October 2026
FASHION | LIFE | DESIGN
6: Fall About Town | 8: French Connection | 13: Let’s Celebrate | 19: Boo La La
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O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 | Vo lum e 0 2 | I s su e 10
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Editor’s Letter
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New + Now
NEW ORLEANS GIFTS • LOCAL ARTISTS & DESIGNERS
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Fall About Town
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French Connection
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Extra Extra
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Let’s Celebrate
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Not Quite Sweater Weather
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Boo La La
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Shop Dog
FOLLOW US!
P H O T O B Y K AT K I M B A L L
EDITOR Michaela Bechler CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dora Sison ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Sandy Stein SALES Lauren Cunningham, Alyssa Hauptmann, Bennett Geston,
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4432 MAGAZINE ST | 504-502-6206 |
Abigail Bordelon, Kelly Sonnier, Charlie Thomas CONTRIBUTOR Sarah Ravits TRAFFIC MANAGER Jason Whittaker SENIOR CONTRIBUTING CREATIVE Emma DaVia CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Maria Boue, Gavin Donaldson, Scott Forsythe, Jasmyne White
ON TH E COVER
Julia Brantley and Juan Maya at their “Hallowedding” on October 31, 2025 at Latrobe’s.
OCTOBER 2026
P H O T O B Y K AT K I M B A L L
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FASH ION | LIFE | DESIGN
NOVEMBER ISSUE
HOLIDAY PARTY PLANNING
RESERVE SPACE
OCTOBER 16 ISSUE DATE
NOVEMBER 2
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SPOOKY &Social
W
e’ve of f icially entered the “end of the year” craziness with events, holidays, and finally some delightful temps (be sure to shop Not Quite Sweater Weather if you’re not ready to break out the boots and sweaters). In Fall About Town, Sarah Ravits shares info on five great events happening this season, and in Extra Extra, I highlight three local businesses that will elevate your event and make it even more memorable. This month’s New + Now highlights exciting new businesses including Holywater, Atelier Dauphine, and The Neighbor — all wonderful additions to our shopping and culinary scene — among other happenings and openings.
Currently reading: The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer. I loved The Wishing Game and heard that this is the perfect cozy autumn read. Excited for: My first Halloween as a mom! I'm going overboard on the costume this year, and I won't apologize for it. Obsessed with: My RidgeWalker Glass pumpkin I scooped up at La Crafts Guild in Canal Place. Stop by for amazing art and handcrafted goods from Louisiana artists!
OCTOBER 2026
Now for the spooky stuff: locals Julia Brantley and Juan Maya grace our cover and kindly shared their unique masquerade wedding with us in Let’s Celebrate. It took place on Halloween last year (which was also exactly five years from their first kiss), and the photos by Kat Kimball are incredible. If that has inspired you, check out Boo La La which has lots of local Halloween tricks and treats!
Thank you for reading The Pearl! We’re gearing up for a busy holiday season with even more gift guides than ever. Can’t wait for everyone to see! — Michaela Bechler
W W W. S O S U S U B O U T I Q U E .C O M @SOSUSUBOUTIQUE | 504.309.5026 3 4 2 7 M A G A Z I N E S T. , N E W O R L E A N S , L A 7 0 11 5
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If you’re saying “Qui Dat” later this month in Paris, lucky you! If you’ll be at home, cheering at 8:30 a.m., we’ve rounded up great pieces and accessories in French Connection to keep the celebrations fun, festive, and of course, French. We also listed a few places around New Orleans that should satisfy any French craving! And rounding out this issue is Odie, our October Shop Dog. The puppy is friendly, rambunctious, and would love to show you around Here & There Wear, a shop that opened on Metairie Road earlier this year.
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New +Now BY MICHAELA BECHLER
IN LOVING MEMORY
After seven years of closure, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 of f icially reopened to the public with updated wa l kways a nd ot her improvements this month. To experience the famous cemetery, visitors can book a 90-minute tour with local n o n p r o f i t Pre se r vat io n Resource Center. Tou r s PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER will be hosted daily (except for holidays like All Saints’ Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day), capped at 16 guests per group, and will focus on the above-ground tombs, historic societies, and notable residents.
1427 WASHINGTON AVENUE
Check IT OUT
After significant renovations, the Children’s Resource Center is back! Housed inside an 1 18-year-old building on Napoleon Avenue and Magazine Street, the reimagined New Orleans Public Library space will be the central point for providing consistent and carefully curated early literacy programming, resources, collections, and more. The Children’s Resource Center now offers interactive play areas designed specif ically for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers; materials that support the needs of early learners and their caregivers; and early literary experiences in a nurturing and engaging learning environment. The second-oldest library location will also house a collection of new and popular books for adults to check out, plus library cardholders of all ages can pick up holds and return items.
