Louisiana Ladies Magazine - July 2023

EDITOR'S NOTE

July is a fun and busy month that literally begins with a bang. It s a time to celebrate with family and friends, enjoy a well-deserved vacation or weekend getaway, and be a little more mindful of self-care practices

In this issue, you find answers to a few questions we've been getting about the beginnings of 'Louisiana Ladies', tips for a budget-friendly holiday celebration, beauty and fashion insights, and our latest book of the month selection

Finally, you'll learn a little more about our 2023 Giving Guide and why we're inviting non-profits serving women and girls to apply

Thank you for being a part of the Louisiana Ladies' community! We are humbled by and take pride in having such an engaged, talented, and interesting community of women who have chosen to join us on our journey of exploring Louisiana, Life, and Lagniappe!

All the Best,

O.Held

Odessa Held Founder / Editor-In-Chief

Hello, Friend!

"Hello, friend!" that's how Christina answers the phone when I call. I have no doubt many others get the same greeting when they call, but when I get it, it makes me feel good and I'm immediately happy that I dialed her number.

Like many friendships, ours began when we were working together. We looked to each other for feedback, bounced ideas back and forth on various projects, and enjoyed an easy camaraderie as we got to know each other.

Some of the best stories are about how a friendship started. Sometimes we connect with people who enjoy the things we ourselves enjoy. We meet them at concerts, sporting events, bookstores, and other places we go to absorb what interests us.

Some friendships start as we glance around and see a new neighbor give us a small wave as we're toting boxes into our new home. These friendships, these people, are important in our lives and the impact they have on us last a lifetime.

We recently asked our community of women how long they’ve known their best friends and their answers gave us a tiny glimpse into the quality, strength, and depth of what some friendships can be.

Our ladies talked about friendships that started in middle school, high school, and college. Some spoke of how they made friends after moving to Louisiana.

One lady said she's had one friend longer than the age she claims to be! How funny is that! Several ladies shared lifelong friendships, and a few shared the loss of friends in recent years.

It was an honor to read these ladies' responses and a gentle reminder to appreciate the friends in our lives.

We were also inspired to put together a small collection of quotes about friendship, feel free to save any that speak to you.

Be sure to join us on Facebook to share your answers to our "Ask a Lady" questions!

https://www.facebook.com/louisianaladies

Odessa Held

LOUISIANA LADIES FOUNDER

Pursuing a goal or passion, owning your own business, and doing something meaningful, and something you enjoy is a dream for many people. Creating a space and lifestyle publication for women is something our founder, Odessa Held, dreamed of and began to work toward in early 2021 .

Her vision for Louisiana Ladies, and our growing community, includes a series of signature publications designed with women in mind. Get to know a little more about Odessa in the brief interview we share below.

Louisiana Ladies - Hi Odessa, Please take a moment to introduce yourself.

Odessa Held – Hello, and thank you. Let me start by saying what an honor it is for me to get to know and connect with women and entrepreneurs in our communities.

'Louisiana Ladies' started as an idea that bloomed into a project before being launched as a start-up in the digital publishing industry.

I'm excited to have our signature website, magazine, lookbooks, and guides as a resource for women, businesses, and communities throughout our state.

Louisiana Ladies - What have you learned in your journey of becoming an entrepreneur?

Odessa Held - That's a big question because there is just so much you learn about yourself when you are starting out.

I've learned that believing in yourself is its own journey.

There's a lot to learn, but it's likely that you have a lot of core skills, natural gifts, and abilities that got you this far, keep going!

And, being encouraged and supported by those close to you will help you get through difficult days.

Photo courtesy of Odessa Held

Louisiana Ladies - Do you think the learning process ever stops?

Odessa Held - Absolutely not! Learning and growing is a part of moving forward and it's a process I enjoy.

Louisiana Ladies - You're located on the Northshore. Is this the area you serve?

Odessa Held - Our state headquarters is on the Northshore, it's where we live - the community we live in - but we are not limited to the Northshore area.

We're getting to know people across the state and enjoy exploring regions, parishes, and communities across Louisiana.

Louisiana Ladies - Is the Louisiana Ladies Magazine a regional publication?

