Here we are, right in the middle of a beautiful Spring. And our friends and neighbors are looking forward to our annual backyard Derby party. We are back again with scoop’s blue-ribbon guide to help a girl out.
Planning tips and trends for an updated and winning 2024 Kentucky Derby party:
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Drape the roses on us. This sequined Helsi gown from Neiman Marcus is a strong contender, not-to-be missed winner, for dress-of-the-day. After all, the party always twirls around the vibe of the dress—and this year, we’re feeling fancy.
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KK Bloom might just call for a mid-soi·rée outfit change with this one. The two-dress event really should be more of a thing.
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The Pearl Pagoda always deserves a lap. Especially during Derby Days. Scoop girls know a Derby party hat when they see one. And The Pearl Pagoda’s new location on Park Road is fantastic.
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Bring these violet coupes home for cocktail hour. And don’t forget the fresh mint. Cheers to The Derby.
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Or these plastic mint julep ready cuties.
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Mix it with the good stuff. @drinkspiritsofalchemy just gets us. Chris Hawks’ creations have us chemically reacting. For that mint moment mix this with your favorite bourbon. Muddled or not.
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These plates are a must. Are they too good for Grannie’s famous potato salad? Never.
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Gathered CLT with the prime race-day menu inspo. Deviled eggs and bacon are our love language — straight to the winners’ circle.
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Order these Julep cups so they arrive in time to drink your winnings in like a real champion.
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Tweens invited this year? How fun is this dress from Judith March?
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He’s gonna look great in this shirt. Like always.
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No one is disqualified after a fit from Onward Reserve. It’s not a dead-heat. There’s a clear winner.
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Snacks keep us chatting. Chatting and mingling. And nothing let’s us do so quite like bite-sized cheese straws. Piedmont Pennies is a Charlotte favorite. Place heaping bowls around for sharing.
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Share jockey picks with fruit and mint for easy snacking and betting.
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Sometimes you just know a winner when you see her. This Gucci Flora has us placing wagers on host-of-the-year.
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The green onion in Mere’s pimento cheese sets this party-staple apart from the competition.
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And then of course, a memento for every guest. Personalized even. Be that extra.
Let us know how your party turns out. We’re all in.
@scoopcharlotte