It's the maddest time of the year, the maddest time indeed. Time for preparing for our annual Mad Tea Party. Tea cups, cakes, crafty garlands, sparkles and more! As I was preparing to make my way to invite you to join in, I heard a curious sound coming from around the bend...
Who could it be thought me?
Color and magic, song and laughter, filled the air...
No no, it wasn't Ian McShane, and no, it wasn't Keith Richards either....
Why, it was the Mad Hatter himself!!
What a treat to see him again this year ;)
But wait, what is this?
Why, it's his trusty chicken of course!
(or is it a rooster?)
They have traveled from far far away, to make it here, to you and me.
To invite us quite properly...
With the sound of his horn, and the tic toc of his clock...
He cries out with glee!
"Come one, come all, to the 4th annual virtual Mad Tea Party!"
Go mad, go ruffly, throw in some bloomers and tea cups and twirls galore! Invent things as you go along, and more! It's mad, it's tea, it's a parteeeeeeeeeee!
What fun, what fun!!!
Winged pigs turn up to celebrate the glorious announcement.
And fluffy furry creatures are also invited to join in!
But wait, wait, what's this we hear?
A swirly, sweet and twisty secret to share?
Why yes, oh yes!
It's a deliciously sweet and wonderfully frosted secret we get to reveal!
The secret lies within cakes, and super pretty treats.
Edible sweets, and confection delightments beyond our dreams!!
You see, the maker of this cake, happens to be...
The super lovely and beloved Rosie, of Sweetapolita.
And guess what?
She is this year's honorary guest.
How lucky for us!
Thank you Rosie!
(that's lovely Rosie below)
Rosie brings such excitement to the party with her "fancy cakes and confections."
Such inspiration for a cakier, bakier, craftier, makier, and madder tea party than ever, don't you think?
I do, I do!
Just look at a few of the treats she creates!
I put some of her pretty treats together below.
A cake artiste me thinks, for certain!
So this year, let's make it super fun, with lots of homemade goodies, and crafty projects. What do you say?
Anything goes, as always.
Won't you please join us
on
June 25th, 2011
for
a
Mad
Tea
Party
?
The Mad Hatter made sure to swirl magic into the air, under the full moon, in order to add extra enchantment to this year's event...
Time to whip up some goodness.
I simply can't wait!
Below you will find this year's flyer, and blog button.
Simply click and save, to use on your own blog.
Alice and the rabbit joined in!
(Flyer)
(2 button sizes below)
200 pixels wide
150 pixels wide
Do you remember the party drill?
If not, here you go...
Wondering what to do if you sign up?
If you are signing up to participate in the Mad Tea Party all you have to do is leave me a comment, with your blog link, stating that you wish to join in...
Then follow these 4 bits of advice (err, rules)...
1) Share the flyer and/or the button on your blog as soon as possible and link to me. I will then add your name to the "Mad Tea Partiers" list in my LEFT hand side bar, and link back to you.
2) On the day of the party, June 25th 2011, please make sure to post a Mad Tea Party post of your own, on your blog, linking to me. Other partiers will be visiting you on that date.
3) IMPORTANT - On the day of the party, after you have your own Mad Tea Party blog post up and running, please leave a comment at my Mad Tea Party post, including your "Actual Party Link." It will serve as an archive of all partier links.
4) Blog hop with the other partiers on the day of the event and have a mad blast!
Note: Please make sure you post a party post on your blog on June 25th if you sign up. If you sign up and later find that you can't make the event, please let me know and I will remove your name from the list.
So that's that.
Easy as pie ;)
Now...
Magic and Whimsy abound!
We hope to all heart hopes that you can make it.
What joy, what fun!
It's mad, it's virtual, it's a party just for you!
