THE HOME ISSUE Three mini renovations to the kitchen, bath and outdoor spaces easily transform Acadiana homes without a full overhaul.
PLUS Where to Live Next Three small, neighboring cities with notably different characteristics
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WHERE TO LIVE NEXT THREE SMALL, NEIGHBORING CITIES WITH NOTABLY DIFFERENT CHARACTERISTICS
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SMALL CHANGES BIG IMPACT Three mini renovations to the kitchen, bath and outdoor spaces easily transform Acadiana homes without a full overhaul.
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VOL. 45 NO. 4 14 NOTE DE L’EDITEUR
From House to Home
18 NOUVELLES DE VILLES
Happenings around the region
24 ÉTAT CULTUREL Rebuilding After Loss: Stories of Resilience in Acadiana
22 UN VOYAGE AU VILLAGE
Duck Capital Fun
58 RECETTE DE COCKTAILS
A lively new gathering spot in Duson celebrates Cajun hospitality with cocktails that capture the spirit of Acadiana
60 DÎNER DEHORS
26 BLUEPRINT FOR BLISS A LAFAYETTE BUILDER CRAFTS A PERSONAL HOME THAT BECAME A SHOWHOUSE SENSATION
Southwest Louisiana Cuisine at Allons Mange’ Restaurant
64 EN FRANÇAIS, S’IL VOUS PLAÎT
La Nature rejoint la Contre-Nature; ou, Pourquoi ça crève toujours ?
56 DU CHEF
Chef Eric McCree at Augustine in Lake Charles finds his calling in spreading happiness and joy through food
Acadiana Profile (ISSN 0001-4397) is published bimonthly by Renaissance Publishing LLC, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 and 128 Demanade, Suite 104, Lafayette, LA 70503 (337) 235-7919. Subscription rate: One year $24, no foreign subscriptions. Periodicals postage paid at Lafayette, LA, and additional mailing entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Acadiana Profile, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright © 2026 Renaissance Publishing LLC, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark Acadiana Profile is registered. Acadiana Profile is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos, and artwork, even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in Acadiana Profile are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine or owner. Official digital reprint and framed content is only available from Renaissance Publishing, LLC by calling (504) 828-1380 or visiting acadianaprofile.com/frames.
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EDITORIAL
Editor Reine Dugas Art Director Sarah E.G. Majeste Copy Editor Liz Clearman Web Editor Kelly Massicot Digital Editor Alyssa Schiaffino Contributors Erin Z. Bass, Lisa LeblancBerry, Cheré Coen, Eric Cormier, Colby LeJeune, H. Michelle Kreamer, Danley Romero, Haylei Smith, Melanie Warner Spencer, Eugenia Uhl, Joseph Vidrine, Sara Willia, Robert Witkowski
SALES
Sales Manager Rebecca Taylor 337-298-4424 337-235-7919 Ext. 7230 Rebecca@AcadianaProfile.com
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MARKETING
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NOTE DE L’EDITEUR
REINE@ACADIANAPROFILE.COM
From House to Home IN THIS ISSUE, we focus on homes. We highlight a beautiful home, take a peek at some of the best neighborhoods in Acadiana and explore mini renovations that can take your home to the next level. I love the idea of the mini renovation, from the very small tweaks to more substantial changes, just shy of a full reno. If you don’t have the funds or the time to do major updates on your house, it’s amazing what a difference small changes can make.
ACADIANAPROFILE.COM
One of the cheats I have is moving art around. It doesn’t qualify as a mini renovation by any means, but moving art and plants around can definitely freshen up a space. If you want to do more, though, see Misty Milioto’s article with ideas for a range of spaces and budgets. Designers weigh in with some of their tips and tricks. Milioto makes even mini projects more manageable by breaking them down into smaller parts. I think one of the things that deters us from even starting a project is how daunting it may seem — especially when we’re changing something about our house. However, bit by bit, it’s not so bad. One of the suggestions she mentions is painting kitchen cabinets. I did that. It was a lot of work. A lot. Taking the fronts off, sanding them, priming and painting — multiple coats. Painting the frame, climbing on the counter to get the high ones. Putting new hardware on. It was a lot — did I say that already? But you know what? I loved how they came out, and they absolutely transformed my kitchen. It brightened the room and gave it an entirely different vibe. Worth the work. It usually is.
