Green Thumb

On 25 acres in Washington, D.C. sits the garden paradise envisioned by Marjorie Merriweather Post after purchasing the Arbremont estate in 1955. Working with prominent landscape architects, Post set about mapping out the estate grounds using a diverse array of trees, shrubs, and plants. When Post, an art collector, businesswoman, social figure, and philanthropist, left the estate to the public, she endowed the country with the most comprehensive collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia, an exquisite 18th century French decorative art collection, and acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and natural woodlands. A Garden For All Seasons: Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Hillwood, published in partnership with Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, is the first book on the history and design of these remarkable grounds. © A Garden for All Seasons: Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Hillwood by Kate Markert, Rizzoli New York, 2020. Images ©Erik Kvalsvik. To purchase, visit rizzoliusa.com.

Elevate Everyday Eating

Fans of John Derian, rejoice. The New York artist and homeware designer has translated his love of antique illustrations and curiosities into durable and affordable forms. His studio’s melamine plates, now in stock at the Yankee Peddler, are available in romantic floral patterns and classic blue and white toile. Buy them now for the al fresco meals that await this summer—they are sure to bring charm and style to your everyday dinner table. Available at Yankee Peddler, 30 East Hinsdale Avenue in Hinsdale, 630-325-0085, yankeepeddler.net.

Upgrade Your Kitchen

So you spent a weekend watching HGTV and think you can tackle a DIY kitchen makeover? Not so fast. Before you grab that sledgehammer, visit Normandy Remodeling for some expert advice. Their Hinsdale design studio will host a free kitchen remodeling workshop at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 13. Get the inside scoop on what really happens during a redesign, and have your questions answered as you learn about trends, tips, and tricks to make your kitchen even better than you imagined. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at a local kitchen renovation and learn about the latest must-haves to bring your own kitchen to the next level. For more information visit normandyremodeling.com.

A Day at The Derby

On Saturday, May 2, downtown Louisville, Kentucky will come alive with more than 150,000 people as they make their way to Churchill Downs. The crowds will roar, the horses will race, and a tradition that has been running since 1875 will light up the evening. This year, Burr Ridge Village Center is bringing Churchill Downs to you for the “most exciting two minutes in sports.” For the first time ever, the Kentucky Derby will be celebrated under a luxurious event tent on The Village Green. Mingle with other Derby fans and sip drinks from a full bar; a large-format screen will play live race coverage, allowing you to follow along in real-time. The races aren’t only for the horses—the center is hosting its very own weiner dog race. Cheer on your furry best friend and compete to win prizes from Two Bostons. Fashion plates can also get in on the fun with a hat contest. Dance the evening away with a live bluegrass band. Before and after the race, attendees can enjoy traditional Derby lawn games like croquet and corn hole. Make time to lounge in the event tent, sampling some Derby-themed light bites and drinks. Mint juleps, anyone? The party begins at 3 p.m. and concludes at the end of the race (approximately 6:30 p.m.). Tickets for this event will sell quickly, so reserve now. Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, the date of this event may change. For the most up-to-date information visit shopburrridge.com.