It’s November, which means my Christmas tree came out of the attic before the Halloween ghosts in the front yard were even fully deflated. Apparently I’m perfectly fine with seasonal overlap, but somewhere between the skeletons and the stockings, I’ve forgotten to rest. The season comes at a sprint, and I’m already winded by the first lap.
It’s easy to rush through it all. Work parties, light shows, Christmas lists, school events, Youtubing how to make ribbon bows again (maybe that’s just me). But every year, I try to remind myself to slow down and actually enjoy this community during its finest season. Flip to the Scoop section on page [18] and you’ll see what I mean. There’s a lot happening, and every bit of it feels worth the time.
But amidst it all, I do think about the impact of where we spend our money. Every gift you buy from a local store becomes a small act of economic magic. It keeps your neighbor’s doors open, helps fund their staff holiday party, and strengthens the entire community. That’s the part of the season I want to notice more. Over the past few weeks, we’ve spent the majority of our time with local business owners working on the pages of this issue. Please know that when you shop here, you keep the lights on in someone’s dream.
I’m going to pause before the next thing. I’m going to breathe, attend what I can, and spend where it matters. Remember that the holidays don’t just happen here. They shine brighter because of the people who make them.
Happy holidays, Northshore.
Every gift you buy from a local store becomes a small act of economic magic.
Inside Northside Publisher
INSIDE NORTHSIDE
PUBLISHER
DESIREE FORSYTH desiree@insidepub.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
SALES DIRECTOR
PEMMIE SHEASBY pemmie@insidepub.com
STEPHANIE ROBERTSON stephanie@insidepub.com
CASIE RUNG crung@insidepub.com
EDITORIAL
MANAGING EDITOR
MARGARET RIVERA margaret@insidepub.com
BUSINESS MANAGER
JANE QUILLIN jane@insidepub.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
JULIE NAQUIN
MEGHAN LABORDE
RACHEL KINCHEN
SOCIAL MEDIA
MAL NICHOLSON
CONTRIBUTORS
Our contributors give Inside Northside its voice, its personality and its feel. We are proud to highlight a few of them so that you can put a face with a name and get to know them.
ERIN COWSER
Erin M. Cowser is a triple threat on the Northshore, having lived and worked in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes with forays across the Causeway and to the State Capitol, too. With a professional career spanning from strategic communications and governmental affairs to public policy and media relations, Erin is at her best when curating relationships and forging collaborations. She and her daughter Eliza Kate share their downtown Hammond home with Priscilla Louise aka “Silly,” the sweetest and most exhaustingly energetic hybrid breed pup ever.
MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT
Mimi blinked and her four kids were grown. She and her husband, David, are emptynesting it on a hobby farm in Folsom where she’s attempting to teach herself gardening, beekeeping, chicken wrangling, foraging, canning, and most recently herbalism. Mimi is blessed to have thousands of articles, essays, and Christian devotionals in national and regional books and magazine.
EDITORAL CONTRIBUTORS
Reller, Chapelle High School, Emily Voelkel with Sweetpea Creative, Jay Vise, Josh Wilson, Northshore Community Foundation and Visit the Northshore
Abigail
COVER ARTIST
the shape of
By: Erin Cowser and Desiree Forsyth
Photos courtesy of Abigail Reller and Chapelle High School
Much more than just a pretty face, Abigail Reller’s Mary is full of grace. She is steady yet gentle, rooted yet radiant. In every cast and painted form, there is intention and invitation: she draws the eye and opens the heart. She’s the Blessed Mother in Technicolor.
But step into the world of Abigail Reller Art, and you’ll quickly realize this is as much about the artist as it is about her subject. Based in a bright studio on Metairie Road, Reller is crafting a body of work that blends devotion, design and family legacy.
A trained educator turned creative entrepreneur, Abigail began painting seriously when her daughter, Anna Frances, decided to join her at the canvas during nap time. “The joy on my daughter’s face, the self-expression she experienced, and the beautiful work of art we made together” became the spark. That moment birthed what she now calls “The Grey Collaborative” — an interactive experience in which children
COVER ARTIST
build a base layer of color, then Abigail tailors the piece into a finished work suited for a client’s home.
The studio itself reinforces the family story. She, her husband Aaron, their children (Anna Frances, Benjamin, Peter and Thomas) and extended family all contribute in some way, from framing to packaging. The Mary statue collection expands to include St. Joseph and soon St. Francis; nativities in Petite and Heirloom styles are in development, one wood-carved by Aaron’s brother Nick.
In her studio you’ll find resin-cast Mary statues, original paintings, and custom-commissioned pieces. Each Mary statue is hand-cast and poured by Abigail and Aaron, and offered in a palette that reads like the dessert menu at a design show: Citrus, Melon, Honeycomb, Moss, Tourmaline, Blush, Azalea and Bourbon among them. Her personal favorite is akin to uranium depression glass, a shocking yellow which goes by the name of Canary. Aaron’s favorite is Bourbon. The names alone create a conversation. With these pieces, Abigail intersects sacred imagery and interior design aesthetics in a bold balancing act.
Yet amid the playful color and design-minded presentation, there is grounded sincerity. In her “About” section she writes that she wants to “fill that empty
space on your wall with something that brings you joy and radiates positivity.”
The dual mission here is clear: one, to honor a tradition steeped in faith; two, to meet contemporary taste — no Mary in a light-blue robe over here.
Reller engages with the visual language of faith as a living continuum, treating tradition not as fixed inheritance but as active dialogue. “Mary has appeared all over the world to people in their own time and place: as Our Lady of Guadalupe, of Kibeho, of Knock. She dressed like them, spoke their language, presented as one of them,” Abigail says. “That’s a kind of reverent flexibility we’ve embraced in our work. It’s not about style over substance; it’s about honoring how God meets us where we are.”
Her approach to the Holy Mother is deliberately modern. Rather than evoke a museum pastiche, she sets Mary in resin, poured over handcrafted molds, finished in vibrant pigment. Abigail says: “Art is about more than color and form. It’s about connection. If you connect with Mary because of her spiritual reverence, I’m here for it! If you connect with her because she’s an audacious Queen, I’m here for that, too!”
“We hope Mary causes us to pause. Even for a second. Maybe to say a prayer or think of someone who needs her. It’s such an honor and joy to present her this
“She is Our Lady, reimagined in radiant color. A modern heirloom to honor the Queen.
”
COVER ARTIST
way. She is Our Lady, reimagined in radiant color. A modern heirloom to honor the Queen.”
The contrast of sacred subject and contemporary finish draws interior-design attention: Mary in neon or jewel-tones feels retro but fresh, and anchors a space with depth and dedication. Abigail’s work has landed not only in faith-based shops but in design studios, homes and offices across the country.
Abigail’s original acrylic and oil-pastel paintings, interlaced with gold leaf, capture movement, light, gesture. She talks about discovering abstraction and feeling liberated: “Drawing does not come easy to me,” she admits. “It wasn’t until I learned that abstract was an option that my painting became more than a hobby.” Her earlier work began on 8-by-10 canvases; now clients request 48-by-60 walls.
In one recent commission for Archbishop Chapelle, she created three large pieces that now hang in the front office of her alma mater. The assignment let her merge institutional identity, faith and her personal aesthetic.
Clients seeking commissioned abstractions find themselves starting with a palette, an idea, or an empty wall. Abigail’s process guides them from concept to heirloom. She says of the collaborative program: “We make family heirlooms. It’s a charge I hold close to my heart.”
Whether you prefer the statues, the paintings or pieces through The Grey Collaborative, you can rest assured the Reller family’s ethos is present in every layer: purpose, color, and faith. “As Catholics, we love tradition. But tradition does not have to be
rigid,” she says. “It’s a gift we’ve inherited that we get to open and behold. Our art demonstrates that beauty, even when it moves with culture, still serves the sacred. And we trust that Mary is not afraid of what’s new. She sees what’s happening in the world and says, in her own way: ‘Let me show you where Jesus is in this.’”
Reller’s work collapses the distance between sacred art and contemporary design, positioning devotion as a form of aesthetic intelligence. Through her practice, the holy and the human converge not in opposition but in conversation. Each piece functions as a meditation on presence, luminous and alive, where beauty and belief take visible form.
NOVEMBER
Paintings by Michael Guidry
November 1-December 20, Wednesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Michael Guidry, an oil painter based in New Orleans, creates vibrant, layered works inspired by the landscapes and waterways of South Louisiana. He builds compositions on wood, burlap, aluminum, and canvas, blending classical techniques with bold experimentation in color, material, and symbolism. Admission is Free.
320 N. Columbia St., Covington, (985) 892-8650, sttammany.art/ upcoming-exhibitions
Jazz’n the Vines Concerts
November 1 and 22, 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Wild Bush Farm & Vineyard invites you to their Jazz’n the Vines concert series. Wild Bush Farm + Vineyard wines are available for tasting and purchase, and local food trucks will be on site with delicious bites. Picnic baskets are welcome, though no
History and Holly Tour of Homes
Sunday, December 14, 2-5 p.m.
Join the Covington Heritage Foundation for its annual History and Holly Home Tour. This is a perfect outing to enjoy with friends and family as you walk the pedestrianfriendly route, touring the festively adorned homes, sipping wine (provided). The tour is a short walk featuring homes from the early 1900’s and later. Tickets are also available at local stores including the Southern Hotel, Braswell Drugs and Covington City Hall. $20 + online fee.
419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, (985) 892-1873, bontempstix.com/organizations/covington-heritagefoundation presented by
outside alcohol is permitted. On November 1: Midriff, November. 22: Charlie Halloran & Los Tropicales. Bring your fest chairs, blankets and battery powered candles, but no bonfires, pets, sky lanterns or canopies. Tickets $5-$32.
81250 Old Military Rd., Bush, (985) 892-9742, wildbushfarmandvineyard.com
Heroes Who Cook
Sunday, November 2, 4-7 p.m.
Sixteen celebrity and restaurant teams will go head-to-head in a competitive cook-off to fight child abuse and raise money for Children’s Advocacy Center - Hope House. Each participating team, composed of a local government or business leader paired with a top local restaurant, will prepare tastings of a gourmet dish for attendees to sample The event will also include live music by Groovy 7, complimentary wine and beer, a live auction, and an online auction. The event takes place on the rooftop of the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center parking
garage. Admission is $105 per person, $1050 for reserved table of 8.
