Host a fun Southern Style Equestrian Afternoon Tea for Derby Day!
As a British expat newly living in the United States, I must admit there are few events back home that can rival the glamour and tradition of Royal Ascot.
The hats, the pomp, the Royal procession, the precision of an afternoon tea—it’s an occasion steeped in heritage and holds a fond place in my heart.
But since moving to the States, I’ve fallen head over heels for the fabulous Southern spectacle that is the Kentucky Derby.
And let me tell you, these two worlds aren’t as far apart as they may seem!
What happens when you blend Royal Ascot refinement with the charm and celebration of a Southern Derby Day? You get an Equestrian Afternoon Tea that’s every bit as stylish as it is fun. Think fascinators and florals, mint juleps and macarons, with horses at the heart of it all.
From a pre-race brunch, to an elegant Derby viewing party, or a ladies’ tea in your garden, these ideas will work for any fabulous equestrian event you want to celebrate!
Let’s create a day that feels both refined and joyful—with plenty of nods to tradition, hospitality, and good taste!
1. Whimsical Cocktails Served in Teapots!
In any proper British afternoon tea, the teapot takes center stage—but for Derby Day, why not fill it with something a little more spirited?
A signature cocktail served in a floral porcelain teapot is not only delightfully unexpected but also beautifully on theme. It blends the elegance of Royal Ascot with the playfulness of the Kentucky Derby, offering guests a whimsical experience they’ll remember long after the last sip.
The idea is simple: take a garden-party-worthy drink and elevate it with clever presentation. By serving it from a vintage-inspired teapot into mismatched china teacups, you instantly add charm and creativity to your Derby Day celebration.
It feels cheeky and posh all at once, making it the perfect conversation starter—and a great way to welcome guests as they arrive.
You can batch your cocktail ahead of time, keep it chilled in the fridge or ice bucket, and refill the teapot as needed. It also makes for a practical hosting hack: no standing around shaking cocktails during the party. Just pour and serve.
Ideas for Signature Teapot Cocktails:
- Mint Julep Iced Tea – Combine brewed sweet tea with mint simple syrup, lemon, and a splash of bourbon. It’s Southern, refreshing, and the perfect nod to Derby tradition.
- Sparkling Elderflower Fizz – Mix elderflower cordial, fresh lemon juice, gin (or a non-alcoholic spirit), and finish with sparkling water or prosecco. Light, floral, and effortlessly British.
- Peach & Earl Grey Punch – Brew Earl Grey tea, add peach nectar, honey, and a sprig of mint, then serve over crushed ice. It’s elegant and subtly complex—perfect for spring.
Presentation Tips:
Use a beautiful ceramic or porcelain teapot with matching teacups (or charmingly mismatched ones for a cottagecore vibe).
Place your setup on a lace-covered tray or vintage cart with sliced lemons, mint leaves, and tiny spoons for stirring. For extra flair, add edible flowers or fresh herbs floating on top.
Teapot Cocktail Essentials:
- Floral Ceramic Teapot – Elegant and functional for serving mixed drinks in style.
- Gold-Rimmed Teacup Set – Adds timeless charm and authenticity to your afternoon tea aesthetic.
- Stainless Steel Ice Bucket – Keeps your batch cocktail chilled between pours, especially important on a warm spring day.
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2. A DIY Fascinator Station for Guests to Craft & Wear
One of the most fun and memorable ways to elevate your Kentucky Derby Afternoon Tea is by inviting guests to create their own fascinators.
This interactive station adds a hands-on activity to the day, encourages conversation, and results in stunning photo opportunities.
The tradition of extravagant headwear is beloved at both Royal Ascot and the Kentucky Derby, so why not give guests a chance to get in on the fun with their own personalized creations?
Minimal and elegant or wild and whimsical, no matter what their style every guest leaves with something fabulous on their head!
