The Night Before the Derby

It’s the night before my very first event, and I should probably be sleeping. But instead, I’m wide awake, heart racing, wheels locked, and butterflies flapping around in my trailer belly. Tomorrow is the day—my grand debut. My first real gig. A Kentucky Derby party in Northville. The moment I’ve been preparing for since my makeover began.

I’ve been sanded, painted, polished, and primped. My shelves are stocked, my bar top is gleaming, my lights are ready to twinkle. The smell of fresh wood still lingers in the air, mixing with a hint of bourbon. I’ve never looked—or felt—this good.

But… I’m nervous.

What if people don’t like the renovations?

What if they expected more sparkle? Or less vintage? What if my paint job chips mid-party or my faucet decides to throw a tantrum?

Or what if it rains?

I mean, we are in Michigan. Spring’s got a flair for the dramatic. What if it pours, and my big debut ends up a soggy mess

And what about the cocktails?

The team has worked so hard on the recipes—twists on classics with names we giggled over. But what if no one orders a Luna Lilly or turns up their nose at what I have to offer? What if they just want a beer? (No offense, beer.)

And here’s the big one:

What if no one shows up?

What if all this effort and excitement just… sits still? What if the music plays, the ice melts, and it’s just me, the team, and our enthusiasm going down the drain?

But here’s the thing—underneath all this worry, I’m buzzing with excitement. Because what if… it all goes right?

What if people love the cocktails?

What if someone walks up, runs their hand along my bar, and says, “Wow—this is beautiful”? What if laughter spills out, strangers clink glasses, and new friendships bloom over crushed mint and crushed ice?

What if I get to be part of someone’s favorite memory?

This is what I was built for—not just to serve drinks, but to serve moments. Connection. Celebration. A little escape from the ordinary.

So yeah, I’m nervous. But I’m also so ready.

Tomorrow, I roll in with my wheels polished and my spirit high. Rain or shine, crowd or not, I’ll be there. Lights on. Bar open. Heart full.

Let’s do this, Derby Day.

– Luna Belle 🐴🍹✨