Time to get busy ;)
(If you would like to see parties from year's past, click here)
Much love, V
ps: I so tried to get here sooner, but we have had construction in the garden for 3 months of craziness (which got a hair crazier lately). Plus, a party in the garden last night that took days of planning, and busy busy bee times all day yesterday preparing for the guests. It was for boys, so I hid at night ;)
But now, now it is time for the Mad Tea Party, and all the wonderment and surprise it brings. With lots of crafty ideas leading up to the day. I am so excited, I really am so looking forward to it!
pss: Important note - I will be adding names to the list every couple of days. If you don't see your name on the list (after a couple of days), and you want to be on, please contact me. Sometimes things do slip through the cracks when I upload links, so don't hesitate to let me know, please. I just noticed a couple of people I added last week, not on the list. So it does happen. Just send me a note and I'll take care of it ;)
My kidlets want to join in again!
Posted by: Natasha | May 24, 2011 at 11:41 PM
Oh sorry, you can find us at
http://amelieshouse.blogspot.com/
xx
Posted by: Natasha | May 24, 2011 at 11:42 PM
Not sure if I'll be in town on that date(birthday/anniversary that weekend) but I'll try to have something as I have the past three years:)
http://dubuhdudesigns.typepad.com/du_buh_du_designs/
Posted by: Christine | May 25, 2011 at 12:09 AM
Are first-timers welcome too? I love your blog, and I would love to join in the Madness! (if one is allowed to drift a tad to the darker side..?)
My blog:
http://msmisantropia.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Katarina | May 25, 2011 at 12:57 AM
YESSsssssss! Finally! I am in!
http://blog.afiori.com
Posted by: Maria-Thérèse | May 25, 2011 at 02:26 AM
just shared it on my fb page http://afancifultwist.typepad.com/a_fanciful_twist/2011/05/mad-tea-party-2011-an-invitation.html
i will aim to be organised enough to make it! xo
Posted by: Natasha Burns | May 25, 2011 at 03:37 AM
duh, lol, my page link is here, hahaha!
http://www.facebook.com/NatashaBurnsArtisticCreations
Posted by: Natasha Burns | May 25, 2011 at 03:38 AM
I'm so glad I have a blog too now so that I can PAAARTAAY ON DOWWWWNN! :p haha.
So excited, as usual!
I've posted your flyer on my blog!
http://lightninginastarrysky.wordpress.com/ :D
x
Posted by: Amy | May 25, 2011 at 03:42 AM
Hmm, I think my daughter might get a kick out of doing this, but I'll come back and let you know. She is a big fan of your blog and work, but I'll have to make sure she will do this with me. I am posting the button on my sidebar though! I'm always up for spreading the word about a good party! : )
Posted by: Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions | May 25, 2011 at 03:57 AM
Hello, i´m from germany and i hope i´m not sleepy at this time...please write me at the list....IT´S MY FIRST TIME...
I LOVE YOUR BLOG !!!
www.cobblestone-prims.blogspot.com
Have a wonderful time and sorry for my bad english
Kerstin from Germany
Posted by: Kerstin Bulin | May 25, 2011 at 04:55 AM
I am blogless
But nevertheless
Can't wait to attend
As a Wonderland guest!
Posted by: Linda Diane | May 25, 2011 at 05:51 AM
Gorgeous Vanessa, I would love to attend your Mad Tea Party for 2011. Funny my whole year (and that of my nearest and dearest) revolves around when my Mad Tea for Vanessa will be as we pull out all the stops with our real live tea party....and handmade treats are my most favourite things.
Thank you for the invitation, now to work out how to put the little linky in...i am sooo excited.
Kiss Noises Linda http://lillycottage.typepad.com
Posted by: Linda Lilly Cottage | May 25, 2011 at 05:53 AM
You are absolutely mad and we love you for dragging us into your maddness.
Posted by: DogsMom | May 25, 2011 at 06:21 AM
I am posting and linking right now. I am so excited for my first mad tea party. I so enjoyed everyones last year. This year I will have my own. Huzzah.
Posted by: Betsy Bailey | May 25, 2011 at 06:22 AM
I feel I should add that my blog is http://fromthemindofalphabetsy.bogspot.com. Oops. I guess I really am excited.
Posted by: Betsy Bailey | May 25, 2011 at 06:24 AM
Vanessa, you can count us in! We'll have your button on our page today! Woo Hoo! Twyla
Posted by: two crazy crafters | May 25, 2011 at 06:29 AM
Oh YiPpeE and YaY!!!!! I can't wait, but then I guess I have to...hee hee!!!