601 N Jefferson Ave., Covington, support.cachopehouse.org/campaign/ heroes-who-cook-2025-teams/ c715655
2025 Chefs to Watch Dinner
November 6-7
Chefs to Watch celebrates rising culinary talent across the Bayou State— chefs who honor Louisiana’s rich food traditions while bringing bold, fresh ideas to the table. This year’s events are presented by Tony Chachere’s and Visit The Northshore. Proceeds benefit the Northshore Food Bank. Chefs to Watch Six-course Dinner with Wine Pairings on November 6 at The Greenwood. On Friday, Nov. 7, a cocktail-style tasting at the Southern Hotel. Dinner, $175; Tasting, $125
Join Northshore Food Bank for their 24th annual gala. Enjoy an exciting night of casino-style gaming, live entertainment, full-service bars, and a delicious buffet by Gary Bonanno Catering. Proceeds support local families, children, seniors, and cancer patients facing food insecurity across St. Tammany Parish. Admission is $150 per individual ticket, $350 for two with reserved seating, $500 for individual ticket package for 4, and four sponsorship levels with tickets and other perks for donors.
125 W. 30th Ave., Covington, (985) 893-9958, northshorefoodbank.org/ pallets-purpose
Sunset Yoga on the Beach
Friday, November 7, 4:15 p.m.
Pelican Park Nature Club presents Sunset Yoga at Fontainebleau State Park. This class is designed for all levels and encourages slow movement, deep breathing, and mindfulness in nature. Attendees should bring a yoga mat and water. Admission is $3 to enter the park; $10 for yoga.
Celebrate 130 years of music at the historic Dew Drop Jazz Hall in Old Mandeville. Bring a lawn chair, friends and family, and enjoy the show under live oaks and stars. Soft drinks, water, beer and wine will also be available for purchase. No outside food or drinks are permitted. Please, no pets. $10 at door (no advance tickets).
430 Lamarque St., Mandeville, dewdropjazzhall.com
2nd Annual Blue Denim Night
Saturday, November 8, 6:30 p.m.
Mark your calendars for a special event at Giddy Up Folsom for their 2nd annual Blue Denim Night. Wear your favorite blue denim or Country & Western-themed outfit to the Giddy Up Grounds and celebrate “wholesome Folsom” with live music, local food, and local businesses. Be sure to bring a chair and don those dancing shoes to join the fun, and feel free to bring your furry friend to this dog-friendly event. Admission is free.
Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and relax on the lawn. Picnic baskets and ice chests are welcome. Lineup: Nov. 9 - Northshore Community Orchestra and Dec. 7 - Vince Vance and the Valiants. Admission is free.
Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell, (985) 646-4375, myslidell.com
Wine and Dine with Hospice
Thursday, November 13, 6 p.m.
The event features wines, spirits and tasty bites from local restaurants, as well as a live auction and wine/liquor raffle. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. All proceeds benefit the Hospice House and end of life care in St. Tammany Parish. $75 per person, $125 per pair.
Maritime Museum Louisiana, 133 Mabel Drive, Mandeville, (985) 643-5470, wineanddinetickets.com
INSIDE SCOOP
Evenings
in the Alley
Saturday, November 15 and December 20, 5-9 p.m.
Olde Towne Slidell will add a little extra magic this fall with “Evenings in the Alley”. Visitors can stroll beneath the colorful canopy while enjoying shops open late, live music, local food vendors, and artists and makers showcasing their work. Free to the public.
The 29th annual Covington Three Rivers Art Festival, one of the largest juried art festivals in the region and most popular events on the Northshore, brings art lovers to downtown Covington each year for two full days of shopping and entertainment. Stroll the city’s Cultural Arts District and shop from more than 200 artist tents. When you’re ready for a break from strolling and shopping, follow the sound of live music or follow your nose, to the tented food court to relax with a bite to each and live music.
200 Block to 600 Block of Columbia Street, Covington, (985) 789-7183, covingtonthreeriversartfestival.com
St. Tammany Comic Con and Collectors Convention
November 15-16, 10:30 a.m.
Dive into the ultimate realm of nostalgia at St. Tammany Collectors Con, where 40,000 square feet of pure geek heaven awaits. Unleash your inner collector as you explore the expansive world of toys, comics, and collectibles, featuring the Gulf South’s most extensive selection of both vintage and modern action figures. $20 - Saturday | $15Sunday | Kids 12 & under free
Saturday, November 15 and Thursday, December 4 , 7:30 p.m.
On November 15, prepare for an emotional rollercoaster, from the intricate artistry of Bach’s Ricercare No. 2 and the radiant brilliance of his Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 to the raw, visceral intensity of Shostakovich’s Chamber Symphony and the vibrant, theatrical energy of his Ballet Suite No. 1. On December 4, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra rings in the holiday season with stunning selections from Handel’s Messiah and beloved classical Christmas music. $13-$69.
128 W. 23rd Ave., Covington, (504) 523-6530, lpomusic.com/events/ ns02-fuhr-nov15
The Lobby Lounge Listening Room Concerts
Thursday, November 20 and Wednesday, December 17, 7 p.m.- 9:30 p.m.
Join your friends for the next “Up Close and Musical” concerts at The Lobby Lounge featuring Amanda Shaw on November 20 and Hannah Belle on December 17. The concert series features nationally touring acts throughout the year, focusing on artists from the worlds of indie rock, folk, country, jazz, blues and more. Performances are acoustic or lightly amplified, in a Bohemianstyle, smoke-free, 124-seat venue. $22-$108 + online fee.
100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, (985) 781-3650, eventbrite.com/o/ the-lobby-lounge-19809065562
Four Unplugged Live at The Groves Stage at Pelican Park
Saturday, November 22, 5 p.m.
Pelican Park and Cleco bring you a night to remember at The Groves Stage with a free concert by Four Unplugged. Bring your fest chairs and get ready to dance, sing and celebrate with your community. Food and beverage vendors on site.So come hungry, thirsty, and ready to rock the night away at Pelican Park! Admission is free.
Take a break from Thanksgiving preparations and come to the Southern Hotel on Thanksgiving Eve, November 26, for a relaxing evening in the courtyard. The music is free, food and drinks are available for purchase. FreeReservations encouraged
428 E. Boston St., Covington, (844) 866-1907, southernhotel.com
Christmas at the Southern November 28-December 31
Southern Hotel during the holidays is a sight to behold. On Fridays, 5-7 p.m. relax in the lobby with live piano music by Joe Tusa. Find beautiful gifts at their Holiday Sip and Shop on December 3, see live music performances of Christmas carols in the courtyard, dine on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day at The Gloriette. It all culminates with a big finish with “New Year on New Hampshire” on Dec. 31, a New Year’s Eve party at the hotel and in the street, complete with music, special menus at participating restaurants and more.
The Southern Hotel, 428 E. Boston St., Covington, (844) 866-1907, southernhotel.com
Olde Towne Slidell
Christmas Market
November 29-30, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Get a jump on your holiday shopping the weekend after Thanksgiving at the 14th annual Olde Towne Slidell Christmas Market! Browse the antiques shops, hear live music, eat
some delicious food, and shop the local artisan craft and retail vendors with unique items for gifting. Free to the public
1952 First St., Slidell (985) 710-8323, facebook. com/events/s/olde-towneslidellchristmas-m/960259112098114
Playmakers Theater presents “’Twas the Night before Christmas”
November 29-December 141, Fridays and Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Sundays, 2 p.m.
A twist on the classic poem takes center stage in Ken Ludwig’s ’Twas the Night
Before Christmas. When Santa forgets a house, a determined mouse, a resourceful elf, and a spirited young girl set off on a whirlwind holiday adventure. Filled with humor, heart, and festive cheer, this family-friendly play is a joyful celebration of the season. $15-$25 (plus online fees)
Covington’s 12 Days of Christmas Lighted Displays and Trim the Trailhead
December 1-31, 2025
From a partridge in a pear tree to twelve drummers drumming, downtown Covington is aglow with holiday images this December with “Covington’s Twelve Days of Christmas” lighted displays, sponsored by the City. The displays will be illuminated seven days a week from dusk to dawn. Plus, at the Covington Trailhead, see
INSIDE SCOOP
“Trim the Trailhead”, a display of dozens of fresh Christmas trees, decorated and sponsored by various businesses and community organizations in support of the Northshore Food Bank. Admission is free.
Various locations, Covington, (985) 892-1873, covla.com
Sips of the Season Stroll
Friday, December 5, 5-9 p.m.
Grab your friends and enjoy a merry evening for the 13th annual Sips of the Season Stroll, where shops, restaurants, and bars will be decked out for the holidays and serving seasonal libations. Inspired by German Christkindlmarkts, this beloved tradition features a keepsake mug—yours to keep—filled at each stop along the stroll. Free to stroll, $35 for tasting mug.
Abita Springs Fête de Noël Christmas Market & Tree Lighting
Friday, December 5, 5-9 p.m.
The Town of Abita Springs hosts the 6th Annual Fête de Noël (Christmas Night Market) and tree lighting celebration in Abita Springs Trailhead Park.The festive event includes live music, market Free vendors with food and crafts and festive holiday drinks. Shop, eat, drink & be merry!Date and to the public.
22044 Main St., Abita Springs, (985) 892-0711, townofabitasprings.com
26th Annual Holiday of Lights
December 5-31, Fridays and Saturday, 6-9 p.m.
The Holiday of Lights features thousands of lights in festive displays with activities on Fridays and Saturdays, and drive-through experience dusk-til-dawn. The event features Santa’s Workshop, where families can make holiday crafts and get a picture with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, and much more! Take a tram ride along the Tammany Trace and see special lighted displays along the path with “Santa’s Yuletide Forest”. Free to the public.
One of the largest arts and crafts expos in the south, the 41st annual Christmas Extravaganza Arts & Crafts Expo by Steinhauer Productions returns to the St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds. Some 400 vendors from a multi-state area have anything you will want to fill your Christmas list with unique products made by artists and craftspersons. The children’s village has jumps and rides, and Santa will be there. This event is pet friendly; however, all pets must be on a leash or in a secure carrier. $8 for age 13+, free for age 12 and under.