Our signature magazine is a lifestyle publication that highlights everyday topics and interests.

Our regional publications include our lookbooks and guides.

Louisiana Ladies - What inspired you to start this journey?

Odessa Held - I've always had something of an entrepreneurial spirit and I enjoy sharing information and helping people.

Having the desire to create something meaningful, something that could have a positive impact, led me to launch 'Louisiana Ladies'.

Louisiana Ladies - Do you have a favorite feature or column of the magazine?

Odessa Held - I really like all of the features and columns, but if I had to choose I think I would choose three in particular.

The first would be the 'Ask a Lady" feature. We ask ladies in our community a variety of questions and they never fail to give us honest, and often entertaining, answers.

My next choice would be our profile feature where we introduce our readers to women in our community.

These features include business owners, actors, singers, artists, political figures, and many more. We are fortunate to have so many remarkable people in our state and in our communities.

My last choice is the 'Self-Care" column because it's something very important to me personally and something I strive to improve on and practice every day.

Louisiana Ladies - What do you think of entrepreneurship so far?

Odessa Held - It's challenging and exciting at the same time.

I'm glad to have arrived at a place within myself where I believe in my ability to accomplish what I've set out to do.

Louisiana Ladies - Any advice for other women in business?

Odessa Held - Yes, and that's that YOU determined your worth and value, not others!

Editor's Picks

Browse through our curated collection of holidays, events, occasions, and gift ideas by clicking on the images below to visit our Editor's Picks page for a bit of celebration and giving inspiration!

NAIL YOUR SUMMER MANICURE

What's the best thing about summer manicures and nail styles? They can be whatever you want them to be. Want a long nail in an almond shape? Okay! Prefer a French manicure? Love it!

No matter what anyone else is doing, you should be loving the choices you are making for yourself, even if it's something as simple as the fingernail style and color you choose.

Having said that, it doesn't mean you can't be curious about summer nail trends and the colors you have to choose from. We've researched a handful of brands and these are the top three trends we're seeing.

Pastel polishes are the darlings of the season with pinks and lavenders ranking at the top of the list.

Milky nails with a nod to natural tones are very popular and it fits well with the clean look many are styling for.

Jelly Nails are sheer bright formulas with a high-shine finish with a world of colors to choose from. So much fun!!!

Summer Jewelry Trends

If you believe summer is a time to express a bolder, more playful style you're not alone. 2023 Jewelry designs and styles have taken on a more-is-more vibe, and women love it! Need some style tips and inspiration, we can help!

Big and beautiful flower jewelry, especially rings and earrings, are playful must haves to look for.

Beads, chains, necklaces, bracelets, all of it! Have some fun and Stack ' em Up!

Chunky chains are actually pretty practical and they can be worn with something dressy or casual.

Pearls are a classic that never go out of style & this year is all about going Natural!

Ribbon chokers can be worn alone or styled with a pendant.

Look for beads that are a mix of color, shape, and size.

4th of July

FAMILY FRIENDLY ENTERTAINING ON A BUDGET

If you're looking to host a low-stress and budget-friendly Fourth of July gathering, we've got a few ideas for you. Get ready to throw an unforgettable bash without breaking the bank using these tips to celebrate the holiday with ease.

Make it a Potluck Party!

Many hands make light work and many dishes fill a table! Invite your friends and family to bring their favorite dishes and sides. This way, everyone gets to showcase their culinary skills while sharing the cost and effort. Plus, you'll have a mouthwatering variety of dishes to enjoy!

DIY & On Hand Decorations

With a color scheme already in place, it's time to get creative and crafty. You can gather items you already have to create unique centerpieces and decorations.

Get crafty and create your own patriotic decorations. Consider re-using holiday lights of red and white or make a holiday garland using red, white, and blue ribbons. Repurpose mason jars as charming candle holders. A little creativity goes a long way in setting a festive mood without spending a fortune.

Quick Tip: Don't be afraid to stop by a dollar or thrift store to see if they have something you can use.

Backyard Game Zone

Keep everyone entertained with fun outdoor games. Have a corn-hole competition, create a DIY obstacle course, or have a friendly competition with classic games like sack races or horseshoes.