All of your pictures are true eye candy perfection confections, Yumolicious!!!!! Are all those cakes edible? Me would have a lovely time sitting amongst them nibbling ;-).
xoxo
Oh, please put me on the list
Posted by: Cori G. | May 25, 2011 at 07:02 AM
I will be there with bells on! xoxo
http://thewhimsicalcottage.blogspot.com
Posted by: Danni | May 25, 2011 at 07:06 AM
I'm ready, we're set, let's play....yay for the Mad Tea Party 2011
http://lindaomasoldebaggsnstuftshirts.blogspot.com
Posted by: Oma Linda | May 25, 2011 at 07:32 AM
Brilliant! This will be as fantastic as Halloween! [Plus, I'm currently reading Alice's Adventures!]
Sign me up:)
Art and audacity
http://artandaudacity.blogspot.com
Posted by: Sarah | May 25, 2011 at 08:25 AM
Yay!!!! Vanessa, I have been waiting ever so anxiously for this invitation. Yes, I will be there and am looking forward to sharing my enchantments with everyone too♥
Now I must be off as there are so many preparations Tootles for now and....
~~Hugs,
Dena
Posted by: dena miller | May 25, 2011 at 08:49 AM
so fun and exciting, must find all my glitter
can't wait
your fairy friend KAERIE FAERIE
http://kaeriefaerie52.blogspot.com
Posted by: Kaerie Faerie | May 25, 2011 at 08:56 AM
I wouldn't miss it for the world!! (Well, OK, I'll miss a couple of hours for a housewarming party that day, but otherwise, I'm THERE!)
I already posted the button and link on my blog, and will add the link to your post on facebook today, and the flyer to my next blog post. :)
And may I add what magical photos you've taken, and what a good sport (and handsome Mad Hatter) Mr. Lovee is! Most definitely a keeper. ;)
♥ Carolee
Posted by: Carolee Clark | May 25, 2011 at 09:03 AM
i can't believe it's time already! WhooT!
tracey jean
www.wadsworthnollstudio.blogspot.com
Posted by: tracey jean | May 25, 2011 at 09:16 AM
oops.
http://wadsworthnollstudio.blogspot.com/
Posted by: tracey jean | May 25, 2011 at 09:16 AM
Excited as always! Button is on my blog and we're ready to party! Love, the Dandelion gang
http://www.dandelionbones.blogspot.com
Posted by: Cassandra | May 25, 2011 at 09:48 AM
Oh most certainly, Cordelia's Cauldron will be brewing up something to join in the fun!
http://cordeliascauldron.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Cordellia | May 25, 2011 at 10:17 AM
I'll be attending again, of course! ;) Can't wait! Cute Alice you drew. Love the tower of cups.
Posted by: Nicki | May 25, 2011 at 10:34 AM
I'll be there with bells on my toes if all goes to plan! Your link is on my sidebar now! Been looking forward to this, *smiles* Norma
Posted by: Norma Conway | May 25, 2011 at 10:53 AM
Oh I can't wait. What fun.
http://www.whatsanartdoll.blogspot.com
Posted by: Shannon Bailes | May 25, 2011 at 10:58 AM
Oh my... what a splendid idea!
I would LOVE to join in!
http://www.inthelandofspice.com
Posted by: spiceblogger | May 25, 2011 at 11:25 AM
I want to join! This sounds like so much FUN and gives me an excuse to BAKE!
http://easyas314159.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Jess | May 25, 2011 at 11:30 AM
eww cant wait to see the cakes she makes. and the visual treats you have in store
count me in, I wouldnt miss it for the world
xxx
sheree
http://www.ravenmoonmagic.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Raven Moon Magic | May 25, 2011 at 12:30 PM
Oh Ms. Vanessa, you know I'm in! I'll be on a plane (flying over you ;) to California that day, so I hope I may be late in visiting the parties, but I'll get my post up early and stay up late partying the night away! What fun...as always...can't wait my dear friend.
