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In addition to our incredible auction, Unbridled Eve is proud to offer two exclusive raffles that deliver unforgettable experiences while supporting an amazing cause. 

The first raffle features a truly breathtaking prize: an 18K yellow gold, marquise diamond ring valued at $21,000. This stunning, handcrafted Verragio design includes a 5.57-carat center diamond with exceptional detail and brilliance, making it a one-of-a-kind piece for someone special. The Genesis Diamonds Raffle will be drawn at the Genesis Diamonds gallery on May 18th. 

Our second raffle offers one of the most sought-after experiences in Louisville: a private luxury suite for Thunder Over Louisville 2027. The winner will enjoy an incredible evening with up to 35 guests, complete with catering, VIP access, and one of the best views of the city’s iconic fireworks show. The Thunder Over Louisville raffle will be drawn on June 30th. 

Each raffle is limited to just 250 tickets at $100 each, giving participants excellent odds at winning a truly extraordinary prize. Whether you are drawn to timeless luxury or an unforgettable shared experience, these raffles offer something special for everyone. 

Best of all, every ticket purchased helps support the mission of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation. 

Unbridled Eve is known for delivering truly exceptional auctions, and this year is no different. One of the highlights of our live auction is a custom-designed guitar paired with a private lesson from Richie Sambora himself, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any music fan. Another surprise live auction item will be revealed the night of the event. 

Our silent auction is packed with incredible offerings, including exclusive experiences, luxury goods, and plenty of bourbon for enthusiasts. Highlights include a VIP Baltimore Ravens game day package featuring suite tickets, sideline access, airfare, and a hotel stay, as well as the chance to own a full private barrel of bourbon, complete with a custom label and over 180 bottles to enjoy or share. 

For those looking for something truly unique, you’ll also find a handcrafted Bridleberry saddle made from Italian leather, and a fun, hands-on culinary experience with Big Nita’s Cheesecakes, where you can step into the kitchen and create your own signature dessert. 

Whether you are looking to support an amazing cause or take home something unforgettable, the Unbridled Eve Auction offers the perfect opportunity to do both. 

Explore the full auction here: 
www.unbridledeve.com/2026auction 

The 13th annual Unbridled Eve Derby Gala is set to light up Derby weekend on May 1 at the Galt House Hotel, bringing together an unforgettable mix of world-class entertainment, celebrity guests, and Kentucky hospitality. 

This year’s musical lineup spans generations and genres, featuring legendary artists like Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi), Phillip Phillips (American Idol winner), Sugarhill Gang, and Lorrie Morgan, alongside high-energy performances from The Crashers and a special All-Star Jam collaboration. 

The red carpet will be just as impressive, with appearances from stars including Anthony Ramos, Gina Torres, Melissa Joan Hart, Danica McKellar, and Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan, as well as athletes, media personalities, and notable Kentucky figures. 

Guests will also enjoy the event’s renowned silent auction and exclusive raffles, featuring luxury experiences, custom jewelry, and once-in-a-lifetime prizes-all supporting the Unbridled Charitable Foundation and its mission to give back, with multiple charities supporting child and animal welfare benefitting.  

Blending Derby tradition with global appeal, Unbridled Eve continues to be one of the most anticipated events of the season- where entertainment, philanthropy, and celebration come together for one extraordinary night. 

The Unbridled model for assisting our beneficiaries has never been about a simple monetary transaction. Since our founding, we’ve focused on leveraging the energy, brand, and global spotlight of the Kentucky Derby to create enduring connections between our beneficiaries, donors, and like-minded individuals. It’s a strategy built on relationships, storytelling, and shared values-and it works. 

Our founding primary beneficiary, Blessings in a Backpack, has received more than $5 million over the years through introductions and connections made at our events. More than 45 other charitable organizations have benefited from this model, helping to create a ripple effect of generosity that extends far beyond Derby weekend. 