1301 N Columbia St., Covington, (985) 966-7863, christmasextravaganzaexpo. com
30
by Ninety Presents “A Very Merry Christmas Spectacular”
December 5-14, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m., Sundays, 2:30 p.m.
30 by Ninety Theatre in Mandeville presents its 7th annual “A Very Merry Christmas Spectacular”. A glittering spectacle of singing and dancing that will certainly get you ready for the holidays--especially with complimentary milk and cookies at every performance. $25-$32 +online fees.
880 Lafayette St., Mandeville, 844-843-3090, 30byninety. com
Santa on Trails 5K Run/Walk
Saturday, December 6, 9 a.m.
Come and run/walk this 5K (3 miles) in a Santa suit! This event is not only a Q50 trail race, it’s also a toy drive for the New Orleans Mission shelter. Participants must bring a new, unwrapped toy for the children at the shelter. $3 park admission; fees for participants.
Fontainebleau State Park, 62883 Hwy. 1089, Mandeville, (504) 390-8807, q50races. com/2018/12/02/q50-racessanta-on-trails-12142019
Winter on the Water Parade & Festival
Saturday, December 6, 2 p.m.
Wrap up the holidays in old Mandeville with the town’s 26th annual celebration of winter and Christmas. The event begins with a parade starting at Pontchartrain Yacht Club, for more family fun, including live entertainment with community
caroling, Holiday Market and Vendor Village, and the Kids Tent. Free to the public.
Five porches. Five bands. A free music event to bring neighborhoods and musicians together, celebrate community and support a great cause. Just choose your show and bring fest chairs. Sponsor and donation proceeds support Hope House/Children’s Advocacy Center. Free to the public.
Christmas at TerraBella Tree Lighting & Holiday Marketplace
Friday, December 12, 6-9 p.m.
This family-friendly holiday event will feature musical performances by local musicians and youth choirs, candlelight caroling, 20+ local art & craft vendors, Christmas crafts, holiday train rides, holiday cookie decorating and a hot chocolate bar at The Reminding, food trucks, beverage vendors, photos with Santa, and more! Free to the public.
111 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington, (985) 871-7171, terrabellavillage.com
Lollipops Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 3 p.m.
The Lollipops Marching Group kicks off Christmas in Covington with their 4th annual parade through the town. The parade includes local dance teams, cheerleading and marching groups, ROTC and, of course, Santa Claus. Free; non-perishable food donation welcome.
Corner of N. Jefferson Ave. and W. 27th Ave., Covington, (985) 710-1378, lollipopsmarchinggroup.com
Christmas in Covington
Saturday, December 13, 4:00-6:30 p.m.
The City of Covington presents the 4th annual Christmas in Covington and Lighting of the Christmas Tree at the Covington Trailhead. Enjoy kids’ crafts, tree lighting and Christmas karaoke. Free; non-perishable food donation welcome.
419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, (985) 892-1873, covla.com
Twinkle on the Tchefuncte Lighted Boat Parade & Holiday Decorating Contest
Saturday, December 13, 5-8 p.m.
Celebrate the season and enjoy family fun, Market Munchkins all-kids market, photo ops, carolers, and eats and treats specials at participating restaurants. Meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus after the parade. Free to the public.
419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, (985) 892-1873, covla.com PRESENTED
The Mandeville Trailhead Community Market, the weekly market offering produce, prepared goods and artisan crafts, plus live music, expands for the holidays giving shoppers extra time to find that perfect handmade gift. Featuring more than 90 artisan vendors offering prepared foods, jewelry, and art and custom crafts, and includes fun holiday activities, like pictures with Santa Claus, live music and face painting. Free to the public.
Holiday Concert with Northshore Community Orchestra
Thursday, December 18, 7 p.m.
The Northshore Community Orchestra is the only symphony orchestra in St. Tammany Parish where both youths and adults can make learning and performing music a lifelong endeavor. Admission is free; donations are welcome.
2056 Second St., Slidell, (985) 646-4375, myslidell.com
Covington
by Candlelight
Friday, December 19, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
All are invited to join in the festive fun of welcoming the Christmas season in Covington with a sing -along and performances at Covington Trailhead. The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating at the open-air pavilion. Admission is free.
Holiday Hosting Playbook
The holidays are a time to gather, celebrate, and make every corner of your home glow with warmth and intention. From trimming the tree and styling the perfect wreath to setting an inviting table and mixing signature cocktails, hosting becomes an art form that blends tradition with personal touch. Whether you’re planning a grand soirée or a cozy family evening, our guide to holiday hosting brings together expert advice, inspired ideas, and festive details to help you create a season filled with beauty, flavor, and joy.
The Modern Host’s Holiday Playbook is your curated guide to creating a home that feels both timeless and alive with festive spirit. Within these pages, you’ll find fresh takes on classic traditions, modern design ideas grounded in comfort, and thoughtful touches that turn the everyday into something
HOLIDAY HOSTING
There’s an art to a Christmas tree. Done right, it’s less about symmetry and more about storytelling. Think of it as curating a moment: equal parts tradition, personal touch, and a dash of drama. As Steve Macloud, owner of Niche Modern Home, notes, “Your Christmas tree is a reflection of your family, its values, and its traditions, so that should be your starting point with designing your tree and decor.”
Start with structure. The tree itself is your foundation. Whether faux or fresh, give it life with depth. Fluff each branch (yes, every single one) to create fullness, and anchor it in a sturdy stand. A lush base sets the stage for everything else. “Elevate your tree using sprays, branches, and
Christmas Tree 101
With Steve Macloud from Niche Modern Home
floral throughout your tree design to create dimension,” Steve advises. Wired-in pine or spruce sprays can extend the branches, allowing ornaments to be placed beyond the tree’s natural shape for a layered, dimensional look.
Layer with light. Lighting is where the magic begins. Instead of spiraling, weave strands in and out of the branches, tucking bulbs deep inside and then pulling forward. This creates dimension and that coveted glow-from-within effect. Rule of thumb: 100 lights per foot of tree. “Lighting sets the mood; it brings warmth and makes ornaments pop,” Steve adds.
Anchor with ribbon. Ribbon or garland acts like the connective tissue, tying the whole look together. Cascade them in loose spirals or tuck in shorter ribbon pieces for a more tailored, modern feel. Metallics, velvets, and patterns add richness without overwhelming. “To pull a tree together and make it cohesive, I like to use a unifying color for the ribbon, florals, larger ornaments and sprays,” Steve explains.
Curate your ornaments. Mix large statement ornaments alongside smaller filler ornaments, balancing shape, color, and texture. “Ornaments of all sizes should be dispersed throughout the tree. I like to mix different finishes of the same color—matte, glossy, and mirror finishes. Larger ornaments go deeper in the tree, with smaller ornaments on the outer branches,” he notes. Family heirlooms and keepsakes deserve pride of place. “A well-put-together tree should have ornaments of all sizes and shapes evenly distributed throughout,” Steve adds.
Finish with flourish. A topper is more than decoration; it’s punctuation. We love a classic star, whimsical bow, or unexpected vintage find—it crowns the tree with personality. Finally, don’t forget the base. Use a tree collar for a more modern look or a skirt if you lean more traditional. “Having a cohesive classic base theme throughout your home allows for evolving designs that can follow trends while still feeling unified,” Steve explains.
The secret isn’t perfection, but presence. “Your tree should tell your story. It’s not about being flawless, it’s about making it yours.”
Common Tree Mistakes
• Skipping the fluff. A flat, unfluffed tree will never look full, no matter how much décor you pile on.
• Lining lights only on the outside. Without depth, your tree will look flat and harsh.
• One-size ornaments. Using only small ones makes the tree busy instead of dimensional.
Pro Stylist Tips
Insider tricks for a tree that feels elevated, not overdone
• Double up your lights. Mix warm white with soft twinkle strands for layered glow.
• Work in odd numbers. Clusters of three ornaments create a balanced but organic look.
• Think texture. Pair glossy glass with matte, velvet, wood, or even paper for depth.
• Step back often. After every layer—lights, ribbon, ornaments—pause and look at the tree from across the room or multiple angles. Another option is to take a quick snapshot to see where your tree could use something extra.
Christmas Tree by the Numbers
Your shortcut to a polished magazine-worthy tree.
LIGHTS
Think of lights as the tree’s magic. You’ll want about 100 lights for every foot of tree.
• 6 ft = 600 twinkles
• 7.5 ft = 750 twinkles
• 9 ft= 900 twinkles
GARLAND & RIBBON
Garland is like jewelry—it finishes the outfit. Plan for 9–10 feet per foot of tree height.
• 6 ft = 54–60 feet of sparkle
• 7.5 ft = 67–75 feet of ribbon or beads
• 9 ft = 81–90 feet of festive flow
ORNAMENTS
Here’s where personality shines. Aim for 10–15 ornaments per foot of tree.
• 6 ft = 60–90 ornaments
(a mix of big showstoppers and little fillers)
• 7.5 ft = 75–115 ornaments (hello, family heirlooms)
• 9 ft = 90–135 ornaments (the more the merrier)
HOLIDAY HACK: Mix glossy, matte, and handmade ornaments so your tree feels collected, not store-bought.
HOLIDAY HOSTING
From the Farm to the Front Door
From Maine-made classics to farm-fresh Southern deliveries, wreaths can ship nationwide, ensuring your holiday home looks (and smells) beautifully festive from the moment guests arrive.
Tips for ordering & care
Order early — many of these makers begin shipping close to Thanksgiving and may sell out.
Choose a delivery window — some sites let you pick the week or day for delivery to ensure freshness.
Care instructions — once it arrives, keep the wreath cool, out of direct sun, and mist lightly to retain moisture.
Gift with Greenery — Fresh wreaths make thoughtful, easy-to-send gifts that bring instant holiday cheer.
Elevate Your Event
The details make all the difference in hosting, and that’s where creative local businesses come in. From the shimmer of custom glassware to the flavor of freshly shucked Gulf oysters, these small businesses help you turn a regular gathering into an unexpected occasion.
Boogie Booth
More than a photo booth, it is an experience generator. Boogie Booth, based in Mandeville, brings creative technology and custom styling to every event. Think cinematic slow-motion videos, GIF loops, digital trading cards, and elevated setups that make guests actually want to get in the frame.
boogiebooth.com.
Cherrybomb Coffee Co.
