The thrill of watching top riders from around the world tackle a four-star course is second only to the thrill of maxing out your husband’s Visa card at the Rolex Trade Fair. Our report from this year’s Fair:
The best way to kick off a shopping spree you can’t afford is a stiff drink. Bloody Marys and mimosas are always a classy breakfast choice, and other 2012 Featured Rolex Beverages are The Man O’War (“a refreshing spring cocktail featuring Jim Beam bourbon, lemonade and muddled fresh strawberries and basil”) and The Lily (“a Kentucky tradition, this bright cocktail features Kamchatka vodka, cranberry juice, sweet & sour mix and triple sec”). Yum.
One of the first vendors you pass walking into the Trade Fair is Dubarry. Featuring attractive young people, gorgeous boots and clothing, and complimentary champagne, Dubarry is always a crowd favorite.
A few Lillies in, I stopped by to interview Josh Buchanon about his illustrious career as a smokin’ hot Dubarry rep. Filmography by Devan “corndog in one hand, champagne in the other” Cottrell.
Gersemi brand clothes seemed to be everywhere, except in my own shopping bag (they’re a squeeze on the pricey side). We especially love this show jacket, which is lightweight, water and wind resistant and made of a lovely stretchy material. Available from multiple vendors–this photo was taken in the Bob Mickler’s tent.
Fleeceworks was out in full force debuting its new line of wool pads. Now, you would think that someone would have cut me off after the interview with Josh, but oh no–here I go getting all tipsy Barbara Walters again on Jen, who was representing Fleeceworks in the Bit of Britain tent.
Here’s a group shot of Fleeceworks rider reps Kristi Nunnick, Tamie Smith, Heather Morris and Danny Warrington. They were signing autographs at The Tack Trunk after cross-country.
I tried to put one of these Equine Motorcoaches, which combine “the comfort and amenities of a luxury RV with the accommodations for horse transportation,” on my husband’s credit card. Then I remembered that I don’t have a husband or a credit card.
Here’s something exciting from Wise Equestrian: A raffle for a cross-country saddle that has been blessed by Phillip Dutton’s bum.
Hats by Katie is your #1 source for outrageously beautiful Derby hats. Her hats have been worn by multiple combined driving champions and celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey.
I stopped in to ask her what stylish people will be putting on their heads next weekend.
