How to Host a Kentucky Derby Bridal Shower
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Looking for a fun and unique theme for your bridal shower? Consider a Kentucky Derby bridal shower! It’s a fun theme that is filled with cute hats, games, and of course, Mint Juleps!
Hosting a Kentucky Derby bridal shower is all about infusing your celebration with southern charm and horse racing excitement! With its blend of southern charm, elegant traditions, and exhilarating horse racing spirit, a Kentucky Derby bridal shower promises to be an unforgettable affair for the bride-to-be and her guests.
From derby-themed décor to southern-inspired cuisine and exciting activities, this guide will take you through everything you need to know to host a fabulous bridal shower that captures the essence of the iconic Kentucky Derby.
So, grab your fanciest (and biggest!) hat, pour yourself a mint julep, and let’s dive into the details of planning the ultimate Derby-inspired soirée for the blushing bride!
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Kentucky Derby Party Hats
When it comes to hosting a Kentucky Derby bridal shower, hats are not just an accessory—they’re a tradition and a statement of style! For ladies attending the festivities, embracing the Derby spirit means donning a fabulous hat that commands attention.
From wide-brimmed beauties adorned with silk flowers to intricate fascinators adorned with feathers and bows, the options are endless. When choosing the perfect hat, consider the bride’s theme and color scheme, and don’t be afraid to go bold with vibrant hues or eye-catching patterns.
Make sure you and your ladies look the part with an assortment of large hats when your guests walk in the door. You can request that they bring their own, or help them out when it comes to fitting the theme, many of them may not already own (or forgot!) large or quirky hats fit for the Kentucky Derby and they’ll appreciate you helping include them.
Kentucky Derby Bachelorette Party Drinks
It should come as no surprise that we suggest a Mint Julep for your bridal shower, after all it’s the epitome of Kentucky Derby cocktails! And thankfully, making a big batch is super easy & quick, here’s one of our favorite recipes from Pizzazzerie for a strawberry mojito, yum!
Ingredients:
- 6 strawberries sliced
- 1 bunch basil leaves
- 6 ounces bourbon
- 1/2 cup simple syrup
Have it pre-mixed ahead of time and in a cute glass container with a spout so guests can easily refresh their drinks, in a punch bowl, or already in glasses. Level up your spread with cute cocktail add-on’s like sprigs of ming, fresh fruit, straws that fit the theme, and adorable glassware! It will really make your bar area stand out.
These mason jars with stickers are an easy way to make your drinks extra fun!
If you’re looking for a more elegant glassware option, we love a silver cup. It feels super sophisticated and fits the Kentucky Derby theme perfectly – imagine how classy you and your guests will feel drinking out of these!
Give guests some variety with another drink option, in case they aren’t fans of Mint Juleps. After all, if we’re honest, they’re not everybody’s cup of tea! These Wine Juleps from Hostess With the Mostess look SO refreshing, and they’re a breeze to make with equal parts wine and ginger ale.
Kentucky Derby Snacks & Dessert
Whether you choose to provide guests with a full lunch, dinner, or brunch spread is up to you, but make sure you have some finger food snacks and desserts that fit your theme!
We love these Derby-themed mini chocolate-pecan cakes topped with vanilla bourbon smash ice cream that are single serve and perfect for a dessert bar.
These pecan shortbread cookies with bourbon and chocolate icing are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, and easy to make for your guests!
Make sure your desserts and snacks look amazing with a set up that incorporates the Kentucky Derby and feminine touches like pink florals, delectable desserts, and rustic touches.
Kentucky Derby Party Decor
Make sure your decor is a beautiful blend of bridal and Kentucky Derby with stunning centerpieces! Silver or gold horse statues, bright florals, greenery and bold contrasting colors make the decor and your space really pop, as well as add to the bridal shower ambience.
Make your decor more feminine with peach roses, gold-edged plates with a horseshoe accent, a pink table cloth, and of course, winning race ribbons on the backs of chairs!
Fun Extras
Don’t forget all of the fun extras you can add to your Kentucky Derby bridal shower! If you’re having your bridal shower on the day of the Derby, give guests a chance to place their bets with a mason jar set up like so:
You can’t have a bridal shower without a few games! We love croquet if you have the space (and good weather). It’s relaxing, fun, and simple!
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