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Many people misinterpret the Hatter’s uniqueness for insincerity, according to Welsch. "There are no bad intentions at all," she says. "I don’t think he’s trying to annoy [Alice]. It’s just part of his craziness."

At dinner parties, hunger can often replace humor. But this is where the Hatter’s foremost lesson comes in, according to Lyon. "Remember not to take yourself too seriously," she says. "Plans can go awry, and we can find ourselves so bound to restrictions and social mores that we forget the real purpose of the event, which should be to have fun, and share precious moments with good friends."

The term "mad tea party" has become synonymous with outlandish behavior and bizarre guests. But the Hatter doesn’t necessarily deserve the moniker "mad," which isn’t even part of his name in Carroll’s original work. The Hatter creates more than lunacy, he shows how to weave different people into absorbing conversation—a challenge for all hosts, regardless of whether you’re inviting over your son’s Boy Scout troop or the women in your book club.

Caught hosting a never-ending tea party, the Hatter had a watch that didn’t tell time, because it just didn’t matter. Like us, he had a busy schedule. He had to make the most of his time, just as we do today.

"It would be fun to go to a party hosted by the Hatter," Welsch says. "It would be an interesting, fun experience." Though, whether she’s late for another important date or not, she’s sure of one thing. "I wouldn’t stay very long."