FASHION | LIFE | DESIGN
PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL
FALL CHARM THE of
Sp ooky season is officially upon us! While I cannot stomach a scary movie or experience, I’ll be leaning into all of the eerie books as well as the cozier side of the season. I love baking with pumpkin, trying all the seasonal coffee creations around town, and the warm candle scents that I simply cannot resist — all while pretending it doesn’t feel like summer outside.
G racing our October cover is Cristy Cali, a local jewelry designer who is celebrating 13 years of business this month. Her versatility sets her pieces apart from the rest of the industry, and her love of New Orleans, Guatemala, and her many passions shines through every item. Learn more about this creative in this month’s A-List !
We also compiled a Spooky Guide which is filled with recs that range from family-friendly to absolutely terrifying for all of you thrill seekers! Learn about frightening events, book recommendations from our friends at The Garden District Book Shop, and two locals who lean into the season. And luckily for us, the boutiques around town love Halloween as much as we do and are selling the cutest decorations to transform your home for the holiday!
Currently reading:
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy on my own and The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark for my book club
New skill:
As recommended in September’s “Behind the Seams” piece, I signed up for sewing classes at Chateau Sew (1512 St. Charles Avenue)! I’ve always been intimidated by the machine, but after this course, I feel confdent and am excited to try some projects on my own. The store also has the most adorable selection of fabrics!
Restaurant rec:
If you haven’t been to Bar Pomona (2352 St. Claude Avenue), make a reservation ASAP! The wine bar has delicious bites in a cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for date night or dinner with friends.
A nd while we’re all about living in the moment, it is fun to look ahead to events occurring throughout the season. Learn more about the Preservation Resource Center’s fall lineup in Out & About including the Design Luncheon featuring designer Caroline Gidiere (The Pearl is excited to be a media sponsor) and of course, the 2025 Holiday Home Tour, which is one of my favorite events of the year!
F rom business and book debuts in New + Now to great shopping stories to a sweet Shop Cat who advocates for other kitties, we hope you love this issue as much as we do!
– Michaela Bechler
LUNCH
ANDSMALL BITES
Now Ne w +
MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX
P ool PARTY
Dine en plein air this season at Sunnies , a new poolside restaurant and bar. Dreamed up by Zach Kupperman and Barrett Cooper, the property offers all of the aspects of a chic boutique hotel without the keys. Originally a historic home, the restaurant maintains its charming characteristics with a menu that leans nostalgic with a contemporary twist. Expect shareable plates, sliders, soft serve yogurt, and a robust beverage program. Whether you’re planning to dip in the pool or simply enjoy the ambiance, Sunnies will be open year-round.
4917 FRERET STREET
GETTING C rafty
If you want to get started on holiday decorations, visit Nola Gifts & Decor to create your own adorable pieces! On Wednesday, October 15, learn how to make three New Orleans-inspired burlap ornaments that are sure to dress up any tree or home this season. Looking to spruce up your door before hosting Thanksgiving? Sign up for the Turkey Burlap Door Hanger Workshop taking place Thursday, October 23. Spots can be reserved online, and tickets include the price of materials and instruction with sips and snacks provided.
5101 W. ESPLANADE AVENUE
COFFEE fo r a Cause
Shake up your morning coffee routine with Orleans Coffee’s Valentina Blend . Featuring a blend of premium coffee from Colombia, Brazil, and Guatemala, the coffee offers unique flavor notes including almond, chocolate, and tropical flavors. With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a percentage of sales from this blend will be donated to the Ochsner Breast Surgery Recovery Fund, in honor of an Orleans Coffee employee who is a survivor. The bag even features artwork by the employee’s daughter! ORLEANSCOFFEE.COM
I n F INE F eather
Birders will adore Alex Beard’s latest book For the Birds: An Artist’s Aviary. The local artist, author, and conservationist chose these feathered subjects for his fourth coffee table book since they are ubiquitous.
“Wherever you are in the world, there’s the most extraordinary bird life,” he said. “As I’ve traveled quite far afield, some of the most memorable, exotic, and exciting things are happening in the bird world.”