What’s New for 2027 

While the essence of our model remains unchanged, we’re taking a significant step forward in how we engage our charitable partners. In past years, selected charities were often notified shortly before the event and only had the benefit of Unbridled Eve. For 2027, we are implementing a more methodical and collaborative process to deepen these partnerships that will span across multiple Unbridled events from August of  2026 through August of 2027.  As we expand the Unbridled ecosystem with more events and more experiences, our beneficiaries will benefit by participating in this journey with us.   

Our application process is officially open for 2027 and will remain open through July 1st, 2026.  Applicants must have the support of an Unbridled Planning Committee Member and must have a representative that can participate on the Auction and Business Development Committee.   For the first time we will be taking applications online. 

This shift allows us to offer: 

• Greater visibility and engagement opportunities leading up to the event 

• More collaborative planning between UCF and beneficiaries 

• Earlier access to sponsors, donors, and promotional assets 

 What We Look For in a Beneficiary 

We seek partners who align with our mission and can thrive in the unique Unbridled model. Ideal applicants will demonstrate: 

• A strong mission that resonates with our donor base 

• The ability to engage volunteers, attract sponsors, and sell event tickets 

• A history of impact and transparency 

• Creativity and capacity to amplify UCF’s brand through storytelling, auction item procurement, and celebrity engagement 

Why Apply? 

Becoming a UCF beneficiary means more than being highlighted at a world-class gala. It means: 

• Direct access to high-net-worth individuals 

• National and regional press coverage 

• Exposure at multiple events including the Derby Prelude Party and other Unbridled events.  

 Next Steps 

Nonprofits interested in becoming a 2027 beneficiary must submit a completed application at Beneficiary Form – Unbridled Eve Derby Gala with the support of an Unbridled Planning Committee Member. 

Let’s continue building a legacy of generosity, celebration, and Unbridled impact– together. 

We are thrilled to introduce one of our newest partners at Unbridled- Bridleberry Leather Tack Company, a brand where craftsmanship, tradition, and passion come together in every stitch. 

Rooted deeply in equestrian heritage, Bridleberry has built a reputation for producing exceptionally high-quality tack. From beautifully crafted saddles to precision-designed bridles, browbands, reins, and accessories, every piece reflects a commitment to both performance and elegance. Their work isn’t just functional, it enhances the connection between rider and horse. 

While their equestrian craftsmanship alone makes them a natural fit for Unbridled, what makes this partnership even more exciting is Bridleberry’s expansion into luxury goods, particularly their stunning line of high-end purses. 

As part of this partnership, Bridleberry is generously contributing over a dozen luxury purses, along with a saddle, to the Unbridled silent auction. In addition, their purses will be featured as exclusive gifts for our celebrities and entertainers, bringing their craftsmanship to an entirely new audience. 

But the most exciting part of this collaboration is what lies ahead. 

Looking toward 2027, Bridleberry and Unbridled are partnering to develop an exclusive co-branded Unbridled purse, a one-of-a-kind piece that will only be available through Unbridled. This collaboration will blend Bridleberry’s artisan quality with the spirit and mission of Unbridled, and we cannot wait to share it with you. 

Like many great partnerships, this one began with a simple connection. Bridleberry’s representative, Jordan Springer, first reached out to explore a potential collaboration. That conversation led to an introduction between Tammy and David Diamond, Bridleberry’s CEO and owner. It quickly became clear that beyond the products, there was a deeper alignment—David’s passion for making a difference mirrors the mission at the heart of Unbridled. 

You’ll be hearing much more about Bridleberry in the months ahead. 

Their philosophy, combining tradition, innovation, and purpose, aligns beautifully with everything we are building at Unbridled. We are proud to partner with a company that not only delivers exceptional craftsmanship but also shares our vision for impact. 

Welcome to the Unbridled family, Bridleberry. 

Greg Terada (or GT, as we know him) knew from an early age that he wanted to work with the famous. His parents, however, thought he meant he wanted to be famous. 

“I had told my parents ever since I was 3 years old…that I wanted to work with the famous, they thought I said I wanted to be famous. Working with the famous was a childhood dream.” 

