In an attempt to balance business and motherhood, the founder of Let's Pretend Tea Parties began the enterprise in 1993. Since then, it's evolved to encompass a ladies' tearoom and girls' boutique under current owner Sara Norton. Today, Sara and her staff welcome women for baby and bridal showers, as well as the children's tea parties that captivated youngsters and retired queens of England alike from the business's early days. The soirees exude a vintage feel—complete with floppy hats, china teacups, and teensy sandwiches and cookies—or a fairytale vibe courtesy of Cinderella-inspired gowns for girls and knight or pirate costumes for boys. For older partygoers, the Sassy Glamour Girl bash and Bring It On Salon Soiree each include mani-pedis and hair styling.

Cupcakes and tea offers an abbreviated alternative to parties, inviting mother-daughter duos or small groups to an afternoon of elegance with optional nail and updo add-ons. Girls can complete their new looks with frilly tutus and T-shirts from the boutique or by fashioning a powdered wig out of frosting.