Over 100 birds from across the globe were drawn and painted for the book accompanied by several original poems. Alex has witnessed many of the birds in person and says that everyone should experience a “dawn chorus” which features the cascading layers of birds waking up to the sunrise each morning around the world. “Locally, everyone should find some time or another to get into a marsh to watch the sun come up and see all the birdlife.” For the Birds: An Artist’s Aviary can be found at your favorite local bookstore. Signed copies are available on Alex’s website.
ALEXBEARDSTUDIO.COM
M ove M INDFULLY
Devoted to movement, strength, and cultivating a welcoming fitness environment, Devotion Studios is a destination for those interested in exploring Pilates and aerial. With so few workout studios in the neighborhood, Anya Sapozhnikova and Olivia Katz saw the French Quarter as an ideal spot. The business partners love the location’s energy, diverse mix of people, and how it’s accessible to those in nearby neighborhoods like the Bywater, Marigny, and Tremé. Plus, the studio serves as a respite to the area’s surrounding excitement!
At its core, Devotion Studios was founded out of a love for movement. “Whether dancing, performing, working out to good music, with good vibes, with friends, [movement] is a pretty failproof remedy for the blues,” Olivia shared. “Especially when practiced mindfully, [it is] a direct way to align body, mind, [and] spirit; connect to our own inner strength; and increase somatic wellness.”
With instruction offered for all skill levels, the studio offers Community Mat Pilates, Reformer Classes, Mixed Apparatus Aerial Conditioning, Aerial Silks, Aerial Hammock, and Aerial Hoop. Private and semi-private sessions in both Pilates and aerial, group bookings, and one-on-one aerial act development are also available.
216B CHARTRES STREET
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX BEARD / G EDITIONS
PHOTO COURTESY OF ORLEANS COFFEE
PHOTO BY JILLIAN GREENBERG
TASTE GOOD IN
Spend this Season with the Preservation Resource Center
BY MICHAELA BECHLER
It ’s no surprise that architecture is frequently touted as one of the city’s best and most unique attributes. Visitors take guided tours or explore on their own to see the stately homes and distinctive style. The Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans (PRC) not only celebrates these wonderous structures but protects them, offers help for homeowners, and educates the public.
While PRC always has something exciting on the calendar, this fall is especially bustling with workshops, tours, a chic design-focused luncheon, and of course, its signature event, the Holiday Home Tour.
“Aside from the Design Luncheon and Holiday Home Tour, our Beams and Brews tours pick up again, letting
people get a behind-the-scenes look at some construction projects around town,” shared Leah Tubbs, PRC’s Chief Administrative O fcer. “Our cemetery tours also see more people. The nicer weather doesn’t hurt when it comes to an outdoor activity like that.”
For design lovers, the PRC Design Luncheon should not be missed. An event of the past, which was revived last year, the luncheon hosts an interior designer to speak to members of the trade, local designers, PRC members, and other design obsessed guests. “We’re excited to have Caroline Gidiere with us this year. She just published Interiors for a Life in Good Taste, her first book, and tickets are going fast. People are excited to hear what she has to say and meet her for the book signing after lunch.”
Located on Eighth Street, this Garden District gem is one of the six homes featured in PRC’s 2025 Holiday Home Tour.
PHOTOS BY LIZ JUREY / PRESERVATION RESOURCE CENTER
The fun and inspiring event will take place Wednesday, November 5, at the Audubon Tea Room (6500 Magazine Street) at 11:30 a.m. with an open bar and a chance to meet Caroline, who is visiting from Birmingham, AL. Lunch, provided by Dickie Brennan & Co., will be served at 12:30 p.m., followed by a presentation of highlights from Caroline’s new book and the inspiration behind her work. Anyone who loves a modern take on traditional design is in for a treat!
During the weekend of December 13-14, the Garden District will be filled with merry architecture and design admirers visiting the six dazzling properties featured in PRC’s 2025 Holiday Home Tour, which is the organization’s most popular event.
