Mad Hatter Tea Party Ideas | eHow UK

Even if you aren't a Mad Hatter, it is possible to throw a memorable tea party.

cup of tea, fruit cake and pot - view from the top image by Elnur from Fotolia.com

Cut out tea pot- or cup-shaped invitations. They do not have to be perfect. Word your invitations in a silly rhyme, like the Walrus and the Carpenter would. Ask your guests not to be late for a very important date. You can ask guests to wear their craziest, maddest hat--the wilder, the better. Make a few to have on hand for extras.

Place your guests at one long table that has been covered with a colourful tablecloth or two. Do not worry about it being too tidy or coordinated. Be sure to have more place settings than guests. Use mismatched plates and tea cups from sets you have borrowed from several people or have picked up at a yard sale or flea market. Do not use matching sets; be sure to mix them all up, placing small piles of extra cups on the table. Use mismatched chairs of different heights, and set out a variety of candle holders and candelabras of differing styles.