I made arrangements with VIZ to attend a tea party with singer/cellist Kanon Wakeshima (see also Vampire Knight's ending, "Still Doll") with the ten lucky winners of the Shojo Beat contest who also got to take part. I didn't get a lot of time with Wakeshima herself, as she spent most of the event doing one-on-one chats with each of the winners. (I get my time with her Sunday, so stay tuned for that!) Wakeshima, center, with her crew! It was a lot of fun, though; it was held at the Thir-Tea 1st St. Cafe and Tea House here in Baltimore, a little ways from the convention center. The decor was fantastic, a sort of slightly dark Victorian style (but not fully gothic). All of the silverware, teapots, and utensils went with this theme, and the selection of teas was pretty nice. I had the "Tropical White" tea, which was a nice sweet fruity tea (my favorite kind). VIZ rep Lex also gave me a sip of her peppermint tea, which was also awesome. And the food! We had very yummy biscuits and scones followed by tea sandwiches. I didn't get to try all of the types of tea sandwiches, but everything was delicious, and very elegant. As was Wakeshima herself! She has an adorable speaking voice, and she seemed very excited to be there-- although slightly nervous, as many Japanese guests are (we're a much more boisterous fan group than most Japanese). She was wearing a white lolita dress-- I'd classify it as "elegant" lolita, but I'm no expert on that. It's her first time to the US, but she's not going to have much time for tourism, especially since she's heading straight to California after this for her other concerts!The guests were also excited and nervous, but they seemed to have a really good time. Also in attendance were Wakeshima's management entourage, who asked everyone a lot of questions while others were doing their one-on-ones with Wakeshima. We got asked a LOT of questions about where we learn about Japanese artists, who we listen to, where we get their music, etc. It was a really good time for all, I think. Hope you enjoy, and stay tuned for more from Kanon Wakeshima! Also, a quick thanks to VIZ for letting me in. ;)
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