“All of the houses are showstoppers, and the owners love to welcome people inside and share the history with visitors...the generosity of the homeowners who agree to participate helps us to fund our eforts to make sure New Orleans’ special places — and the people who live here — are protected for future generations.”
Tickets for the Design Luncheon and Holiday Home Tour as well as PRC’s many other happenings can be purchased online at prcno.org. For free and discounted tickets to events throughout the year, consider becoming a member.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAROLINE GIDIERE
Caroline Gidiere
A List The
BY MICHAELA BECHLER | PHOTOS BY KAT KIMBALL
Cristy Cali
WRITER, JEWELER, AND FOUNDER OF CRISTY CALI JEWELRY & GIFTS
Recipient of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 2024 Louisiana District Entrepreneurial Success Award
With strong roots in both New Orleans and Guatemala, local jewelry designer Cristy Cali highlights these transformative places alongside other passions through her unique pieces. She started her eponymous brand in October 2012 after leaving her family’s French Quarter jewelry business to prioritize family relationships while creating her own path and identity. “Being anchored to a storefront was not an option for me,” Cristy shares. “I highly value my freedom. It’s essential to my creative process. So, e-commerce and building an online brand felt like the perfect way to go.”
Cristy has made her mark on New Orleans and beyond with her multifaceted collections and storytelling abilities. Her Couture Charm Collection — Cristy’s creative playground — features everything from Voodoo Doll characters, a gravestone inspired by Marie Laveau’s, and a “Bayou Magic” Potion charm. The European-style charms are compatible with other brands, making them addictive to collect and swap according to mood or season. Cristy says her spiritual side can be found in pieces like Erzulie’s Divine Love and her extensive selection of gemstone stretchy bracelets. For her Hispanic heritage, look to the Guatemalan Mayan Jade collection. “This is something truly unique that I source directly from my home country when visiting family.”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
Through these collections, Cristy’s intention is to build the most celebrated and beloved jewelry brand to come out of the city. And with the help of her growing team, she’s already well on her way to succeed.
“My greatest accomplishment has been watching my team grow and flourish. I feel honored to have created a space where people can bring their creativity to work and where they can be completely themselves. They genuinely love what they do by adding their unique mark to our company. Seeing how we’ve grown to serve more people than ever before while staying true to our values, that’s what fills my heart.”
Enthusiastic collectors can join Cristy’s new membership program she launched in honor of the brand’s 13-year anniversary. The Cali Krewe offers three tiers that unlock savings on orders, secret sales, member-only designers, early access to new drops, and more. “It’s my way of saying thank you to the people who have made this dream possible.”
Working with gemstones and metals. It’s alchemy! There’s something magical about transforming an idea in my mind into something tangible that someone can treasure forever.
SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS:
The food. Especially roast beef po-boys and French fries with brown gravy.
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
My father bought me a dirt bike when I was seven, which sparked my lifelong passion for motorcycle riding. He is also a pilot instructor
A - LIST
“I hope my versatility allows me to connect with people wherever they are, creating pieces that truly resonate with their individual stories.”
and taught me to fly. While I never completed my pilot training, I did my required cross-country solo flight at 21. His encouragement helped me overcome my fears and believe in myself, which carried over into how I approach my business.
FAVORITE RESTAURANTS:
It’s a tie between Mint Modern & Lilly’s Café.
FAVORITE MUSEUM:
The National WWII Museum — I’m not sure where my fascination with WWII comes from, but I love learning about soldier stories, the music of the 40s, the culture, and the lasting impact it had on American society.
FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR IN NEW ORLEANS:
Halloween, when I feel like I’m in the movie Halloweentown . Although people dress up however they want year-round, it’s on a whole different level and fun to watch.