@ACADIANAPROFILE
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A FEW OF THE BEST THINGS THIS MONTH WHAT TO DO
This is the perfect time to take advantage of any free offerings your city has. For me, it’s the New Orleans Museum of Art on Wednesdays. Viewing beautiful art and staying cool at the same time makes for the perfect afternoon.
WHAT TO WATCH
“Broadchurch” reruns. The writing is really strong, the landscape is stunning and Olivia Colman is wonderful in anything she does. There are only three seasons, but they’re worth the watch or re-watch.
WHAT TO READ
“Kin” by Tayari Jones. This story takes place in 1950s and '60s Jim Crow South and follows the lives of two Black girls growing up in Louisiana. Jones’ prose is lyrical and her portrayal of these characters is incredibly nuanced.
@APMAGAZINE
IRMA AWARDS 2024 • Gold Overall Art Direction • Silver Art Direction of a Single Story • Silver Photo Series • Bronze Illustration • Bronze Home and Garden • Bronze Cover • 2023 •Finalist Magazine of the Year • Silver Overall Art Direction • Silver Art and Culture Feature • 2022 • Winner Magazine of the Year • Gold Overall Art Direction • Gold Art Direction of a Single Story • Gold Portrait Series • Silver Food Feature • 2021 • Gold Art Direction Single Story • Silver Covid Related Story • Silver Food Feature • 2020 • Gold Overall Art Direction • Silver Art and Culture Feature • Silver Recreation Feature • 2019 • Winner Magazine of the Year • Gold Overall Art Direction • Gold Art Direction Single Story • Gold Photo Series • Silver Photographer of the Year • 2018 • Gold Overall Art Direction • Gold Magazine Photographer • Gold Art Direction of a Single Story • Gold Food Feature • Gold Department • Silver Magazine Writer of the Year • Silver Hed & Dek • Silver Photo Series • 2017 • Gold Overall Art Direction • Gold Magazine Photographer of the Year • Gold Art Direction of a Single Story • Gold Food Feature • Silver Cover • 2016 • Gold Overall Art Direction • Gold Magazine Photographer of the Year • Gold Art Direction of a Single Story • Silver Photo Series
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What I'm Loving
DISCOVER THE BEST NEIGHBORHOODS AND THE BEST DEAL! GET $10 OFF A NEW SUBSCRIPTION. *Must order online, new subscribers only expires September 30, 2026.
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ÉQUIPE DE VENTE
Rebecca Taylor Sales Manager (337) 298-4424 • (337) 235-7919 Ext. 230 Rebecca@AcadianaProfile.com
COMING SOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026
THE FOOD ISSUE
Fall Fun
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NOUVELLES DE VILLES
LISA LEBLANC-BERRY
AGENDA AUGUST 1 Sugarland Music & Arts Festival Celebrating its third year, the Napoleonville festival showcases local creativity with artists, live music, children’s activities and student performances.
LAFAYETTE
New Series Mark your calendars for "Dry Bones," a new music and documentary project exploring the deep roots and dynamic branches of Louisiana music, which will premiere in Lafayette at the Acadiana Center for the Arts on October 8 as part of the kickoff to Festivals Acadiens et Créoles. "Dry Bones" will begin airing on October 14, with new episodes released each week through December 9 (drybones.net).
LAKE CHARLES
Talent and Hurricane Tales For a riveting distraction during the height of hurricane season, "Should the Waters Take Us" ($30 hardcover), the debut novel by Lake Charles native Stephanie Soileau, is a literary triumph that reaches across 400 years in a sweeping tale of Cajun loss and resilience. Soileau’s dystopian vision unfolds through ancestral dramas surrounding a ruinous oil spill that collides with a devastating hurricane.