913 NAPOLEON AVENUE
OCTOBER 2026
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Ahoy, MATEY!
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JUMP SCARE
For oysters, beverages, and merriment, a visit to Holywater should be high on your list. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the newcomer is the brainchild of Alex and Miles Pincus, the brothers turned business partners who grew up in the neighborhood. (They own and operate Crew, a New York-based hospitality company with several maritime inspired restaurants.) Holywater resides in an 1837 maritime chandlery (essentially a general store for sailors) and features an oyster and cocktail bar, a dining room with balcony seating, and a tucked away lounge for music and events. The space contains salvaged Louisiana cypress beams and restored brick walls, each adorned with art and photography from family and friends. Their parents’ kitchen table also resides in the oyster bar. Executive Chef Alex Harrell brings together carefully sourced Gulf seafood, French technique, and seasonal Louisiana flavors (be sure to try the Crab Maison). Oysters from across the country, including Crew’s proprietary Sailor Baby variety from Great Peconic Bay, will be on ice. Neal Bodenheimer of Cure oversees the beverage program which includes fun takes on classic beverages like The Mezcal Hurricane and Tequila 75 and offers lesser-known cocktails like Old Hickory and St. Charles Punch. The bar also houses two secret 80” TVs that pop out for Holywater’s Saints game celebrations and doubles down on the fun by handing out free Jello-O shots for every Saints touchdown.
622 CONTI STREET
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEW ORLEANS PU B LIC LIB R ARY
Get into the spooky spirit with a cinematic classic brought to life. On Saturday, October 10, the New Orleans Film Society and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra reunite for Nosferatu (1922): A Gothic Symphony at Jefferson Performing Arts Center. F.W. Murnau’s silent horror film will unfold on the big screen as the LPO performs Hans Erdmann’s haunting score live onstage. Following last year’s soldout presentation of Frankenstein, the collaboration offers another immersive meeting of film and music. The evening is part of NOFS/365, the Film Society’s g row ing init iat ive to present distinctive cinematic experiences year-round.
6400 AIRLINE DRIVE PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN LANGE
NEW + NOW
WELCOME NEIGHBOR
After losing their mother in 2025, sisters Taylor and Sydney Klavans had a “life is short” moment and decided to pursue their longtime dream of opening a shop that reflected their love of interiors, finding unique brands, and design style (playful, funky, and unexpected). The Neighbor officially opens this October with a curated mix of home goods, gifts, entertaining pieces, and little finds “that feel special without being too precious,” they share. “The best way we describe [the inventory] is anything you’d be excited to bring to someone’s house for dinner — or secretly hope they brought to yours” As longtime residents, Taylor and Sydney knew they wanted a space that was both charming and conveniently located for locals to pop in when they needed a gift or something for themselves. The Garden District location checks all the boxes and will also host events, pop-ups, brand moments, and collaborations with other local businesses and makers. While neither sister has a background in retail or design (Taylor works in healthcare administration and Sydney’s background is in operations), they say that their combined skills have helped them get The Neighbor off the ground. “But the rest has been a very fun crash course.”
2365 MAGAZINE STREET
IN Stitches
3506 MAGAZINE STREET
from 721 Dante Street | New Orleans | 504.866.4367 2917 Magazine Street | New Orleans | 504.891.4502 806 E. Boston Street | Covington | 985.892.0025
www.ballinsltd.com
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The store will also host classes on everything from canvas painting to ornament finishing and will always be a place for anyone to hang out and ask questions. “I can’t wait to truly embrace my romantic, artistic sensibilities and welcome customers into a store that I’m creating as a safe haven from the world. For anyone who has wanted to step into a Jane Austen novel or period drama, bring your needlework and join me at the atelier!”
Luxury Italian Leather
OCTOBER 2026
Stitchers rejoice! Atelier Dauphine is opening Monday, October 26, and will offer a wide range of needlepoint canvases, kits, threads, and embellishments to suit every age, skill-level, and budget. There will also be Dauphine-exclusive canvases from multiple designers including owner Shyla Clark’s own designs which includes the popular Nola Christmas cottages and a branded PHOTO COURTESY OF AT E L I E R D A U P H I N E line of tools and accessories. Shyla began needlepointing about seven years ago and instantly fell in love with it for its versatility. “I work as a software engineer and project manager, but I have a fine arts background. I’ve been painting for over 30 years, but even watercolor isn’t as convenient as needlepoint. You can do it during a Zoom call, in a waiting room, in bed, or at the airport.” She started a needlepoint design business as a “casual side hustle” six years ago but always had dreams of owning a brick-and-mortar. After her friend’s building (which also houses Balzac Antiques) became available, Shyla set her plans in motion and is ecstatic to be opening a shop in one of the “most storied shopping districts in the world.”
