Last year, I went to the Kentucky Derby for the first time. It was off the rails fun. I have a highlight of it saved on on Instagram if you’d like to take yourself back and live vicariously through me.

This year, I’ll be watching the Derby, 4 months late and at home. So…what are we doing for our Derby viewing party? Let’s do something different!

The Kentucky Derby is more than just a race, it’s a long-standing American tradition – and the ultimate reason for a party! And while we may not be able to physically attend this year's Derby on September 5th, we all still want to celebrate the occasion. 

I partnered with G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon AKA the official preferred champagne of the Derby to create an expert guide to hosting the ultimate at-home viewing party . Here are my tips…

DECOR

Stylish disposable tableware makes cleanup a breeze and is an easy way to punch up the color palette and theme. There are tons of Derby decorations available in stores, but I love to repurpose items from home wherever I can. If you have any silver trophies that you don’t mind filling up with water add a bouquet of red roses to it for your main centerpiece. If you don’t have a silver trophy, find a black or white vase to keep it festive.

FOOD

The race takes place at 3:00PM, so I suggest having your guests come over early for pre-race brunch. I always set out some bowls of chips and nuts for snacking and this year I’m making a Kentucky Hot Brown dip, served in a cast iron skillet, but for brunch I’ll keep things simple. I love to get a variety of bagels, spreads & toppings, which I’ll display on a large board. My favorite brunch trick is to pre-cut bagels and stack them on my paper towel holder. Add some fresh fruit and you’re done! To satisfy your sweet tooth without spending time in the kitchen, order a Bourbon Pecan Pie shipped straight from Kentucky! How fun?!

GAMES

The Kentucky Derby is known as the most exciting two minutes in sports. So, what do you do to entertain your guests before and after the race? Throw on an upbeat themed playlist and place your bets! Use purchased or DIY printable slips to make friendly wagers. You can keep it simple and have everyone pick a horse out of a hat. A bottle of G.H. Mumm Champagne makes the perfect prize for the winner! Hold a best dressed contest to celebrate the most stylish and unconventional Derby duds. You can purchase or DIY a fun backdrop and props, set out an instant camera and let guests strike a pose.

CHAMPAGNE

The most important part of the celebration!
First things first - stock up on G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon - the official, preferred champagne of the Kentucky Derby. G.H. Mumm is available for same and next day delivery on Drizly.com as well as at fine wine and spirits retailers across the country.
Be sure to chill your bubbly at least 2 hours prior to enjoying and set out some fun glassware before guests arrive. G.H. Mumm has the most fabulous “Cloupe” - a hybrid between a flute and coupe glass and the perfect vessel from which to sip champagne.

When it comes to types of refreshments, G.H. Mumm Champagne is great on its own or in cocktails like the Champagne Julep…OMG YUM! Here’s the recipe if you want to give this one a try:

½ Martell VS // Rabbit Hole

1 Sugar Cube

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

8 mint leaves

5 G.H. Mumm Brut Champagne topper

Method- Build in tin. Muddle sugar cube in bitters. Press mint. Top with G.H.Mumm & Ice.

Garnish with Mint sprigs & Summer Berries

STYLE

2020 has shown us how to break with tradition and embrace personal style. Why not do the same when it comes to your wardrobe?! Shop your own closet and craft a look outside of the Derby norm to fit your personal style. The Derby is such a fun excuse to get dressed up, but let’s be honest, nobody is putting on a seersucker suit and a giant hat for a viewing party at home. Instead, I suggest flipping the traditional on its head. Swap flouncy florals and pastels for solid colors & sleek silhouettes. Ditch the traditional Derby hats for chic statement headbands & DIY flower crowns. Trade stuffy bow ties for festive socks, pocket squares and boutonnieres.