Set up a crafting table with a mirror, headbands, floral wire, glue guns, and an array of decorative elements: silk flowers, feathers, ribbons, tulle, netting, vintage brooches, and lace. Provide inspiration cards or a sample fascinator or two to spark ideas.
It’s a lighthearted way to kick off the afternoon and doubles as both entertainment and a party favor!
Fascinator Station Essentials:
- Assorted Satin Headbands – Comfortable base pieces for each fascinator.
- Silk Flower Craft Pack – Mix of blooms in Derby-ready colors.
- Glue Gun – All-in-one solution for crafting on-site.
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3. Equestrian-Inspired Decor That Nods to Derby Tradition
Give your tea party a cohesive and enchanting look by weaving equestrian elements throughout your decor. The goal is to channel classic riding club elegance without making it feel costume-y. Think vintage countryside with a touch of Southern polish.
Use items like velvet riding ribbons, miniature trophies, and old equestrian prints to set the mood. Trophy cups make fantastic vases when filled with blush peonies, garden roses, or hydrangeas.
You can also incorporate horse bits, braided reins, and saddle-inspired textures in subtle ways—as napkin rings, tray accents, or even garland details.
Color palette ideas include soft gold, ivory, sage green, and powder blue—tones that pair well with both the tea party aesthetic and Derby grandeur.
Equestrian Decor Touches:
- Mini Silver Trophy Cups – Perfect for centerpieces or favor displays.
- Vintage-Style Horse Show Ribbons – Use for chair decor or tied around napkins.
- Table Runner – Elegant or fun – give a nod to equestrian style with your table linens!
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4. Tea Sandwiches with a Southern Twist
Food is the heart of any afternoon tea, and for a Derby Day gathering, blending traditional English fare with Southern flavors is a must. Tea sandwiches are dainty and delicious—ideal for a garden setting—and easy to prepare in advance.
Serve a tray of mix-and-match sandwiches, keeping the flavors refined but surprising. Consider classic English cucumber sandwiches elevated with herbed goat cheese, or mini biscuits filled with ham and peach chutney.
Other fun combos: chicken salad with pecans on rye, pimento cheese on white bread with the crusts cut off, or deviled egg salad on mini croissants.
Arrange sandwiches on tiered trays or vintage platters, and garnish with edible flowers or fresh herbs for an elegant finish.
Southern Tea Sandwich Picks:
- Cucumber & Herbed Cheese on Rye
- Mini Buttermilk Biscuits with Ham & Chutney
- Deviled Egg Salad on Croissants
- Pimento Cheese Tea Triangles
Tiered Serving Essentials:
- 3-Tiered Porcelain Tray Stand – Traditional and charming for finger foods.
- Vintage-Inspired Serving Platters – Adds a touch of British flair.
- Floral Linen Napkins – Soft and seasonal, perfect for your place settings.
- Horse Cupcake Toppers – Add to desserts or sandwich displays for added glitz!
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5. Lavender Scones
A tea party without scones? Unthinkable! But this isn’t just any scone—we’re putting a Derby spin on this British classic with a hint of lemon, a touch of lavender, and a drizzle of bourbon glaze.
The scones can be made the day before and served either warm or at room temperature. Their light floral notes pair perfectly with both black tea and the sweet cocktails served earlier in the event.
Check out this YouTube video by The Sweetest Journey for the perfect lavender scones!
For a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute vanilla extract for the bourbon in the glaze.
Serve with clotted cream, honey butter, or fresh jam. Present them on a silver or porcelain platter with edible flowers or lemon slices for an added touch of refinement.
Scone Serving Essentials:
- Classic Tiered Cake Stand – Ideal for showcasing your fresh bakes.
- Floral Porcelain Dessert Plates – Brings delicate beauty to your table.
- Lavender Sugar or Culinary Dried Lavender – Adds subtle flavor and decor.