VACATION SPOTS
YOU RECOMMEND: Antigua and Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
LIFE HACK:
Investing in professional mentorship and coaching
FAVORITE HOBBIES:
Writing on Substack and trail running
Shop Home Décor, Jewelr y, Gift Registry &Tabletop
1 Handmade Mice in Halloween Costumes $18 Each, The Shop at the Collection shophnoc.com
2 Creepy Sheepy Book
$14.99, The Garden District Book Shop gardendistrictbookshop.com
3
Heccaty Hootnightly Owl $38, Phina phinashop.com
4 Emma Halloween Cats Bloomer Set
$74, Seaux Kids Boutique seauxkidsboutique.com
5
Customizable Pumpkin Tote $30, Susie’s Boutique shopsusiesboutique.com
Faboolous Mega Mug $45, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com 1 3 5 7 4 8 6 2 9 10
1 Boo Bat Door Hanger $52, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
2 Good & Wicked Witch Napkins
$6.50 / Set of 20, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
3 Look What You Made Me Brew Tumbler
$19.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
4 Leah Roper Sequin
Spiderweb Fascinator $150, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
5 Tutu Du Monde Bone Purse $118, Peony peonynola.com
6 Hauntingly Good Spirits Book
$19.99, The Garden District Book Shop gardendistrictbookshop.com
7 Vintage Mid-Century Hand Crafted Ghost $39, The OW Home theoccasionalwife.com
8 Neon Ghost Door Hanger $56, Phina phinashop.com
9 Dog Skeleton Hooked Pillow The Shop at the Collection shophnoc.com
10
3 Welcome My Pretties Door Hanger
Home Malone homemalonenola.com
4 Die Cut Wicked Witch Placemat $32 / Set of 10, Sparkle & Swag sparkleandswag.com
5 Embroidered Hand Towels $34 Each, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com
SPOOKY GUIDE
Blood in the Bayou Scary Good Fun
New Orleans often takes center stage for all things spooky, but author Jennifer Moorhead invites you to step into Louisiana’s eerie backwoods in her new novel Poison Wood. If you read Jennifer’s debut Broken Bayou , you’ll recognize Rita, a passionate crime reporter who returns home to confront the secrets buried in the abandoned boarding school she once attended (which is based off a real school in the Kisatchie National Forest). The suspenseful book is available October 28 and can be ordered from your favorite indie bookstore or jennifermoorhead.com.
— Michaela Bechler
LOUISIANA IS VERY MUCH ITS OWN CHARACTER IN YOUR BOOKS. WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE LEARN ABOUT YOUR HOME FROM YOUR WRITING?
I hope they learn there is more to Louisiana than stereotypes. I want them to feel immersed in the complicated beauty of my home state and hope they learn something new about it, even if they live here.
WHEN YOU WROTE BROKEN BAYOU, DID YOU KNOW THAT POISON WOOD WOULD CONTINUE RITA’S STORY?
No. I had no idea that Rita would one day have her own story to tell. But I should have! She kept waking me up when I was finished with Broken Bayou, telling me she had something to say. She was the one character who would not leave me alone.
RITA IS A VERY STRONG FEMALE PROTAGONIST. WAS SHE INSPIRED BY ANYONE IN PARTICULAR?
Rita is a culmination of women I know and women I’ve read about. There is a part of her that feels connected to me, but I feel that way about all my protagonists. Also, I was very inspired by a woman named Tamara Cherry who wrote the brutally honest book The Trauma Beat. She was kind enough to talk with me about her experiences as a crime reporter. I learned so much from her!
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN OCTOBER IN LOUISIANA?
I love being outdoors. There is a great festival in downtown Shreveport called the Louisiana Film Prize. It makes for such a fun weekend with short films, bands, food, and fashion. I’ve also had three films in that festival, so I love supporting indie film makers. In addition, if I’m lucky, I’ll spend at least one Saturday night in Tiger Stadium cheering on my alma mater.
No matter how you like to spend spooky season, New Orleans offers plenty of unique opportunities throughout October. — M.B.
Family-Friendly Frights
FAMILY CONCERT: HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR | LOUISIANA
PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA — October 25
This spine-tingling, but kid-friendly concert is the perfect way to start your morning! Families are encouraged to dress in costumes.
