A Kentucky Derby Party Open House

If you had asked me how Derby Day would unfold this year, I might’ve hesitated. Cold weather. Nervous energy. A guest list bigger than anything we’ve ever hosted. But what actually happened? Something pretty unforgettable.

The morning started with a chill that didn’t exactly scream “spring celebration.” It was cold—no way around it. But once guests began arriving and the big sailcloth tent filled with people, laughter, and music, something shifted. It got warm. Not just from the heaters—but from the energy of the guest. All excited to share a pretty fun event together.

A huge thank you goes to Audrey’s Adventures in Realty for coming through with the perfect tent heaters. Because of that quick thinking, what could have been a shivering crowd turned into a cozy, inviting space where people actually wanted to stay, gather, and linger.

And linger they did.

Guests showed up dressed to impress in their Derby best—bold hats, bright colors, bow ties, and dresses that felt straight out of Churchill Downs. Everywhere you looked, there was style, personality, and a shared excitement for the day ahead.

Behind the bar… things got busy fast. We came prepared. Or so we thought. Five gallons of Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps were ready to flow—and they did. But by the time the race rolled around? Gone. Completely gone. Not a drop left. And here Ray was worried it would be too much and go to waste.

Right alongside it, Luna’s Lily became an instant crowd favorite. That keg didn’t stand a chance either—emptied by a thirsty crowd that clearly came ready to celebrate.

Beer lovers held their own too. We ran through a 1/6 keg of Cheboygan Blood Orange Honey, along with Stella Artois, and the selections from Roar Brewing were a big hit across the board.

Safe to say… this crowd came thirsty. Holding it all together behind the bar was Riley, our incredible bartender. With calm confidence and a great attitude, she kept the drinks flowing and the energy high all day long. No matter how busy it got, Riley handled it like a pro.

Out on the lawn, the party had its own rhythm.

Kids filled the park with energy, bouncing between yard games and the play structure, which was absolutely packed all afternoon. Laughter echoed across the park, blending perfectly with the music and conversation happening under the tent.

And then there was something else—something you don’t always see at events like this.

People were present. Phones stayed in pockets. Conversations happened face-to-face. Strangers became fast friends. Sure, there were a few photos snapped here and there—but for the most part, people were living in the moment.

And that… that’s what I live for. Not just serving drinks—but creating a space where people connect in a real way. No screens. No distractions. Just genuine conversation, laughter, and shared experience.

To keep everyone fueled, we had some incredible food partners on site. Brava Empanadas delivered big time, serving up fresh, flavorful food that kept guests coming back for more. And for dessert? Melt Down Creamery absolutely stole the show. Yes—even in the chilly weather. People lined up anyway, smiling and laughing as they grabbed ice cream like it was a summer day. Kids loved it. Adults loved it. Cold weather didn’t stand a chance.

And then… the moment we had all been waiting for. The Derby. Nearly 200 people gathered around the TVs, shoulder to shoulder, drinks in hand, eyes locked in. The energy shifted again—this time into pure anticipation. There’s something special about watching a live event like that with a crowd. The excitement builds, the room quiets, and then suddenly—cheering erupts!

This year’s Kentucky Derby delivered a truly historic finish.

Golden Tempo surged ahead to claim victory—making headlines not just for the win, but because it marked the first time a female trainer has ever won the Kentucky Derby. The crowd reacted instantly—cheers, disbelief, and pure excitement filling the tent all at once.

And just like that, Derby Day became more than a party. It became a shared experience by all those crowed under a tent in a park.

Looking back, it’s hard not to smile. What started as a cold morning turned into something warm, vibrant, and full of life. A gathering where people showed up, leaned in, and created something special together.

This wasn’t just our biggest event. It was one of the most meaningful.

Until the next race,
Luna Belle 🐴🥃🎩✨

Venue: Private Park

Host: Brad, Audrey, AnnaMaryLee, Ray

Photographer: Chelsea Mazur Photography

Event Rentals: Enchanted Events & Rentals, Superior Stalls

Catering: Brava Empanadas, Melt Down Creamery

Mobile Bar Service: The Derby Bar

Beer & Spirits: Roar Brewing, Two James Spirits, Woodford Reserve