Ready to throw a Kentucky Derby party that will make your guests feel like they’ve been transported to the heart of the South? Look no further! In this blog post, I’ll share with you my tips and tricks for creating a gorgeous tablescape that is full of Southern charm and elegance. From the vibrant red roses to the delicate vintage china, every detail has been carefully thought out to capture the essence of this iconic event. So grab your friends, put on your best Derby attire, and get ready to experience the magic of the South!

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Shop my tablescape collection: get the southern belle look

Red roses: a staple for the Kentucky Derby

Roses, the quintessential symbol of love, passion, and beauty, take center stage at any Kentucky Derby party. These vibrant blooms, designated as the official flower of the event, effortlessly infuse any gathering with an air of elegance and tradition. Their presence serves as a nod to the rich history and enduring charm of the Derby, while their captivating hues embody the excitement and anticipation that permeate the air on race day.

Red roses are especially significant to the Kentucky Derby. Their deep, velvety petals reflect the passion and pageantry of the iconic event, while their sweet fragrance adds an extra touch of magic to the day. Whether you use them in show-stopping centerpieces, arrange them in beautiful bouquets, or weave them into pretty garlands, red roses are a versatile and captivating decorative element that will add a touch of elegance to your Derby party.

And let's not forget the fashion. Red roses are the go-to for Derby party attire, adorning everything from dresses and hats to jewelry and accessories. They're a symbol of elegance and grace, perfectly capturing the Derby's refined charm. Whether you're making a bold statement with a head-turning ensemble or going for a more classic look, you can't go wrong with red roses. They're sure to make you stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Ginger jars: adding a touch of history and charm

Ginger jars are a beautiful and elegant way to infuse our Kentucky Derby party with a sense of history and charm. These ancient Chinese porcelain jars, once the keepers of spices, tea, and other dry goods, have transcended time to become beloved decorative pieces, particularly in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, we still treasure them for their exquisite beauty and craftsmanship, whether for storage or as striking decorative accents.

When selecting ginger jars for our Kentucky Derby gathering, we seek out those in pristine condition with captivating designs. We scour antique shops, thrift stores, and online marketplaces, and for the crafty among us, there's always the option to paint our own.

To pull off a polished look, opt for ginger jars that share a common color palette or design theme. Play with scale and arrangement—a grand centerpiece flanked by smaller counterparts can make a striking statement.

The versatility of ginger jars is a party planner's dream. They can stand tall as centerpieces, grace sideboards, or add a touch of elegance to your shelves. Fill them with the beauty of flowers, the warm glow of candles, or other decorative delights.

However you decide to showcase them, ginger jars are our go-to for infusing a hint of grace and allure into our Kentucky Derby festivities.

Vintage Wedgwood and Ralph Lauren china: a timeless elegance

We all know that the Kentucky Derby is the perfect time to bring out our most elegant china, and what could be more elegant than Wedgwood and Ralph Lauren? Both brands have a long history of creating beautiful, sophisticated pieces that are perfect for a special occasion like this. Plus, they’re both American classics—Wedgwood has been around since the 18th century, and Ralph Lauren is the epitome of American style.

Wedgwood's bone china is a marvel of translucency and design intricacy, while Ralph Lauren's porcelain pieces are the epitome of refinement, with their subtle patterns and luxurious finishes. Incorporating these into our Kentucky Derby tablescape promises to elevate the ambiance, impressing our guests with a touch of timeless sophistication.

To create a cohesive and visually appealing tablescape, we recommend using a neutral tablecloth or placemats to let the beauty of the china shine. Arrange the Wedgwood and Ralph Lauren plates, bowls, and cups in a balanced and symmetrical way that feels harmonious to you.

To further enhance the elegance of the setting, consider incorporating complementary accessories such as crystal glassware, polished silverware, and linen napkins. These elements will help to elevate the overall look and feel of your tablescape, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury.

We encourage you to mix and match patterns and colors from both brands. The eclectic combination of Wedgwood's rich patterns and Ralph Lauren's understated elegance can result in a visually captivating tablescape that reflects your personal style and taste.

We believe that by incorporating vintage Wedgwood and Ralph Lauren china into your Kentucky Derby party, you'll create a timeless and sophisticated tablescape that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. These iconic brands embody the spirit of tradition and elegance, perfectly complementing the festive atmosphere of the Kentucky Derby.

My Kentucky Derby rosette dress and fascinator: dressing for the occasion

A Kentucky Derby bash is just not the same without the perfect ensemble, and my rosette dress and fascinator are just the ticket. The dress, in a striking shade of steel blue, brings to mind the very feathers that grace the iconic Kentucky Derby hats. Its rosette, meticulously hand-crafted from layers of the finest fabric, creates a stunning 3D effect. The fascinator, a delightful mix of florals and feathers, is a nod to the Derby's own floral theme. The end result is a look that's nothing short of elegant and refined, just right for a day at the races.

When it comes to Kentucky Derby fashion, we know we have to hit the right notes of style and respect for tradition. The Derby is all about that classic, elegant look, and this rosette dress is the perfect way to capture that vibe. The silhouette is timeless, and those little details really make it pop.

And let’s not forget the accessories! A fascinator is a must-have for any Kentucky Derby look, and mine is the perfect way to add a touch of whimsy and elegance. The florals and feathers on the fascinator tie the whole look together, creating a cohesive and stylish ensemble.

In addition to the dress and fascinator, we love adding other accessories to complete our Kentucky Derby looks. A pair of statement earrings, a delicate necklace, and a chic clutch are all great ways to add a personal touch to our outfits. And of course, no Kentucky Derby outfit would be complete without a pair of high heels!

With the perfect dress, fascinator, and accessories, we're set to steal the show at our next Kentucky Derby party. Let's get ready to celebrate in style and soak up the excitement of the races!

Shop my tablescape collection: get the southern belle look

In our tablescape collection, you'll discover a handpicked array of delightful cocktail napkins that'll transform your setting into a vision fit for a southern belle at your Kentucky Derby gathering. These napkins exude the very essence of southern grace and are bound to infuse your event with a generous sprinkle of southern charm.

Each napkin is a testament to the finest craftsmanship and is adorned with designs that capture the very essence of the southern belle. From the daintiest lace patterns to the most vibrant of floral prints, our collection offers a wide array of styles to cater to every taste. Whether your heart leans towards the classic or craves a more modern touch, you'll find the perfect napkin to grace your Kentucky Derby tablescape.

And it doesn’t stop there. Our tablescape collection has everything you need to create a cohesive and stylish look for your party. From tablecloths and runners to centerpieces and decorative accents, we have everything you need to transform your dining space into a southern belle paradise.

So what are we waiting for? Let's get shopping and bring that southern belle charm to our Kentucky Derby celebrations!