Ben and I throw two annual parties: our Christmas party and our Kentucky Derby party. We started this tradition when we moved into our own place (about 3-4 years ago). The Derby struck us as the perfect time to host a party when we were living in Tacoma and I wanted a Sunday excuse to dress up. It happened to fall on Cinco De Mayo so we chose to make it a Cinco de Mayo/Derby party and half of the room wore hats and dresses and the other half brought Mexican food. It was weird. Since then, we've silo-ed the Derby and have had a fancy event for three years running.
The Derby happens to be fall during peony season which always makes for gorgeous floral decor around the house, and mint juleps are an easy drink with pretty garnishes. This year we had lilacs, bright peonies from the farmer's market, hydrangeas and freshly picked rhododendron as floral decor. We served cucumber sandwiches, wasabi deviled eggs, mint julep 'gelettes' (recipe to come), butterscotch bourbon brownies (recipe to come, as well), lil' smokies (because who doesn't love them), a charcuterie board, cheddar popcorn, white wine, mint juleps and everyone brought something delicious to share. We also invited a friend that happens to be ace at dressing up for themed parties (he's the non-Ben in the bowtie) and I think his ludicrous outfit made the entire night! We hung out with friends from 1-9 p.m. and had a giant mess to clean up the next day! A success!
Did you throw a Derby party this year?
Aw, I love a good Derby party! We usually do something since it coincides with my husband's bday but unfortunately he was out of town this year. Yours looks beautiful!
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F and I tend to throw more casual get-togethers, but seeing this makes me yearn for a more classy themed party. Everyone and everything looks so sophisticated! Cucumber sandwiches and mint julep and dressing so snazzy needs to happen more often!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun and gorgeous party! We have never thrown a Derby party, but what a great excuse to get dressed up, wear big hats, and eat good food & drink mint juleps!
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've EVER watched the derby! Oh well! I do love the dress you are wearing in these pics, though!
ReplyDeleteFun idea. I'm shocked you didn't sport a stylish hat.
ReplyDeleteLooks like fun! I love going to Derby parties.
ReplyDeleteJulia // Little Miss Haute Couture
How cute are you guys!
ReplyDeleteSuper cute idea, love the pictures! I hope your party was a hit.
ReplyDeletexo, j
www.BornFancy.com
Very cute, and traditions are always great to keep!
ReplyDeletegorgeous peonies! love this time of year!
ReplyDeletewhat a great idea to throw a derby party! must do that next year! looks fab! <3
www.simplyxclassic.com
I always love looking at your photos - they are so pretty! I've never really celebrated the Kentucky Derby before, but have been thinking about it lately...what a fun themed party!
ReplyDeleteThis looks like so much fun, and that dress is gorgeous on you!
ReplyDeleteI've never done a derby party, mainly because I've never been into anything really with horses. But, big hats, pretty dresses, bow ties and mint juleps? What is not to love? Maybe someday I'll put my hat in and throw a party myself. This was just beautiful! Love your floral dress as well.
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