GT wasn’t chasing fame, he was fascinated by the path and process these individuals took to obtain stardom. 

He grew up in St. Louis with a father who was an aerospace director with McDonnell Douglas/Boeing and a mother who had her own accounting practice . With parents from such strong academic backgrounds, they hoped their son would pursue something practical and professional. Their plan for him was simple: become a dentist or a surgeon. 

But GT knew that wasn’t his path, or his passion. 

After graduating from school, he took a job as a marketing representative with Bristol Myers. Even then, he knew it was only a temporary stop along the way. 

Early on he told his boss: 

“You need to fire me after one year and then I’m going to go full-time into producing/putting on these events and I’m going to go work with the most famous people in the world.” 

He ended up staying two years. 

GT’s career has been defined by relentless hustle. One of his favorite stories involves tracking down actor Michael J. Fox in order to secure him for a big charity gala . It wasn’t easy. GT spent 5 days hunting him down at the National Convention in Philadelphia, eventually convincing a police officer guarding the backdoor of a fashion boutique to let him slip into an event where he would have just a few minutes to make his case. 

He got the meeting. 

The result? The event ended up raising $5.5 million. 

That persistence has helped GT build a career connecting world-class talent with extraordinary events. 

It also led him to play a key role, as executive producer, in helping establish one of the most remarkable charitable galas in the world: Muhammad Ali Celebrity Fight Night, whose international reputation places it among the most successful fundraising events ever created, $128,000,000 raised for Parkinson and Neurological Research. 

When Tammy and Tonya were imagining what Unbridled could be, they commented that they hoped it could be as impactful as Muhammad Ali Fight Night.  What they didn’t know at the time was that one day we would be working with someone who helped build it. 

Over the years, GT has worked with an astonishing list of talent including Michael Jackson, Elton John, Lionel Richie, Beyoncé, David Foster, Celine Dion, Alicia Keys, Sting, Mariah Carey, Garth Brooks, Journey, Snoop Dogg,  Maroon Five, Stevie Wonder, and so many more. 

Today we are tremendously blessed to have GT as part of the Unbridled family. He has helped us secure incredible talent while sharing our belief that celebrity and entertainment can be powerful forces for good. 

So when you experience the incredible energy, music, and magic at an Unbridled event, remember something: 

One of the people behind the scenes is someone who has spent a lifetime bringing unforgettable talent to the world’s greatest stages. 

The biggest name in entertainment you’ve never heard of—until now. 

Ryan Harrell met Tammy York during an amazing (and stressful) time in their lives: the Duke Fuqua Global MBA program. Like many great relationships forged under pressure, theirs was built on shared ambition, long hours, and a commitment to pushing beyond what seemed possible. 

What became clear early on was that Ryan wasn’t just another talented finance professional, he was someone who could bring clarity to complexity, strategy to uncertainty, and calm to chaos. 

Today, Ryan serves as a Senior Managing Director at Huntington National Bank, where he leads in the world of fund finance and institutional banking. His career spans some of the most respected names in finance, including J.P. Morgan, SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, and Brink’s Inc., where he played a key role in developing global fintech strategies and advising executive leadership at the highest levels. 

But titles only tell part of the story. 

Ryan has built his career on relationships. Whether advising on mergers and acquisitions, structuring capital markets solutions, or guiding corporate strategy, his approach is rooted in trust, insight, and long-term partnership. He has a rare ability to see both the big picture and the fine details, understanding not just where an organization is today, but where it has the potential to go. 

At Unbridled, that perspective is invaluable. 

As a board member, Ryan brings deep financial expertise and strategic discipline, helping guide the organization as it continues to grow and expand its impact. His experience across corporate finance, investment banking, and global markets provides a strong foundation for thoughtful decision-making and sustainable growth. 

But just as important is who Ryan is beyond the boardroom. 

He is known for his energy, his integrity, and his ability to connect with people. Whether he’s working with senior executives or mentoring team members, Ryan leads with a service-oriented mindset, always focused on creating value for others. 