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l l a F ABOUT TOWN BY SAR AH R AVITS
PHOTOS BY SOPHIA GERMER
F
all events are in full swing! From the spooky variety to family-friendly celebrations, here are five events that are sure to make this season even more vibrant.
Carla’s Taste of Italy
OCTOBER 2026
THE PEARL
Culinary influencer and former TV host Carla Pesono is launching the inaugural Taste of Italy festival Thursday, October 8, with The Italian Barrel restaurant. The event will take place on Fulton Street, where she’ll be teaming up with over a dozen of New Orleans’ most beloved Italian and Italian-inspired restaurants. Expect plenty of tastings of cuisine and signature drinks, including Negronis, wine, and limoncello.
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A particular highlight is The World’s Largest Antipasti Board, an almost 200-pound centerpiece filled with cured meats, cheeses, and veggies, and there will be live entertainment, hand-rolled cigars, and other perks. Proceeds from the event benefit the New Orleans Italian American St. Joseph Society, which preserves and promotes New Orleans’ Italian and Sicilian heritage. The event is 21+, and tickets (which are all-inclusive) can be purchased through Eventbrite.
@TASTEOFITALYNOLA
New Orleans Film Festival
The 37th New Orleans Film Festival is October 22-27, welcoming over 300 well-known and emerging filmmakers and a full lineup of shorts and feature length films that will be shown at venues across the city. There are lots of networking events, discussion panels, and more. Highlights include a documentary about Irma Thomas, a film about the Dew Drop Inn, and a comedy feature starring SNL alum Rachel Dratch and New Orleans’ own Bryan Batt. Passes can be purchased online, and New Orleans Film Society members can receive discounted or free passes.
NEWORLEANSFILMSOCIETY.ORG
Krewe
of BOO!
The weekend before Halloween sets the tone for a spooky time in the French Quarter. On Saturday, October 24, the Krewe of BOO! Parade rolls at 6:30 p.m. with decked-out “haunted” floats, live bands, and local dance teams, a nd it honors its 2 0 2 6 K i ng James Michalopoulos and grand marshals Eric Quinn Shaw and Christopher Rice. There’s also a Zombie Fun Run earlier that day at 9 a.m. where runners meet up at Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant for a chance to get their hearts pumping while dodging zombies — members of the Big Easy Roller Girls in disguise — along the two-mile route. A post-parade Monster Mash costume party is held at Generations Hall, among other festivities.
KREWEOFBOO.COM
FALL ABOUT TOWN
Day of the Dead
The Krewe de Mayahuel hosts its annual Día de los Muertos Procession and Fiesta on Monday, November 2, in the Mexican tradition of paying tribute to the deceased while celebrating the living. The event starts at 3 p.m. at Bywater’s Markey Park, where attendees can participate in arts and crafts and face painting while enjoying food and drinks. A roving processional starts from the park at 7 p.m. and winds over to the St. Roch Cemetery #1 to deliver a hand-built altar and offerings to the spirit world, backed by classic mariachi music.
@MAYAHUEL.NOLA
Beignet Fest
BEIGNETFEST.COM
Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm 3458 Magazine Street, New Orleans, Louisiana www.marquetshoppe.com • (504) 355-0175
THE PEARL
Beignet Fest is a family-friendly celebration of the iconic New Orleans fried pastry, held on Saturday, November 7, at New Orleans City Park’s Festival Grounds. While beignets are traditionally served with a big heaping of powdered sugar, participating chefs are showing off their creativity and making over 50 different varieties, including a sweet potato beignet and even a crab rangoon beignet. The music lineup features Dragon Smoke, Maggie Koerner, Amanda Shaw, the Imagination Movers, and DJ Flowerchild. Funds raised from the event will benefit the Beignet Fest Foundation, a nonprofit that supports the autism community in the area.
OCTOBER 2026
Curious goods for the thoughtful home.
