A text from the debonair Hutton Wilkinson can mean one of two things, and it usually means getting into some fun trouble. Of course, I said yes, to meet and be a guest of Babs and Lee Robinson at their exquisite residence, The Malvern House, in Louisville, Kentucky, for the iconic 149th running of the Kentucky Derby. Taking the lead from Lee, that included the required wardrobe essentials and how to best prepare for the upcoming three soirees a day. The key advice was getting a B12 shot, so off I went to see Elizabeth Tringali of Tringali Vibrant Health. Not one for minimalism, I added the Vibrant Sport IV to my planned B12 shot to carry me through the merriment.
My first thought was, what do I do about a proper Derby hat, Lee Robinson said, ”The locals don’t fret about a hat,” and boy was I relieved. No longer concerned with searching for my Philip Treacy hat from the Galway Races, my attention could turn to my wardrobe. This playful Gemini pre-plans and curates each outfit, and knowing that Hutton always brings extra bobbles, I went light on the jewelry this time. Noting where I manifest experiences before the invite arrives.
Grabbing the last First Class seat on a Delta flight to Louisville, I couldn’t help but smile at all the Derby decorations adorning the airport. Of course, as I stepped outside the Louisville airport, the well-known decorator, Lee Robinson, had brought the perfect accessory, a brand new Bentley in navy blue with a cognac interior. The ease and specialness of having my host come to the airport set the tone for the hospitality I was going to experience over the coming days. After all, who comes to the airport anymore? Along our lovely drive, a glimpse into what was to come. My host took me to the historic Jack Fry’s for a divine lunch. It didn’t take long for me to realize how spectacular this part of the country is and, more specifically, the iconic event known as the Kentucky Derby. Immediately feeling as if I were being cared for like a thoroughbred.
Approaching my hosts' residence and what would be my home away from home for the days leading up to Derby, The Malvern House. The long driveway leading up to the home built anticipation of what my room would look like. Upon entering the foyer, I immediately went back in time to true American aristocracy and the titans of industry. The drawing room was my favorite, my love of silver, and of course, it was polished to perfection. My quarters were an entire wing of the home. Making the most of the moments before heading off to the cocktail party, I unpacked and enjoyed a quick soak while reviewing the agenda.
During the whirlwind from party to party, I was struck by how many lovely and kind people I encountered. Each person I met shared a form of authentic conversation, no obligatory small talk, and left feeling like they were genuinely interested. The hosts' warmth as we moved from home to home, their hospitality, and their unique signature was felt and observed among some of the most beautiful homes I have seen in America. The art particularly struck me as it conveyed so much about each host. Imagine a continuous flow of champagne and caviar day after day. My trip was one of the most incredible experiences.
The Kentucky Derby history is not to be ignored. A natural decadence that takes you back in time. Having been in and out of the homes of some of America’s most noted families, meeting many new people who quickly felt like old friends. By the way, I neglected to mention that Babs grand-fathers top hat appeared in my closet, a perfect fit! It was none other than a Cavanagh hat created by the famous gentlemen’s hatter along Park Avenue in New York.
You might assume that following my days in Louisville, I may need a vacation to take a breath. Quite the contrary, I was energized and dreaming of next year. A tip, book now, as you won’t want to let another year pass without spending time in Louisville and taking in the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.
If you haven’t, you should...Keep manifesting and say yes!