6301 SAINT CHARLES AVENUE #6399
GHOSTS IN THE OAKS | CITY PARK CONSERVANCY — October 16-19
Bring the whole family (in costume, of course!) to City Park for a new trick-or-treat path, unlimited rides, spooky activities, and live entertainment during Ghosts in the Oaks. Advance tickets are required.
7 VICTORY AVENUE
PUMPKIN FEST 2025 | SUGAR ROOTS FARM — October 12, 19 & 26
Enjoy good old-fashioned fun with a pumpkin patch, pony rides, toddler tractor rides, games and activities, concessions, and so much more. Purchase tickets before they sell out!
10701 WILLOW DRIVE
For the Ghouls
DRACULA | NEW ORLEANS BALLET THEATRE — October 24, 25 & 30
Get lost in this wicked tale adapted for the stage at the Orpheum Theater. Don your costume or favorite scary accessory!
129 ROOSEVELT WAY
SPOOKY SIPS | THE ELIZA JANE — October 24-November 2
For an atmospheric Halloween tasting experience, head straight to The Press Room at The Eliza Jane for specialty spooky cocktails. Unique options such as the Full Moon Martini (featuring activated charcoal) and The Séance are available for a limited time.
315 MAGAZINE STREET
TWILIGHT IN CONCERT — October 14
Relive the Twilight phenomenon with a 12-piece ensemble performing the beloved film score as you watch on the big screen at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. To further set the ambiance, over 1,000 candles will be flickering during the screening.
1419 BASIN STREET
The Scary Stuff
DELAPORTE MANOR HAUNTED
EXPERIENCE — Every ThursdaySunday in October, November 1, 2, 7 & 8
This limited-run horror experience combines the classic haunted house experience with immersive theater and escape room elements for a truly terrifying evening.
1152 CAMP STREET
SCARY MOVIE NIGHTS | THE LITTLE HOUSE — Every Saturday in October and The Rocky Horror Picture Show on October 24
Grab a bottle of wine, some bites, and prepare to be spooked by some of your favorite scary films at The Little House in Algiers Point.
640 BOUNY STREET
PHOTO COURTESY OF THOMAS & MERCER
Read It and Scream
If this Halloween season is influencing your next read, these 14 recommendations from The Garden District Book Shop’s staff offer everything from frights to cozy autumn nights.
FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
Creepy Crayon! by Aaron Reynolds, Peter Brown
Imagine a crayon that does your schoolwork! Imagine a crayon that does all your thinking! Oh, no… the crayon is out of control… — Amy
The Stars Did Wander Darkling by Colin Meloy
An eerie and atmospheric middlegrade novel about a group of friends working to stop an ancient evil from taking over their sleepy, seaside town. Stranger Things meets The Goonies Caroline
There’s a Ghost In This House by Oliver Jeffers
Sweet and interactive, young readers follow along as a girl searches but never sees the little ghosts lingering around the house. — Caroline
MAGICAL & SPOOKY
Night & Day by John Connolly
A collection of short ghost stories that tell the beautiful yet sometimes terrifying truths of life. — Caroline
The Vegetarian by Han Kang
Yeong-hye is a prisoner in her life. As an act of defiance against those around her, she becomes vegetarian. When this common decision becomes dangerous, Yeong-hye’s life spirals into a psychological metamorphosis no one saw coming. Bizarre, powerful, and beautiful. — Yalani
The Volcano Daughters by Gina María Balibrera
A Salvadorian saga about matriarchs navigating their sisterhood over years of war and separation — all with the guiding presence of the voices beyond… — Elsa
ABSOLUTELY TERRIFYING
House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski
House of Leave s is a monster and a masterpiece. Be ready to descend into madness right alongside the characters of this thrilling novel. — Caroline
Victorian Psycho by Virginia Feito
Victorian Psycho is a short read packed with twists and turns and a governess who definitely lives up to the title. — Yalani
What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher
A retelling of Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher, this story is exactly what horror buffs need. You’ll be stopping to listen for anything creaking in the dark. — Yalani
NEW ORLEANS TALES
Final Cut by Olivia Worley*
Reality blurs with fiction when aspiring actress Hazel Lejeune signs on to star in a slasher based on the real-life serial killings in her small Louisiana hometown. — Caroline & Carroll
*Upcoming release: October 28. Join the local launch at The Garden District Book Shop on Tuesday, November 4, at 6 p.m.
