Celebrating Women Who Lead, Create, and Inspire
In Mandeville, we are privileged to witness the remarkable contributions of women who shape our community with their passion, dedication, and vision. This May, as we celebrate Mother's Day and honor the myriad roles women embrace, we dedicate this issue of Mandeville City Lifestyle to celebrating the invaluable impact of the ladies of the Northshore.
This month, you’ll meet Natalia Wagner, a gifted real estate professional whose life journey—from Santiago to Los Angeles to Mandeville—has shaped her into much more than a luxury home expert. With a background in dance and design, and a heart attuned to the needs of her clients, Natalia brings uncommon empathy and intuition to the needs of our community. Her story is a soulful reminder that home is more than a place—it’s a feeling we carry and create.
You’ll also meet Jessica Clement, the inspiring force behind the gorgeous Grandiflora Garden Center in Abita Springs . Her dedication to cultivating beauty and fostering a love for gardening has transformed Grandiflora into a beloved haven for plant enthusiasts. Jessica's story is a testament to how passion can blos som into a thriving community cornerstone, encouraging us to experience less screen time and more green time.
Additionally, we're excited to present a special feature titled “From Stem to Vase: Transforming Florals into Art.” This piece explores innovative floral design techniques and serves as a beautiful guide for those looking to infuse artistic flair into their floral displays.
Finally, we bring to you an encouraging message from Louisiana's First Lady, Sharon Landry, titled "Focusing on Family." In her heartfelt piece, Mrs. Landry reflects on the essence of family values and the pivotal role they play in nurtur ing strong communities in Louisiana. Her insights remind us of the foundational importance of family in our lives.
As always, you'll find our City Scene photos and a curated list of local Events, ensur ing you stay connected to all that's happening in our vibrant community.
This month, let's come together to honor and celebrate the women who enrich our lives and make Mandeville a more beautiful place to call home.
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Rebecca George rebecca.george@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Christian George, PhD christian.george@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Christian George, Angela Broockerd, Sharon Landry, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jason Cohen Photography, Christian George, Jenni Abrams, Abby Sands, Janie Jones, Mindy Wester
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
REBECCA GEORGE & CHRISTIAN GEORGE , PUBLISHER & CO-PUBLISHER @MANDEVILLECITYLIFESTYLE
inside the issue
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city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Darleen Johnson, Virginia Battistella, Jeannine Chevis, Shirleen Strikmiller at St. Jane de Chantal 2: Judy Norton, Gene Norton at Most Holy Trinity's St. Joseph Altar 3: Marisa Ficaro of Gemini Glamour Studios 4: Junior League of Greater Covington’s Project Prom 2025 5: Puddy Robinson of Crescent Sotheby’s International Realty at the Northshore Area Board of Realtors banquet 6: Nery Mejia, Natalia Wagner, Eddie Matranga at Benedict’s Plantation 7: Jaimie Jakes Bailey, Tosha Jakes, Kaitlyn Jakes, little Scarlett of Apricot Lane Boutique
CHRISTIAN GEORGE
CHRISTIAN GEORGE
EDEN ELEVATED
How Jessica Clement Helps Northshore Families Cultivate Their Own Secret Gardens
ARTICLE BY CHRISTIAN GEORGE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTIAN GEORGE AND ABBY SANDS
In an increasingly digitized world, where children spend hours of screen time each day, Jessica Clement, owner of Grandiflora Garden Center in Abita Springs, provides an elegant anti dote—green time.
Surrounded by a tapestry of pine and live oaks, Grandiflora is more than a nursery—it’s a distinctively luxurious yet thought fully understated full‑service garden center offering everything you need for outdoor living. The grounds feel simultaneously expansive and intimate, a place where parents can let their chil dren explore nature’s wonders.
Jessica, whose effortless conversation recalls the ease of a down to earth Parisian florist, personally greets visitors, guiding them through curated collections of heirloom roses, concrete sculptural fountains, and rare native plants. Every customer— whether a seasoned gardener or a curious newcomer—receives the same warm welcome.