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F renchConnection New Orleans Meets Paris
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1 Saints in Paris Shirt $29.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com 2 Floral Embroidered Belted Dress $285, Silhouette Boutique silhouettenola.com 3 Ella Bartlow Phoenix Earrings $145, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com 4 Saints Wine Glass $19.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com 5 Croissant Lidded Trinket Dish $16, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com 6 Frances Valentine Katherine Frame Bag $398, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com
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7 Fleur de Lis Signet Ring $175 and up, Golden Quality Jewelry gq.jewelershowcase.com
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8 Bois Imperial Eau de Parfum $133, Madame Aucoin Perfume madameaucoinperfume.com 9 French Leather Eau de Parfum $183-353, Madame Aucoin Perfume madameaucoinperfume.com
OCTOBER 2026
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10 Fleur de Lis Beaded Earrings $24.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
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11 Saints Fleur de Lis Silk Twilly Scarf $19.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
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12 Frame The Polka Dot Nouvelle Blouse $498, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
FRENCH CONNECTION
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1 Hinson Wu Arianna Animal Print Top $328, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com
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2 Saints in Paris Door Hanger $56.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com 3 Frances Valentine Phoebe Midi Skirt $298, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com 4 Gold Ball Beaded Necklace $24.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
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5 Gâteau Cookbook $35, Marquet marquetshoppe.com 6 Fleur de Lis Beaded Clutch $35, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com 7 Bonjour, Y’all! Tote $19.99, Commander’s Palace shop.commanderspalace.com 8 Qui Dat Women’s Boxy Crop Shirt $34.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
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If you’ll be watching the Saints play in Paris on Sunday, October 25, from home, satisfy your French cravings across town. La Crêpe Nanou (1410 Robert Street) will satisfy your brasserie itch; Cafe Degas (3127 Esplanade Avenue) is perfect for brunch or dinner; and Cote Sud (7918 Maple Street) is quaint and intimate, just like many Parisian bistros. N7 (1117 Montegut Street) offers both French fare and romantic vibes, and MaMou (942 N Rampart Street) is equal parts fancy and fun. For pastries, La Boulangerie (4600 Magazine Street) is always a hit; Celtica Bakery (218 Allen Toussaint Boulevard) has one of the best ham and cheese croissants around; Le Petit Bleu (1427 Washington Avenue) is the perfect spot to enjoy a sweet or savory crêpe. To dress the part, visit Le Marais (1933 Sophie Wright Place) and Fleur de Paris (523 Royal Street) for chic ensembles, and pick up a gift straight from France at Aux Belles Choses (3912 Magazine Street).
OCTOBER 2026
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French Flair Around Town
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1 3 1 Croissant Club Cafe Beaded Canvas Tote $25, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
FRESH
Fall
3 Nola Mercantile Retro Player Unisex Tee $30, Here & There Wear hereandtherewear.com
FINDS
4 Bow Croissant Hair Clip $28, Marquet marquetshoppe.com 5 Paris Wine Glass $12.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
OCTOBER 2026
THE PEARL
6 Bon Voyage Travel Journal $45, Marquet marquetshoppe.com
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7 Paul Joun Roaslie Purse $375, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
HIGH-QUALITY JEWELRY | CUSTOM DESIGNS WATCH & JEWELRY REPAIR | JEWELRY CLEANING WE BU Y GOLD, JEW ELRY, AND COINS.
MON - FRI: 9:00 AM-7:00 PM | SAT: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM 2546 WILLIAMS BLVD, KENNER | 504.327.9184 GQ.JEWELERSHOWCASE.COM
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2 Fleur de Lis Pearl Pendant $272, Golden Quality Jewelry gq.jewelershowcase.com
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Extra
EXTRA
How to Elevate Your Event
N
ew Orleans knows how to host an event. Weddings, holiday soirees, and even baby showers can make you ooh and ahh over the theme, personal details, and creative decorations. While planning your next event, consider elevating it with a vendor who will make it personal and absolutely unforgettable.
PHOTOS BY R ANDY SCHMIDT
Verre
Don’t let the bar be an afterthought at your next fête. Amelia Rosso, a longtime resident and graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, created Verre last October to “enhance the celebratory feelings that New Orleans evokes in us all.” With several years of experience leading sales and operations for Palate, a boutique catering and events company, Amelia and her team offer elevated beverage experiences across the city at weddings, corporate events, and celebrations in private homes. Verre offers curated craft cocktails and mocktails (which Amelia says have been very popular) by season along with all the New Orleans classic drinks. Beverages can also be customized and are a unique way to reinforce the theme of your party. “We really love when a client has a theme in mind and gives us free rein to tap into our creativity…We truly feel there is no theme or event (or even a specific ingredient or flavor that someone may enjoy) that we can’t design a cocktail experience for!”