Because caffeine is always welcomed. Cherrybomb Coffee Co. rolls up in style with sleek mobile espresso carts, signature lattes, and custom latte art that is almost too pretty to sip. Their Madisonville-based team brings the charm of a boutique café straight to your celebration.
Part party shop, part mood board come to life. The Graceful Host in Covington curates everything from color-coordinated party goods to
L.L. Bean
Nothing brings the holidays home like their full, fresh, fragrant balsam, handcrafted from sustainably harvested balsam and arranged one piece at a time. Free U.S. shipping. Starting at $54.95
llbean.com
Creekside Farms
Creekside Farms, located in Central California, makes handcrafted holiday wreaths that blend traditional charm with artisanal craftsmanship. Handmade to order and ship within 1 to 3 business days throughout the United States. Starting at $79.95
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Third Day Market offers a diverse selection of handcrafted Fraser fir wreaths, meticulously made from locally sourced greenery and available in a variety of sizes and styles. Starting at $57
statement balloon installations. The aesthetic is clean, modern, and Southern charm. The result is a fun and thoughtfully designed event.
gracefulhostshop.com
The Glass Lady Rentals
When the table is the moment, this is where you begin. The Glassy Lady is a boutique rental service in New Orleans, specializing in tablescape pieces for events ranging from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Their collection feels like a well-traveled hostess’s china cabinet: vintage glassware, sculptural dinner plates, and serveware that bring colorful and unique details to your celebrations.
theglassylady.com
Lafitte’s Oyster Catering
The party begins when the oysters arrive. Lafitte’s Oyster Catering serves up a roving raw bar that brings the Gulf Coast to you, freshly shucked or firegrilled with all the fixings. It is interactive, indulgent, and unmistakably Louisiana.
gulfcoastcrawfish.com/oysters
HOLIDAY HOSTING
Bar Cart Bliss
The holiday season calls for a touch of sparkle, and nothing captures festive cheer quite like a styled bar cart. It’s where function meets glamour: a vignette of glassware that catches the light, cocktails that smell of cinnamon and citrus, and accessories that double as art. Whether tucked in a corner of your living room or placed center stage during a soirée, a bar cart becomes both a conversation starter and a destination for holiday cheer.
This season, think statement glassware: cut crystal decanters, goldrimmed tumblers, or colored glass goblets that feel joyful on sight. Add seasonal garnishes, like sprigs of rosemary, fresh cranberries, citrus wheels, or star anise, both for flavor and visual delight. Layer in chic accessories: brass ice buckets, sculptural cocktail stirrers, and trays that keep everything curated and accessible.
Styling your bar cart is about balance. Let a few standout pieces shine, while keeping the overall look intentional. Mix metallics with warm wood tones or marble to anchor the display, and don’t forget a personal touch, whether it’s a vintage cocktail recipe card or a signature holiday drink.
This holiday, let your bar cart be more than functional. After all, nothing says “festive” like a perfectly poured drink and a cart worthy of a toast.
PRO TIP: Want to take your bar cart from festive to fabulous? Pick up The Art of Bar Cart Styling, it’s packed with inspiration on color coordination, glassware selection, and layout ideas that turn your drink station into a true design moment.
Stock the Bar – By the Numbers
HERE’S YOUR QUICK HOLIDAY BAR CHECKLIST TO ENSURE YOU’RE READY FOR EVERY TOAST, BIG OR SMALL.
SPIRITS:
• 1 BOTTLE VODKA
• 1 BOTTLE GIN
WINE:
1 BOTTLE BOURBON OR WHISKEY
1 BOTTLE TEQUILA
• 6–12 BOTTLES TOTAL (ABOUT ½–1 BOTTLE PER GUEST)
• RATIO: 60% WHITE, 30% RED, 10% SPARKLING
• ALWAYS CHILL AN EXTRA BOTTLE OF BUBBLY FOR SPONTANEOUS TOASTS
TIP: IF WINE WILL BE THE PRIMARY DRINK SERVED, ERR ON THE HIGHER SIDE. OTHERWISE, BALANCE WITH COCKTAILS AND BEER.
TIP: THIS “STOCK THE BAR – BY THE NUMBERS” LIST IS DESIGNED FOR A SMALL-TO-MEDIUM HOLIDAY GATHERING — ROUGHLY 8–12 GUESTS. IF YOU WANT TO SCALE THIS FOR DIFFERENT PARTY SIZES:
• INTIMATE (4–6 GUESTS): REDUCE SPIRITS BY ABOUT HALF; FEWER GLASS SETS; SMALLER GARNISHES.
• LARGE (20+ GUESTS): DOUBLE OR TRIPLE QUANTITIES; CONSIDER ADDING A PUNCH BOWL OR EXTRA MIXER BOTTLES.
HOLIDAY HOSTING
Step-by-step: Building a Holiday Tablescape
There’s something almost cinematic about gathering around a holiday table. But designing a holiday tablescape isn’t about perfection. It’s about layering texture, light, and memory until the table feels like an invitation.
As designer Lesle Veca of V Home & Interiors explains, “Your table should tie into the rest of your home’s decor so everything feels cohesive. If your tree is decked in gold and silver, echo those tones on the table so the entire space tells one story.”
1. Choose the story and palette
Start with a mood. Is it heirloom and elegant, garden-inspired, cozy and candlelit? Limit the color palette to two neutrals and one seasonal accent such as deep pine, muted cranberry, or warm gold. A strong story makes every element feel intentional.
“Start with color,” says Veca. “A cohesive palette grounds everything you add later and helps your design live beyond just the holiday. It should work for the whole season.”
Designer tip: A strong story makes small choices feel intentional.
Don’t: Chase every trending color. Stick to your story.
2. Anchor with linen and surface
Lay a base with a simple tablecloth or runner to ground the setting, then add texture with natural linen, soft cotton, or a touch of velvet for quiet luxury.
“Don’t underestimate contrast,” Veca notes. “Pair rustic with refined, soft linen with metallics or crystal, to add depth without feeling overdone.”
Designer tip: Natural linen softens metallics; velvet raises the temperature. Don’t: Use busy patterns under patterned china.
3. Set the foundation: plates, glassware, and flatware.
Stack plates with purpose: charger, dinner, salad. Mix an inherited piece with something modern for that curated-over-time look, and leave space so settings breathe. “Layering is key,” says designer Lesle Veca of V Home & Interiors. “Stack plates on chargers that tie into your palette, and always leave enough room so guests can relax and enjoy the meal.” Vary glassware heights for dimension, and let flatware and glassware quietly echo your palette. “Beautiful functional pieces can make a statement without adding clutter,” Veca adds.
Designer tip: Matte chargers ground glossy china beautifully, while a vintage coupe or cordial adds personality
Don’t: Match everything; identical settings feel staged and boring.
4. Compose the centerpiece with scale in mind
Centerpieces should connect guests, not divide them. Arrange greenery and blooms low and loose, or anchor the table with a single sculptural piece. Combine seasonal greenery, a few blooms, and candles for warmth. Veca agrees: “Height is the biggest mistake I see. You want to see the person across from you, so keep your centerpiece low enough for conversation.”
She often uses unexpected elements, “antlers, artichokes, even white pumpkins”, for texture and surprise.
Designer tip: Repeat a material from the place setting (a gold touch, a sprig) in the centerpiece for cohesion.
Don’t: Use overpowering foliage or tall obstructions that block faces.
5. Layer lighting, scent, and small details.
Candlelight should mingle with soft overhead light, creating a warm, flattering glow.
“Battery-operated candles are beautiful, realistic, and stress-free,” says designer Lesle Veca of V Home & Interiors. “Vary heights for dimension without worrying about dripping wax.” Add subtle fragrance with rosemary or citrus peel and finish with thoughtful touches, like folded napkins, a sprig of greenery, or a tiny ornament at each place setting. “It’s a simple way to make each spot feel personal,” Veca adds.
Designer tip: A mix of battery candles and real tapers keeps ambiance safe and chic. Don’t: Over-accessorize or rely on harsh overhead lighting.
7. Edit, then welcome
View the table from a guest’s perspective and remove anything that feels heavy-handed. The best tables feel balanced and lived-in, not overly styled. A well-edited table should feel effortless.
“Your design should set the backdrop for connection,” says Veca. “It’s about people and the memories made around that table. The table is just the stage.”
Designer tip: Photograph it quickly and you’ll spot compositional tweaks you missed. Don’t: Tweak endlessly. Hospitality wins over perfection.
A Southern tablescape whispers refinement— layered, gently lived-in, made for company. Keep comfort and conversation first. The rest is beautiful punctuation.
The Feast of Seven Fishes: An Italian Tradition with a Louisiana Accent
On Christmas Eve, long before the first present is unwrapped, kitchens across Southeast Louisiana come alive with the scent of sizzling shrimp, bubbling tomato sauce, and freshly baked bread. For many Italian-American families in the region, the Feast of the Seven Fishes, known in Italy as La Vigilia, isn’t just dinner. It’s a cherished ritual, a night of abundance, memory, and faith served family-style.
Rooted in Southern Italy’s Roman Catholic traditions, La Vigilia di Natale began as a simple meatless meal observed before Midnight Mass. Fish took center stage;
sometimes seven dishes, symbolizing the sacraments or virtues; sometimes more, simply marking the joy of the season. When waves of Sicilian and Italian immigrants made their way to Louisiana in the late 19th century, they carried the tradition with them, finding familiar comfort in the waters of the Gulf.
Here, the feast evolved, trading Mediterranean cod and eel for local catches of shrimp, oysters, crab, and snapper. Over time, the flavors of the bayou mingled with those of the old country, creating something uniquely Louisiana: fried oysters beside baccalà, crabstuffed mirliton on the same table as linguine
Seven Fishes, Southern Style
Southeast Louisiana,
of the Seven Fishes takes a Gulf Coast turn. Think Italian heart with Creole soul, abundant, flavorful, and rooted in what’s fresh from local waters.
A Sample Seven:
1. Fried Gulf Oysters — crisp and golden with a squeeze of lemon
2. Crabmeat Mirliton Casserole — a Louisiana classic dressed for Christmas
3. Shrimp Scampi over Angel Hair — kissed with garlic, parsley, and olive oil
4. Seafood Gumbo — rich, smoky, and shared by the ladleful
5. Stuffed Redfish or Snapper — baked whole, seasoned simply with herbs and citrus
6. Pasta with Blue Crab Sauce — a nod to both Sicily and the bayou
7. Fried Catfish Bites or Crawfish Cakes — a down-home flourish that feels right at home
To Serve:
• Pair seafood courses with crisp white wines or light Italian reds.