“Helping people grow something beautiful of their own is the heart of what we do,” she says. “I want everyone to leave with both knowledge and inspiration.”
THE LUXURY OF OUTDOOR LIVING
Stepping into this botanical haven, you feel as though you’ve arrived with VIP access to a private estate. Each corner invites exploration: a single exquisite bloom presented like haute cou ture, clusters of dianthus, passion vines cascading like fine silk. Here, each plant is not merely sold—it’s artfully displayed, a tes tament to Jessica’s vision to redefine what it means to cultivate outdoor beauty.
“Being outside is its own kind of luxury,” she says. “When you come home after a long day and drive up your driveway and see your garden, it gives you a sense of accomplishment. It’s like say ing, ‘Look what I accomplished!’ To me, watching something grow is one of life’s greatest rewards.”
“OUR GOAL AT GRANDIFLORA GARDEN CENTER IS TO HELP PEOPLE EXPERIENCE EDEN’S ELEGANCE IN THE COMFORT OF THEIR OWN BACKYARDS.”
Jessica’s path to becoming the Northshore’s premier horticultural author ity first took root in Mandeville. She studied at LSU, envisioning a career in marketing or finance, yet her unwavering love of gar dening—deeply tied to her upbringing—ulti mately led her to create Grandiflora. “I never in a million years thought this is what I’d be doing,” she says, “but I’m glad it worked out this way.” What began as a distant dream mor phed into a fully realized passion, nurtured by family support and Jessica’s own determi nation to craft something meaningful.
“What makes Grandiflora different from other garden centers?” I ask.
“We irrigate with well water, not city water,” Jessica explains. “We nurture all
our plants organically, and we irrigate with fluoride‑free water untouched by municipal chemicals. You don’t need harsh chemicals. We use only natural, organic fertilizers and fungicides. When you nurture a plant, you nurture yourself.”
BESPOKE OUTDOOR LIVING
Grandiflora specializes in native Louisiana species uniquely suited to the Northshore’s lush biodiversity. “This is candy for the hummingbirds,” Jessica says, pointing to a passion vine entwined beside a showstopping swamp azalea with orchid‑like blossoms. “And these azaleas always sell out before they even bloom. People can’t wait to see them in their own gardens.”
Beyond plants, Grandiflora is distin guished by its bespoke offerings. “We design, install, and maintain everything for your outdoor space so you can simply enjoy it,” Jessica says. With the help of her husband, Jason—a professional land scape architect—Jessica excels at creating and installing customized fountains and concrete elements, sourcing from pres tigious manufacturers such as Campania, Massarelli’s, Florestone, Henri Studio, Elegant Earth, and Unique Stone. Each piece, from a subtle water feature to an elaborate centerpiece, transforms ordi nary backyards into luxurious retreats. “People aren’t limited to what’s on hand,” she says. “We can create anything you envision, including sugar kettles.”
POETRY IN BLOOM
Jessica’s aesthetic is unmistakably high‑design: minimalist concrete plant ers set against lush tropical foliage, each vignette curated like a glossy magazine spread. A single rose bloom stands poised as though on a runway—poetry in petals and sunshine. At Grandiflora Garden Center, you’ll find everything needed to stage your own secret garden promenade, including familiar statues like the LSU tiger I couldn’t keep myself from sitting on.
Jessica’s approach to gardening is deeply personal and holistic. She views each outdoor space as a reflection of the home owner’s personal story. “God once created
a garden,” she says. “And our goal at Grandiflora is to help people experience Eden’s elegance in the comfort of their own backyards.”
One particular flower catches my eye: the legendary Peggy Martin rose. “This is a special one,” Jessica notes. “She’s nicknamed the ‘Katrina Rose’ because she survived weeks submerged underwater during Hurricane Katrina.” I examine the vibrant, strawberry‑col ored petals that can climb up to fifteen feet. “Resilience makes you stronger and more beautiful,” she says. “This rose, you know, it doesn’t even have thorns.”