The Ballad of Perilous Graves by Alex Jennings
An otherworldly urban fantasy full of local lore, The Ballad of Perilous Graves is a story of New Orleans soul and one unlikely hero’s battle to protect it from the things that go bump in the night. — Hugh
The Mercy of Thin Air by Ronlyn Domingue
A ghost story narrated by the ghost. When Razi dies, she decides
to stay “between,” haunting her New Orleans home and the couple that now occupies it. — Amy
COZY STORIES
Cain’s Jawbone
by Edward Powys Mathers
First published in 1934, this literary puzzle has six murders and one hundred misplaced pages. Do you have what it takes to catch the killers and correctly order the pages? Only three people have succeeded so far… — Caroline
A Most Agreeable Murder by
Julia Seales
A Most Agreeable Murder humorously answers the question: what if an Edwardian lady loved true crime?! It’s a delightful spoof of Jane Austen and Sherlock Holmes. — Caroline 2727 PRYTANIA STREET
Haute & Haunted
Don frightful and fun designs this season from Schnell Studio ! Owner Lauren Schnell started the brand as a creative outlet to express her love for storytelling through witty, wearable graphics. Her annual spooky collection pays homage to classic Halloween icons, such as zombies and witches, while keeping things current with trending phrases and motifs. “It’s my one collection every year that is 100% authentic to my personality, a little goth and very unapologetic,” Lauren shared. From themes of tarot and magic to horror films, Lauren especially enjoys designing these pieces — Halloween is her favorite holiday. A city full of culture, mystery, and charm, she also pulls inspiration from New Orleans. “I grew up hearing and reading these stories of vampires, witches, ghosts, voodoo, and magic...all under the canopy of 200-hundred-year-old oak trees and beautifully decaying architecture. What more could you ask for when it comes to spooky season? New Orleans is the embodiment of Halloween all year round.” You can shop the collection online now, and locals have the option to try on and pick up pieces in the New Orleans area. — Marigny Lanaux
SCHNELLSTUDIOART.COM
Frights & Likes
Caitlin Obremski-Orellana started posting on social media (@caitlinorellanahome) to document the process of decorating her New Orleans home and developing its maximalist, moody aesthetic. “Over time, it turned into more of a little internet diary — sharing the restaurants I love, what I was up to around New Orleans each week, and eventually leaning into the city’s spookier side,” Caitlin shared. “I was really just posting the things I enjoyed, and that’s when it started to take off.”
Caitlin has always been fond of this time of year, frequently incorporating dark, whimsical places and things into her content. “What inspires me most is the cinematography of how the spookier side of New Orleans shows up on camera. Even our cemeteries have such beautiful architecture. And I love that everything here comes with a story — so many of the ghost tales you hear are rooted in real history.” — M.L.
Caitlin recommends exploring three spots with haunted histories and themes this October. Keep up with her on social to discover more thrilling things around New Orleans!
The Buckner Mansion
Everyone knows this spot as “the Coven house” from American Horror Story, but it is rumored to actually be haunted by the ghost of a woman named “Miss Josephine.” People say you can hear sweeping on the front porch when no one is visible, smelling a strong lemon scent out of nowhere (supposedly Josephine’s favorite smell), chandeliers swinging when there is no breeze, and even apparitions.
1410 JACKSON AVENUE
Muriel’s
Located right off Jackson Square, this popular restaurant sets a special table for its resident ghost every night. Make sure you check out the Seance Lounge upstairs, where supposedly most of the paranormal activity occurs, and be sure to grab a Brandy Milk Punch or a Pimm’s Cup while you visit too!
