Planning a Kentucky Derby Party: Hats, Hospitality, and a Hint of Bourbon
The Kentucky Derby is just weeks away—the one day a year when it’s perfectly acceptable to wear a hat the size of a small satellite dish, sip bourbon before noon, and cheer on horses with names fancier than most royalty. As we gallop toward the first Saturday in May, I can’t help but get excited about the spectacle, the style, and of course, the cocktails.
If you’re planning a Kentucky Derby party, this post is full of perfect crowd-pleasing ideas, PLUS I’m sharing the original mint julep recipe from The Greenbrier Hotel! Scroll on to read more!
Fascinated by Fascinators
I think we can all agree that half the fun of the Kentucky Derby is the fashion and the HATS! This is the Super Bowl of Southern glam, where seersucker meets sequins and fascinators reign supreme.
Meet The Queen of Kentucky Derby Style
Speaking of fascinators, have you fallen down the rabbit hole of Yvonne Lafleur’s Instagram like I have?
Y’all I am OBSESSED with this beautiful lady! Here’s a little secret about me… I watch her videos to wind down before bed each night. I cannot stop watching!
If you have not found her yet, please go give her a follow, and tell me which video is your favorite!
Yvonne Lafleur is an absolute icon in the fashion industry. The genteel New Orleans milliner is an absolute artist—her custom Derby hats are like wearable sculptures, dripping with feathers, vintage flowers, and just the right amount of drama.
Y’all know I adore my hats!
She is the embodiment of grace, class and style. One day, I will make the pilgrimage to her New Orleans shop and emerge with a one-of-a-kind Yvonne Lafleur masterpiece perched atop my head. Until then, I’ll just keep double-tapping hearts onto her every post like it’s my job.
Hosting a party? Shop My Kentucky Derby Faves…
The History of the Iconic Mint Julep
Of course, no Derby Day would be complete without the iconic mint julep, that frosty elixir of bourbon that is one of the only good reasons to grow fresh mint in your garden. My expert advice: grow your mint in containers so it doesn’t take over everything else!
Did y’all know that the mint julep was invented at none other than The Greenbrier Hotel in West Virginia? When we visited The Greenbrier over New Years Eve, Tommy and I had the pleasure of enjoying their famous recipe, and they were kind enough to let me share it with all of you!
Y’all write this down and tuck it away in your recipe box or pin it for later! This recipe is a keeper, and it’s SO easy to make!
Tools you’ll need to make the perfect mint julep:
2 oz. Cocktail Jigger | Cocktail Muddler |Beaded Glass Mint Julep Cups
Southern Traditions That Never Go Out of Style
From the thunderous call of "Riders up!" to the singing of "My Old Kentucky Home," the Derby is steeped in traditions that make it feel timeless. And let’s not forget the roses. The garland of red roses draped over the winner is proof that even in horse racing, flowers are ALWAYS the ultimate trophy.
So whether you’re hosting a backyard viewing party, placing your bets (I’m rooting for the horse with the fanciest name), or just here for the hats and the juleps, the Kentucky Derby is a celebration for everyone to enjoy!
May the best horse (and hat) win!
XOXO,
Carmen
PS—The latest issue of Southern Lady magazine is all about Kentucky and the Derby, so be sure to check it out if you can’t get enough of the Bluegrass state!
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