• Add baskets of warm French bread, olives, and roasted peppers for color and comfort.
• Finish with a sweet note—Italian cookies, fig pastries, or pralines for a local touch.
with clams. In true New Orleans fashion, it became both sacred and social; a celebration where faith, food, and family meet in one long, laughter-filled evening.
Today, restaurants and families alike continue the custom, blending old-world recipes with Gulf Coast ingredients and plenty of local flair. Whether you serve seven dishes or seventeen, the magic of the Feast of Seven Fishes lies in its spirit of togetherness, proof that tradition, like the best recipes, can evolve beautifully when passed from one kitchen to the next.
Sweet Finish: Italian Cookies & Fig Pastries
No Italian Christmas Eve is complete without a table piled high with sweets, a mix of delicate cookies, nutty biscotti, and spiced fig pastries that carry generations of memory in every bite.
In Southeast Louisiana, these confections trace directly to the Sicilian immigrants who settled across New Orleans, Tangipahoa, and St. Bernard Parishes in the early 1900s. Many families arrived with little more than their faith, their recipes, and a deep reverence for holiday tradition. Over time, local ingredients gave them a Southern twist, creating a dessert table that’s both regional and rooted in heritage.
The Classics:
Cucidati: tender pastry filled with figs, nuts, citrus, and Marsala, finished with icing and sprinkles.
Pignoli: chewy almond-paste cookies rolled in pine nuts.
Biscotti: twice-baked for dipping in coffee or sweet wine.
Anise or Lemon Drops: soft, glazed rounds that fill the air with the nostalgic scent Sesame Seed Cookies: buttery and crisp, coated in sesame.
In Louisiana kitchens, it’s common to see these Italian treats mingling with pralines or sand tarts — a sweet symbol of blended cultures.
The Louisiana Touch: Add pecans, local honey, or pralines to your trays. Serve on heirloom platters with rosemary or holly for a festive, organic look. Let the table feel abundant, a bit imperfect, and full of holiday soul. The sense that someone’s nonna just walked through the kitchen.
In
the Feast
Stress-Free Holiday Hosting: Catering Options to Make Your Party Shine
Not every host wants to spend the day in the kitchen, and that’s where a great caterer comes in. Letting the professionals handle the menu means you can actually enjoy your own party. From elegant passed hors d’oeuvres to family-style feasts, these local caterers make holiday hosting effortless, delicious, and entirely stress-free.
Annadele’s Plantation
71518 Chestnutt St., Covington (985) 809-7669
Benedicts Plantation
1144 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville (985) 626-4557 benedictsplantation.net
Catering by Don
72022 Live Oak St, Covington (985) 373-7574 cateringbydon.com
Cena; Hammond
123 S Cate St, Hammond (985) 662-3222 cenahammond.com
Tchefuncte’s 407 St. Tammany St, Madisonville (985) 323-4800 tchefunctes.com
Tope La Restaurant 104 N Cate St, Hammond (985) 542-7600 topela.com
Zea Rotisserie & Bar 110 Lake Dr., Covington (985) 327-0520 zearestaurants.com
Trust Covington Trace ER & Hospital for fast, personalized care with LITTLE TO NO WAIT IN OUR ER. We accept private insurance and are committed to providing exceptional healthcare close to home, ensuring your well-being when it matters most.
Experience top-tier care without the wait. Visit us today for immediate, compassionate service.
10 Healthy Holiday Swaps That Make a Big Difference
By Jen Smiley, Wake Up and Read the Labels
The holidays are full of joy — and hidden ingredients. From casseroles to cookies, many festive recipes are made with oils, flours, and sugars that secretly cause inflammation, fatigue, and bloating. The good news? You don’t have to give up your favorite dishes. You just must swap smarter. Here are ten simple clean swaps that make holiday meals taste just as good (and help you feel even better).
1. Butter
Swap: Land O’Lakes or “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” — Grass-Fed Butter (like Truly or Kerrygold)
Why: Conventional butter and margarine come from grain-fed cows or soybean oil, both high in omega-6s that promote inflammation. Grass-fed butter is rich in antiinflammatory omega-3s which help you lose weight and stay full.
2. Vegetable or Canola Oil|
Swap: Crisco, Wesson, or “vegetable oil” — Avocado or Extra Virgin-Olive Oil
Why: Seed oils are highly processed and oxidize easily, raising inflammation and damaging cells. Avocado and olive oils are stable, heart-healthy fats that support good cholesterol and hormone balance.
3. All-Purpose or Whole-Wheat Flour
Swap: Traditional flour or wheat flour — Cassava or Almond Flour
Why: Modern wheat is sprayed with glyphosate and high in inflammatory omega6s. Cassava and almond flours are naturally gluten-free, gentler on digestion, and lower on the glycemic scale keeping you fuller longer.
4. White Sugar
Swap: Refined sugar — Coconut Sugar or 100% Pure Maple Sugar
Why: White sugar spikes blood sugar and feeds inflammation. It makes you more hungry and tired. Coconut sugar and maple syrup are less processed and contain trace minerals, helping you avoid that crash after sweets.
5. Breadcrumbs
Swap: Progresso Breadcrumbs — Pork Rind Crumbs or Nut Crumbs
Why: Conventional breadcrumbs contain
folic acid that 60% of humans can not metabolize which makes you inflammed plus soy bean oil which is 99% GMO. GMO’s disrupt your gut and cause leaky gut diseases. Pork rind or nut crumbs are made with clean, one-ingredient foods that add crunch without grains or seed oils or flours.
6. Cream of Mushroom Soup
Swap: Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom — Kettle & Fire Mushroom Chicken Bone Broth
Why: The canned version hides MSG, soybean oil, and thickeners all of which are ingredients your body does not recognize and can not digest. Bone broth provides real protein and collagen, creating creamy casseroles without additives or gut irritants.
7. Conventional Wine
Swap: Most U.S. Wines — Organic, Low-Sulfite, Low-Sugar Wines (like Dry Farm Wines or Avaline)
Why: U.S. wines can contain up to 75 undisclosed additives, sulfites and added sugar. Clean wines skip these chemicals—so you can enjoy a glass without headaches, flushing, or weight gain.
8. Hot Chocolate Mix
Swap: Swiss Miss — Fine & Raw Drinking Chocolate
Why: Swiss Miss contains corn syrup solids, dairy powders, and artificial flavors. Fine & Raw uses only cacao and coconut sugar for a pure chocolate taste with antioxidants and no crash.
Why: Conventional frostings use hydrogenated oils and artificial colors. Mrs. Jones’ is made with organic powdered sugar and sustainable palm shortening for a clean, creamy finish.
Clean eating isn’t about restriction—it’s about recognition.
When you swap out processed ingredients for real, whole foods, you still get the comfort and flavor you love, minus the inflammation, fatigue, and guilt. This holiday season, let your favorite dishes love you back. Visit
Jen Smiley
HOLIDAY HOSTING
Small Bites, Big Impression
Dainty, delicious, and designed to dazzle.
Entertaining doesn’t have to mean a five-course dinner. Sometimes, the most memorable gatherings happen over passed plates and sparkling glasses, where the food is bite-sized but the flavors are bold. This spread is designed for mingling: make-ahead morsels, colorful platters, and a touch of seasonal luxury that feels both effortless and polished.
Savory Standout: Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon-Dill Aioli
Crisp on the outside, tender inside, and endlessly crowd-pleasing. Form and chill them a day ahead—then pan-fry or bake before serving. Serve on a platter lined with fresh herbs for a coastal touch.
Favorite: Sweet Potato Rounds with Whipped Feta & Pomegranate Seeds
A colorful, gluten-free alternative that’s both pretty and flavorful. Roast the sweet potato slices in advance; top with feta and pomegranate just before serving.
1. IN A BOWL, GENTLY MIX CRAB, EGG, MAYO, MUSTARD, OLD BAY, BREADCRUMBS, LEMON JUICE, AND PARSLEY. SCOOP ABOUT 1 TABLESPOON OF THE MIXTURE AND ROLL INTO SMALL BALLS. CHILL 30 MINUTES TO FIRM. 3. PLACE ON A PARCHMENT-LINED BAKING SHEET, SPRAY LIGHTLY WITH OIL, AND BAKE AT 400°F FOR 12–15 MINUTES, FLIPPING HALFWAY THROUGH.
4. COMBINE AIOLI INGREDIENTS AND SERVE ALONGSIDE. MAKE AHEAD: FORM AND CHILL CAKES UP TO 24 HOURS; COOK BEFORE SERVING. TO SAVE MORE TIME, BUY YOUR FAVORITE FROZEN ONES.
The Effortless Entertainer
Pro Tip: Choose one cold, one warm, and one sweet bite for a balanced presentation.
Serve Smart: Use tiered stands and mixed materials—marble boards, wood trays, and metallic bowls—to create visual height and texture.
Make Ahead Magic: Most of these bites can be prepped 24 hours in advance; store chilled and finish with garnishes before serving.
• 2 CUPS ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
• ½ CUP POWDERED SUGAR, PLUS MORE FOR DUSTING
• 1 TBSP ORANGE ZEST
• 1 TBSP LEMON ZEST
• 1 CUP UNSALTED BUTTER, SOFTENED
• ¼ TSP SALT
• 1 TSP VANILLA EXTRACT
DIRECTIONS:
1. PREHEAT OVEN TO 350°F. LINE AN 8X8-INCH PAN WITH PARCHMENT.
2. IN A BOWL, CREAM BUTTER, POWDERED SUGAR, AND ZESTS UNTIL SMOOTH. ADD VANILLA, THEN MIX IN FLOUR AND SALT UNTIL DOUGH FORMS.
3. PRESS EVENLY INTO PREPARED PAN AND PRICK LIGHTLY WITH A FORK.
4. BAKE 25–30 MINUTES, UNTIL PALE GOLDEN AT EDGES.
5. COOL COMPLETELY BEFORE CUTTING INTO SMALL SQUARES; DUST WITH POWDERED SUGAR BEFORE SERVING. MAKE AHEAD:
THESE KEEP BEAUTIFULLY FOR SEVERAL DAYS IN AN AIRTIGHT CONTAINER, MAKING THEM PERFECT FOR PRE-PARTY PREP.
