Welcome to the 2024 Sasha Festival Registration!
The Sasha Festival is an annual gathering that brings together collectors of Sasha dolls.
Next year marks the 41st festival, and it will be the third time it's held in the UK. This presents a special opportunity for collectors in the UK and Europe, as the last UK festival was back in 2012.
At the Sasha Festival, old friends reunite, and new friendships are made.
It's a place where collectors can see the Sasha dolls, created by Sasha Morgenthaler, for the very first time.
We hope to provide interesting programs.
Don't worry if you're new to Sasha events or haven't met anyone in person yet. Our Sasha family is super welcoming and supportive to new faces and before you know it, you'll be part of this fantastic bunch.
The 2024 festival will continue the traditions of past events, while also introducing something new.
We hope you will have an amazing time at the Festival!
Here are some details about what to expect in this Registration Information.
With only 80 spots available and a strong level of interest, secure your spot now to guarantee your participation in this unforgettable event.
Explanation of Registration Options for Newcomers:
For newcomers to the Festival, here's a breakdown of the different registration choices available:
- Full Registration: This comprehensive option includes access to all festival activities, souvenirs, and refreshments. You'll enjoy the "Meet and Greet" refreshments on Thursday, a buffet lunch on Friday, a dinner on Saturday, and a brunch on Sunday – all in a private group setting. The cost of Full Registration is £360.
- Meal Only Registration: Tailored for partners of attendees, this option covers meals, including the same dining benefits as Full Registration but excluding activities, souvenirs, and table gifts. The cost for Meal Only Registration is £310, and it also includes the refreshments provided throughout the Festival.
Milton Keynes is a vibrant and modern town in the heart of England. Its central position makes it easily accessible from various parts of the UK and beyond.
With close proximity to airports like London Gatwick, Birmingham, London Stansted, Heathrow, London City Airport, London Luton, travel to the festival is convenient.
The town is well-connected by car, train, and coach, ensuring a smooth journey for both local and international attendees.
This accessibility makes Milton Keynes an excellent home for the Sasha Festival.
Hotel:
Hotel La Tour will be our home during the festival days.
A modern 4-star hotel situated right in the heart of Milton Keynes, it offers a convenient and comfortable stay.
It's a short walk away from the shopping centre, a pleasant park, and various restaurants.
Having opened its doors in the spring of 2022, the hotel is relatively new, and its restaurant has gained a reputation for serving delicious food.
The hall we've chosen is bright and airy, featuring full length windows that lead out to a terrace.
Adjacent to the hall, you'll find a contemporary area where refreshments will be available. This offers a convenient space to step out or have a quiet chat with friends.
On the 14th floor, there is a bar and restaurant with lovely views of Milton Keynes. We'll gather here for breakfast on Friday and Saturday mornings.
It's worth noting that the restaurant is open to all hotel guests, so you may have the chance to meet and chats with others while having breakfast.
- We have reserved 44 twin bedrooms, 5 accessible rooms that can be converted into twin bedrooms, and 6 standard double rooms.
- These rooms are conveniently situated in a block, allowing you to easily connect with friends over a late-night chat or a drink.
* While I mentioned booking with the hotel as a requirement before, this won't be a factor as from 24th of January 2024
If you've already booked and are content, no need for changes. But if anyone is exploring alternatives, feel free to do so.
Booking and Payment:
You should and pay for your chosen rooms directly with the hotel. Unfortunately, all room reservations are non-refundable.
Room Rates:
- Thursday, 20th June: £145 for single occupancy, £160 for double occupancy (breakfast included)
- Friday, 21st June: £145 for single occupancy, £160 for double occupancy (breakfast included)
- Saturday, 22nd June: £130 for single occupancy, £145 for double occupancy (room only, as brunch will be provided on the last day of the festival)
If you wish to book with the hotel, please do it from here.
Car Parking Details:
The Hotel provides ample parking.
The car park is open daily from 6:00 AM to midnight.
Parking Rates:
£1 for up to 2 hours
£8 for a full 24 hours
*Please use the following address for easy navigation to the car park: MK9 3QA (Marlborough Gate).
When you arrive at the hotel on 20th June, you'll find us on the Conference floor at 5 PM, where we'll welcome you and complete your Registration.
Here, we'll provide you with the Festival bag, where you will discover the program for the event, along with your pre-purchased raffle tickets, the Festival Journal, the Auction Booklet, your bidding paddle, and your name tag.
Between 6 PM to 8 PM (the exact time will be confirmed later on), we are going to start with the traditional "Meet and Greet" session for the festival.
For those arriving the following day – we've got you covered with a late registration option.
Children's Fund Auction (CFA): Caring Hearts, Inspiring Futures:
CFA – the Children's Fund Auction – lies at the heart of the Festival, sharing compassion and a spirit of giving funding children's charities.
Each year, our community's incredible generosity shines through the CFA's success. Your donations help to aid children in need.
Donations – unique items, doll clothing, accessories. Your generosity will be gratefully received.
Sheila Foery will be lending her expertise as our auctioneer for the CFA (Children's Fund Auction).
You're invited to donate unique Sasha-related items like a special outfit, doll, or accessories.
Your contributions hold significant value, as every bid supports children.
All proceeds from the auction directly benefit children's charities, making your donations a sign of your generosity for a worthy cause.
Yearly, this auction's achievements highlight our community's remarkable kindness.
