
FASHION | LIFE | DESIGN



















































![]()




















































Ihope you’re as thrilled as I am about the recent weather shift. It felt especially fitting to finish up this November issue when I had to turn on the heat!
G racing our cover is a beautiful setting curated by Martha Claire Breland, the fun and fabulous owner of Judy at the Rink. She put together several tablescapes in Set the Mood that definitely have inspired me to switch up my style this season while hosting! The best part is that each item can be used throughout the year — just switch up your color palette or textures. T his issue also contains great information from Susan Zackin of Z Event Company about leaning into a party theme in Word of Advice and helpful (yet slightly depressing) facts about sugar… something we should all be aware of any time but especially in the season of sweets. Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD offers helpful tips and tricks to keep you on track in Let’s Thrive
A new section we’re excited to introduce is In Good Company, which will focus on businesses and founders in New Orleans. First up is Coco Howe, a mom of two who turned her frustration with children’s shoes into an adorable and practical business. Kits launches this month and will make great gifts for all of the kids in your lives, while being appreciated by their parents!
Currently reading:
The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
Restaurant rec:
When looking into options for a recent double date, I referred to our July issue which highlighted neighborhood recs. Our group loves pizza and decided to visit Nighthawk Napoletana in Algiers Point — it was delicious and we can’t wait to return! Start or end your meal with a beverage from Rice Vice: Part Two, a petite sake and cocktail bar located right next door.
Excited for:
Wicked: For Good, especially after that Dancing with the Stars episode!
Coming up:
Be sure to secure tickets for Eden Centers for Hope and Healing’s annual fall fundraiser. Building Dreams: Ball Gowns and Blue Jeans will take place Wednesday, November 19 and is a fun evening to get dressed up for a cause!




L ook out for our take on the brown trend you’ll be seeing everywhere, fun additions for a bar cart, and thoughtful gifts to bring to a hostess. And in this busy time of year, we hope you’ll take some time for yourself — we’ve rounded up stylish and useful self-care products and loungewear for when you want to take a night off in Cozy Up
B etween the tips, shopping, and inspiration on these pages, we hope you’ll use this issue of The Pearl as a guide before the spirited season officially kicks off.
– Michaela Bechler


MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX
A cozy cafe has recently opened just in time for sweater weather! Nestled inside Octavia Books, Cafe Malou offers breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch in its quaint and intimate space. “I envisioned the restaurant as a space that’s cozy, inviting, and familiar, while also giving you the sense of being somewhere truly special,” shared owner Mani Dawes. “[Logan Killen Interiors] did an incredible job combining custom millwork and lighting with vintage pieces, plus my mother’s beautiful and timeless still life paintings.”
The menu includes a selection of Toasts — like Blackened Avocado and Ricotta & Clementine — as well as sweet pastries from Bellegarde Bakery, a crustless quiche, and more hearty options like Baked Grits a la Carbonara. Grab a bite or sit and sip on coffee, tea, or matcha Wednesday-Sunday between 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stay tuned as the cafe plans to offer service seven days a week beginning in mid-November!
5433 LAUREL STREET
Son of a Saint board member and Isidore Newman School alumna Jen Hayes Lee is returning to New Orleans to celebrate the release of her new children’s book The Golden Hoops . Illustrated by Mokshini, the charming book is a tribute to Jen’s late mother and follows Janey, a young Black girl who receives her first pair of hoop earrings, loses them, and through searching, is connected to a legacy of Black women who have found their power wearing hoops.