HOLIDAY HOSTING
Signature Sips: The Cocktails Behind Your Holidays
Featuring
Sara Sinclair of Aperitif Spritz & Bites, Mandeville, LA
At Aperitif Spritz & Bites in Mandeville, owner Sara Sinclair knows that the perfect cocktail is more than a drink, it’s an atmosphere. Her Blood Orange Rosemary Margarita has quickly become a holiday favorite, capturing everything she loves about the season: warmth, comfort, and a touch of Louisiana sunshine.
“The inspiration came from my love of a good margarita and rosemary,” Sinclair says with a laugh. “I grow rosemary at home and use it in flower arrangements and bud vases because I can’t get enough of the smell. Rosemary loves Louisiana, especially Old Mandeville, where you’ll see it growing beautifully along Girod Street.”
That homegrown sprig of rosemary sparked a cocktail that feels festive yet familiar. “When people take that first sip, I want them to feel equally excited and comforted,” Sinclair explains. “It’s a drink that toasts the season and extends warmth to your guests.” The cocktail’s ombré of orange and rust tones mirrors the glowing sunsets along the lakefront, a subtle nod to the town she calls home.
For Sinclair, the holidays taste like citrus and herbs: fresh, fragrant, and cozy all at once.
Even when served over ice, her signature sip carries a sense of nostalgia. And though she loves a good garnish, she insists it should feel natural and effortless: “Fresh herbs, dried fruit, cinnamon sticks, they’re beautiful, but keep them practical for sipping.”
When it comes to creating your own “signature sip” at home, Sinclair encourages hosts to focus on vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and thoughtful presentation. “The glassware, the garnish, the vessel; it all adds up,” she says. “Even if you’re serving from a punch bowl or bar cart, those details make it special.”
Her best advice for batching drinks for a crowd? Trust the experts. “Google helps with the math, but our bartenders at Aperitif are the real pros,” she jokes. “They know how to scale without losing the craft.”
While Sinclair enjoys a classic Moscow Mule come winter, or even a cozy hot chocolate moment, her Blood Orange Rosemary Margarita remains her quintessential holiday pour. “It’s sophisticated, vibrant, and festive,” she says. “The ginger beer adds this unexpected spark that keeps it light and bright.”
Blood Orange Rosemary Margarita
From Sara Sinclair, Aperitif Spritz & Bites
1. Combine all ingredients except the ginger beer and shake well.
2. Strain over crushed ice in a stemless wine glass.
3. Top with blood orange ginger beer, a sprig of rosemary, and a dehydrated lime wheel. HOT TIP: Look for small-batch or bar-quality options from cocktail retailers and Etsy makers for a garnish that’s as polished as it is effortless. 4. Sip, smile, and let the season unfold. 1.5
And if you’re wondering what scene this cocktail was made for? “Picture Frank Sinatra’s Jingle Bells playing while you’re sitting by the fireplace, looking at your Christmas tree sprinkled with silver tinsel and vintage ornaments,” Sinclair says. “That’s the vibe.”
ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP AN AROMATIC STAPLE FOR HOLIDAY COCKTAILS, FROM THE KITCHEN OF APERITIF SPRITZ & BITES
INGREDIENTS
1 CUP WATER
1 CUP GRANULATED SUGAR
3–4 FRESH ROSEMARY SPRIGS
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves. 2. Add rosemary sprigs and let the mixture gently simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, cover, and allow the syrup to steep for 20–30 minutes for a more pronounced herbal flavor.
4. Strain into a glass jar or bottle and discard the rosemary.
5. Cool completely, then refrigerate for up to two weeks.
PRO TIP:For a more intense flavor, lightly bruise the rosemary sprigs before steeping to release their natural oils.
HOLIDAY HOSTING
Hidden Gem:
The Dry Oak
This season, skip the spirits without skipping the celebration. The Dry Oak in Covington brings festive sophistication to the zero-proof scene with its curated selection of non-alcoholic wines, aperitifs, and mixers perfect for holiday hosting. From spiced botanicals to citrusy tonics, every sip feels seasonal and special, proof that holiday cheer doesn’t need alcohol to shine. At The Dry Oak, it’s all about raising a glass to good taste, good company, and a clear head.
501 N Theard St, Ste 4, Covington, LA 70433 | (985) 327-5219 | www.thedryoak.com
Little Sippers:
3 Mocktails Kids Can Make Themselves
Even the youngest guests deserve a festive toast. Our “Little Sippers” guide makes it easy to serve Instagram-worthy mocktails that kids can help create themselves. From fizzy berry lemonade to peppermint cocoa, these drinks are as playful as they are delicious.
1. Fizzy Berry Lemonade
• Mix equal parts lemonade and sparkling water.
• Drop in a few fresh berries and a lemon slice.
• Optional: Rim the glass with sugar for extra sparkle.
2. Chocolate Peppermint Cocoa
• Warm milk and stir in cocoa powder and a dash of peppermint extract.
• Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.
3. Tropical Sunrise
• Combine orange juice and pineapple juice over ice.
• Add a splash of sparkling water.
• Garnish with a small paper umbrella or fruit skewer.
Tip for Hosts: Set up a “mocktail station” with small pitchers, cups, and garnishes. Kids can feel like bartenders while keeping it messfree and festive.
Fine Jewelry | Gifts for Her | Gifts for Him | Explorers | Sports Fans | Art Lovers | Hostess | Kids | Experiences
Cookbooks | Home | Tastes and Toasts | Stocking Stuffers | The Gift of Giving
GIFT GUIDE 2025
Roberto Coin Love in Verona Bangle. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, (504) 832-0000, lmfj.com.
Unleash the need for speed. From karting to supercar driving, it’s the perfect gift for those who crave the thrill of racing and the joy of high-speed adventure. NOLA Motorsports Park, nolamotor.com.
Omega Constellation Manhattan with diamond bezel and aventurine glass dial, $14,000. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, (985) 626-1666.
Rolex 40mm
Submariner two-tone with black bezel insert and black dial, Johnson Diamond Jewelers, (985) 951-2089.
With a sleek, minimalist design, the ICEMULE Jaunt is a serious cooler for fun times on the go. Available in 9mL or 15mL. Massey’s Outfitters, (985) 809-7544.
The Plat Collection wireless desk lamp doubles as a bookrest and phone charger, $88. Pine Grove Lighting & Electrical, (985) 893-4003.
With premium full-grain leather uppers and an elevated sneaker sole, these modern hybrid sneakers can take you from the office to brunch to the golf course, $295. The Denim Bar, (985) 231-7850.
with full-grain
Head out with classic zip-up hoodie style in this Vuori hoodie made of their supremely soft DreamKnit™ fabric. The Backpacker, (985) 778-0587.
Built
leather accents, padded comfort mesh, and slick nylon body, the Crossover™ Backpack rides the line between business and casual, $298. The Denim Bar, (985) 231-7850.
The effortless speed of the MirageDrive 180 with Kick-Up Fins combined with the streamlined, sleek hull of the Lynx make for a truly epic ride. Massey’s Outfitters, (985) 809-7544.
Show your Tiger pride with this spirited LSU earring and sock set, perfect for any fan. V Home & Interiors, (985) 231-7411.
Belt Bag, $178. Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
Enjoy guided hunts for quail, duck, and pheasant, complete with professional guides and trained bird dogs. Or experience skeet, 5-stand, and sporting clays at Covey Rise Lodge’s state-of-the-art shooting facilities. Find the perfect experience for your outdoorsman at Covey Rise Lodge, coveyriselodge.com.
Built for life-on-the-go, the Ranger is Turtlebox’s most portable speaker, delivering bold sound & endless versatility, $250. The Backpacker, (985) 778-0587.
Give the gift of easy comfort in the wild with the Sea to Summit Ikos Lightweight Tent. Massey’s Outfitters, (985) 809-7544.
LSU Scarf, $42. Columbia Street Mercantile, (985) 809-1789.
LSU
NOLA Needlepoint hat, $45. Perlis Clothing, (985) 674-1711.
Gold Western Bootie, $99. Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
LSU Vault Logo Hoodie, $150. Perlis Clothing, (985) 674-1711.
Saints
button down,
Hobo
With a graceful balance of texture and tone, Charles Leonard paints the tranquil spirit of nature. Pine Grove Lighting & Electrical, Mandeville, (985) 893-4003.
Angel by Jeanette, $45.
(985) 809-3244.
Carefully curated art by KL Smith. Eclectic Finds, (985) 265-4084.
Joyful Dragonflies is Joy Colangelo’s whimsical version of dragonflies, accented with gold and silver leaf. V Home, (985) 231-7411.
deCoeur,
Swamp Witch made with Kimino Silk and Turkish Leather, $795. MisChief Creations, (985) 707-5191.
Mardi Gras Spirit fashioned from vintage sari silk, $650. MisChief Creations, (985) 707-5191.
Enhance your surroundings and let the blend of mixed berries, floral and vanilla come to life in your space. Starting at $30. Aroma Avenue, thearomaavenue.com.
Beaded Bracelet, $29. Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
Gourmet gift sets. Food Lovers Marketplace, (985) 590-1074.
Tina Marie’s pinch sculptures bring artful texture and form to modern interiors. Each piece is individually handcrafted, making every sculpture unique. V Home, (985) 231-7411.
Find the perfect ornament to match your hostess. Fleurty Girl, (985) 778-0341.
Help your hostess unwind with these plush terry slippers with criss-cross straps, $24. Hemline, (985) 778-0906.
White Marble Cheese Board with Gold Trim, $25. deCoeur, (985) 809-3244.
Steve Madden
Back 70 Sneaker, $149. Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
Who Dat Baby? A Louisiana baby’s book of firsts.
Snap the magnetic blocks, build your track, and watch the mini train glide up, down and upside-down on this STEAMinspired monorail adventure. Learning Express Toys, (985) 231-7780.
Create and print your own stickers on the go, Learning Express Toys, (985) 231-7780.
Cross Necklace, $36. deCoeur, (985) 809-3244.
