Silver mint julep cups are classic and simple accents that can give any home a little more Southern charm. According to Kentucky’s Derby Museum, the mint julep became Churchill Downs’ signature drink in 1938 when they started serving juleps in souvenir glasses for 75 cents apiece. Seventy years later julep cups will cost you anywhere from $6 to $30, to even hundreds of dollars for unique or antique silver varieties. You can pick them up for a number of places including online vendors like Save on Crafts or bigger box retailers such as Pottery Barn. If you’re like me and prefer to buy yours from a truly Southern shop, try the Historic Charleston Foundation where all profits go towards historic preservation of the Holy City.

Photo: Pottery Barn

Whether you need a beautiful vase for the dinner table, a small arrangement to welcome overnight guests, or something a little classier for your candle or even your toothbrush – julep cups will exceed your design expectations.

Photo: A Country Farm House

And if these photos only make you thirsty, you can always stick with the intended purpose. Enjoy!

Classic Mint Julep:

• Boil equal parts of water and sugar in a small saucepan for 3-4 minutes until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add a dozen fresh mint leaves. Let cool completely, storing in the refrigerator overnight.
• Place a couple more fresh mint leaves and a tablespoon of mint syrup in each chilled julep cup. Gently press the leaves to open up flavors, but do not fully muddle.
• Fill cup with crushed ice and pour an ounce of bourbon over the ice.
• Add a straw and serve COLD.

Photo: The Seattle Times

Guest Blogger: Amy writes an adorable and funny blog with her husband called Triangle Honeymoon. You can read her blog here: www.trianglehoneymoon.com

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