This past weekend, I did something that I can say, in all honesty, that I never thought I’d do – I went to a polo match!
Every year, Family House holds a charity polo match to raise funds for their services. Family House is an organization here in Pittsburgh (and elsewhere) that provides a “home away from home” for people and families who are in the city for medical treatment. I’ve never needed to use Family House, but as someone who has definitely dealt with my share of medical issues, I know how important organizations like Family House are!
This year’s match was hosted by one of my friends Natalie Bencivenga – when she invited me to join her, it was an easy yes. How could I pass up an opportunity like this?! I was super excited, but also curious – I have only seen polo in movies, TV shows, and in coverage of the royal family! So I really had no idea what to expect. It ended up being such a fun afternoon!
First of all, to answer the most popular question I’ve gotten when I told people where I was going – yes, they did actually play polo! I still do not know any of the rules (… or who won), but it was super cool to watch them play. The amount of coordination that it must require to hit a ball while also riding on a horse is mind-blowing to me! They also did open the field at half-time for the traditional “stomping of the divots.” I didn’t actually stomp, obviously, but I did join the rest of the crowd on the field.
And if you were attending more for the atmosphere than the actual polo? They totally had you covered. It’s held at Hartwood Acres, and the grassy space is huge! You can bring your own food/drinks (some of the setups were elaborate, I was so impressed!) or buy them from the food trucks they had on-site. They had silent auction items, and little booths from local businesses selling different things. Plus, the hounds from Sewickley were there – they ran around the field at half-time and were hanging out at their booth the rest of the time (I was obsessed). It was the most beautiful day, too, which just made it all the better. I had to leave a bit early, but there was a post-game concert, too.
Now, for the most important part of all of this – what does one wear to a polo match?! It will not surprise you at all that I wore a Nap Dress! But honestly, is there anything more perfect that a trellis-print dress for polo? I don’t think so! I also went with my go-to straw hat, and my new favorite flats from Sarah Flint. They even had a photo station set up to capture everyone’s looks.
(Don’t forget – you can use SARAHFLINT-BAHEATHERREPORT for $50 off your first pair.)
It was such a fun day, and a great way to enjoy one of the last Saturdays that still felt like summer. I’m definitely hoping to be able to go again next year!
