Brittany Nathanson named her puppy Derby, but her love for the Kentucky horse race doesn’t end there. She is throwing her friend a bridal shower on the day of the Derby in true Derby tradition, complete with hats, roses and Mint Juleps.
Naming her 5-month-old golden retriever puppy Derby follows a tradition for Nathanson, 26, who said her family has always named pets after places where they live. They have had Tucky (for Kentucky); Lexi (for Lexington); Skyline (for the Cincinnati skyline, not the chili); and Hoosier (in recognition of her sister who went to Indiana.)
“Since I live in Louisville, I felt Derby was an appropriate and fun name!”
And this puppy will even make an appearance at the bridal shower that her owner is throwing for her friend Liz Van Sant.
Nathanson was born in Louisville and raised in Cincinnati, where she met Van Sant. Two years ago, she moved back to her hometown—Derby town.
The two have been friends since the 4th grade and Nathanson said that the bride, who lives in Indianapolis now, has always loved the Kentucky Derby.
“We went to elementary school together and became instant friends. We continued to be friends throughout high school and even shared a summer job.”
Since Van Sant loves the Derby, Nathanson said the bridesmaids decided on a full Derby theme for the shower and sent out Derby invitations.
“We wanted to do something fun for the showers instead of traditional themes.”
With nearly 30 guests, the two, along with the other bridesmaids, will all don Derby hats. Van Sant said that her hat is red with two red roses and feathers, as red roses are a common theme for her wedding.
Her guests will also munch on a menu fit for a king at the Derby. And the party will not lack in the bride’s favorite Derby drink.
“We are of course going to have Mint Juleps! Most likely Benedictine spread, maybe hot browns, bourbon balls, chicken finger pies, cucumber sandwiches,” said Nathanson, who said that she has a Bluegrass Winners Cookbook.
The shower would not be complete without placing a few bets and having winners.
“There will be a prize for the best hat. [And] we are going to have bets for the race,” said the bridesmaid.
While the shower may highlight Louisville and its famous horse race, the Cincinnati bride has decided that her colors and wedding theme will be all about the Queen City.
The bride’s red and white wedding is June 27 in Louisville. Van Sant had a friend designed a logo for her of the Cincinnati skyline with two red roses, which she will be using on her wedding invitations, cake and labels.