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AUGUST 15 SWLA's Hot Sauce Fest The 2nd annual spicy festival brings over 70 vendors, hot sauce makers and fans together for League of Fire challenges, chugging contests, tastings and spicy food trucks in Sulphur. AUGUST 12-16 Delcambre Shrimp Festival The 74th annual five-day family event features a blessing of the shrimp boat fleet, queens pageants, shrimp cook-off, carnival rides, live music by national recording artists, street dances and local shrimp dishes galore. AUGUST 27-30 Gueydan Duck Festival Hunters head to Gueydan for the annual duck and goose-calling contests, duck cook-offs, skeet shooting, decoy carving, dog trials, parades, carnival rides, and Cajun music in the “Duck Capital of America.” SEPTEMBER 5 Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival Held in Opelousas, the "Zydeco Music Capital of the World," the annual fest features Creole food and Grammy-winning musicians alongside zydeco headliners performing from noon until the wee hours. SEPTEMBER 12 Murder Mystery at Residence Plantation Step back in time for a night of suspense in the grand halls at Residence Plantation. Enjoy an elegant evening with dinner and become part of the interactive mystery to solve the crime with prizes for top detectives.
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NOUVELLES DE VILLES
LISA LEBLANC-BERRY
AGENDA SEPTEMBER 12 Oldies but Goodies Festival Classic cars, timeless tunes and nostalgic family entertainment invite visitors to relive the soundtracks of their youth while enjoying a small-town atmosphere in Port Allen.
RAYNE
Historic District Enfin Reconnu!
LULING
See Ya Later Alligator The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission has approved a new recreational alligator hunting season from October 1-31, marking the first in Louisiana’s history. Some of the 2 million alligators wandering through the swamps, rivers and bayous will be landed, cooked and savored during the Luling Alligator Festival (September 24-27), where abundant alligator dishes range from egg rolls to sauce piquante.
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After decades of preservation efforts, the City of Rayne’s historic district has finally been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as the "Frog Capital of the World" and the "City of Murals," the town of 6,900, founded in 1883, has gained national acclaim for its Frog Festival that attracts visitors with unique amphibian competitions ranging from frog jumping to costumed frog pageants.
SEPTEMBER 12-13 Montegut Community Festival Enjoy a crafts show, music, art booths, local vendors and kids activities in Montegut. SEPTEMBER 19 Gulf Brew Lafayette The Gulf South’s largest craft beer festival continues its nearly 20-year tradition with more than 200 craft beer selections. Sample everything from lagers to IPAs with food and live music downtown. SEPTEMBER 24-26 Tinsel & Treasures Kick off the holiday season early at Lafayette’s Cajundome with holiday shopping, special events, food and entertainment in support of Junior League of Lafayette’s mission. SEPTEMBER 24-27 Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival Celebrate the 83rd annual festival in New Iberia with sugar cookery, horticulture and car shows, photography and art competitions, live bands including Bad Boyz and Swampland Revival, and 3 parades with Queen Sugar and King Sucrose presiding at the Royal grand finale. SEPTEMBER 26 Louisiana Mosquito Festival The 2nd annual free community event hosted by the Coulee Croche Firefighters Association honors volunteer firefighters with a jambalaya cook-off and a variety of musical performances.
UN VOYAGE AU VILLAGE
CHERÉ COEN
History & Art
Duck Capital Fun Acadiana’s Gueydan began with an entrepreneurial Frenchmen. ¶ Jean-Pierre Gueydan arrived in New Orleans in the mid-19th century and later moved to Abbeville to start a business. In 1896, he purchased 40,000 acres of marshland in Vermilion Parish to grow rice. Because he leased land to local families and the population grew to 250, part of the “Gueydan Pasture” was founded as a village and named for its major landowner. ¶ What makes Gueydan popular today is those rice fields, home to migrating and resident ducks popular with hunters. To celebrate the aquatic fowl, the town hosts a long-standing annual festival. This year, the Gueydan Duck Festival (Aug. 27-30) turns 50!
The heart of Gueydan lies along Main Street with its centerpiece the Gueydan Museum and Cultural Art Society in the circa 1902 Gueydan Bank building. The free museum houses a permanent collection of rare photographs and artifacts from Gueydan’s early days, including French antiques from the Gueydan family, as well as changing art exhibits. Over on Fourth Street grows the T.J. Doss Tree, the oldest tree in Gueydan and the father of the oak trees that line the street. Its plaque reads: “From an acorn this giant oak tree was planted by T.J. Doss when he was a young boy in 1903.”
DUCKS! In 1977, the town took the moniker of “Gueydan, Louisiana - Duck Capital of America” and a festival started shortly thereafter. The Gueydan Duck Festival celebrates those 50 years this month with some of the best duck-related entertainment. There will be a duck-and goose-calling contest, duck dash, decoy carving, dog trials and the world’s largest working duck call. Of course, there’s also Cajun food vendors, nightly bands, Junior and Senior Queens pageants, a grand parade and carnival, among much more.