VERRENEWORLEANS.COM
Rhonda Corley Live Event Fashion Illustration Keep guests entertained while gifting them the ultimate personalized favor when you book local artist and fashion illustrator Rhonda Corley. “My love for live illustration really began with sketching fashion and people in motion,” the artist shares. “I’ve always enjoyed capturing the personality, style, and energy of a person through a few expressive lines.”
PHOTOS BY BROOKE LOPEZ PHOTOGRAPHY
Slime Time NOLA Local moms Allie Caillouet and Kayla Grassi dreamed up Slime Time NOLA on Allie’s back
@SLIMETIMENOLA
PHOTOS COURTESY OF RHONDA CORLEY
“For me, the best event entertainment doesn’t take guests away from the celebration — it adds another layer to it. Guests can watch the artwork come together, interact with the artist, and ultimately leave with something that was created specifically for them.”
RHONDACORLEY.COM
THE PEARL
Designed for ages 3-99, Slime Time NOLA brings the fun of a slime shop to birthday parties, school events, fundraiser give backs, markets, and store event pop-ups. Kids (or anyone!) can create and customize their own slime from start to finish (colors, scents, textures, and more) and get to take their creation home with them — no extra party favor needed. The company’s signature cloud butter slime is soft and thick, and the slime bar can be customized to any event. “We knew the kids would have a blast, but we didn’t expect just how much the parents would appreciate being able to sit back, relax, and actually enjoy the party with their guests while we keep the kids entertained.”
Rhonda’s illustrations are a hit at weddings, corporate events, luxury brand activations, galas, and private celebrations, and she always has the guest and their experience top of mind. A quick photo is taken, then the artist gets to work capturing the guest’s individual look and personality on premium watercolor paper with ink and watercolor accents. And for a city like New Orleans, where its people embrace personality and dressing up, the illustrations are always iconic.
OCTOBER 2026
porch in April. “We wanted to create a party experience that we would genuinely want to book for our own kids. Something that was fun, creative, hands-on, and a little different. Our biggest inspiration then, and still today, is pretty simple: Would our kids love this? If the answer is yes, we’re onto something.”
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Let’s ROLL with it!
GIVE YOUR CUSHIONS A LIFT!
BEFORE Foam Cushion Replacement
CUSTOM CUT & STUFFED Fabric • Leather • Sunbrella Upholstery Specialist
Mon-Fri 10am-6pm | Sat 10am-3pm Curbside & Delivery Still Available! 5101 W. ESPLANADE • 504.407.3532 at Chastant • Metairie www.nolagiftsanddecoronline.com @nolagiftsanddecor
OCTOBER 2026
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FALL NIGHTS, IN PERFECT TIME.
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As the evenings grow cooler, settle into the rhythm of the French Quarter. Three Maries Jazz Club pairs exceptional live music, crafted cocktails, and an atmosphere designed for lingering. Every performance unfolds just steps from St. Louis Street, creating a distinctly New Orleans night worth savoring.
Omni Royal Orleans | 621 St. Louis Street threemariesjazzclub.com
NOW SERVICING THE BATON ROUGE AREA
AFTER VISIT US AT OUR NEW LOCATION!
2801 ATHANIA PKWY. • METAIRIE 504.831.5244 • BORDEAUXUP.COM
LET’S CELEBRATE
Julia & Juan B Y M I C H A E L A B E C H L E R | P H O T O S B Y K AT K I M B A L L
A
fter meeting in graduate school, Julia Brantley and Juan Maya remained good friends for several years. “However, our relationship changed in the early hours of Halloween night 2020, when we shared our first kiss — and we’ve been inseparable ever since,” Julia shares. Fast forward a few years to when the two were riding the streetcar Uptown on an idyllic October day and agreed that it was the perfect month to have a wedding — so why not make it a Halloween wedding? “We checked the calendar to find the soonest Halloween on a weekend date and settled on 2025 which was about three years away…Our family and friends’ reactions were pretty comical when we told them we were getting married — in three years. We joke that we had an ‘agreement’ rather than an engagement, which is totally our style.” As the de facto Halloween party hosts in their friend group, the couple was determined to throw their best soiree yet. “The overall vision was a tasteful black-tie masquerade, dark and romantic, whimsical without being tacky, with a dash of Colombian flair to honor Juan’s heritage. I definitely think we pulled it off.” The “Hallowedding” took place at Latrobe’s, which ended up being a serendipitous switch. They pivoted from their original venue and found that the French Quarter event space had everything they needed and more. “While it was a massive leap of faith to change the venue so close to the wedding, they assured us that they could execute the wedding of our dreams in two weeks if they had to,” Julia explains. “They are true professionals when it comes to event hosting.”
