Derby Day Watch Party Was on Track at Rosalie Restaurant in Wayne, PA
Saddle, equestrian helmet, award ribbons and flowers comprise a representative Kentucky Derby display.
His body is a paradox of mass and lightness, crafted to slip through air with the ease of an arrow. His mind is impressed with a single command: run. He pursues speed with superlative courage, pushing beyond defeat, beyond exhaustion, sometimes beyond the structural limits of bone and sinew. In flight, he is nature’s ultimate wedding of form and purpose. — Laura Hillenbrand
Story, photos by Sharon Kozden
While I would never consider myself an equestrian—not by a long shot (pun!)—I have spent time horseback riding throughout the years. Not too often but off and on since my inaugural trot on Patty Nelson’s horse in the seventh grade. Mostly, during summer vacations at Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mountains in areas where riding stables were plentiful, I’d feel a desire to saddle up. It always seemed like de rigueur vacay activity.
Years later, I tried to incorporate riding into a more seasonal habit (not another pun!), mostly to keep familiar the exhilarating feeling of fast trotting through nature while astride such magnificent creatures. But it’s been a long time—too long, really; it’s time to get back in that saddle. In the years when I wasn’t riding, Kentucky Derby fetes—some really memorable ones—substitute-fit the horsey-girl bill.
On May 4th, I was graciously invited to Maker’s Mark and Rosalie Wayne‘s Third Annual Derby Day. It was a fabulous outing! Guests mingled on the historic Wayne Hotel‘s porch, which was arranged in grand fashion. They enjoyed Rosalie’s delicious, stationed foodstuffs and savory passed bites, sipped Kentucky Derby-themed cocktails such as Derby-synonymous Mint Juleps, watched race events on a large-screen TV, displayed stylish Derby attire, competed in a Best Dressed contests (Woman, Man and Couple) and were entertained by a musical duo.
The $100 per person admission ticket for the 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. event included two cocktails and access to said epicurean delights of passed- and stationed hors d’oeuvres. Maker’s Mark upped the fun factor by providing a comprehensive swag set that included fans, bow ties, straw hats for the gents, red fascinators for the ladies and silky pocket hankies.
Jen Su emceed the event and was, in a word, terrific! As always, she exuded poise, confidence and rocked her inimitable style, wearing a massive red rose flower atop her head and a gorgeous red number with draped waves of material that cascaded into a scalloped train. Emcee energy emanated in both form and function. Well done. The Best Dressed contest judges also were exceptional, attentive and thoughtful in their collective consideration and award-bestowing. Kudos to All.
The most exciting two minutes in sports may have happened live in Louisville, KY; however, the Watch Party that was Derby Day at Rosalie had me back on the horse (interest-wise, that is). It triggered (wait: isn’t Trigger a famous horse name?) more horsey-girl memories, and I’ve even begun to checkout Devon Horse Show‘s 2024 Calendar of Events, namely Ladies Hat Day. Provided I’m able to attend, I just may reconnect with many of the same ladies from the Rosalie party.
In wrapping this equine article, I’m reminded of horse veterinarian and author Peter Gray, who has published ten books on the “nurturing, care and physiology and psychology” of horses. Gray wrote, “We have almost forgotten how strange a thing it is that so huge and powerful and intelligent an animal as the horse should allow another, and far more feeble animal, to ride upon its back.” Such a humbling statement, and one could do worse that to be consistently and frequently humbled these days.
For more information about Rosalie and to peruse their menu, visit rosaliewayne.com
Cute ombre fan from the Maker’s Mark Derby Day swag collection unfolded at the themed cocktails’ menu display that married Derby Day and Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
First, second and third place ribbonry was strung near a plaque honoring Wayne Hotel’s placement in the National Register of Historic Places.
The hotel’s front porch served as party central, accommodating guests, musical entertainment, food stations and a bar area. A large screen TV captured equestrian action, and Kentucky Derby-centric decor upped the festive factor.
From Left, Jacqui Ebbert, Karen Ebbert, Jennifer Lynn Robinson and Kathleen Kenneally posed prettily.
Kathleen Kenneally modeled one show-stopping look from hat-to-toe.
Writer Sharon Kozden kept her eyes peeled in teal.