That alignment with Unbridled’s mission is no coincidence. 

Ryan understands that the most meaningful work happens at the intersection of strategy and purpose. And in a world that often prioritizes speed over substance, he brings a steady, thoughtful presence that helps ensure Unbridled stays true to both. 

We are honored to have Ryan Harrell as part of the Unbridled family- and excited for the continued impact we will make together. 

We are thrilled to announce that Nikki Grizzle has joined the Unbridled team as our new Chief Relationship Officer. 

Many of you already know Nikki—because, in many ways, she’s been part of Unbridled from the very beginning. 

But to understand why this is such an important addition, you have to understand Nikki’s journey. 

Nikki was one of the earliest team members at Blessings in a Backpack, joining at a time when the organization was still building its foundation. Over the next 14 years, she didn’t just grow with the organization—she helped shape it. Rising through the ranks to become Chief Marketing Officer, Nikki played a central role in transforming Blessings into a nationally recognized brand, building partnerships with companies like KFC, Red Robin, and Unilever, and helping amplify a mission that now feeds children across the country every weekend. 

At her core, Nikki is a storyteller—but not just with words. She tells stories through partnerships, through campaigns, and through the way she connects people to purpose. Her work has reached audiences through outlets like CNN, People Magazine, and ESPN, but more importantly, it has translated into real impact for the communities she serves. 

Now, she brings that same energy, experience, and vision to Unbridled. 

As Chief Relationship Officer, Nikki will play a critical leadership role in shaping and executing Unbridled’s strategic plan—building and stewarding relationships with clients, sponsors, nonprofit partners, and community leaders, while helping translate big ideas into meaningful, measurable outcomes. 

She will work closely with our leadership team not only to define where we are going, but to ensure we get there. 

Tammy has coined a new saying here at Unbridled. You’ve heard “the devil is in the details.” 

Tammy says, “God is in the strategy.” 

And Nikki? Nikki will be working with both. 

She brings the rare ability to operate at 30,000 feet—seeing the vision, the partnerships, the possibilities—while also getting deep into the details that actually make things happen. Strategy and execution. Vision and follow-through. 

That combination is exactly what Unbridled needs in this next chapter. 

And we couldn’t be more excited to have her on the team. 

Unbridled is excited to announce an important step forward in how we serve our guests, donors, and sponsors. We are transitioning from our current auction and ticketing system, OneCause/BidPal, to GiveSmart, a more modern and intuitive platform that will make every part of the Unbridled experience easier, faster, and more personal. 

This change is about people, not just technology. With GiveSmart, guests will enjoy seamless mobile bidding, quick and easy check-in and check-out, and real-time updates on auction items and donations. Donors and sponsors will have clearer visibility into their impact and a more personalized experience from registration to thank-you messages. 

Key improvements include: 
• Streamlined Event Access – Faster check-in, barcode scanning, and digital tickets. 
• Mobile Bidding and Giving – Easy-to-use tools for guests at the event or joining from afar. 
• Unified Guest Profiles – One record that connects ticketing, bidding, and donations. 
• Custom Branding and Messaging – Every touchpoint reflects the Unbridled experience. 

Our team is working closely with GiveSmart to ensure a smooth transition ahead of the 2026 event season. Training, tutorials, and support will be shared before the rollout, so every guest and partner can enjoy the benefits from day one. 

This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and exceptional hospitality. As Unbridled grows, our goal remains the same—to make every experience effortless, meaningful, and truly unforgettable. 

As Kentuckians, we pride ourselves on tradition: derby parties, bourbon and a business community that lives by its word. When someone steps up to do more than their share, you take notice. Kelley Bright, who runs Mercer’s Kentucky & Tennessee Practice and keeps Unbridled’s celebrity, hospitality, and security operation humming, is one of those people. 