Hugs,
Jamie :)
Posted by: A Forest Frolic | May 25, 2011 at 12:40 PM
of course i'll join again my lovely vanessa!!!
here is the link:
http://apinkdreamer.blogspot.com/
Posted by: eleni | May 25, 2011 at 12:56 PM
Yay! I would love to join you again!
http://paintingapples.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Gigi | May 25, 2011 at 02:16 PM
OK, I know I already replied, but I have to add I spent far more time than I should exploring the Sweetapolita site today, and OMG!!
Another favorite blog! :)
♥ Carolee
Posted by: Carolee Clark | May 25, 2011 at 02:19 PM
Yes. I will host a party for myself and my chronic Lyme friends. It will be a gluten free, sugar free delight.
www.AlterEverything.com
Love to you for bringing sunshine into my day!
XOXOX
Posted by: KTag | May 25, 2011 at 02:21 PM
I am in! (: Look for a sweet treat and lots of lights!
xoxo
courtney
courtneyrevels.blogspot.com
Posted by: courtneyR | May 25, 2011 at 02:45 PM
Please include me in the festivities!!! I've been waiting for this event all year long. So excited to get started on the preparations!!! Thank you Vanessa for sharing your magic : )
Hugs,
Sylvia
~Anaboo Creations~
http://www.anaboocreationsbysylvia.blogspot.com
Posted by: Sylvia Smiser | May 25, 2011 at 03:05 PM
Ooh my first ever tea party ♥ Thank you so much for the invite Vanessa :) I'm excited!
http://www.castlesandcarriages.blogspot.com
Posted by: Jen | May 25, 2011 at 03:41 PM
I'd love to join in the festivities of The Mad Tea Party! Count me in.
Miss Linda
http://www.momentsinaneye.blogspot.com
Posted by: Miss Linda | May 25, 2011 at 03:47 PM
OK you are worse than my Dad was on Christmas day making me wait while he brushed his teeth, combed his hair, etc, etc while I lost my little mind! FINALLY.. yippee!!! I put up my party announcement post on my blog, were all linked up, can't wait, fun fun fun!
Thank you , Thank you,
XOXO,
Tricia
Posted by: Tricia Fountaine | May 25, 2011 at 04:06 PM
I just got too excited! I forgot to leave you my link (he he) here it is...
http://triciafountaine.blogspot.com/2011/05/its-mad-mad-mad-mad-party.html
Posted by: Tricia Fountaine | May 25, 2011 at 04:07 PM
I'm so in there. Going to start dreaming up ideas for the Party.
http://swanofdreamers.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Shell | May 25, 2011 at 04:13 PM
Aw shucks, I just posted pics of my daughter's Mad Hatter's Tea this week! I would have added more and posted at the party. Ah well, I will definitely come back and enjoy the party as a guest!
Posted by: Tracey | May 25, 2011 at 05:25 PM
Hi Vanessa ;o) I am new to your tea party ;o) I would really love to be apart of it ;o) I found you through Linda's blog ;o)
Have a wonderful day ;o) Stacy
http://magiclovecrow.blogspot.com
Posted by: Stacy | May 25, 2011 at 07:09 PM
oh my oh my how time flies...oh please include & my friends (the pup boyz, butterflies, bees and fairies) to the tea... we would bee delighted & excited to join in on the festivities...
let the glitter fly high like a kite in the sky...and the clicking of scissors as we snip away to make something sparkling & magicial for this special day...
oh my oh my look at the time... I can't bee late...must plan some more for the day.. can't wait to see what is in store for all to enJOY...release the enchantment & magicial seeds in the air so that laughter & smiles will bee everywhere...
have a honey of a night ~ sweet dREaMs!
Marlene aka mIzZ hONeY bEe & pups ;O)
www.honeycombcottage2b.blogspot.com
fly away fly away with me to a magicial place that no one can see but you & me ;O)
Posted by: Marlene | May 25, 2011 at 07:39 PM
Count me in!!! So excited!!!!
http://fanciliciousfairylands.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Melissa | May 25, 2011 at 08:11 PM
I'd love to join in again this year. My blog is: http://wjcsdigitalworld.blogspot.com/
Bill
P S
It's a different blog and email address than I had last year.
Posted by: William Charlebois | May 25, 2011 at 08:39 PM