View From the Rail - How the Host Keeps it Stylish on Race Day
/Updated September 2020
For those who've enjoyed tailgating along the rail at national horse races or local ones like the My Lady's Manor here in Maryland, the spreads are known as much for their attention to style details as for the racing itself. When the day begins with mimosas, salmon, and home-made blueberry scones, you know there’s a fun day ahead!
Whether it's My Lady's Manor, Preakness Stakes, or the Kentucky Derby, the challenge is how to create a unique and enjoyable setting for guests, with all the beautiful spreads on display? Here are a few simple ideas that can go a long way, based on our two decades of race outings. It's about how to add a creative flair that makes it fun for everyone. We’ve spent many years taking in race days, since our kids were young, and we started by trekking our food and drinks around in backpacks and coolers from the muddy parking areas, all the way up to the grassy hillsides to watch the finish. It didn’t matter if it was the full picnic blanket action, or the big tailgate, the style was part of the planning.
Even in those early years, we were fortunate to be connected with friends who always included special ceramic pieces as part of our decor. (A precursor to the launch of Red & Rugged perhaps?!) There’s no need for formal glassware that all looks the same, and the standard red solo cup won't fly here! You can serve up your best sparkling or Cabernet in a hand-crafted ceramic tumbler that adds a personal touch. One of the best things about ceramics is that no two pieces are alike, each one has a texture and finish to call their own.
Preparing a stylish race day celebration:
If you’re attending the live event, include a basket of binoculars as a thoughtful touch, so all your guests get a close-up view of the finish line.
Offer a variety of ceramic cups, let each person select one at the start of the day. What a fun way to treat your guests and give them a personal gift that lasts. It’s something we look forward to, and you can bet we have all our ceramic cups from years gone by.
The younger generations know cool when they see it… Whether you're 25 years old or 55 years young, cool ceramic tumblers make the selfie.
Small cutting boards are easy to pack, great for serving small bites, and to use for slicing. Perfect for adding to your backpack or the picnic basket, a small cutting board is a handy option to have on race day as different food options are served throughout the day. Slice the bacon and veggies for Bloody Mary’s, followed by the cheese when crackers and breadsticks are served. (Engrave an initial on the boards for a surprise take-home gift to commemorate the day.)
As far as centerpieces go, a ceramic vase filled with a fresh flower bouquet is all you need. Gorgeous! And easy!
As you gear up to enjoy the time-honored traditions of horse race season and the parties that follow, there's no need to be overly formal to host a classy event. Be original, and surprise your guests with things they’ll hold on to, and remember, for years to come.