Hi friends! We are less than two weeks away from Derby day and hopefully you are feeling inspired to host your very own Kentucky Derby party. Today I thought I would share my “Top Ten Essentials for any Kentucky Derby Party Hostess”.
This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience.
ONE: Derby Party Cups
I searched high and low for some fun Derby themed party gear. Most of it I didn’t love but when I came across these fun cups I had to have them! I ordered all three because I couldn’t decide which ones I liked more. These are much cheaper than trying to find enough mint julep cups for everyone, but still festive enough for drinking mint juleps!
TWO: Mint Julep Cups
Speaking of Mint Juleps, one must have a couple mint julep cups at a Derby party, even if it’s just for rose bud vases for the bathroom or to hold stirrers at the bar. This set of four is the best deal I have found online.
THREE: The Prize Winning Hat
It really wouldn’t be a Kentucky Derby party without hats, am-I-right? Here are some really cute options I found online that would be great with lots of different dress options.
FOUR: Bourbon Baby
I know absolutely nothing about Bourbon. But when I saw this cute bottle of Woodford Reserve I was immediately drawn to it. Love that they have a special Kentucky Derby edition every year. Be sure to find some in your local market!
FIVE: Derby Dressing
If you feel like going all in, Vineyard Vines has an adorable Derby line up.
SIX: Books as Decor
I love the idea of having a couple horse themed books sitting out on the coffee table or maybe stacked on the end table. This one about Secretariat looks like it would actually be an interesting read.
SEVEN: Derby Spread
This moss runner is perfect for a table runner for your Derby food spread. I think some mint julep cups and trophy vases (listed below) filled with roses would be a perfect simple centerpiece. The nice thing is that it can be reused for any spring event or even football season.
EIGHT: Horseshoe
Did you know that a horseshoe hanging above a door is said to bring good luck and good fortune? So a Derby hostess must have at least one horseshoe hanging in her home. Here is mine- you can see how I knotted a moss green ribbon to hang it.
NINE: Mailbox Decor & Front Door Wreath
Wouldn’t this cute horse balloon be super cute on the mailbox to let your guests know they’ve arrived? It’s really big and at less than $10 it is definitely a great way to welcome your party goers.
If you feel like splurging, I also love the idea of spelling DERBY with these large metallic balloons down the sidewalk to the front door. Talk about making a great first impression!
A Derby hostess must also have something festive on her front door! Here is a “Run for the Roses” wreath I made- I will share the full tutorial soon. If you aren’t feeling crafty, this one would be really cute too!
TEN: Vintage Trophy Cups
These vintage trophy cups are perfect for the Derby party, but really would make cute decor year round. I love roses in them as a centerpiece for the party!
Did I miss anything?
xoxo-
Heather
It looks like you will be ready for your party! Everything looks great!
Derby Glasses are sold from The Twin Spiers club ….2.95 less if you are buying party supply