801 CHARTRES STREET
Sacred Grinds
This is a great little coffee shop located at the end of the Canal Streetcar Line. You can enjoy your coffee cemetery side in the outdoor seating area — Sacred Grinds is sandwiched in between the Odd Fellows Rest and St. Patrick cemeteries, so you really are “among the spirits.” Grab a Moon Chai or a Dirty Zombie while you are here!
5055 CANAL STREET
PHOTO
1
Caspari Die-Cut Placemat $17.50, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com
2 Puff Sleeve Smocked Top $56.99, Nol a B oo nolaboo.com
3
6” Mini Stoneware Baker $12, Alic e & A melia shopaliceandamelia.com
4 Monterey Performance Wind Quarter Zip $138, tas c P erformance tascperformance.com
5 Clea Hilder Dress $725, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
2 3 5 4 1
FALL PUMPKIN &BOO GHOST BURLAP FLAGWORKSHOP
Thursday, Oct. 16TH 6:00pm At Nola GiftsMetairie, Fee: $30
See websitefor sign-up details
SPOOKTACULAR LIMONCELLO WORKSHOP
Learnthe art ofmaking Limoncello with aspooky twist Tuesday,Oct. 28TH 6:00pm,Fee: $60
Seewebsite for sign-updetails
HALLOWEEN SIP-N-SHOP
Saturday, October 18th, From 10am-3pm, both stores Sips, snacks, and giveawaysall day!
AGENDA A utumn
Fal l Fests and Events
BY MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX
OCTOBER
OCT. 10
Gleason Gras
Join the Team Gleason Foundation as they celebrate 13 years of Gleason Gras at Generations Hall. Tickets include great food, drinks, and entertainment and are available at gleasongras.org.
OCT. 10-11
Abita Fall Fest
Support Abita Springs during this annual nonprofit celebration with great food, drinks, vendors, and activities for every age. Tickets (including VIP) can be purchased online at abitafallfest.com.
Deutsches Haus Oktoberfest
Enjoy German food and drinks during Oktoberfest’s opening weekend. The fest will also be open Oct. 17-18 and 24-25. More information can be found at deutscheshaus.org/oktoberfest.
OCT. 11
Japan Fest
Celebrate Japanese culture at the New Orleans Museum of Art through art, performances, food, and more. Pre-purchasing tickets online at noma.org is strongly recommended.
OCT. 12
NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K
Support five local nonprofits dedicated to helping animals during this annual 5K through the historic grounds of Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery. Sign up online at noladogsrace.com.
OCT. 18-19
Louisiana Shrimp Festival and Shrimp Aid
Support local shrimpers during this special festival! Enjoy award-winning music, food booths, pop-ups, and activities for kids at The Broadside. Tickets and weekend passes can be found online at louisianashrimpfestival.org.
OCT. 23-27
New Orleans Film Festival
AUTUMN AGENDA
Celebrate independent filmmaking through screenings, panels, workshops, roundtables, and more! Tickets and passes can be purchased at neworleansfilmsociety.org.
OCT. 24
Glass Half Full Gala
Toast the efforts and successes of Glass Half Full and Glassroots at Latrobe’s on Royal. Tickets are available at glasshalffull.co and include an open bar, local delicacies, silent auction and prizes, biodegradable glitter, and more.
OCT. 26
Fête du Jardin
Join the Louisiana Landmarks Society as they celebrate 75 years at the historic Pitot House with food, beverages, and music by the Tyron Benoit Band. For more information and tickets, visit louisianalandmarks.org.
NOVEMBER
NOV. 1
Freret Street Festival
The perfect opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping, the Freret Street Festival is an all-day event featuring local artists and makers. More information can be found at freretstreetfestival.org.
NOV. 14
The Tipping Point
Tulane University is hosting its 9th annual fundraising concert that supports student scholarships and features talented musicians from New Orleans and beyond! See the exciting lineup at tippingpoint.tulane.edu.
