First: I absolutely loved the Kentucky Derby theme because Dave, Travis, John, and I all went to the Derby in Kentucky in 2011. And, yes, I went with three boys sharing one hotel room but it was such a wonderful trip I wouldn't change it. We flew into Indianapolis stayed there a night and drove down to Louisville because flights into Louisville were outrageous so we had a mini road trip. We stayed at the lovely Econolodge for an outrageous amount of money also (Thanks Travis for helping us out with that one). We had lovely weather for the Derby (unlike this years Derby being very soggy) which made day drinking that much more fun. We made it in Churchill Downs, made our bets, and right away found the Mint Julep guy. Bought myself two of those bad boys right away and drank them within the matter of minutes and I was set to go to the infield. Now, the infield tickets we're too expensive by any means, about $35 or so but you have to be selected from a lottery to be able to purchase them. We dressed in nice derby attire because it was our first time but the infield is a different animal. People are dressed white trash, swimming suits, in traditional Derby attire and some even topless (guys and gals). Needless to say, I was drinking water and decided that everyone who walked past me looked hot to I gave them a little squirt (Dave got angry with me). Amazing time! So, I'm glad Jackie had the brilliant idea to throw a Derby themed par-tay!
Photo's of Derby Past...
My mom and Jackie went all out. Jackie got all the supplies and decorations which included lanterns, roses, mint juleps in mason jars, popcorn, and the horses on flyers so when the race came on you knew which pony was yours. My mom was in charge of the food and she went all out with fruit, chicken sandwiches, boneless chicken wings, side dishes and the beautiful strawberry and champagne cake- from Das-Meyers in Arvada. It's also the little things that made it special like last summer my parents, Dave and I took a trip to South Dakota and we stopped at a winery just outside of Deadwood where we bought this Strawberry Rhubarb wine so my mom got a case of that for the shower.
So of course there was hat decorating because you need a decorated hat at the Derby.
We did the normal shower stuff like open gifts (again, I was just overwhelmed by people's generosity), played some bridal party games, ate, drank, and just had a good time. I am extremely grateful for the effort put into throwing the shower and the loved ones who came for support! Thanks everyone!
P.S. Dave was out all day playing human size beer pong and hitting up the Broadway bars with his friends as an in-town kind of Bachelor Party. We met up with them later in the evening.
P.P.S. I picked the winning pony, ORB! I never win but it was appropriate for the day ;) Here's some more photos...
Grandma Pat and Great Aunt Elaine
