Join us for a special Carolina Stars tea party featuring Tess Ferm, Miss America’s Teen 2026, as our honored guest. Enjoy tea and cookies, fun activities, and a memorable photo opportunity.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, March 14
Time: 9:30 to 11:00 AM
Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Durham Research Triangle (“Mendenhall” event space)
- 201 Harrison Oaks Blvd, Cary, NC 27513
Important: This is a drop-off event. Parents/guardians may leave during the program or wait in the hotel lobby.
Who Can Attend
Carolina Stars Registered for State Competition
Cost: No fee to attend
Includes:
Tea and cookies
Fun activities
Photo opportunity with Miss America’s Teen 2026
Optional: Autographed teacups available for purchase: $15 each (while supplies last)
Outside Participants (Ages 5 to 13)
Cost: $45 registration fee
Includes:
Tea and cookies
Fun activities
Photo opportunity with Miss America’s Teen 2026
Autographed teacup (included)
Optional: Additional autographed teacups may be available after the event if extras remain (while supplies last)
What to Wear
We recommend tea party attire: dressy, fun, and photo-ready.
If you are a Carolina Star registered for State and you will be taking headshots afterward, we suggest keeping accessories simple (for example: avoid large hats or headbands) to make outfit changes easier.
Photos
A photo opportunity with Tess is included for all attendees.
Photo access instructions will be shared with families after the event.
Registration
Advance registration is required for all attendees so we can plan seating, teacups, and refreshments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Parents/guardians may drop off their child and leave or wait in the hotel lobby.
Outside participants must be ages 5 to 13. Carolina Stars registered for State may attend as part of the program.
Yes, registration is required for everyone so we have an accurate headcount.
Plan to arrive during check-in from 9:00 to 9:30 AM so the event can begin on time at 9:30.
Any extra autographed teacups are $15 each and will be available after the tea party, while supplies last.
Tea party attire is encouraged. If your child has headshots later that morning, consider simple accessories for easy transitions.
Only Carolina Star sashes should be worn.
Details will be shared after the event. We will provide instructions once photos are ready.