- The CFA's spirit goes beyond the Festival – your participation is meaningful, even if you can't be present.
Calling All Contributors:
If you'd like to donate items for the auction, here's what you can do:
Take a clear photo of your donation item(s) and write a short description.
- Please send your photo and short description to [email protected] by May 20th, 2024.
You can bring your auction donations to the Festival with you or send them by May 1st, 2024 to:
**************
Helpers:
Helpers include Sasha Doll items like clothes, furniture, toys, and accessories that fit Sasha.
These are used in our Helper Raffles. The money raised from these raffles helps cover Festival costs and hopefully sets the stage for future festivals.
There's no specific value needed for helpers, but please consider giving something you'd personally like to receive.
- You don't need to be at the Festival in person to contribute a Helper. Your donations mean a lot, and we truly appreciate your support.
You can bring your donations to the Festival with you or send them by May 1st, 2024 to:
***************
Raffle Tickets: Pre-Sale
Helpers Tickets: 35 tickets for £20
Special Doll Raffles: 5 tickets for £20
Dress-A-Sasha Contest:
A Showcase of Creativity and Ideas
Unleash your imagination and passion in our Dress-A-Sasha Contest, a highlight of the Festival!
This year, we invite you to explore two captivating English-themed themes that celebrate the essence of England.
Step into the enchanting world of timeless British tradition at the Dress-A-Sasha Contest in 2024!
- Theme 1: English afternoon tea - Sasha and Gregor's Afternoon Tea
- Theme 2: English Garden – Sasha Dolls enjoy an English country garden.
*For both themes, you can use any combination of Sasha Dolls (Sasha, Gregor, Toddlers, Babies)
*Environmental Awareness:
In our quest for a greener future, we invite all participants to include recycled materials in their creations.
Although it's not obligatory, we appreciate your efforts in making eco-friendly choices.
The use of recycled materials is a voluntary endeavour to promote environmental consciousness.
* We kindly request that entries be unique and crafted specifically for the 2024 Festival.
- Please note that entrants are welcome to choose the theme they wish to enter and are NOT required to participate in both themes.
- The footprint of each entry must not exceed 18 inches by 18 inches, and each entry is confined to three (3) Sasha dolls.
- All participants are welcome to incorporate purchased shoes, socks, and other accessories in their displays.
Dress-A-Sasha Contest - Group Categories
- Child (up to 12) – Crafted or Assembled by the participant (purchased shoes, socks, and accessories allowed)
- Teenager - Crafted or Assembled by the participant (purchased shoes, socks, and accessories allowed)
- Adult - Crafted by participant (purchased shoes, socks, and accessories allowed)
- Adult - Assembled by participant (purchased shoes, socks, and accessories allowed)
*Please specify the Group category you are entering for the Contest on the Registration form.
Bond Street
(Sales Tables)
Much like the iconic Bond Street, a hub of British fashion and refinement for centuries, our sales tables present a fascinating collection of Sasha doll items.
Showcase your unique Sasha-inspired creations, including dolls, outfits, accessories, and memorabilia, by reserving a table at just £25.
Gift Exchange: Optional
Join our Gift Exchange! Bring a gift you'd adore receiving, tailored for Sasha dolls. Please wrap your gift.
*Valued around £40.
Be a Table Hostess:
As a Table Hostess, you'll have the honour of welcoming the friends who will be seated at your table and distributing the souvenir of the day.
Usually, table hosts also prepare small gifts for the people at their table –that adds to the Festival atmosphere. Can you prepare around 10 small gifts, please?
Other Ways to Get Involved:
You can help in other ways with setup, supporting the auction, or assisting with ticket sales.
Please let us know if you're willing to help on the registration form as we work together to create a memorable and successful event.
Registration Form and Payment
*Please send the Registration Fee Payment and the Completed Registration Form by February 20th, 2024.
Some of you will be glad to know that you can complete the Registration form entirely online.
You have the following options to complete the Registration form:
- Complete and post to: ***********
- Or email to: [email protected]
- Complete and submit the registration form online
In both methods, I will confirm receipt of the form and payment, and I will contact you if there is any uncertainty.
Please keep an eye on your email. To ensure our emails do not end up in your spam folder, you can add the festival email [email protected].
* I hope you understand, but as we're so close to the festival, I can't issue a refund unless there's a person on the waiting list to fill your place.
Payment Options:
- PayPal: Please choose the 'Friends and Family' option and send the payment to [email protected]
- Bank Account: **************
- Cheque: make the cheque payable to ***********, and include "Sasha Festival 2024" as the description of the payment.
*When making payments, please do not forget to label them as "Sasha Festival 2024" and please pay in British Pounds Only. This applies to all forms of payment options.
While some details may not be covered here, rest assured they will be in upcoming website updates.
*We give importance to transparency and privacy.
Each donation, registration, auction sale, and raffle ticket purchase is diligently recorded.
Be assured that your personal information will be kept confidential and solely used for the event's purposes.
We appreciate your enthusiasm for the 41st Annual Sasha Festival and we are eagerly looking forward to welcoming you.
We're here for any questions as we prepare for the Festival ahead.
Reach out for assistance if needed.
We've set up an exclusive Facebook group, allowing you to connect, exchange information, and receive answers.
Stay updated by checking out our website, and join our Festival's Facebook group
With excitement and warm regards,
Petrana Arhangelova - Organiser and Host
Dawn Law - Advisor and Honorary Co-Host