CULTIVATING LEGACIES
Jessica balances her roles as entrepreneur, wife, caregiver for an aging father, and mother of three, candidly sharing with me the chal lenges of raising a child with autism—a journey that has fortified her with empathy and conviction. “I want my kids to know they can do anything if they put their heart into it,” she says. “I want to cultivate more than gardens—I want to cultivate legacies.”
That thought lingers as I stroll back through the garden center’s entrance, renewed by an unexpected appreciation for the trees and plants so prevalent throughout the Northshore. More green time than screen time, I add as a note on my phone.
At Grandiflora Garden Center, Jessica offers more than a luxurious shopping experience or top notch horticultural expertise, though you’ll get an abundant dose of both—she plants seeds of hope into every interaction.
Contact Jessica Clement at Grandiflora Garden Center via email at grandifloragardencenter@gmail.com or by phone at (985) 373‑9139.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language. In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
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“Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance.”
Flower Frogs
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
“Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.”
Florals and Fruit
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
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Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
“They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.”
WALKING Each Other Home
HOW MANDEVILLE REALTOR NATALIA WAGNER TURNS LIFE’S TWISTS INTO A JOURNEY TOWARD BELONGING
ARTICLE BY CHRISTIAN GEORGE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY SANDS
“We’re all just walking each other home.”
Coined by Ram Dass, this phrase captures not just the shape of Natalia Wagner’s storied career as a luxury real estate agent and interior designer; it also reflects the topography of her own life’s journey—a lifelong quest to find the home that all of us are searching for.
Natalia’s journey began in Santiago, Chile. “I never had a perfect home growing up,” she recalls. “We were always moving, always searching. There was always something missing.” By the time she finished her teens, she had lived in at least seven different houses. This constant change sharpened her eye for detail and sparked her imagination— teaching her to “rearrange, readapt, and re dream” with every move.
Her mother, a successful hairstylist, poured her energy into nurturing Natalia, exemplifying fierce independence and perseverance. “She taught us customer service at an early age,” Natalia says. Her grandfather, who spent twen ty five years in retail, also instilled in her a deep respect for clients and community.
FROM DANCE TO DESIGN
Driven by a passion for dance—spanning hip hop, ballet, jazz, and ballroom—Natalia found her footing in Los Angeles. She laughs as she recalls dancing “24 7” and working with Michael Jackson’s choreographers and Russian ballet professionals. “It was exhilarating. I was studying dance at a level so intense, it felt like training to be a doctor,” she says.
The stage taught her to read moods and movements—an ability that now helps her guide clients through the stress and anxiety of moving. “Selling a house is like a dance,” she explains. “There are always multiple parties involved—a complicated choreography— and you need to guide everyone without leaving anyone behind.”
Natalia’s biggest life transition came in Las Vegas, where she met the love of her life—Special Boat Operator Chief (Special Warfare Combat Crewman) Joshua Wagner, whose career would take them across the United States. “I had everything in Chile— my citizenship, job, family—and I gave it all up for love,” she says proudly. This leap of faith deepened her understanding of what it means to uproot one’s life. “It’s a fragile time, a turning point. You need someone who knows how that feels, who can meet you there, hold your hand, and show you the way.”
THE HOUSE WHISPERER
Natalia immersed herself in visual merchandising, staging, and interior design, eventually becoming the go to stager for other real estate agents. “When I walk into a house, I listen. I know it sounds strange, but houses talk. They have their own energy and personality,” she says.
In one dramatic staging job, she encountered a home cluttered with bulky, dark furniture that blocked natural light. “I could see in my mind’s eye the airy, organic beauty this home was meant to have,” she explains. “The house was practically begging to be
reintroduced to the light it had lost.” Natalia doesn’t hesitate to reimagine layouts, remove heavy couches, or shift decorative accents. “The homes speak,” she insists. “They want to be show cased. They have their own identity.”
“When you’re living in your home, fill it with your personality,” she adds. “But when you’re selling, that’s when I step in as an interpreter—guiding the house into the best version of itself so others can fall in love.”