NOV. 15
Beignet Fest
Spend the day at New Orleans City Park enjoying sweet and savory beignets! The proceeds benefit local autism programs for children and their families. Learn more at beignetfest.com.
NOV. 16
Oak Street Po-Boy Festival
From fried shrimp to roast beef, bring your appetite to the 17th annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival! A portion of all po-boy purchases benefit Son of a Saint. Secure your wristband ahead of the crowd at poboyfest.com.
NOV. 20
Shuck Cancer
Sample oysters from across the country, wines, and spirits — all in support of The American Cancer Society — at Champions Square. Visit shuckcancer.org to participate.
806 E Boston Street, Covington 985 892 0025 www.ballinsltd.com
A LL FALL THE THINGS
1
Locally Made Fall Napkins
$30 / Set of 4, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
2
Juliska Forest Walk Pumpkin
Salt & Pepper Shakers
$110, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
3
Capri Blue Pumpkin Dulce Candle
$42, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
4
Encanto Carola Small Pedestal
$132, Beatriz Ball beatrizball.com
5
Amber Black Wind & Fire Vase
$190, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
6
Gold Stag Bottle Holder
$60.50, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
7
Autumn Potholders Set
$19.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
8
Pass the Rolls Hand Towel
$12.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
9
RidgeWalker Glass Pumpkins
$30-50 Each, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
10
Nina Pillow
$16, Ted and George tedandgeorgenola.com 2 3 7 9 4 8 6 10 11 1 5
$149, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
11
St. Johns Vetiver Bar Soap
1 Pumpkin Vase Door Hanger $54, Home Malone homemalonenola.com
2 Sweet Potato Syrup $22.99, El Guapo elguapobitters.com 3 Fringed Throw Blanket $54, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
4 Staub Pumpkin 5.5 Quart Cocotte $549, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com
5 Golden Pear $105, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
design
Interiors
Reminder: DERMA LOUNGEwillbeclosed Sept12-Oct 13, 2025,reopening Oct14. Our online store will remainopen.
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Rudi ShopDog
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
Cat
Age: 8 years old
Breed: Brown and Black
Tabby Domestic Shorthair
Store: SpayMart Thrift
Store & Adoption Center
Sh opping secondhand is even better with adorable, adoptable cats! This is exactly what you’ll find at SpayMart Thrift Store & Adoption Center, a local business that combines bargain hunting with a love for animals. The nonprofit organization SpayMart was established in 1999, adding the thrift store component in 2011. Recently, the store relocated from Metairie to River Ridge, and all its proceeds support caring for the cats.
“Our thrift store both drives revenue to support the care of our animals and is a place for older, harder-to-place, and special needs cats to get a spotlight on them,” shared president and co-founder Lynn Chiche. “Our mission is to reduce pet overpopulation, help homeless animals, and keep pets with their loving families. We are happy to be able to do that by helping people find great treasures — both items for their homes and the feline treasures in our adoption center!”
The store manager is Rudi, a friendly feline that oversees the shop’s inventory and loves to be part of the action. A beloved and dedicated employee, volunteers consistently return because of her charming personality. Customers can expect to find china, furniture, art, jewelry, glassware, and of course, a roaming Rudi — she may get your attention by rubbing against your legs to receive pets and close a sale.
The sweet Tabby is not available for adoption, but she serves as an ambassador for all the cats who are. “Although Rudi has a special love for all kittens, she considers every cat in the Adoption Center a best friend and does her best to draw attention to them and their plight every day.” In addition to the 14 cats at the shop waiting to find their forever families, SpayMart has around 130 kittens in foster homes, 140 cats in its Mississippi sanctuary, and 40 cats at the Metairie triage center waiting for their turn at the shop. Stop by SpayMart Thrift Store & Adoption Center every Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. to shop unique finds, support its mission, and potentially meet your new pet best friend — Rudi is happy to introduce you.
Zodiac sign: Aries
Favorite toy: A soft toy with fresh catnip
Favorite food: Her afternoon wet food treat
Favorite place for a cat nap: On a new bed or her blanket with pink hearts on it
