Going Horse Crazy

With the London Olympics well under way, we thought it would only be appropriate to follow on from our last post about hosting your own Olympics party (check it out here). One of the events we have become enthralled with has been the Equestrian competition. From themed jumps depicting everything from Stonehenge, to a tribute to the Diamond Jubilee, to the clean cut uniforms in Dressage, Royal competitors in Zara Phillips (not to forget the abundance of Royal spectators), and the very summer feel about watching the Cross Country event through the lush Greenwich Park, it has got us into a very horsey mood.
With all things Equestrian on the mind, we have decided to put together a bit of a "How-to" for a horse themed event. This theme is perfect for the upcoming racing season, especially with the Melbourne Cup not too far away, the summer Polo season, or even for a young girls birthday party.

xo
The Apropos Team

Zara Phillips

Decor

While flowers always make an appearance at Equestrian and spring events, why not opt for a bit more foliage in your decorating. These green bouquets evoke a crisp, fresh feeling that tie well into spring.

Decor

Pastels and whites are always seen as being essentially preppy, and preppy always works well with anything horse related (just think, Ralph Lauren). These pastel buntings, decorations, miniature horse cake and fun patterns, bring a child like feel to this event. Perfect for a young girls birthday party, as almost all young girls go through a 'horse-phase' at some point.

Spring

Award ribbons during children's games, and encourage your guests to dress with an Equestrian flair.

We also love these berry and cookie baskets, fresh for spring, with an indulgent side.

Adults Party

We can't let the children have all the fun now, can we?
Here is a drinks table that could easily sit at your Melbourne Cup or Kentucky Derby celebrations.

Fill a glass drink dispenser with your favorite punch so guests can have it on tap in a uniquely elegant way. Champagne is always a must for you to celebrate when your horse comes out victorious. 

Mint Julep

As seen in the above image, these drinks are iconic at events such as the Kentucky Derby in the US. 

To make your own Mint Julep's, follow this simple recipe;

4 fresh mint sprigs

2 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey

1 tsp powdered sugar

2 tsp water

Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a collins glass. Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon. Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig. Serve with a straw.

Carrot Cake

We all know horses love carrots, so why not trade your standard birthday cake for one of these!

Chocolate covered licorice

Fun fact of the day: Most horses love anise! So why not interpret classic horse treats, including the carrot cake above, into your events food. A way of doing this is to include licorice. You could use licorice whips, or make chocolate covered licorice sticks.

Toffee Apples

Other popular treats for horses include apples, or Molasses. So why not make toffee apples! A fun treat for both children and adults that look great on display.

Last but not least, horses love fresh fruits and vegetables, and its also a great way to balance out all the sweet foods above. Why not check out our post on Fruit & Vege Buffets here to include at your event!