TAKE A BIKE RIDE Bike Highway 91 South and visit the former Gueydan family plantation just past the Gueydan Cemetery with its more than 3,000 burials, many of them historic. Continue south and the marshlands produce a variety of wildlife, including purple gallinules, least bittern herons and little gray herons. And, of course, those famous ducks.
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ÉTAT CULTUREL
H. MICHELLE KREAMER
Rebuilding After Loss STORIES OF RESILIENCE IN ACADIANA AS WE ARRIVE at the 10-year anniversary
of the historic 2016 floods, one word is consistently used to describe Acadiana’s response to the devastating, no-name storm: resilient. “Everyone’s flood story is going to be different,” explained Avery Davidson, co-host of “This Week in Louisiana Agriculture.” As someone who advocates on behalf of Louisiana farmers and ranchers when seeking disaster assistance, and someone personally impacted by the 2016 floods, Davidson has firsthand experience of people coming together in times of need. In August 2016, he recalls carrying his two young sons upstairs as water began coming into their home. With cell phone towers down, they were stuck until a neighbor offered help, and since water was halfway up his calf, Davidson accepted. Following the storm, once the waters receded, Davidson and several co-workers arrived at his house to assess the damage. Immediately, they began
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pulling everything out of the home. The Dr. Liz Skilton, an associate professor next day, a bigger crew arrived. Thinking of history at UL Lafayette, specializes back to Hurricane Rita in 2005 during his in the history of disaster and human time as a newscaster, Davidson said there response. She explains this research focus was never a thought of “Will we rebuild?” has helped preserve history and memories It was always “When we rebuild,” and says following major events such as hurricanes this flood was no different. or floods. When asked about the afterClyde Cain knows the importance of math of disaster, Skilton says a strength of quick action in the aftermath of disaster. Acadiana is “the ability to come together Following Hurricane Katrina, hundreds after an event,” echoing Davidson and of people showed up to volunteer and Cain. In 2017, she led a group of UL were dubbed the “Cajun Navy” by media, Lafayette students in collecting stories though a formal organization did not of individuals’ experiences and how they yet exist. Following the 2016 floods, were impacted. From this, a podcast was Cain founded the Louisiana Cajun Navy, created by students. Led by Zach Henry, creating a Facebook page to determine “Underwater: Memories of the 2016 Floods,” who needed help and who could provide shares stories of people in the Lafayette help. Now there are several Cajun Navy area and their experiences one year after groups who come together in the wake of the flood. disaster, which Cain says is the “embodWhile disaster is certainly not unique iment of Louisiana” with neighbors and to south Louisiana, the determination to strangers showing up for one another rebuild and support one another is, as time and time again. Davidson says, “who the Acadians are.”
WANT TO LEARN MORE? WATCH “This Week in Louisiana Agriculture” will be highlighting stories to mark the 10-year anniversary. You can watch the show on Sunday mornings at 6:30 on KATC-TV 3 or find the show at twilatv.org. ¶ READ You can read more about the work of Louisiana Cajun Navy and sign up as a volunteer at louisianacn.com. ¶ LISTEN You can listen to the student-created podcast episode, “Underwater: Memories of the 2016 Floods” at soundcloud.com/ulhistory.
LA MAISON
MELANIE WARNER SPENCER
Blueprint for Bliss A LAFAYETTE BUILDER CRAFTS A PERSONAL HOME THAT BECAME A SHOWHOUSE SENSATION
new owner for their nearly completed home. It quickly transformed from a personal project into a showhouse. “I think it’s important because really everything that we put into the home was not on speculative decisions,” says Baldridge. “It was on personal decisions and what we loved. And all the extra expenses that went into it were because we wanted those things in our home.” The house, located in The Sanctuary neighborhood in Broussard, began construction in April 2025 after more
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HAYLEI SMITH
FOR RYAN BALDRIDGE, the opportunity to build a personal residence
was a dream project. The owner of Provence Homes, a custom builder, it was Baldridge’s chance to bring years of accumulated design ideas and functional insights into being. Life’s unexpected turns however, led the home to become a celebrated parade house rather than his family’s forever abode. ¶ Baldridge’s wife decided to pursue specialty certifications, requiring her to step away from work. This led the family to an unexpected decision: finding a
than a year of planning. It was completed for the parade in April 2026. Baldridge’s vision for the home was deeply rooted in his extensive experience. Having built numerous custom homes, primarily “forever houses” for clients who prioritize lasting quality, he had collected a mental catalog of features that elevate a home beyond mere aesthetics. “I’ve just been able to have all these pinned-up ideas of what I find makes a home quality and what makes a home feel special,” says Baldridge. “Even from
the design perspective of all these different ideas I’ve gotten over the years with working with my awesome clients that I was able to get all of that creative energy out in this one project.” This home in The Sanctuary neighborhood in Lafayette is the culmination of years’ worth of ideas from a builder who knows what it takes — from foundation to finishes — to create a lasting, timeless home.