You could even come up with a unique trophy for each activity. It's all about making memories and these games don't have to cost you much!

Marvelous Mocktails

Stay refreshed, and on budget, by offering signature mocktails for your family and friends to enjoy. Whip up a patriotic fruit punch using cranberry, blueberry, and lemonade, or create a sparkling watermelon spritzer with a hint of mint.

Kick the style factor up a notch with festive glassware (or plastic ware) and don't forget the colorful straws and fruit garnishes if you're looking to make your summer beverages photo-worthy

Let it Glow

Skip the expensive fireworks display and opt for a DIY show with glow sticks, bracelets, and necklaces for a fun, colorful, and budget-friendly alternative.

Remember, the Fourth of July is all about enjoying good company, delicious food, and the spirit of celebration.

Have a blast, create lasting memories, and may your Fourth of July be filled with joy and laughter!

LadiesofJuly

Celebrating Ladies of July

Those that are born in July are either a Cancer or Leo. Cancer birthdays fall between June 21 – July 22

Leo birthdays fall between July 23 – August 22

July Birthstone - Ruby

July Flower(s) - Larkspur & Waterlily

Those of us who are lucky enough to have a Lady of July to call as a friend know just how caring and protective our friends can be and having the chance to show them just how thankful we are to have them in our life and spend time celebrating them is never a chore.

Here are three ways you can celebrate a friend in July:

Plan a Beach Day - Take advantage of the summer weather and organize a fun day, or weekend, at the beach with your friend. Planning ahead will help you find the best deal for a favorite hotel, beach-side rental, or B&B. Be sure to pack snacks and plenty of drinks to stay hydrated on the trip. Oh, and don't forget the sunblock!

Go to a Summer Festival or Special Event - Louisiana has no shortage of food, music, or festivals. In fact, many of our festivals are about food and music. So this is a great time to pick up a few tickets, map out your route, and clear your calendar for a day with your friend.

Enjoy a day at a Museum in the AC - Looking to avoid the Louisiana heat? Museums are a great way to spend the day and enjoy some time out of the sun. We have several museums sprinkled throughout the state including the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Louisiana History Museum in Alexandria, and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum in Baton Rouge, just to name a few.

Remember to plan ahead, if you can, and choose something you're sure your friend will enjoy, then go about your day making memories with someone worth celebrating.

Enjoying the Big and Little Things in Life

Hey you! We want to see how you're celebrating notable days in July! Use the list below for social media post ideas and inspiration and be sure to share them with us by tagging us on Instagram (@thelouisianaladies) so we know they're sharable.

3 / Compliment Your Mirror Day

4 / Independence Day

6 / Fried Chicken Day

10 / Kitten Day

11 / Mojito Day 21 / Junk Food Day

14 / Mac & Cheese Dy

16 / Ice Cream Day 17 / Tattoo Day

23 / Gorgeous Grandma Day 24 / Self Care Day

29 / Lipstick Day

SELF-CARE CHALLENGE July

Being intentional in our efforts to improve our lives through self-care means we are taking steps to improve and move forward each day. Start your self-care journey for July by joining us in our Monthly Self-Care Challenge.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast Watch a comfort show

Listen to Your Favorite Band

Declutter a Room

Read a Book

Do Some Stretches

Write a Thank You Note

Eat Your Favorite Dinner

Name Three Things You're Thankful For

Exercise or Yoga

Do something creative

Take a Nap

Spend time with animals!

Give yourself a compliment in the mirror

Light Your Favorite Candle Watch the Sun Set

Drink Water

Go For a Walk

Stay off social media for a day

Sing a Song

Enjoy a Favorite Treat

Do a random act of kindness

Take a Deep Breath

Spend Time with a Friend

Try Something New

Home Alone

TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR HOUSE READY FOR A WORRY-FREE GETAWAY

Hello Summer Vacation! Well, almost. First, we have to make sure everything at home is taken care of before we can leave. Why? Because if we don't chances are we're going to spend time worrying about the sink that drips, or the stacks of mail just sitting in the box instead of relaxing. Nobody wants that!

Taking some time now to make sure your house is ready for some alone time is time well spent. So, let's cover a few basic, but important, things that need to be taken some and things to do so we can enjoy a worry-free getaway.