Hear from the author during a live reading, listen to a panel discussion, and enjoy a community meal at the Make It Golden event on Thursday, November 20, at The Ochsner Health Son of a Saint Bivian Lee Jr. Center. The first 50 guests to RSVP will receive a free signed copy of The Golden Hoops , a way for Jen to gift the book to young people who may need it most.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle with a relaxing floral experience by Bougie Blooms NOLA . On Thursday, November 13, from 6-8 p.m., attendees will create their own arrangements with seasonal flowers — think shades of fuchsia and purple to orange and yellow — in a light filled studio space. The Holiday Edition Workshop is beginner friendly, and florist Tamara Wyre is ready to assist, inspire creativity, and support the uniqueness in every piece! Tickets are $75 and include all materials with light bites and refreshments. Reserve your spot online at bougiebloomsnola.com.
1150 MAGAZINE STREET 2A


Foodies will be delighted to hear about the upcoming programming at The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC). Presented by Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasoning Blends, the HNOC is hosting its annual Food Forum and Food Fête on Saturday, November 8. The 2025 Food Forum, “Come Pass a Good Time,” will take place during the day at the Williams Research Center (410 Chartres Street) and offers a chance to learn more about hospitality and celebrate Louisiana’s culinary traditions through innovative discussions and book signings. After working up an appetite, the Food Fête will be held from 5-7 p.m. at the museum in the Tricentennial Wing (520 Royal Street). The evening will include an open bar with bites from local chefs, showcasing their unique takes on home cooking. Participating restaurants include El Gato Negro, Napoleon House, Nolita Bakery, Saint John, and Vaucresson’s Creole Café. Those who sign up for the Food Forum will be automatically granted admission to the Food Fête. Perfect for a date night or group activity in the French Quarter, guests can purchase an à la carte ticket to the fête for only $25. HNOC.ORG

Shortly after her mother passed away, Stacy Wellborn was going through her items when she found her mother’s high school charm bracelet. The piece commemorated major milestones as well as memories of travels to France and Mexico. “There was also the silhouette of a male head mysteriously engraved ‘Wayne’ ... which was not my dad’s name! This cherished bracelet inspired me to create something similar that would honor Mom and appeal to women today who want to celebrate their accomplishments but prefer something more sophisticated and modern.”

CELEBRACELETCHAMPAGNE
CHARM BRACELET IN STERLING SILVER ( $2,495 )
After a call to her best friend, journalist and photographer (and The Pearl contributor) Melanie Warner Spencer, the two began working on Maison Mariann Fine Jewelry. Melanie dusted off her diamond certified jeweler certification (acquired through the Diamond Council of America while working at a luxury fine jewelry retailer in the 90s) and a whirlwind eight months followed. Every piece is crafted using responsibly sourced, conflict-free metals melted, alloyed, processed, and made by master jewelers in Louisiana who use Responsible Jewelry Council-certified practices for full traceability.
Stacy describes Maison Mariann as modern jewelry for champagne moments, which is embodied in the brand’s signature Bubble Collection. “A Maison Mariann woman is confident, empowered, enjoying success in her chosen profession, loves to celebrate — most likely with champagne — and wants to commemorate her accomplishments and milestones with a tangible reminder that’s luxurious, beautiful, memorable and high-quality, so she can pass it down to the next generation,” said Melanie.
The two recently launched the e-commerce shop with the Bubble Collection which includes a ring, earrings, cufflinks, necklace, and the Celebracelet as well as its Classics and Celebrate Nature collections. The pieces make great gifts ahead of the holidays (be sure to order early!), and the unboxing experience is designed to delight with little “happies.”
MAISONMARIANN.COM