Maker’s Mark and Rosalie at the Wayne Hotel proudly sponsored 2024’s Derby Day. The bourbon whisky is produced in Loretto, Kentucky.
Blending successive days of May 4th and 5th yields the clever Cinco de Derby fete. The Maker’s Mark themed cocktail menu included the Kentucky Derby’s signature Mint Julep and Kentucky Sweet Tea.
This mixologist was one busy guy with a whole lotta shaken-not-stirred going on. The bright red melted wax and square-shaped bottle are Maker’s Mark, well, marks.
The Mint Julep is a simple cocktail made with bourbon, sugar or syrup, cracked or shaved ice and a fresh mint sprig garnish. Easy-peasy. Classic, refreshing and a Derby staple whether you’re at Churchill Downs or a watch party.
The classic Margarita has been my go-to cocktail for as long as I can remember.
A stunning horse-themed arrangement was picture-perfect and photo-worthy.
Scrumptious seafood-stuffs and more beckoned.
This gorgeous Margherita pizza was as mouth-wateringly tasty as it appears here.
This Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl made the epicurean grade; it’s healthful, light and a breeze to make. Rosalie’s version was superb!
Fresh and bountiful boiled shrimp, expertly seasoned, satisfied my crustacean craving.
Passed bites included this gloriously exquisite appetizer. A second serving was a given.
I did not try this dish. My loss, as it looks scrumptious and flavorful.
Yum! Oysters on the half shell positively send me. I suck ’em back sans “sea sauce,” as I refer to cocktail sauce, and always hope to find that as-yet elusive pearl.
A bowl of crunchy, bite-sized crudites chockful of nutrients and vitamins is a great way to eat lean and clean at events. Jusf be mindful of the amount of added dressing, which can significantly up the calorie count. I like to drizzle-dip mine.
Karla Davis fascinated in a mint-green dress and a pretty tulle fascinator. Her bag’s color put me in mind for some mint chocolate-chip ice cream.
From Left, Director of Public Relations Fearless Restaurants Jaimi Blackburn posed with writer Sharon Kozden.
Arlene Worthy rocked her decidedly chic energetic red getup.
Ryan Lynn’s double-breasted seersucker suit, cowboy hat and snakeskin boots made for some superbly stylish Derby Day attire.
From Left, Evie Romanova and Corry Hunt struck respectively monochromatic and colorful poses.
From Left, Eda Petuqi, Kathleen Kenneally and Evie Romanova were captured in fine, freshie form during a festive and light-hearted moment.
This foursome enjoyed the scene from one of the best tables in the house–nearby was the evening’s entertainment, a large-screened TV for event watching as well as the emcee’s staging area.
Herewith, the true glory of Kathleen Kenneally’s fine, fluffy-feathered KY Derby Hat as viewed on an angle and from behind, while Evie Romanova’s from-behind look stunningly showed off an elegant updo.
Live entertainment enlivened an already lively event.
From Left, a dapper straw-hatted gentleman and Evanne Kowalski enjoyed spirits and fine foodstuffs.
From Left, Derby Day Emcee Jen Su (fabulous in red and with a red rose of sizeable import) and Sharon Kozden tried not to butt hats as they met up and caught up.
From Left, lovely ladies Jaimi Blackburn and Jennifer Lynn Robinson dressed to impress and looked stylish, posh and elegant.
From Left, Eda Petuqi lifted some leg for judges and onlookers during the Best Dressed Ladies contest, while Karen Ebbert enjoyed the moment.
From Left, an elated Phuong Mho joined Best Dressed Ladies winner Corry Hunt after her win. Corry’s posing and posturing for the judges was confident and charming; she most definitely stole the show.
From Left, Robby Kedra and Gina Lizzo complimented one another in both smiles and styles.
From Left, Michelle and John Frisco dazzled as Best Dressed Couple.
Of the three big hats I own, this sweet number was purchased back in the day during an Atlantic City excursion with my mom. Those trips were Everything; I just didn’t know it then. Miss you, Mom.
Tillie Rose Kozden is thrilled to have her “Mom-mee” back home-sweet-home, sans big hat, no longer primped out. “Don’t ever do that to me again,” screams the Look.