OVERCOMING OBSTACLES
Like any journey, Natalia’s path has had its twists and turns. Language barriers once tested her resilience. “At first, I worried about whether I was saying things right, or if my accent would dis tract people,” she confides. Over time, she came to view her accent and international outlook as assets—a tangible sign of her global perspective and empathy. “It’s a positive reminder that I know what it’s like to be in transition, and I can help a lot of people.”
Transition is Natalia’s specialty. Whether working with first time buyers on a budget or luxury clients seeking jaw dropping estates, she meets every person at their moment of change. “They sometimes feel vulnerable and need protection,” she says. “A house is not just numbers; it’s people’s futures. Sometimes, they’re spending every penny they’ve saved.” For Natalia, real estate isn’t transactional—it’s transformational and relational.
Natalia has experienced the magic of house destiny firsthand. Skeptical about finding the right place in Louisiana, she and her family once toured a prop erty she was sure she’d dislike, only to be struck by how perfect it felt. “We lost that house to renters for a year, but my heart never left it,” she recalls. Then one day, the owner called out of the blue, asking if she was still interested. “If that’s not destiny, what is? We had a plan—from California to Louisiana, then retire in Florida,” she laughs. “But we fell in love with Louisiana. The relationships here are unlike anything we found elsewhere.”
“I love the sense of belonging here,” she says. “Watching movies with my husband and kids on Friday nights, curled up on the sofa—that moment of peace, of being nestled in your own space, is the pur est form of luxury.”
Natalia’s clients often become friends—and some times even family. She sometimes sits with an older widow whose children live far away, helping her nav igate the sale of a longtime property. “When some body helps you, it stains your heart in a good way,” she says softly. “They’ll never forget you.”
Customer service, for Natalia, is more than a task— it’s a way of life rooted in empathy and kindness.
“We’re all carrying burdens,” she says, “and some times we just need someone to see us, to believe in us.
That’s why I do what I do.”
“It’s about offering stabil‑ ity, forging relationships, and helping someone find that magical connection when they walk through the right door.”
HOME: THE JOURNEY AND THE DESTINATION
Today, Natalia’s expertise in luxury real estate merges with the warmth and empathy she absorbed from her mother’s busy hair salon. Fueled by cre ativity, artistry, and an unshakable commitment to walking people home, Natalia continues to transform houses into sanctuaries and strangers into friends. “People think it’s just real estate,” she muses, “but it’s about offering stability, forging relationships, and helping someone find that magical connection when they walk through the right door.”
For Natalia—who has spent her entire life longing for home—the journey itself has become the desti nation. And home, as it turns out, has been walking beside her all along.
NATALIA WAGNER
Contact Natalia Wagner at RealtyOneGroup Immobilia via email at RealtorNatalia1@gmail.com, by phone at (619) 818 1839, or by website at nataliawagner.myrealtyonegroup.com.
FOCUSING ON FAMILY
ARTICLE BY SHARON LANDRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON COHEN PHOTOGRAPHY
First Lady of Louisiana
Sharon Landry on Strengthening Louisiana’s Future Through Family, Faith, and Community
For years, Jeff and I watched friends pack up and move to Texas, Georgia, Florida, all in search of better opportunities and stronger communities. People left, hoping to find something more than what Louisiana seemed to offer.
We were discouraged in many ways, but deep down, we knew Louisiana had the potential to be great—if only it had the right leadership and priorities.
We believe the key lies in prioritizing what truly matters: family.
Jeff and I were both raised here, in the heart of Acadiana. We were taught hard work, Christian values, and embracing the “joie de vivre” that we all know so well in Louisiana. But most importantly, we were taught that family was the foundation of everything. It’s what keeps us grounded, connected, and strong. Family is the heart of our communities, and it’s the heart of Louisiana.
That’s why we believe in the potential of Louisiana—it’s not just a place, but a com munity of people who care about each other. We believe that people should “come home” and raise their families here. Let’s invest in the future of our state by investing in the future of our families.