BY SARAH RAVITS

To ki ck a celebration up a notch, consider centering your next party around a cohesive theme that can be woven into different elements of the gathering.
“W hen you take on a theme, it allows you to incorporate all sorts of different décor, entertainment, and more to create the atmosphere,” says Susan Zackin, an event planner and creative director of
Z Event Company, who also owns the shop S parkle and Swag.
Su san’s seen an uptick in requests from clients who are embracing creative theme parties, even if they don’t necessarily correlate directly to the holiday season. For example, she recently helped clients throw a party that was carnival-themed, which involved turning a DJ booth into a carousel. She’s also working on an event at the Audubon Aquarium that
“We live in this great city, and rarely does anyone not embrace a good theme party and the opportunity to dress up.”
- SUSAN ZACKIN
incorporates mermaids. And in a city that’s known to indulge all sorts of whims, Susan says pretty much anything goes.
“I f you feel like taking your holiday ornaments out in July, because you feel like it, you can do a Christmas in July party, and it works. Themes are endless, and depending on the amount of details and the budget involved, the sky is the limit.”
P icking a theme also helps guide the planning process while building excitement for guests. If you’re a music fanatic who wants to show off your record collection, a rock ‘n’ roll or disco theme party could be your calling, especially since it involves the opportunity for guests to rock fabulous outfits. Hosts should also take into consideration the overall vibe and general age of the crowd — a family gathering might not be the
best time to throw an “Eras Tour” throwback party. Or maybe it is.
“You need to be aware of your guest list and their personalities for something like that,” she says.
Fo r bigger parties, hosts should consider hiring outside help, especially with catering, bartending, and decorations. But if the budget won’t allow for t hese additional resources, make sure to at least give yourself plenty of lead time to decorate and come up with a menu — and consider enlisting helpful friends to volunteer the night-of.
Ac cording to Susan, menu planning is especially important and recommends that hosts figure this far out in advance, so they aren’t tied up in the kitchen during the festivities. “You want to be able to visit and enjoy your guests and your party.”
Z Event Company, created by Susan Zackin, offers full-scale event planning and professionals with over 30 years of experience. From weddings to nonprofit events, Susan and her team can do it all! She also started Sparkle and Swag, a one-stop party shop that also provides everything from balloon garlands and backdrops to table decorations and set up (likely most of those amazing tables you see at French Quarter restaurants!). Follow along on Instagram (@zeventcompany and @sparkle.and.swag) to see all the magic.




















LET’S THRIVE:
BY MICHAELA BECHLER


Th e hol iday season is a fun and festive time of year, but November and December also present ample opportunities to overdo sugar consumption. Between parties, sweet treats in the office, and even just the festive spirit (or stress) in the air, it might feel like a minefield avoiding sugar during this celebratory time.
To avoid a sugar downfall or simply have a better outlook on health during this season, Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD, founder of Ochsner Eat Fit, and wellness columnist for The TimesPicayune | The Advocate , suggests focusing on being “intentional rather than accidental.”
“The holidays come with a hefty dose of nostalgia, connection — and yes, also a lot of sugar,” she shares. “There’s a difference between enjoying your grandmother’s homemade fudge (or that fill-in-the-blank seasonal favorite that you only get this time of year) because it’s meaningful versus mindlessly snacking on storebought (translation: everyday ordinary) candy, chips, or sweets just because it’s there.”
According to the American Heart Association, six teaspoons of added sugar a day for women (24 grams) and nine teaspoons for men (36 grams) is the recommended upper limit. “This is still high for many people, and others feel better keeping added sugar as low as possible. But around the holidays, we can reach this recommended upper limit with one peppermint latte or cocktail without even realizing it.”
So, what happens if you go overboard with sugar? Expect everything from more sugar cravings to changes in skin or digestion to brain fog to energy highs and lows. “Over time, high sugar intake — especially from ultra-processed foods — fuels inflammation and interferes with our blood sugar control. And beyond even just sugar itself, the trifecta of sugar, salt, and fat that’s so prevalent in processed foods are quite literally engineered to keep us coming back for more.”
Molly suggests anchoring your day with nourishing fuel with an emphasis on protein, fiber, and healthy fats, especially for days like Thanksgiving or Christmas or the countless holiday parties. “One of my top recommendations is to start with protein first. Whether that’s turkey, shrimp, or something like charcuterie, getting protein in early helps our blood sugar levels stay steady so we’re not diving straight into sweets.”
She also recommends having a general game plan ahead of time to help fight temptation, like “I’ll pick one dessert I really love and skip the stuff that matters less.” Another idea is to bring a dish you enjoy that also happens to be good for you, so you’ll always have at least one healthy option available. By selecting foods that leave us steady and satisfied, we’re less likely to end up in the craving and crash loop. “It’s not about avoiding everything but choosing what’s worth it and enjoying it fully.”
Holiday cocktails, spiked ciders, and even non-alcoholic mocktails and seasonal lattes can carry 30–60 grams of sugar in a single drink — more than some desserts.
Ask yourself: Is this worth it? Does it actually bring me joy, or am I just eating it because it’s there?
I’m a big believer in enjoying what we truly love — guilt-free — and skipping the stuff that’s just okay. It also helps to have sweet options you feel better about. Remaking our favorite seasonal desserts and drinks with plant-based zero-sugar sweeteners like monk fruit, stevia, or erythritol helps us to satisfy the craving without the blood sugar rollercoaster. At the end of the day, being more mindful with sugar isn’t about restriction — it’s about staying connected to how you want to feel.
First — let go of any guilt. One higher-sugar day isn’t the issue. What matters is how we reset moving forward. Here’s what I typically recommend. Think of it as rebalancing, not “making up” for anything:
▶ Hydrate. Lots of water or herbal tea to help move things along.
▶ Start the next day with protein and fiber. Something like eggs and veggies or Greek yogurt with walnuts or pumpkin seeds helps stabilize blood sugar.
▶ Don’t skip meals “to make up for it.” That can backfire and trigger more cravings
▶ Move your body — even just a walk. That helps use up glucose more efficiently — it’s also a tremendous mood-booster.
▶ Get a good night’s sleep. Lack of sleep drives sugar cravings even more the next day.


