furniture, fireplace accessories, grills and more. “Our staff is our greatest asset. When someone comes in interested in purchasing a Big Green Egg, for instance, they can talk to them about it, because they own one themselves and can guide them on its use.” Mona and the previous owner, Anna Papp, have known each other for years. “I was an Outdoor Living Center customer before I was owner. I know the quality of the furniture and accessories. It’s all designed to withstand the elements here in Louisiana and comes with generous warranties, some up to 20 years. I enjoy setting up a showroom where customers can come in and see, touch and feel the furniture and see how it will work out in their own spaces. We talk to them about the areas they’re looking to fill and how they will use their spaces. Do you enjoy entertaining and cooking for a crowd? Do you have young children or grandkids, pool, pets? We have a lot of customers who drive from New Orleans because they enjoy our knowledgeable, personalized service. “It can be overwhelming to walk in and see so many choices,” says Mona. “That’s why we are here. We know our merchandise and understand what will provide the look and features a customer wants. And if they don’t see the exact color or finish they want, we can special order to help them
Mona Vinturella Recently celebrating 50 years in business,
proud to offer a variety of price points, so there
Southland Plumbing Supply, Lighting and
is something for every lifestyle, taste and budget.
Appliances is the only remaining locally owned
Mona says, “Networking with other independent
plumbing supply company in the region. Owner
supply houses through our buying group has
Alan Vinturella has recruited his wife, Mona, to
helped Southland stay competitive with the
use her interior design degree in showcasing
larger chains and big box stores. Our showroom
Southland’s luxury products throughout the years.
specialists are constantly being trained to know
Now, Mona has taken a more active role in the
the latest products and featured offerings and
management and showroom design in Metairie
pride themselves on delivering just what the
and Mandeville.
customer wants.”
“Between the two locations we have nearly
A good thing got even better in August
15,000 square feet of products on display,” says
2017, when Alan and Mona purchased the Outdoor
Mona. With top plumbing brands such as Kohler,
Living Center in Covington. “Outdoor Living Center
Delta, Moen, and Kallista, and thousands of
has a wonderful reputation,” says Mona. “We were
choices in indoor and outdoor lighting, high-end
thrilled to be able to buy a thriving, respected
appliances such as Electrolux, Thermador, Bosch,
local business.” For nearly 30 years, Outdoor
Miele, and others, Southland Plumbing Supply is
Living Center has been a treasure trove of patio
74
Inside New Orleans
transform their home, inside and out.”
Southland Plumbing Supply is located at 2321 N. Arnoult Rd., Metairie, 504-835-8411; and 68443 Highway 59, Ste 6, Mandeville, 985-893-8883. southlandplumbingsupply.com. Outdoor Living Center is located at 1331 N. Highway 190, Covington, 985-893-8008. outdoorlivingcenter.com.