How To: Throw a Alice in Wonderland mad tea party

With Tim Burton's revival of Alice in Wonderland, throw one of the hottest parties in town with a "mad tea party" themed party. Recreating one of Alice in Wonderland's most famous adventures is a great theme for all kinds of celebrations. Set the scene with these suggestions.

What you will need:
• Invitations
• Cups, saucers, and teapots
• Hats
• Vintage bottles
• A mouse stuffed animal
• A clock
• A hat cake
• Cupcakes
• Finger sandwiches
• Playing cards
• Directional signs
• A variety of teas
• White teacups and saucers (optional)
• Craft paint (optional)

Step 1: Send invitations
Send invitations that include the line: "Don't be late for a very important date!" Ask everyone to wear a whimsical hat.

Step 2: Hit flea markets
Hit flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores for interesting teacups and saucers, teapots, hats, and vintage bottles to hold "Drink Me" signs.

Step 3: Get a stuffed mouse
Seat a stuffed mouse at the table as the Dormouse.

Step 4: Set the scene
Set the scene: Take the batteries out of a clock to signify that time has stopped, and create a looking glass by hanging a mirror on a door that guests must pass through to get to the tea table.

Step 5: Prepare tea treats
Make a hat cake by baking a 9-inch round cake and 6-inch round cake to sit on top of it. Trim it with real ribbon and edible flowers. Bake cupcakes that say, "Eat Me" on top in icing. Prepare a variety of finger sandwiches with delicate fillings, like smoked salmon and cream cheese. Be sure to cut the crusts off!

Step 6: Decorate the table
Mismatch the teacups and saucers. Place your hat cake in the center of the table. Make and hang signs that say, "This Way" and, "That Way" leading to the tea table. Decorate the table and chairs with playing cards.

Step 7: Enjoy your tea
Sit down with your guests and enjoy your tea. Just be careful not to fall down any rabbit holes.