A Career built on People and Results 

Kelley isn’t just a local executive; she is the person Mercer trusts to steer their Kentucky and Tennessee operations. In 2019 she was appointed the Kentucky office leader for K Mercer, a global HR consulting firm, after a 17-year career at EY. She works closely with a team of five hundred professionals locally to develop consulting talent, manage key client relationships and drive the firm’s presence across Kentuckiana. With nearly 30 years of experience in professional consulting and a stint leading business development at EY, she understands both the numbers and the people. 

Kelley’s approach to leadership is simple: profit and compassion can coexist. In a  Business First interview she talked about wanting Mercer to be “known for making a difference in people’s lives”. She believes you can run a profitable business and still build a culture that attracts and retains people. She applies that philosophy to the work of empowering women: as executive sponsor for Mercer’s Empowering Women Together group, she pushes for concrete resources, not just slogans. 

From Consulting to the Gala 

Kelley has co-chaired the charity committee and has been woven into the fabric of Unbridled from the days of the Mint Jubilee and Julep Ball. From meeting VIPs and celebrities at the airport to arranging their transportation, handing them their Derby tickets, and troubleshooting when they can’t figure out how to download their electronic passes! She arranges their complete itineraries, answers odd questions, and always finds a way to make each guest feel welcome. Behind the scenes she sources items for the silent auction and makes sure every detail reflects the generous Unbridled spirit. 
 
She joined the charity committee at the start and worked alongside Tonya York and Tammy York Day as the celebration grew into the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala. For Kelley, the Derby is not just a party. It is a chance to share Louisville’s story while raising money for causes that matter to our community. During Derby week you can find her camped out at Tonya’s house to keep an eye on last minute details. The Derby, she says, celebrates Louisville and builds connections that last beyond race day.  

Some Behind the Scenes Stories… 

Kelley doesn’t shy away from sharing the messy side of volunteerism. She recounted the time actor Quinton Aaron, the actor who played football player Michael Oher in The Blind Side, accepted an invitation to visit the paddock at Churchill Downs. A horse owner whisked him away, and he forgot to tell anyone. “Derby’s over and there’s still no Quinton!” Nobody knows where he is and apparently, he’s not a small guy to lose! Panic spread among the event staff. Hours later he casually returned to the hotel; his phone had died, so he just hitched a ride back with the trainer. It’s a core memory for Kelley since she quotes “he’s the one guy you never should lose because he’s bigger than everybody else!”  
 
There are lighter moments, too. Celebrity riders specify candies, drinks, and even towel colors for their green rooms. She is certainly busy making sure the real work gets done! Definitely a reminder that improvisation is part of the backstage routine. 

Why Unbridled Matters 

Kelley insists that Unbridled Eve Derby Gala isn’t just a party. The gala raises money for charities like Blessings in a Backpack and Norton Children’s Hospital, but it also shows Louisville at its most generous. When you see celebrities dancing next to local volunteers and kids affected by the programs, the abstract idea of charity becomes human. That is why she pushes readers of Unbridled Times to look past the red carpet. “We’re not there to network; we’re there to make a difference,” she says. 

Life beyond the Derby 

Outside of work and charity, Kelley still finds time to live. She sits on the board of Kentucky Red Cross and Women Influencing Louisville. She’s very proud of her two audlt children, loves  her two dogs, and will celebrate 30 years of marriage with her husband, Greg, next July. She just welcomed her granddaughter, Koko, in July and will spend early November in Hawaii for her son’s wedding celebration.  

Our gala simply would not be the same without Kelley. She is a dedicated professional, a devoted wife and mother. We are thankful for the hours she has given; the calm she brings to chaos and the humor she shares with our team.  

Awards and Recognition: 

Kelley was one of Business First Forty Under Forty and recognized for founding the Women Influencing Louisville’s Fall conference, which just celebrated its 12^th year.  She’s been honored at Mercer through their Sage Awards program which recognizes the top performers in the firm. 

You can also check out Kelley at one of her many speaking engagements.  Versed on many HR topics, Kelley is a frequent speaker for the Society for Humana Resources (SHRM) and the KY Chamber of Commerce.