How 3 Cloud Solutions Gave Fortune 500 Executives the Ultimate VIP Derby Experience in Louisville, KY
When 3 Cloud Solutions reached out just a month before the Kentucky Derby, their vision was bold: deliver a three-day, all-inclusive, luxury Derby event for 27 Fortune 500 executives—none of whom had ever experienced the Derby, or even visited Louisville, KY.
With zero familiarity with Derby traditions, local venues, transportation logistics, or premium ticketing, they turned to our expert team at Michaelis Events. What followed was a true showcase of our Destination Management (DMC) capabilities and a reminder of why we’re Louisville’s go-to corporate event planner for high-touch, high-stakes experiences.
A Seamless Start to the Weekend
Our team handled every detail from touchdown to takeoff, beginning with luxury executive transportation from the airport to Louisville Marriott East, a local favorite for upscale comfort and convenience. Upon check-in, each guest received a custom welcome bag filled with handpicked Louisville treats—including Derby-themed cookies and local snacks—designed to give them an immediate taste of the city’s charm.
A Bourbon-Fueled Welcome at Kentucky Peerless Distillery
Friday evening, guests were treated to an exclusive, off-site dinner and bourbon immersion at Kentucky Peerless Distillery, where we coordinated a full venue buyout. Every detail was curated to impress:
Event floral and décor included dramatic red rose centerpieces inspired by Derby tradition
High-end silk linens, gold chiavari chairs, and custom place settings created a luxe, welcoming ambiance
A five-course meal prepared by our in-house culinary team that wowed from start to finish
Menu Highlights:
Passed Hors d’Oeuvres: Compressed Watermelon + Feta Skewers, Bourbon Glazed Chicken on Wonton Chips, Bacon & Collard Green Stuffed Mushrooms
1st Course: Kentucky Bibb Salad with Mandarin Oranges, Pecans, Gorgonzola, and Apple Cider Vinaigrette with Artisan Breads
2nd Course: Demi-Glaced Short Ribs over Parmesan Grits with Tri-Color Long Stem Carrots
3rd Course: Bourbon Glazed Verlasso Salmon over Au Gratin Potatoes and Crispy Brussels Sprouts
4th Course: Handmade Macarons and Chocolate Covered Bourbon Balls
The evening also included a private distillery tour and guided bourbon tastings with a Peerless bourbon ambassador—an authentic Louisville experience that left a lasting impression.
Derby Day: VIP from Dawn to Dusk
Bright and early Saturday morning, guests were whisked away to Churchill Downs for their VIP Derby Day experience. Our team handled all transportation and coordination, ensuring a seamless arrival at the prestigious Homestretch Club, one of the most sought-after spaces at the track.
Here, guests enjoyed:
Exclusive trackside views from a climate-controlled indoor space
Covered outdoor seating
Unlimited food from Churchill Downs’ chef-curated stations
Premium open bar featuring Mint Juleps and Kentucky Lilies
Convenient access to indoor betting windows and private amenities
This experience gave guests a true taste of what makes the Kentucky Derby one of the most unforgettable things to do in Louisville—even for seasoned Fortune 500 executives used to first-class treatment.
Why Michaelis Events?
As a full-service corporate event planner and destination management company, we pride ourselves on delivering more than just events—we create immersive, turn-key experiences that exceed expectations. From hotel sourcing and corporate catering to transportation, entertainment, and event floral and décor, our team ensures every detail is executed to perfection.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning your next high-level retreat, we know how to make Louisville unforgettable.