BY MICHAELA BECHLER | PHOTOS BY CHELSEA LOREN



Kits can be purchased online for $64 beginning late November.
Although putting on shoes is the last step to getting dressed (and often an afterthought), it’s safe to say that footwear will truly make or break an outfit. This especially rang true for Coco Howe, a local mom who struggled to find shoes for her toddler that felt right. She found plenty of cheaply made mass-market basics and overdesigned mini versions of adult shoes (complete with loud logos), but nothing that honored both the whimsy and sometimes messy reality of childhood. The idea for Kits Footwear was born, and Coco dove headfirst into creating sensible shoes that can be worn for everyday play, but are designed with the care, charm, and imagination that make them worthy of those precious early years.
“I wanted to design shoes that were as practical for parents as they were magical for kids — washable, lightweight, and easy for little hands to slip on,” Coco shared. “Every detail was carefully considered, from the Velcro straps to the soft cotton canvas and flexible soles, to create everyday comfort that still feels special. The palette mixes timeless neutrals and joyful pops of color that capture the spirit of childhood.”
The classic silhouette was important to the mother of two whose own style is rooted in ageless beauty with a fresh twist and frequently mixes heirloom pieces
“
with colorful designs to tell a story. Hailing from a house full of girls, dressing her sons Jack (almost 4) and William (18 months) was new territory. “Luckily, my husband comes from an all-boy family, and his mother handmade most of his clothes. She passed down hundreds of heirloom-quality and perfectly preserved pieces for my boys, which has made it surprisingly hard to shop because nothing quite compares to her craftsmanship.”
For the boys’ play clothes, Coco gravitates towards striped tees, cotton shorts, and logo-free pieces that feel like they could be a part of any era. She was just missing shoes that could work for school, birthday parties, and special occasions.
Crafted with care in León, Mexico, the debut collection includes four classic colors (White, Navy, Light Blue, and Peachy Coral) that are available in sizes sizes 5 through 1, which will fit ages 1-7. “My boys live in the Classic White. They go with everything and somehow look even sweeter with a few scuffs and grass stains. I also love that I can toss them in the wash when needed, and they come out looking fresh again. The Navy is our go-to for school days, and if you asked Jack his favorite, he’d hands down say Light Blue — they’re the most fun (for him) yet still refined (for me).”
Coco plans to introduce new shades and subtle patterns each season and fresh silhouettes annually. The website launches Monday, November 24 — just in time for the holidays and beginning a new year in style. “I can’t wait to share Kits with other families. It has been such a labor of love inspired by my own boys and the simple joys of their childhood. My hope is that Kits serves as a gentle reminder for parents to slow down and savor the magic of these early years.”
KITSFOOTWEAR.COM










