This upcoming Saturday, May 3rd, marks the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby. This horse race is often called “The Run for the Roses,” as the winning steed is adorned with a blanket of red roses after crossing the finish line. Steeped in history and tradition, the Derby calls for mint juleps and large, elaborate hats for the ladies. And while the Derby certainly doesn’t take place in the Carolinas, we certainly deserve (and love!) a chance to celebrate this historical event alongside our Kentucky friends. A Derby-themed wedding is a perfect excuse for bright colors and equestrian motifs, and is especially perfect for brides and grooms saying “I do” the first weekend in May. I have gathered together some of my favorite Derby inspiration, complete with lots of happy red and references to the beautiful horses who are the reason for the day.
Our Derby-themed wedding begins with this beautiful red and black-and-white striped invitation suite, complete with a bugle motif as a nod to the bugler who traditionally plays when it is time for the horses to file onto the racetrack from the paddock:
Here come the bride! In an appropriate Derby hat, of course…and accompanied by bridesmaids in blue dresses that compliment the red rose bouquets.
And now for the groom. Don’t you just adore these bright boutonnieres? The black and white stripe ribbon ties in with the invitations.
Stunning ceremony setup…
These place cards are one of my favorite parts of this inspired wedding. I love the different color jockey silks guiding each guest to their own table! In keeping with the equestrian theme, the red rose centerpieces are accented with a horse shoe.
Of course, now that I’ve said that about the place cards, we get around to the dessert bar…another of my favorite parts! Red velvet cake, Derby pie, horseshoe cookies, and a stunning little red rosette cake…perfection.
Oh, and we can’t forget the mint julep bar….
So belles and beaus, what do you think? Would you do a Derby themed wedding? Are you digging this vibrant red paired with accents of blue and subtle stripes? I personally love how bold it is!
xoxo Laura
