Cinco de Derby 2025: A Little Bit Bourbon, A Little Bit Salsa

May 4, 2025

This past weekend I had the pleasure of putting together a party that blended two of May’s most spirited occasions: the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo. The result? Cinco de Derby! A backyard bash full of color, flavor, laughter, and yes, tiny sombreros.

Hosted at my client’s residence in Delaney Park, the party came to life under a tent dripping with papel picado and piñatas, while TVs streamed the race and live mariachi brought the energy. The theme was playful but intentional, honoring both traditions without letting either one get lost in the shuffle.

Some highlights:

🌮 The Taco Bar + Derby Snack Table
We had everything from a build-your-own taco bar to Bloody Mary shrimp and hot brown sliders... and what kind of party would it be without deviled eggs? Big thanks to Junior and the team from Kitchen’s Portal for both food and drinks. They are a one-stop shop for a fantastic catering experience.

🍹 Specialty Cocktails
The cocktail menu leaned into the dual theme beautifully. Guests chose between a classic Mint Julep, a Spicy Pineapple Margarita, and the crowd-favorite: the Old Fashioneds, poured over a big cube of ice and finished with a smoked flourish. Despite the heat, drinks stayed cold and conversations flowed.

🎩 Custom Cinco de Derby Buttons
Designed and delivered locally by the ever-talented "Machine Gun" Kristin, these playful buttons became the unofficial entry pass and a fun keepsake to take home.

🍰 Desserts by The Glass Knife + Kentucky Derby Pies
The dessert table was pure eye candy - glossy, glittery confections from The Glass Knife that were almost too pretty to eat (almost). We also served authentic Derby Pies shipped straight from Kerns Kitchen in Kentucky, rich, chocolatey, and totally worth the effort.

🐎 The Betting Table
Complete with race cards, candy prizes, and a life-sized cardboard horse. Whether guests were betting seriously or just picking the prettiest name, the energy around race time was electric.

🎶 Live Mariachi by Mariachi Los Potrillos
Their hour-long set added the perfect burst of festive energy and made for one of the most joyful moments of the day. Their performance tied the theme together beautifully and got everyone smiling. 

It was hot. It was happy. It was a bit extra, just how I like it.

What I love most about events like this isn’t just the styling or setup (though I do love that), it’s watching people relax into joy. The mixing of social circles, spontaneous dance moves, and delight over a perfect deviled egg. That’s the magic.

Thanks to everyone who trusted me with their vision, and to every guest who brought it to life.