St . Agnes Church is a beau tif ul, sacred space to celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Our f ai th communi t y would be honored to share in your special day and help you prepare a meaning ful, prayer ful celebration.
St. Agnes Church - Old Jefferson 3310 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson, LA 70121
Rectory Office (For bookings or info) 504-444-3469 | stagnesweddings@gmail com stagnesjefferson org/weddings html


















































BY MICHAELA BECHLER | PHOTOS BY KAT KIMBALL
This season’s gatherings call for tables that are as thoughtfully layered as the menu. Martha Claire Breland, owner of Judy at the Rink, curated three unique settings using delightful (and sometimes unexpected) finds from her local gift shop that will shine at Thanksgiving or make any meal feel like an occasion. Don’t be afraid to mix colors, textures, and levels of formality — the result is a table that feels perfectly personal and seasonal!
“If you’re looking for a collectable piece, this handpainted Gien Grue Grands Oiseaux Luncheon Plate is something we literally pulled off the wall to set the table. This series of bird plates is pretty enough to display on your wall like we have in the shop.”
Gien Grue Grands Oiseaux Luncheon Plate ($310) and Juliska Squirrel Salt and Pepper Shakers ($98)

“I love the idea of the duck bowl being used as a butter dish. One of my friend’s daughters taught me how to make butter this summer and this seems like the perfect vessel for fresh butter! It’s perfect for nuts, candies, and any other tiny treats to snack on!”



“I love these Willa plates. Styled with fall colors, it’s the perfect Thanksgiving tablescape but put a pink napkin and charger with it and it will transition to spring. We love a multiseason pattern!”
FRIDAY,NOVEMBER21, 2025
TICKETS& MORE PATRON PARTY6:30–8:00PM •GALA8:00–10:00PM

“This tablescape is if a dinner party lets their hair down. It’s easy-going and light. Nothing matches perfectly, but it all marries well together.”


“I absolutely love these Gien Poesie plates. I’m always eyeing them for myself, but if you aren’t ready to commit to a full place setting, you can easily mix and match with other dinner and salad plates to pull up more seats to the table. The bright floral pattern is so colorful it can go with almost anything!”

“We also adore these Misette napkins. This linen duo is just as fabulous as the sisters who design them.”
BY ME GA NK UR TZ
JU NI OR LE AGU EO FN EW OR LE AN S
If you’ve ever watchedachild lightup at thesight of afire truckor garb age truckb arrelingdownthe st reet , youalready unders tand themagic behind Touch-a-Truck®.OnS at urda y, November 15,the Junior League of NewOrleans (JLNO) andO chsner Children’s invite families to getup closeand hands-on with thevehicle s that keep ourcit yrunning.
From 10 a.m. to 4p.m.att he Pont char trainCenter, kids can climbaboard cons truc tion trucks, ambulances,tow trucks,tractorsand more-eachone an open invitation to ex plore, imagine, andpla y. The da yalsoinclude saS ensory-Friendl y QuietHour(2-3p.m.),aHalf-Price Ticket Hour (3-4 p.m.), andachance
towin aWaltDisneyWorld®getaway poweredbyCox Communications.
Families look ingf or somethinge xt ra specialcan book acus tomTouch-aTruck® privatepar ty or snag VIPEarly Acce ss ticket stobeatthe crowds
Ever yhonk, smile, andphoto-ophelps fuel JLNO ’s missiontoadvance the wellbeingofwomen,childrenand families across GreaterNew Orleans.
So gather your crew andcomesee what make sthiscit ymove, onebig truckatatime.
Get your ticket sat jlno.org/touch-a-truck.