OCTOBER 2026
THE PEARL
Julia sourced all her flowers from Trader Joe’s, and her best friends assembled the arrangements the night before. “Hilariously, the one thing we forgot to arrange was my bouquet, which I realized the next morning.” Julia managed to run back to the store ahead of her appointments and legal ceremony to secure the stems.
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L E T ’ S C E L E B R AT E
Julia found her Alena Leena dress at Unbridaled and worked with bridal stylist Jasmine Le Blanc to assemble the full look.
And while they were excited to celebrate their marriage, neither one was big on being the center of attention and wanted to skip some of the pomp and circumstance. The result was a legal ceremony the day before at the courthouse, a short and intimate ceremony in the courtyard, and the revelry starting just moments after they were declared husband and wife. “We planned a cheeky moment where they opened the doors behind the altar to a champagne tower. We waved the guests in behind us, everybody grabbed a glass, and Juan and I made a toast in the main reception space.” Guests donned masks with their formalwear as they danced to DJ Bryan Santos (a friend of the couple, the guitarist for Flow Tribe, and owner of Salsa on Broad Street). “At the very beginning, he played a bunch of salsa, and Juan’s side of the family were all out cutting a rug. Everybody who couldn’t dance salsa sat back and took it all in, mouths gaping. It immediately made the reception feel vibrant and energetic and set the tone for the rest of the dance party. He somehow incorporated Latin music, vintage classics, spooky songs, and dancehall and made it feel cohesive and on-theme.” The cocktail-style reception allowed guests to eat, drink, and dance as they pleased. Julia and Juan made a cocktail list for their classic cocktail bar but renamed the beverages to be on theme. From Deadquiris (daquiris) to Old Frighteneds (old fashioneds), guests loved the menu. “We also had Aguardiente shots for the last hour of the ceremony, which is a celebratory Colombian liqueur. My in-laws can’t have a true celebration without it.”
OCTOBER 2026
THE PEARL
The moody red lighting was the perfect dramatic (and free!) décor.
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Julia’s friend Bayne, a trained costume designer, helped make her masquerade mask.
Celebrating with loved ones from near and far was especially surreal to the couple, and Julia says she felt an overwhelming feeling of gratitude when everything came together. From changed venues to DIY flowers and masks and leaning on talented friends, the Hallowedding will go down as one spooky night to remember.
The couple exchanged vows in private but wanted to give guests an insight into their relationship. Claudia, Julia’s sister-in-law, went above and beyond, making the room both laugh and cry.
L E T ’ S C E L E B R AT E
“We encouraged our guests to interpret the theme however they like — just wear something on your face!”
The vintage-inspired cake was from Gambino’s Bakery. The couple also had a bananas foster station, which Julia says was a nonnegotiable for her mom.
OCTOBER 2026
New Arrivals for Fall! VIN TAG E EUR OPE AN-IN SPI
RED
From chic everyday wear to wedding guest looks & sororit y soirées! 8611 OAK STREET TUESDAY – FRIDAY 11 AM – 5:30 PM | SATURDAY 10 AM – 4 PM FOLLOW US @SILHOUETTEBORN
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Women’s Boutique
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NOT QUITE
SWEATHER weater 2
THE PEARL OCTOBER 2026
2 Beige Shirt Midi Dress $150, Silhouette Boutique silhouettenola.com 3 Dorothee Schumacher Cosmic Funghi Blouse $790, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
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1 Olive Flower Print Dress $99, Silhouette Boutique silhouettenola.com
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4 Delphine Emeline Dot Dress $995, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 5 Malone Souliers Lena Flat Sandals $825, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 6 Lapis Mandarin Dress $324, West London Boutique westlondonboutique.com
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7 Delphine Colette Dress $1,395, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 8 Lilli Sucré Mandarin Collar Shirtdress $258, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com 9 Frankie4 Noa Slingbacks $214, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com
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N O T Q U I T E S W E AT E R W E AT H E R
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1 Sleeveless Floral Tunic $66, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com 2 Strathberry Mosaic Nano Purse $595, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 3 Frankie4 Franklin Loafers $244, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com
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4 Moon River Embroidered Floral Midi Dress $98, Silhouette Boutique silhouettenola.com 5 Luchiano Visconti Beeswax Men’s Shirt $115, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
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6 Trina Turk Mistic Top $248, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com 7 Ilio Smeraldo Ballerina Flats $180, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 8 TWP Next Ex Shirt $410, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