Western Boot, $59. Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
Fleurty Girl, (985) 778-0341
Shoelace and Shoe Charm Set. $29, Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
A collector’s dream come true! From vibrant Pokémon booster packs to the adorable Labubu blind boxes and rare Yu-Gi-Oh! cards. Prices start at $3. Eclectic Finds, (985) 265-4084.
Nutcracker Blanket, $69. deCoeur, (985) 809-3244.
Nutcracker PJ Set, $59. deCoeur, (985) 809-3244.
Whimsical and mischievous, Labubu blind boxes blend art and play with their signature grin and imaginative design. Learning Express Toys, (985) 231-7780.
Black and gold glitter bow boots, $59.95. Fleurty Girl, (985) 778-0341.
EXPERIENCES
Give a year of fun and adventure with unlimited access to three world class attractions, all for one low price. Audubon Nature Institute, audubonnatureinstitute.org.
Combine food, culture, and a hands on experience with a gift certificate to New Orleans School of Cooking. New Orleans School of Cooking, neworleansschoolofcooking.com.
Experience pure joy at their new location on Frenchmen St, featuring 29 exhibits showcasing iconic art, music, food, and theatrics of New Orleans through the eyes of over 100 local artists and collaborators. JAMNOLA, jamnola.com.
Give the gift of pure relaxation with a luxurious spa day experience. Perfect for anyone in need of a little indulgence, this gift offers a chance to recharge and be pampered from head to toe. Woodhouse Day Spa, woodhousespas.com.
Give the gift of theatre this holiday season! Saegner Theatre, saengernola.com.
Give the gift of creativity with a hands-on stained glass workshop. A Pane in the Glass, apaneinglass.com
Award-winning author, Melissa Martin shares a year in the life of South Louisiana cooking and all the dishes that are eaten to celebrate life’s big and small moments. To see where you can purchase, head to mosquitosupperclub.com/cookbook.
Step into the vibrant world of New Orleans with Bébés, Beauty & Bees, a captivating blend of family recipes, beauty secrets, and heartfelt stories from author Amanda Hampton Bravender’s colorful life. Available thebravefarmers. com/shop and Amazon.
Dive behind the kitchen doors and unlock the secrets to a truly exhilarating culinary experience with “Commander’s Kitchen.”
Featuring 150 recipes from the restaurant’s extensive offerings and cherished Brennan family recipes. Available at shop. commanderspalace.com and Amazon.
Discover a region in Southern Italy which offers the most tantalizing food, through 75 authentic recipes. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, (985) 624-4045 and Covington, (985) 234-9858.
Chef Folse’s seventh cookbook is the authoritative collection on Louisiana’s culture and cuisine featuring more than 850 fullcolor pages, dynamic historical Louisiana photographs and more than 700 recipes. Available at Barnes & Noble.
A great gift for any Snoop fan or food lover, this book delivers 50 recipes straight from Snoop’s own collection. Fleurty Girl, (985) 778-0341.
In Turkey and the Wolf, Hereford shares lively twists on beloved Southern dishes. This cookbook is packed with nostalgic and indulgent recipes, original illustrations, and bad-ass photographs. Available at turkeyandthewolf.com and Amazon.
Oyster Centerpiece, $89. deCoeur, (985) 809-3244.
Large Antique Elegant black lacquered cabinet, adorned with gold chinoiserie picturesque detailing, $1,200. Eclectic Finds, (985) 265-4084.
Louis the Lion large acrylic tray. House of Seven, 985() 264-8557.
“Bells Ringing in My Heart” Epic Print by Rebecca Rebouche. Available at rebeccarebouche.com or by appointment only at 320 N Columbia Street, Covington.
Square, Audubon Blue Heron tray with gold leaf and black lacquered finish, $185. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, (985) 624-4045 and Covington, (985) 234-9858.
Season Floral Arrangements, starting at $65. Florist of Covington, (985) 892-7701.
“Hera” by Morgan Gray. Available at Orleans Gallery, orleansgallery. myshopify.com.
Melamine cheese board featuring a vibrant floral pattern with a yellow and orange border, paired with a Laguiole cheese knife, $38. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, (985) 624-4045 and Covington, 985) 234-9858.
47 oz Braided Lumina candle offering 90 hours of even, beautiful fragrance. Available in Siberian Fir or Ambered Spice. V Home & Interiors, (985) 231-7411
The Teche round pedestal dining table is inspired by quirky post-modern French design that combines a playful brass base contrasted with walnut column and table top. Doorman Designs, doormandesigns.com.
“Peanut Gallery” by Adam Trest. Available at Orleans Gallery, orleansgallery.myshopify.com.
This exotic console is not only special by the styling of the free form doors but also by the use of solid walnut and brushed steel. Doerr Furniture, (985) 900-2425.
Compact cheese board unfolds to a 13” round with built-in serving tools. Perfect for effortless entertaining. Pine Grove Lighting & Electrical, Mandeville, (985) 893-4003.
A clean, modern stretchbelt built for everyday comfort and travel ease, $49.95. The Backpacker, (985) 778-0587.
A super-soft ivory sherpa pouch and sleep mask are accompanied by a full suite of soothing, me-time essentials: stone facial roller, silky scrunch, lavender mist, refreshing towelette, bookmark, and 2 lavender shower steamers. The Backpacker, (985) 778-0587.
Cat Eye Cufflinks, $120. The Chiffarobe, (985) 327-7300.
Susan Shaw Heart Necklace, $89. Shoeffle, (985) 898-6465.
Balloon Dog Heart Bag Charm. The Chiffarobe, (985) 327-7300.
The holiday season is a time for warmth, gratitude, and connection, and one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate is by giving back to the community. Whether it’s donating food, adopting a family in need, volunteering your time, or supporting a local charity, small acts of generosity can make a lasting impact. Across the region, organizations are working to ensure that every neighbor feels the joy of the season. Here’s how you can lend a hand and help make the holidays brighter for others this year.
NAMI Southeast Louisiana
NAMI Angels spreads holiday cheer by providing thoughtful self-care gifts to hundreds of individuals spending the season in local behavioral health and substance misuse hospitals. Their mission is to ensure that every person in need receives a comforting reminder that they are not alone during the holidays. You can help by donating items such as travel-sized toiletries, cozy socks, soft-cover journals, coloring supplies, card games, candy, and more; or by shopping directly from their Amazon Wish List. Donations can be dropped off at the NAMI St. Tammany office, located at 23577 Martin Way in Mandeville. Volunteers are also needed December 15–19 to help organize items and wrap more than 1,000 gifts for delivery. To sign up for a volunteer shift, please contact the NAMI office for available time slots.
For more information, contact Monique Gregoire at (985) 626-6538, email mgregoire@ namisela.org or visit namisela.org/get-involved/nami-angels/. The deadline to Participate is Friday, December 19.
Our Friends Closet
Help bring holiday joy to local high school students experiencing homelessness or financial hardship through Our Friends Closet’s Christmas Gift Program. Working from school counselor referrals, Our Friends Closet matches each student with an individual or group and provides their personalized wish list. For those unable to shop directly, monetary donations are warmly accepted via PayPal, Venmo, the online donation button, or by mailing a check to: Our Friends Closet, P.O. Box 1373, Slidell, LA 70459. Every contribution helps ensure these students feel seen, supported, and celebrated this holiday season.
For more information, contact Wendy Keller at (504) 220-7195, email ourfriendscloset01@gmail.com or visit ourfriendscloset.org/. The deadline to participate is December 10.
St. Tammany Council on Aging
COAST is proud to celebrate one of our favorite community traditions, the Be a Santa to a Senior Program, hosted by Home Instead. Each holiday season, Home Instead places Christmas trees at local Rouses Markets across St. Tammany Parish. Every ornament on the tree represents a local senior adult in need and includes their holiday wish list. Shoppers are invited to select an ornament, purchase the listed items, and return the gifts to the store, spreading holiday cheer in a simple yet deeply meaningful way. We invite everyone to take part and help brighten the holidays for our local seniors this season.
For more information, contact Amy Kudel at (985) 892-0377 or email akudel@ coastseniors.org.
The Good Samaritan Ministry
This year’s Holiday Assistance Programs bring comfort and joy to families and seniors in need across East St. Tammany. The Thanksgiving Program will provide 300 baskets of food, each with a Rouses gift certificate for a turkey, supported by community and school food drives. The Christmas Program, in partnership with St. Tammany Project Christmas, invites individuals and organizations to adopt a child or senior, donate toys, and volunteer to help with gift distribution on December 13. Through these efforts, the community comes together to ensure every household experiences the warmth and generosity of the holiday season.
For more information, contact Susan Rotolo at (985) 774-1819 or email suer@ saintlukeslidelll.org or visit facebook.com/ GoodSamsStLuke. The deadline to Participate for Thanksgiving is November 22 and Christmas is December 1 for toy donations. Cash donations are always welcome.
James Samaritan
This Christmas, James Samaritan will provide 190 stockings for children and young adults in foster care. Donate new, small items—like toys, crafts, gift cards, snacks, or toiletries— at Coastal Chiropractic, Learning Express Toys, or PJ’s Coffee (Hwy 22) between November 3 and December 1 to help spread holiday cheer.
For more information, contact Melissa Breedlove at (985) 888-9750. The deadline to participate is December 1.
James Samaritan is also collecting $25–$50 gift cards for youth in their Life Network Mentoring program who are in extended foster care or independent living. These young people, ages 16–21, were not adopted and are aging out of foster care. This year, we plan to serve 75 youths. Gift cards from Walmart, Target, Raising Cane’s, or Chickfil-A would be a meaningful way to bless them this holiday season. Cards can be dropped off at 409 N. Jefferson, Covington anytime between now and November 25. A locked mailbox on the front porch is checked daily for your convenience if the office is unattended.
For more information, contact Julie Wondergem at (985) 888-9750 or email julie@jamessamaritan. org. The deadline to participate is November 25.
GENEROUS HEARTS
Highlighting Philanthropy on the Northshore
Our partners at the Northshore Community Foundation exist to make it easy for each of us to make a difference in our own backyard. Now in their 18th year, the Foundation has touched over $94 million dollars in philanthropic fuel, focusing on simplifying, organizing and magnifying philanthropy at every turn.
