There’s nothing like tradition… and the celebration of a true “Southern tradition” is especially lauded at the Kentucky Derby, the oldest running sporting event in America since 1875! On the first Saturday in May, from Churchill Downs to celebrations nationwide, the “Run for the Roses,” a two-minute horse race, continues to be a bold reason to jubilate with friends anywhere in the world. Mint juleps, red roses, pretty hats, and magnificent horses… civility meets revelry on a grand level!
When an invitation was extended to Stuart and me to attend the Kentucky Derby, it was a dream come true. I was jumping for joy! We boarded the plane, with a hat box in hand, and landed in Louisville, where the green grass along the runway was completely lined with private jets from all over the world. Red roses, the official flower since 1904, and palpable excitement greeted us everywhere. We were spoiled royally, on every level, as guests of our darling Louisville friends, Ed and Carolyn Lewis, who generously gave us this lifetime experience!
Photo credit: @KentuckyDerby
Attending the Royal Oaks Race (the day before the Derby) and then the Kentucky Derby, inspired me to create my Equestrian Collection of porcelain. From the snaffle bits (inspired by my horse, Tootsie Roll) to the red tassel design (inspired by the bed of red roses placed on the winning racehorse), I think the five-piece set creates a joyful table… a winning way to celebrate (with bourbon or no bourbon!) all year long.
On May 6th, the “greatest 2-minutes in sports” will take place for the 149th running. The 1 ¼ mile Kentucky Derby race record was set by Secretariat at 1:59.40 minutes at the 99th running. Who do you think will win this year, and how do you celebrate?
For many years, we celebrated at Tom and Margah Lips' “Derby Party” in historic Glastonbury, Connecticut, by sipping mint juleps, admiring their springtime gardens, and singing “My Old Kentucky Home” prior to the start of the race. I wish I could have brought my cheese crispies on one of my new pretty Equestrian plates for their parties back then!
Please forgive me for being rawwwther self-serving and promoting my own porcelain, but it is the racing season with Royal Ascot, the Gold Cup, the Preakness, Belmont, and in just 12 days, the infamous Derby! As a lovely hostess gift, or to use at your own Derby party and for everyday celebrations, please take a peek at my exclusive offer here.
Oh, I have enjoyed seeing the photographs you have sent me of how and where you use the Equestrian Collection, along with a few from your horsey friends too. Keep the pictures coming. Thank you!
Giddy-up!
Xx
Holly
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