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6. Charming Teapot Punches & Mint Julep Sweet Tea for Everyone
It’s important to create a welcoming and inclusive beverage spread for your guests, especially for those skipping alcohol. But that doesn’t mean settling for boring drinks—non-alcoholic options can be just as fun, flavorful, and beautifully presented. In fact, when served in a porcelain teapot or floral glass pitcher, they feel every bit as special.
A favorite for this kind of celebration is Mint Julep Sweet Tea—classic sweet tea steeped with garden-fresh mint leaves and served over crushed ice in vintage teacups. It delivers all the refreshment of a Derby staple without the bourbon. You could also try a Teapot Fruit Punch, made from steeped hibiscus tea, fresh citrus juices, and a splash of sparkling water for fizz.
To make it easy and elegant, keep a silver tray nearby with fresh garnishes: orange slices, lemon twists, mint sprigs, or even edible flowers. For guests who’d like a splash of spirits, you can offer a separate bottle of bourbon with a cheeky sign like “For the Brave.”
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Essentials for Afternoon Tea:
- Pretty Pitcher – Pretty and practical.
- Tray for Garnishes – Keeps citrus and herbs beautifully displayed.
- Set of Mismatched Vintage Teacups – Adds charm and storytelling to every sip.
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7. Mini Horse Show Ribbon Place Cards for Elegant Seating
At a gathering where details matter as much as the setting, even your place cards should feel enchanting—and what could be more fitting for a Derby Day tea than mini horse show ribbons?
These rosette-style ribbons bring in just the right mix of Southern charm and equestrian whimsy. They echo the spirit of the races while adding a unique and meaningful touch to each place setting.
Unlike traditional place cards, these double as memorable keepsakes that guests can take home—souvenirs of a stylish and heartfelt afternoon.
To pull it off, select mini ribbons in a soft, coordinated palette that matches your tablescape—shades like dusty rose, pale blue, sage, or champagne work beautifully.
Use a calligraphy marker or gold pen to write each guest’s name on a tag, then attach the tag to the rosette with ribbon or a safety pin.
Styling Ideas:
- Tuck into folded napkins and let the ribbon cascade across the plate.
- Drape over teacups or clip to the side of saucers for an unexpected detail.
- Tie onto the backs of chairs with satin ribbon for a layered, photo-worthy finish.
This little flourish makes each guest feel seen and welcomed—and in a setting inspired by both Royal Ascot grandeur and Derby Day flair, that’s exactly the energy you want.
Ribbon Place Card Supplies:
- Rosette Pack – Soft textures and race-inspired flair.
- Gold Calligraphy Marker – For writing names with elegance.
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8. Equestrian-Inspired Centerpieces with Sophistication
When planning your Kentucky Derby Day Afternoon Tea, the centerpiece should be more than just a floral arrangement—it should tell a story. And in this case, it’s the story of elegance, heritage, and equestrian charm.
The goal isn’t to create a literal horse-themed display. Instead, you want to evoke the beauty of the sport and its traditions through clever, graceful styling choices that feel intentional and layered.
Start with classic materials like silver, lace, and aged wood to ground the display. Then layer in accents like spray-painted horseshoes arranged in a soft circle around a low floral centerpiece, or use a vintage-inspired trophy cup as a vase filled with soft pastel blooms—think peonies, roses, and hydrangeas in shades of blush, cream, and lavender.
If you happen to have antique horse figurines, paint them in pale gold or ivory and place them atop mirrored trays or wooden risers. A pair of vintage riding gloves or a rolled-up leather crop tucked casually beside a vase gives a nod to tradition without feeling gimmicky.
You don’t need a crowded table to make an impact. A few well-chosen elements, thoughtfully arranged with room to breathe, will feel both luxurious and restrained—like something you might find at a country manor or historic racing club.
Tips for Styling an Equestrian Tea Party Centerpiece:
- Use soft florals that reflect the season—garden roses, peonies, or ranunculus are perfect.
- Stick to a muted palette of cream, blush, sage, and dove gray with a touch of metallic.
