Giddy-Up Y’all! It’s finally that time of year again when I can wear an over-the-top, massive hat during the day in Nashville, and it’s totally normal. It’s Steeplechase friends, and for those of you who aren’t familiar with this long-standing Nashville tradition, it’s our version of the Derby (on a MUCH smaller scale). Everyone dons their southern-best attire and spends a day watching horse races, betting, drinking and socializing at Percy Warner Park. Since having kids, my husband and I book a sitter for the entire day and evening as an event like Steeplechase (aka day-drinking) now takes hours to recover from. However, it’s all worth the “pomp and circumstance” of lining up a babysitter, pulling together an outfit and planning for a full day spent at the races with friends. This long-standing Nashville tradition is one of my favorite events in town, and it almost never disappoints. And in honor of the upcoming races in Nashville (along with the Kentucky Derby) my wonderful friend and uber-talented interior designer, Minnette Jackson, and I hosted an event at the local Draper James store to kick-start the season!

When I was asked to act as an ambassador for Draper James, the answer was obvious- heck yes. I was already wearing the clothes and loved the brand, since it’s all about celebrating the Southern woman and finding the perfect party dress or accessory. The clothes are fun and flattering, and their new lower price-point makes it even easier to buy all of their pretty things... there goes my monthly budget, sigh. Anyway, Minnette and I were fortunate enough to host a pre-Derby/Steeplechase party at the store for friends and colleagues, and a percentage of the profits was donated to a local charity. It was a chance for everyone to scope out the merchandise, find a dress for the races and have a cocktail… or five. We pulled in several of my favorite vendors to help with food, beverages, flowers and favors, and it was such a fun and celebratory night. There was no baking or crafting involved, just a few phone calls to the right people, and we were Derby ready, “Draper style”. Everything you see here can be purchased for your own party, whether it’s the Derby, Steeplechase or any other event (birthday, bachelorette party, etc.), and I cannot recommend these talented vendors enough. See y’all at the races!