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10 Floral Linen Pants $82, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
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THE PEARL
11 Burnt Orange Lightweight Jacket $85, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
OCTOBER 2026
9 Clea Kya Embroidered Dress $850, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
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THE PEARL OCTOBER 2026
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PHOTO BY SAM GREGORY
BOO
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La La
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1 Tapers $15-25, Iron Taper Holders $42 Each, Marquet marquetshoppe.com
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2 Samuel Dong Brocade Bell Cuff Coat Dress $389, Silhouette Boutique silhouettenola.com 3 14K Yellow Gold Natural Mozambique Garnet Snake Ring $1,203, Golden Quality Jewelry gq.jewelershowcase.com 4 Macabre Tarot $44, Path of Awakenings pathofawakenings.com 5 14K White Gold Lab-Grown Diamond Spider Trim $119, Golden Quality Jewelry gq.jewelershowcase.com
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6 Skeleton Hand Bottle Openerd $16, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
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7 Pumpkin Beaded Earrings $19.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
OCTOBER 2026
8 Skeleton Candelabra with Skulls $65, Marquet marquetshoppe.com 9 Black Cat Tarot $37, Path of Awakenings pathofawakenings.com
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11 Halloween Fun Embroidered Pillow $42.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
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THE PEARL
10 Sterling Silver Bat Charm/Pendant $51, Golden Quality Jewelry gq.jewelershowcase.com
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BOO LA LA
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1 Cat Skeleton Shaped Hooked Pillow $44, The Shop at the Collection shophnoc.com 2 Spirits Towel $15, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com 3 Heretic Nosferatu Eau de Parfum $128, Madame Aucoin Perfume madameaucoinperfume.com 4 Large Sequin Spiderweb Fascinator $80, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com 5 Spooky Fanny Pack $21.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
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7 Ceramic Ghosts $30 Each, Home Malone homemalonenola.com 8 Handblown Hexagonal Tumbler $65, Marquet marquetshoppe.com
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OCTOBER 2026
THE PEARL
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6 Literary Haunted Hayride 500 Piece Puzzle $29, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
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9 Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun Pillow $36.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com 10 Candy Corn Cup Holder $11.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com 11 Ceramic Skull $25, Marquet marquetshoppe.com
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BOO LA LA 1 Come Fly with Me Hand Towel $16.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com 2 The Spookiest Pumpkin Patch in Louisiana Book $12.99, The Shop at the Collection shophnoc.com
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3 Spooky Door Hanger $56.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com 4 Halloween Window Clings $7, Sparkle and Swag sparkleandswag.com 5 Pick Your Poison Cocktail Napkins $5.99 / Set of 20, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
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6 Witches Brew Mug Set $18.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
XEOMIN Results SMOOTH. REFRESHED. STILL YOU
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design
PRESERVATION RESOURCE CENTER’S
many thanks TO OUR
2026 Design Luncheon Host Committee:
Before
After Show your excitement but way smoother!
CALL 504.475.5510 OR TEXT 504.475.1905 TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
DOWNLOAD OUR APP!! ASK ABOUT OUR TREAT NOW/ PAY LATER PROGRAM Book Your FREE Consultation Here!
saintlyskin.com
Go to Facebook for Videos, Specials and more Before & Afters
NOV. 4 • 11:30 A.M.-2:00 P.M. at the Audubon Tea Room
PRCNO.org/design Tables and tickets on sale now. For sponsorship inquiries, contact Kristen Brooks at 504.636.3050 or kbrooks@prcno.org
THE PEARL
3246 SE V E R N AVE . | M E TA IRIE
LUNCHEON
OCTOBER 2026
THANK YOU VOTING US BEST MED SPA AGAIN!
Patricia Brinson Olivia Manning Jennifer Lauscha Melissa Rufty Lilly Lapeyre Sara Costello Vesta Fort Phillips Wood & Will Erickson
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BOO LA LA
1 Bad to the Bone Dog Bandana $14.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com 2 Halloween Tarot in a Tin $19.95, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
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3 Freshcut Pop-Up Pets $12.95, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com 4 Coiled Snake Place Card $10 / Set of 12, Sparkle and Swag sparkleandswag.com 5 Giant Jointed Skeletons $24, Sparkle and Swag sparkleandswag.com
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What
ADVERTISERS ARE SAYING ...
