Get to Know Kelli Delaney, Judge of the Hampton Classic Tabletop Competition

You may know about The Hampton Classic in the context of horses, but have you heard about the tabletop competition that happens on the sidelines? It is a celebration of design in entertaining and Kelli Delaney of KDHamptons is once again the esteemed judge. In this interview, get to know Kelli Delaney.

Tell us more about KDHamptons.com. How did the website come about?

I am the founder and editor of KDHamptons, The Luxury Lifestyle Diary of the Hamptons. Launched in the summer of 2011, KDHamptons focuses on the alluring people, places, beauty, and glamour that comprise the true DNA of the Hamptons. I enjoy giving our readers an authentic taste of everything this exclusive community has to offer: Lifestyle & home features, real estate, coverage of social events & parties, fashion & beauty features, profiles on local icons & artists, and a focus on the farm-to-table culinary scene. With a rapidly growing readership, KDHamptons offers an incomparable insider’s view of this world-class destination on the East End of Long Island.

We are so excited that you'll be judging the Hampton Classic tabletop competition. Tell us more about this competition.

As one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the United States, and a premier destination for horse people, the Hampton Classic is a much-anticipated stop on the summer tour. Now well into its third successful decade, The Hampton Classic Horse Show is in a class all its own, both in the minds of spectators and horse people alike. Each year Hamptons Cottages & Gardens [HC&G] magazine hosts an award winning tabletop design competition at the Grand Prix luncheon under the VIP tent adjacent to the ring. Designers, local business owners, florists, event planners, and legendary Hamptons hostesses take their tabletop very seriously, and commit a great amount of time and expense in creating their dream design.

What do you look for when you're judging?

I look for creative and inspiring design concepts. Which could be presented through a mix of patterns and linens, vintage pieces mixed with a modern twist, incorporating food into the decor, unexpected flower arrangements, and personalized details that reflect the host of the table.

What has been your favorite thing to do this season and why?

My favorite part of summer has been cultivating my gardens, entertaining at home, and cooking delicious farm to table meals for friends and family.

What's your favorite thing to do in the Hamptons when the season dies down?

As I also do in summer, I love to go on the 6 or 10 mile trails at Mashomack Preserve on Shelter Island.

What is the toughest part about judging the competition?

The toughest part about judging the competition is that many of the designers and hostesses are personal friends of mine who all have great taste and style, but unfortunately there are only three ribbons to hand out to winners which leaves a lot of people disappointed. 

Learn more about the Hampton Classic and how you can attend here.