- Mix in heirloom textures like cut crystal, antique silver, or hand-tatted lace.
Equestrian Centerpiece Picks:
- Gold Horseshoe – A graceful nod to Derby tradition.
- Pink Floral Arrangement – Lush, pastel, and ready to use.
- Silver Trophy Vase – An elegant anchor for any centerpiece.
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9. Delightful Games to Keep Guests Engaged
Even the most elegant gathering benefits from a bit of light-hearted fun—especially when hats and horses are involved.
Since this is my first Kentucky Derby season here in the U.S., I’ve been fascinated by how seamlessly the festivities blend glamour with good humor.
And while I’m still soaking in all the traditions, one thing is clear: adding a few themed games can really bring an afternoon tea to life.
A great starting point is something simple and clever like “Name That Horse,” where guests match famous racehorses to quirky clues or fun facts. It gets everyone talking and works well for mixed age groups.
Another easy crowd-pleaser is a “Best Hat” contest. Invite guests to vote on the most elegant, the most creative, or even the most over-the-top fascinator. You can display the winners’ names with tiny rosettes at each place setting or send them home with a sweet little prize.
And for something a bit cheeky? “Pin the Tail on the Thoroughbred” (designed in a vintage paper style) adds a dash of silliness to balance the sophistication. These moments are fun, quick to set up, and offer a break between sipping and snacking.
It’s not just about the games—it’s the memories they help create!
Game Station Must-Haves:
- Game Cards – Stylish designs that complement your tablescape
- Chalkboard Sign for Voting Booth – Adds a rustic, photo-friendly touch
- Mini Gift Bags for Prizes – Perfect for wrapping up the fun with charm
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10. Create a Beautiful Photo Backdrop for Keepsake Moments
After curating such a charming and well-styled afternoon, why not give your guests the perfect place to capture it all?
A thoughtfully designed photo backdrop does more than just offer a cute picture—it helps preserve the joy and whimsy of the day long after the last teacup is cleared.
As someone who’s still adjusting to life in the States, I find there’s something so endearing about how Americans go all-in on themed parties.
So combining that with British garden-party elegance felt like the perfect opportunity for a memorable photo moment!
Start by choosing a simple location—perhaps a garden gate, a trellis, or a blank wall—and dress it up with cascading floral garlands, faux ivy, and soft sheer curtains.
Layer in parasols, teacups, silk ribbons, and gilded horse silhouettes for a romantic, equestrian touch.
I love the idea of a lace-draped table nearby, holding a few playful signs like “Talk Derby to Me” or “Spill the Tea!”—they give guests a reason to laugh and pose.
You don’t need a professional photographer. Just set out a sturdy tripod with a Bluetooth remote or selfie stick, and let guests take turns snapping candid shots.
It’s casual, it’s fun, and it ensures that everyone leaves with at least one lovely photo to remember the day by!
Kentucky Derby Photo Area Props & Decor:
- Combine a Floral Garland and a Pastel Backdrop Curtain – Soft, lush, and endlessly photogenic.
- Derby & Tea Party Prop Set – Accessories like hats, gloves, and whimsical signs.
- Selfie Tripod with Remote – Keeps shots crisp and effortless, no photographer needed.
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Takeaway
With all the the grandeur of a Royal Ascot tea party combined with the festive flair of the Kentucky Derby it creates an event unlike any other—elegant, playful, and thoroughly unforgettable.
From teapot cocktails and Southern-style scones to fascinators and rosette place cards, every detail of your Equestrian Afternoon Tea can feel rich with charm and creativity.
Whether you’re sipping in a garden, a dining room, or a sunny porch, this unique celebration invites your guests into a world of tradition, whimsy, and hospitality.
So pull out your prettiest teacups, fluff your hat, and raise a glass (or teapot) to a day filled with laughter, elegance, and Derby Day delight!
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Last update on 2025-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
