The Lady's 5th Birthday Tea Party

The Lady requested a Princess Tea Party for her 5th birthday. I wasn't enthusiastic about buying into the whole Disney Princess theme. I don't really get it, nor do I want to get it. I'm not a big fan of the whole "Prince Charming will make you happy and complete" thing. Not that pure Feminism has panned out all that well either, but damn, can we not shoot for some middle ground here?

I realize I am making this more a statement about me and my feminist ethos than about a child's bday party, but if I'm the role model, I'm damn well going to take it seriously. So, ok fine. I did the princess tea party, but as Sinatra sang, "I did it my waaaaaay". Minimal liscensed materials. Pastel colors. More teacups than crowns. Subliminal messages imbedded in the cupcakes stressing the importance of graduate school, physical and emotional self-defense and a sense of humor.

The sitting room was empty (except for my renovated furniture), so it proved to be the perfect setting. I rented kid tables and chairs and loaded the space with paper lanterns, tissue flowers and tulle.

I checked out some tea party images on the internets and was intrigued by the ceiling centerpiece. So I gave it a shot. This is my favorite part of the room. I may leave it up for a while.

Detail of the tea tables set with vintage tea cups and dessert plates from the 1920s to 1950s. JJ made the Disney princess runner. Tulle in pink, blue and yellow ribbon festooned the chairs. Apple juice was served in lieu of tea.

The cupcake table featured Cinderfella's coach and the Godmother and rodent friends.

Detail of the sweet rosebud cupcakes.

Detail of the Lady's cake.

Don't kid yourself. She's not thinking about a pony or a Bratz Strip/Tatoo Parlor. She is wishing for a solid real estate portfolio. One that will ensure personal independence thoughout her life.

Detail of Ava's First Cupcake.

Sweet Marie.