5 New Uses For Julep Cups (PHOTOS)

LOOK: 5 New Uses For Julep Cups

After a painfully cold winter and bumpy start to spring, it's finally time to break out the oversized hats, place your bets and pour some mint juleps for none other than the Kentucky Derby. But no matter how prepared you think you might be for the "140th renewal of The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports," you're never really ready until you break out the julep cups. With a history that stretches back hundreds of years and a versatility that crosses multiple rooms in the house, these glasses have proven to be as American as they are practical.

Here are some innovative ways to use your julep cups long after the last horse crosses the finish line:

1. Desk Organizer
As nice as generic office supply catch-alls and pencil holders are, julep cups are a fabulous way to store your writing utensils while adding a metallic touch to your desk.

julep 1

2. Flower Vase
The only thing better than beautiful blooms is beautiful blooms in a beautiful container. Skip the standard glass container and go with julep glasses for a touch of added character and sheen.

3. Bathroom Organizer
From makeup brushes to toothbrushes, your bathroom will be a little bit more organized and a lot more chic by opting for derby drinkware over that painfully coordinated bathroom set.

4. Candle Votive
Instead of spending money on separate containers for your candles, just pop a couple tealights in a couple of cups for a soft, silvery glow.

julep 2

5. And Of Course, For Mint Juleps!
It's logical, traditional and just plain classy. And what better way to learn to whip one up than from master mixologist, renowned bartender and James Beard Award winner for wine and spirits, Dale "King Cocktail" DeGroff. Check out the video below and then head over to Bulleit for more recipe ideas.

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