OCTOBER 2026
THE PEARL
PRESENTS
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A MONSTER AND
A MEAL
"Working with The Pearl has been such a joy for our small business! We love collaborating each month to choose the perfect vintage pieces for their magazine and advertisements – it’s always a fun and inspiring process. The feature continually brings new customers into our shop, and we are grateful for the opportunity to connect with more people who appreciate vintage treasures and timeless design."
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18TH 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
HONEY’S
WWW.LITASLITTLESHOP.COM
UPTOWN
— Angela DiSimone | OWNER, AVIS ALDINE
4-HOUR WORKSHOP ON HOW TO CREATE A CUSTOM DOLL
1400 ST CLAUDE AVE ¡LOCAL DRINKS & MORSELS INCLUDED!
Magazine Street
Royal Street FRENCH QUARTER
"We couldn’t be happier with the results we’ve seen since we began advertising in The Pearl! Since our opening in late August, our ads and featured products have led to multiple sales and new customers seeking out the shop. We launched our website the same day as our latest ad publication and we received our first online order within hours of going live ... thanks to ad they saw in The Pearl!" — Josh Saladino | OWNER, THE RISING SON
Contact Sales and Marketing Manager Abigail Bordelon | 504-636-7427 or abigail.bordelon@gambitweek ly.com
ShopDog
Favorite treats: Milk-Bones and vanilla soft-serve ice cream
BY MICHAELA BECHLER
Odie
Fun fact: He is an aspiring fisherman and can’t wait to get on the boat with his dad.
Age: 4 months old | Breed: Miniature Dachshund Business: Here & There Wear
F
or as popular as active and leisurewear have become, Catherine Ott noticed a need for this type of brick-and-mortar in the area. With a Fashion Merchandising degree from LSU, she says she put her skills and studies to the test, opening Here & There Wear on Metairie Road in January 2026. The boutique offers locals a curated selection of outdoor, athletic, and leisure apparel and accessories for men and women. “We really do carry something for everyone,” she shares. “We even have a selection of children’s clothing, so you can come in and find something for the whole family.” Here & There Wear offers several brands including local businesses tasc Performance, Nola Mercantile, and Batture and Bloom. Catherine feels especially drawn to the colorful and soft separates from Beyond Yoga (perfect for anyone that works out a lot) and the fun and nostalgic pieces from Life is Good. “I love getting to buy the fun Life is Good t-shirts with their witty phrases. It’s such a classic brand that everyone loves and always makes for a great gift.”
Favorite toys: His dad’s socks or anything else that squeaks
Another reason to stop by? Odie, Catherine’s rambunctious Miniature Dachshund puppy. Odie joins Catherine at work on weekdays and enjoys hanging out under the front table, where he thinks he is hidden. He is also very enthusiastic about customer service. “He loves making customers feel welcome with a wagging tail and an occasional nibble of their shoelaces. His favorite responsibility is hunting down any baby gecko that dares to enter the store. However, he does occasionally nap on the job.” Sometimes those naps take place on Catherine’s lap, but he always perks up when his dad (Catherine’s fiancé) pops in to visit on his lunch break.
H E R E & T H E R E W E A R I S L O CAT E D AT 2 9 0 4 M E TA I R I E R OA D
THE PEARL
Just like Odie, Catherine loves interacting with customers at Here & There Wear. “It’s refreshing to see people stop in during their daily walks or errand runs or come in for a shopping trip with their moms. I love the conversations and hearing people’s feedback about the store.” After growing up in Old Metairie, Catherine says it was especially meaningful to open her own store on Metairie Road, where she loves being within walking distance of some of the neighborhood’s favorite restaurants. So the next time you’re picking up a beverage at Moxie Coffee & Espresso or en route to Rock-n-Sake, be sure to stop by Here & There Wear — and say hello to Odie, too. Just watch your shoelaces.
Favorite animals: His uncles, Duke and Winston. “Although Winston, a Jack Russell/ Chihuahua mix, doesn’t feel quite the same way and is still warming up to having another puppy around.”
OCTOBER 2026
While Odie is still new to town, he has spent ample time exploring Uptown and Metairie Road. Some of his favorite businesses are District Donuts, La Boulangerie, and Sal’s Snoballs. He’s also a fan of driving across the lake to spend time with his grandparents and running around their backyard in Mandeville. As a puppy, Odie is learning new things every day like the “sit” command. Unfortunately, he has also perfected the “pee on furniture” trick.
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1818 Veterans Blvd., Metairie LA | 504.888.2300 | nordickitchens.com
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