Between Horses, Hats, and Tradition: A Look Back at My Kentucky Derby 2023 Weekend
The Kentucky Derby holds a special place in my heart. Attending this prestigious event has become a cherished tradition for me. This year was no exception. Surrounded by the exhilarating energy of the race, I had the privilege of sharing this experience with my incredible colleagues and friends at Servpro. Together, we celebrated the spirit of Derby weekend but also our commitment to important causes. In this article, I will share with you my experience at the 2023 Kentucky Oaks as well as highlight the vibrant colors, equestrian marvels, and the meaningful symbolism behind my electric blue and pink hat.
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it represents a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking athleticism. As I stepped onto Churchill Downs grounds, the air was filled with anticipation and excitement. The beauty of the thoroughbreds, the elegance of the spectators, and the electric atmosphere all combined to create a truly unforgettable experience.
As a franchise owner, I strongly believe in fostering a strong sense of unity and camaraderie among franchisees. The Kentucky Derby provided the fitting backdrop for celebrating our collective achievements and reinforcing bonds among my peers. Throughout the weekend, we engaged in insightful discussions, shared inspirational stories, and reveled in the spirit of friendly competition. By attending this event together, we strengthened our group dynamics and further solidified our commitment to excellence.
The Kentucky Derby is known for its rich traditions, and each year, I am captivated by the pageantry and grandeur that surround this event. From the stirring rendition of "My Old Kentucky Home" to the time-honored tradition of sipping mint juleps, every aspect adds to the Derby magic. It is a reminder of the significance of history and the influence of tradition on shaping our lives and careers.
The months leading up to the Kentucky Derby are filled with excitement as attendees search for the perfect hat or fascinator to wear to the event. From wide-brimmed and elaborately decorated hats to elegant and delicate fascinators, headwear has been an essential part of women's Derby attire since the 1960s. While there are no specific rules for designing a Derby hat, it is widely understood that one should be worn to the event.
For me, choosing a hat is one of the most important parts of my Kentucky Derby experience, as it allows me to express my personal style and feel more connected to the event. I aim to live by a saying that was coined by Louisville milliner Jenny Pfanenstiel, which goes, "The bigger the hat, the bigger the luck!" For this year's Kentucky Oaks, my choice fell on an amazing hat made by an independent designer (TheHatHive) whose creations I fell in love with.
Dress: Milly - Bella Rose Lexington
Hat: The Hat Hive
My hat was composed of vibrant electric blue associated with the traditional pink color of the Kentucky Oaks which was in support of the fight against breast and ovarian cancer.
This year, in fact, marked the 15th year of the Survivors Parade, during which 149 breast and ovarian cancer survivors marched along the racetrack before the Oaks race, creating a beautiful and emotionally moving tribute to those who have bravely fought against or are still fighting these diseases. It was an honor to stand in solidarity with survivors, advocates, and tireless organizations working tirelessly to eradicate breast and ovarian cancer.
As I reflect on this year's event, I am excited to share my top hat selections, which will serve as inspiration for my 2024 outfit:
Similar to fashion, the significance of food at the Kentucky Derby lies in its ability to carry on the spirit of the Southern community.
This year again, the Kentucky Derby weekend menu did not disappoint with its delicious specialties. For the second year in a row, Chef and Culinary Expert Kenneth Hardiman curated the official racetrack menu. He stayed true to Southern culinary traditions by modernizing traditional Southern dishes passed down for generations such as the Kentucky Bibb Greens and Heirloom Grain Salad.
Beyond the glamor and excitement, the Kentucky Derby offers valuable lessons for leaders. Just like the thoroughbreds that race on the track, success in our professional lives requires discipline, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Attending the Kentucky Oaks this year was an unforgettable experience for me. It allowed us to appreciate the beauty of equestrian sports, celebrate our accomplishments as a team, bond over a shared love for a particular horse, held our breath in anticipation of who would be recognized with the prestigious garland of roses, or compliment each other on their choice of hats. As we left Churchill Downs with our hearts filled with inspiration and memories to last a lifetime, we carried with us the spirit of the Derby and the power of unity.