2 3 4 5




Wool Felt Coasters
$28 / Set of 4, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
Pinstripe Marron Top Cafe Cutulli Pants $204, West London Boutique westlondonboutique.com
Tanya Taylor Mariah Sweater $495, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
4
True Grit Après Fleece
Vintage Sweatshirt $105, Ted and George tedandgeorgenola.com
5

Winnie Necklace $44, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com 6
Nessa Print Top $62, Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com 7
Xirena Garett Jacket $416, Peony peonynola.com 8
Sculptive Rib Crop Tank $68, Pocket Flare Pant $118, tasc Performance tascperformance.com



Peter Millar Norwalk Nubuck Coat $1,295, Iron Horse ironhorseclothier.com
Rupert Sanderson Amina Eel Merlot Slingbacks $800, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
Vaincourt La Parfaite Belt $552, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com




























































































































Sommelier Chef Apron $32, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
















NO VE MB ER 8T H& 9TH 9:0 0A MT O4 :00 PM
On the groundsofDestrehan Plantation 13034River Road,Destrehan,L A|Visit Beau tifulS t. CharlesParish
Over 140arts&craft boothsand antiques at the Mule Barn
Children canenjoy fall-themedarts& crafts, pony rides,facepainting,putt-pu tt golf, bungee jump, and so muchmore
Food cour t with cajun, creole, and ethnic foods






AD MIS SI ON
$8 peradultand teen,FREEfor 12 and under GUIDED TOURS of ourhistoricalhome are $15.00 perpersonand FREE forchildren 12 and under FREE PARKING














































































Favorite things:
“Her ID and rabies tags — whenever she is excited or anxious, she puts them in her mouth like a pacifier.”
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
Age: 5 years old
Breed: Dachshund Rat Terrier Mix
Store: Hazelnut
Co-owned by Tom Cianfichi, Bryan Batt, and Katy Danos, Hazelnut is a treasure trove that has offered fabulous finds since 2003. “Bryan and I love to shop, and it was just a natural extension to take that passion and turn it into a business,” Tom shared. “Katy came along for the ride right from the beginning, and the three of us have had a lot of fun ‘curating’ for Hazelnut.” Inside, you’ll discover a wide selection of home additions, stylish accessories, and gifts guaranteed to make you say, “I have to have that.”

A fourth addition to the team is Daisy, Tom and Bryan’s five-year-old Dachshund Rat Terrier mix. She takes her job at the shop very seriously and is always extremely vigilant — especially at the sight of other dogs and certain humans. “We love Daisy’s vet. Daisy only tolerates him when she goes to his office. One time, he came to shop at Hazelnut. Daisy wasn’t having it. Not on her turf. I had to give her the ‘customer is always right lecture.’ I’m not sure she agrees.”
You can find Daisy staring through the front door, observing pedestrians and pups along Magazine Street; cuddling up on the grey flannel chair amongst the display pillows; or trailing behind employees in search of a secret stash of treats. She also keeps people entertained with her hidden talents like standing on her hind legs while dancing in a circle. “She can do the Hokey Pokey, and I’m pretty sure if she had thumbs, she could do our taxes.”
In addition to top-tier customer service, Daisy enhances the delightful shopping experience Hazelnut is known for. Tom, Bryan, and Katy love how the space allows them to express themselves and curate items for locals. “Gifting and home accessorizing should be fun — not a chore — and there’s a great sense of accomplishment when a customer compliments us by saying they have a great time visiting our store.” As the holidays are approaching, keep Hazelnut in mind for gift giving and décor shopping — Daisy’s favorite products are the adorable felt mice ornaments.