The Foundation has reached those remarkable numbers in three primary ways. First, they engage hundreds of individuals, families, companies and nonprofits in a membership model that promotes active connections and charitable work. Second, they take the paperwork out of “doing good” by administering funds that act as charitable checkbooks for any purpose. Last, they step into big roles when the need is great — especially in times of disaster. Through these three unique and critical roles, the Foundation uses its expertise and resources to magnify the incredible charitable work so prevalent in our region.
You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.
It’s a foundational principle that Chris LeBato’s dad taught him. It has served him well in his work with the Northshore Community Foundation. LeBato joins likeminded community members such as Mimi Goodyear Dossett and Paysse McWilliams as advisory board members for the newly created Northshore Collective Impact Fund, or NCIF. Together, they invite others to join them in making transformational change on the Northshore.
Louisiana’s first of its kind initiative, the NCIF is reimagining how nonprofits collaborate to tackle deep-rooted challenges affecting children and families.
“We hope to create an ecosystem where nonprofits can collaborate and come together to serve common goals,” McWilliams said. “Our aim is to make it easier for them to do so.”
When asked what impresses them most about the new NCIF opportunity, all three pointed to the value and strength of the fund’s long-term outcomes for the nonprofits and communities they serve.
“Our nonprofits are all working tirelessly to address long-standing issues, but fundraisers and one-time donations are only short-term fixes,” LeBato said.
“This fund is a holistic approach that will provide consistent funding while also calling for cooperation with other nonprofit organizations so they can help lighten the load.”
Everyone is a philanthropist. To Learn how you can do more in your own backyard, reach out to the Foundation at northshorefoundation.org
“Crawfish boils, cookoffs and golf tournaments are valuable for networking, advertising and so many reasons, but having served on nonprofit boards, I know the tremendous time and energy they demand,” McWilliams said. “Our hope is that the Collective Impact Fund will free up some of those resources so that organizations can focus more on their missions rather than having to constantly create the next best fundraiser.”
Dossett echoed the sentiment and added that the old model of fundraising deserves reinvigoration. “We want to find new ways to engage people and get
younger generations involved in nonprofit work that will benefit our community. The pitch concept within this new fund is one way of doing that,” she said.
Here’s how the fund and its accompanying challenge will work: With support from the community, participating philanthropists will combine their resources to provide three years of capital investment totaling up to $300,000 per initiative. This approach ensures organizations have the stability and support needed to drive lasting change while easing the burden of continual fundraising so they can stay focused on their core missions.
“I read that nonprofit organizations average 30 to 40 percent of staff time put toward fundraising in order to survive financially,” LeBato said. “With this model, that 30 to 40 percent can now go toward driving the mission.”
Organizations can apply by forming a meaningful partnership with at least one other nonprofit and submitting a joint plan that includes problem analysis, solution design, implementation plan, budget and key performance metrics. In addition to the required nonprofit partner, additional collaborators may include other nonprofits, government agencies, educational institutions or businesses, with collaboration serving as the foundation for the initiative’s success.
A key component of the fund is the Northshore Collective Impact Challenge, a pitch style event where nonprofit teams will present their innovative solutions to pressing social issues.
The winning team will be selected based on the strength of their collaborative proposal and the results of the challenge, judged by a panel of independent experts. Scoring will be based on:
• Collaboration
• Innovation
• Feasibility
The goal is for winning initiatives to serve as prototypes for future pitches, creating a cycle of proven, scalable solutions across the Northshore and beyond.
The structure of the awards, distributed over three years, is designed to ensure long-term success with guidance from advisors and the Northshore Community Foundation to help develop sustainable funding sources moving forward.
According to Dossett, another advantage of the fund and challenge model is that nonprofits will gain valuable relationships with corporate partners and advisors throughout the multiyear process.
Donations are tax deductible, and donors who wish to be recognized will be acknowledged through the fund’s official channels and marketing materials. Funders will participate in long-term investments with measurable goals and outcomes within the community, overseen by the Northshore Community Foundation. Donors will also receive updates on the initiative’s progress, demonstrating how their contributions are being used.
Not only is the $300,000 amount transformative, but the intentional collaboration within the nonprofit sector has the potential to reshape how future efforts address community needs. The Northshore Collective Impact Fund is a win-win-win. It assures donors their funds are being used by mission driven efforts. It assists nonprofits with sustainable funding and partnerships that eliminate duplication. And most importantly, it allows for coordinated efforts to help those in the community who need it most.
Want to be part of the change?
Scan the QR code to learn how to join this effort.
Pictured left to right: Lanie Barreca, Mimi Goodyear Dossett, Chris LeBato, Jared Shaw, Paysse McWilliams, Matt Bennett, Marty Mayer, Caroline Boudreaux, Will Boudreaux, and Keil Johnson
Missing from the photo: Lynne Burkart, Melissa Sawyer and Colin Shea
The Big Bad Boot’s Spooky
Spectacular
It was a frightfully fun night at The Big Bad Boot’s SPOOKY SPECTACULAR, the Halloween extravaganza you didn’t want to miss! Sponsored by Cate Street Seafood Station and Hammond Downtown Development District, the Spooky Spectacular brought all the Halloween vibes: patrons enjoyed a live episode recording of The Big Bad Boot Podcast, boogied to the sounds of a DJ and participated in the costume contest!
Northshore Humane Society Unleashed! Rescue Me Gala
Photographers
Emily Voelkel with Sweetpea Creative and Jay Vise
On October 4th, Northshore Humane Society’s annual Unleashed! Rescue Me Gala lit up the Covington Country Club with an unforgettable night of live music, community spirit, and lifesaving purpose. Over 400 guests gathered under the oaks to support the organization’s capital campaign to build a new state-of-the-art animal shelter and community veterinary clinic.
The event raised significant funds toward the project while guests enjoyed live performances by Soul Tribe and Gumbo Trio, gourmet cuisine from local restaurants, handcrafted cocktails, and a lively auction. Emceed by Curt Sprang of WGNO, the evening celebrated generosity, hope, and the shared mission to save more lives.
STHF THE Gala
St. Tammany Health Foundation’s THE Gala: Step into the Jungle presented by HUB International raised more than $227,000 |to support the patient-centered programs and services offered at St. Tammany Cancer Center – A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and beverages by The Greenwood, live music by Groovy 7, auctions, and more at this year’s jungle-inspired soiree!
THE CLOSING TABLE
When It’s Time to Sell — and Who You Sell To Matters
By Josh Wilson
At some point, every business owner asks the quiet question: “How much longer do I want to keep doing this?”
Maybe it’s burnout. Maybe it’s family. Or maybe you’ve built something great and it’s simply time for the next chapter. Whatever the reason, if your business has value, the goal isn’t just to sell. It’s to sell to the right buyer.
Why Most Owners Wait Too Long
Too many owners wait until they’re tired or struggling before they consider selling. By then, the value’s already slipped. The best time to sell is when your company still looks strong, when momentum is real and growth potential is clear.
What Sellers Get Wrong
Selling doesn’t have to mean handing your life’s work to someone who’ll gut it or flip it. I don’t buy to dismantle. I buy to build, to keep your people employed, your customers cared for, and your legacy intact. That’s the difference between selling to a financial buyer and selling to an operator.
What Makes My Approach Different
When I buy a business, I bring in real operators, people who’ve run teams, signed paychecks, and answered customer calls. We refine what’s working, fix what’s not, and scale without losing the culture that made it great.
If you’re ready to step away, I make the process smooth, fair, and fast, not a drawn-out ordeal that drains your energy and your business value.
Why Now Matters
Markets are shifting fast. Interest rates, labor shortages, and burnout are all rising. But strong, cash-flowing businesses are still in high demand and I’m actively looking to acquire more.
You’ve spent years building your business. When it’s time to sell, do it right with someone who understands what it took to build it.
Indulge in a culinary journey at Tchefuncte’s, where our chefs masterfully craft Louisiana and American cuisine with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The upscale atmosphere, paired with the breathtaking scenic view of the Tchefuncte River, sets the perfect stage whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a long, leisurely meal, we’ve got you covered. To ensure that you have the best experience possible, we recommend making a reservation. For large parties and events, email us at EVENTS@TCHEFUNCTES.COM
THE ANCHOR
Tuesday 11am-7pm
Wednesday-Thursday 11am-8pm
Friday-Saturday 11am-8:30pm
Sunday 11am-8pm
407 SAINT TAMMANY ST., MADISONVILLE (985) 323-4800
THEANCHORLA.COM
TOASTED YOLK
COVINGTON
The Toasted Yolk is the perfect place for French toast, mimosas, and chef-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. With everything prepared fresh daily, including scratch-made sauces and dressings, it’s a must-visit for a delicious and satisfying meal.
206 LAKE DR, COVINGTON, LA. (985) 377-5288
THETOASTEDYOLK.COM
DESI VEGA'S STEAKHOUSE
At Desi Vega's Steakhouse Northshore, our expertly seared, aged steaks promise indulgence in every bite. Alongside our signature steaks, we offer house-crafted desserts, specialty appetizers, and seafood options like jumbo lump scallops, market fish, and broiled lobster tail. For the best experience, reserve your table on OpenTable or call us. For large parties, email EVENTS@DESIVEGASNORTHSHORE.COM. We look forward to welcoming you to an elevated dining experience. 527
MANDEVILLE
Tuesday-Friday: Lunch 11AM–2:30PM
Tuesday-Thursday: Dinner 5PM-9:30PM
Friday-Saturday: Dinner
5PM–10PM
527 N CAUSEWAY BLVD., MANDEVILLE (985) 778-2820
GALLAGHERS527.COM
COVINGTON 1950 N. Highway 190, Covington, LA, (985) 276-4994
GALLAGHER’S
SLIDELL AND COVINGTON
Award-winning entrées featuring sizzling steaks, pork chops, and the best seafood Louisiana has to offer. Whether you’re looking for fine dining in a comfortable setting, or a lunch that’s a cut above the rest, we specialize in creating the perfect experience for your needs.
GALLAGHERSGRILL.COM
PARDOSAN AMERICAN BISTRO
MANDEVILLE
Pardo's Fine Dining offers European and American Cuisine in a flavorful and relaxing atmosphere with a variety of foods from handmade pasta to Prime steaks, from specialty beers to artfully hand-crafted cocktails; there is surely something to please every palate.
5280 HIGHWAY 22 MANDEVILLE LA 70471 WWW.PARDOSRESTAURANT.COM PARDOSCATERING@GMAIL.COM (985) 893-3603
