Make Your Child's Birthday a Run For the Roses

Kids’ birthday parties don’t have to be synonymous with Chuck E. Cheese. Alicia and Adam Rico, the owners of floral and event-design outfit Bows + Arrows and parents to two kids, fashioned a Kentucky Derby-themed birthday party with the Dallas Arboretum as the setting. “When I throw parties for my kids, I like for there to be a cultural experience,” Alicia says.

Our experts transformed the outdoor space into Churchill Downs for an afternoon of high tea, hat making, and horse racing. But you could easily throw this bash in your backyard with a few picnic blankets, rose and carnation arrangements in mint-julep cups, vintage trophies, and equestrian-themed treats. Think girly but sophisticated decor, details, and atmosphere. For entertainment, kiddos can race stick-horses and design their own Derby hats, an activity that doubles as both a craft and the perfect party favor.

Keep children high on life with plenty of sweet treats. Adam and Alicia commissioned this three-tiered cake, along with all the other confections, from the all-natural and peanut-free bakery Layered Bake Shop.

And kids aren’t the only ones who will enjoy this party. Break out the mint juleps and croquet set for the older crowd. Take that, Mr. Cheese.

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Horsing around is encouraged at a derby party. Provide equestrian-inspired props for a friendly race and help kids decorate hats with bloom-adorned brims.