Keep the Secret Safe

Going on vacation is a little bit like winning the lottery. You're excited and want to tell everyone, but you probably shouldn't. Now is a good time to share your excitement and plans with those close to you, but you don't need to broadcast your absence on social media or in public places.

Family, Friends, and Trusted Neighbors

Some of us are lucky enough to have family and trusted friends as neighbors. Be sure to ask them to keep an eye on your place, get the mail, water the plants on the porch, or contact you in the event of an emergency and offer to return the favor the next time they go out of town.

Lights, Camera, Automation

Okay, so you've been low-key about your plans, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't take some precautions to keep your home safe while you're away.

If you have an alarm system, be sure to double-check settings and verify everything is working as it should. You can also invest in automatic timers for indoor and outdoor lights and schedule them to turn on and off at different times. Having motion sensor lights outside will put anyone, or anything, walking near your home at night in the spotlight for others to see.

Lock It Up & Double-Check

Before you leave, double-check that all of the windows, doors, and other access points are securely locked.

No Time for Plumbing

If you're going to have plumbing problems you don't want them to happen while you're away. Before you leave is a good time to shut off the main water supply or individual valves to appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.

Eat the Leftovers & Empty the Fridge

If there is ever a time that feels chaotic it's before vacation. You're busy getting the house ready for your departure, packing for yourself and possibly others, verifying travel plans, and a dozen other things. Cleaning out the fridge is probably on your to-do list, but hopefully, cooking is not. Now is the time to re-enjoy a previously cooked meal (or two) and consume drinks and snacks that might go bad while you're away.

About the Pets

We can't always take our pet(s) along with us, but we can reach out to a family member, friend, trusted pet sitter, or reputable boarding facility to make sure your pet is well cared for while you're away.

Enjoy Your Time Away

Considering video options? There are plenty of doorbell and camera options to choose from, including Trail Cams. That's right... Welcome to Sportman's Paradise.

Now that you've taken care of all of the 'things' it's time to take a step back and focus on relaxing, exploring, and creating wonderful memories on your well-deserved vacation.

BOOK

OF THE MONTH

Cadie Kessler has spent decades trying to cover up one truth. One moment. She had to know her secret would be discovered, right!?!

An urgent message from her long-estranged best friend Daniela Garcia brings Cadie to her childhood home where both women must face a dark secret that ended both their childhood bond and a summer not forgotten.

Now grown, this girl has to choose what she will give up to protect the people and the place she works to protect.

PREVIOUS SELECTIONS

This wonderfully bizarre novel is entertaining and humorous. Aaron Jackson shares a story of an orphaned boy, August March, whose life begins after the curtain falls in a New York theatre.

A good choice for fans of historical fiction, this "Benjamin Button" ish story is set in postwar New York City where this young boy must rely upon the kindness of strangers to survive.

Where Did It Go Right? by Bella Perry

In this, her debut romance novel, Bella Perry writes with an easy rhythm and a knack for making us feel like we’re reading about someone we know and places we’ve been.

This is a light and modern read about a young woman who navigates her way out of a relationship built on false promises and manipulation as a chance encounter turns into the beginning of a love story not yet fully told.

How

SUBSCRIBER GIVEAWAYS

2023 Giving Guide

Helping people find resources and supports to help them get what they need is at the heart of so much of what we do and our annual Giving Guide is a continuation of this effort.

While there is no fee for non-profits to be a part of our 2023 Giving Guide we do have an application and approval process to ensure the organizations included provide programs and services for women and girls.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in being included in this annual publication we invite you to apply using the link below.

Advertise with Louisiana Ladies

Welcome to Louisiana Ladies™, an evergrowing resource for women in Louisiana and beyond. Our growing community includes a diverse group of women who enjoy topical publications, sharing opinions, social media, local get-togethers, and community events.

Our readers can look to us when searching for products and services for, or of interest to, women in Louisiana and beyond. With this in mind, we’ve created a screening process to ensure potential advertisers provide products and services for, and of value to, our community before becoming an advertiser.

Please contact us today to share what you have to offer members of our community. We look forward to hearing from you! info@louisianaladies.com