Looking for a classic "girly" birthday party idea with a unique twist? Why not host a Japanese Tea Party! The May 2011 issue of Parents offers some great party tips, ideas, and inspiration to help you pull it off. Dress the Part: Let the birthday girl celebrate her special day in the proper attire. Upcycle a sheet to create the perfect party kimono. You can find step-by-step directions on how to do this, here. Sweet Sushi: This faux fish dessert is a must for your Asian-inspired shindig and is easier to make than you might think! For fun, supply each guest with a set of chopsticks. Click here for the Sweet Sushi recipe. Decorate: Colorful paper lanterns, floor pillows, and paper fans will add color and help set the scene of your Japanese Tea Party. You can also create Cherry Blossom arrangements from gathered branches and tissue paper to add to the party table and surrouding areas. So easy and super inexpensive! Find directions, here. Activities: Entertain guests by teaching some easy origami techniques (origami-fun.com) and helping them make their own pair of Japanese Paper Slippers to wear at the party and take home afterwards. Wrap it Up: Wrap the birthday girl's presents (and even the party favors) in a piece of fabric using furoshiki, the Japanese art of gift wrap. Click here to learn about different ways to wrap using the Japanese style. You can find more party ideas and inspiration over at the Parents site. Photo Credit: All images in this post are from the Parents online site.