, or decorate plain straight back chairs with covers and large ribbon bows. A Cheshire cat in a tree and a few plastic flamingos will set the stage for your Mad Hatter tea party.
5. Set the table. Use nice white tablecloths on the table along with good silver and mis-matched china. Tiered dessert plates and large glass punch bowls can be used as centerpieces, and a single playing card with a guest's name can be set on each plate to reserve their spot. Use cloth napkins tied with large ribbon bows.
6. Send out invitations. Use handmade cards to invite all your guests at least 2 weeks in advance. Ask guests to R.S.V.P within a week.

Tips & Warnings

• Tie small cards around stems of glasses that say "Drink Me," and ones that say "Eat Me" next to each plate of food.

Who Can Help:

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