Sharon Landry and Governor Jeff Landry are dedicated to strengthening Louisiana’s families and communities for a brighter future.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
SPREAD SPECTACULAR
TRANSFORM YOUR MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION INTO AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH A STUNNING CHARCUTERIE BOARD
As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.
At the heart of this spectacular spread, a bouquet of floral offerings takes center stage featuring assorted chocolate florets, delicate white rose wafers, and salami and cheese blossoms. Perfectly crafted and delicious, they establish the visual and gastronomic theme for the entire display. Accompanying the spread are glasses adorned with edible floral rims, beckoning you to sip and savor the essence of spring; dried lavender, marigold, rose, lemon peel and lily garnishes provide vibrancy and are entirely edible. Elevate the visual appeal with rosefolded napkins and a sprinkle of seasonal flowers atop layers of fresh greenery.
Complement your floral artistry with a curated variety of cheeses, prosciutto, colorful olives, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and candied oranges. Fragrant rosemary bread is perfectly paired with choice preserves, honey and olive oil.
Extend the creative flair to pastries, introducing a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Citrus-infused sugar cookies, raspberry tarts, mini strawberry Belgian waffles and salted caramels are visually alluring and add an extra layer of delight to the overall presentation.
The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility – an opportunity to showcase your thoughtfulness and create an experience tailored to your loved ones. Consider swapping chocolates for macarons, experiment with your own garden herbs and infuse your spread with unique seasonal and local flavors. A charcuterTEA is a delightful way to make your mother feel extra special. Simply fill a teacup with her favorite confections and unique flavor combinations for an individual experience of love and gratitude.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MAY 9TH
Mandeville Live!
Free Friday Concerts
Mandeville Trailhead
Amphitheater | 6:30 PM
Grab your blankets and chairs and come to the Mandeville Trailhead for the spring 2025 free outdoor concert series. The series continues May 9 with a performance by Chase Tyler Band. Food trucks provide food and drinks for purchase (outside refreshments not permitted). The concert series closes on May 23 with Chubby Carrier & The Bayou Swamp Band. Free admission.
MAY 10TH
Mandeville Food Truck Festival
Mandeville Lion Club’s Hall, 720 Lafitte Street | 4:00 PM
Join the Mandeville Lions Club for the 4th annual Mandeville Food Truck Fes tival from 4–8 p.m. Admission is free. Enjoy food trucks, live music, a bounce house, face painting, and more. Eat in side the air conditioned Lions Hall and shop local crafts. Proceeds benefit the Louisiana Lions Children’s Camp for special needs children and the Louisi ana Lions Eye Foundation.
MAY 10TH
School of Rock
Northshore’s Spring Music Festival
1872 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville | 12:00 PM
For over twenty years, School of Rock’s amazing instructors have transformed hundreds of thousands of students across the world into skilled musicians.
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This year’s Spring Music Fest features tributes to Black Sabbath, Grunge, Led Zeppelin, Legends of Pop, and the best of the 2000s, along with performanc es by young rockers in the Rock 101 program. Admission is free.
MAY 22ND
Culinary Kids
Special Needs Class
915 Marigny Ave., Mandeville | 5:30 PM
On Thursday nights from 5:30 7:30 p.m., students cook, assemble, and enjoy new recipes. Led by Certified Paraprofes sionals, these ALL Ability Classes are designed for people with special needs ages 10 to adult. Students practice kitchen safety, independent life skills, social skills, and cooking techniques. Dietary restrictions can be accommo dated. $175 plus tax monthly tuition. Call (985) 727 5553 for more information.
MAY 26TH - 30TH
30 by Ninety Theatre’s Pure Imagination
880 Lafayette Street, Mandeville | 9:00 AM
Join Pure Imagination, a one week mu sical theatre program designed for per formers ages 7–17 (no experience nec essary). This brand new revue features songs from MTI’s Broadway Junior® collection, including beloved titles like Seussical, Shrek The Musical, Beauty and the Beast, and Frozen, culminating in a fabulous performance. $300 tuition. Let your imagination take center stage in this exciting musical theater adventure!