The four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home is 3,864 square feet and includes three flex spaces. Each area of the home is meticulously designed to reflect how people actually live in the spaces, rather than simply focusing on luxury materials and finishes.
The home’s architectural style is transitional, a term Baldridge embraces to describe its eclectic mix. The exterior hints at European farmhouse elements, while the interior seamlessly blends modern and traditional touches. Ivy Residential Concepts, a full-service firm led by Jewel and Vincent Centanni, handled the architecture, interior design and kitchen design. Ali Pugh designed the landscape, with Paul Meadow overseeing installation. “My designer, the firm, Ivy, they just do such a good job of mixing both traditional elements with modern elements to make it feel very present,” says Baldridge. “But also, they do such a good job of … that perfect mix of the aesthetics to feel modern and clean, but then also everything kind of hearkens back to a more traditional design.” The exterior features a brick façade with a mortar wash, a traditional technique reminiscent of lime washes used in
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older European homes. This finish offers a more substantial, textured look than paint, echoing the enduring beauty found in historic architecture. Inside, the home’s layout reflects how a growing family lives, with the builder’s own family as the case study. Embracing a return to more traditional, separated spaces, the layout is a departure from the open-concept trend. With young children, visibility is crucial, yet distinct areas provide structure. The kitchen, for example, is oriented front-to-back rather than side-to-side, with cabinetry on the living room wall and a narrowed opening to create a sense of separation while maintaining sightlines. A key decision was keeping the kitchen island free of sinks or stoves, transforming it into a clean, functional surface. They also included a dedicated breakfast
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nook, a comfortable alternative to bar seating for family meals. “It’s just weird when four people are eating in a line not meeting each other,” says Baldridge. “It’s not conducive to conversation.” The primary suite’s design prioritizes quiet for early risers. A closed foyer leads to the bathroom and closet, allowing a partner or spouse to prepare for the day without reentering the bedroom. Upstairs, a flex space and a smaller secondary flex room offer versatility, with a Jack and Jill bathroom designed for comfort, featuring separated vanity spaces to minimize sibling squabbles. The home’s color palette emerged from the decision to use checkerboard marble flooring, leaning towards white and light blues. These hues, along with unlacquered brass accents, create a cohesive
The departure from open-concept layouts began over the past few years, so for this home, the design focuses on sightlines — to keep an eye on young children — but the rooms are sectioned off for structure and to define the spaces.
and calming atmosphere. The walls are painted in alabaster, a creamy white that provides a neutral backdrop, allowing future furniture choices to be flexible. Baldridge’s favorite feature is the transition from the kitchen to the butler’s pantry, marked by a distinctive glass wall. This detail, inspired by historical English homes, adds visual interest and a sense of honest, traditional architecture. The 3,864-square-foot home has four bedrooms, three and a half baths and three flex spaces. The thoughtful design, born from personal experience and professional insight, creates a living environment that is both luxurious and eminently livable. “High-quality architecture and construction takes a lot of effort and planning, and it takes a lot of passion,” says Baldridge. “When you have the right team and you kind of put all the effort in, it really can be a little bit magical whenever everything comes together.”
SMALL CHANGES In South Louisiana, home is never just a place to sleep. It is where the boucherie happens, where generations gather around a table that has been passed down for a century, where the porch is as lived-in as the living room. When it comes to renovating those spaces, Acadiana designers say the biggest mistake homeowners make is thinking transformation requires a complete overhaul. In many cases, three focused moves in the right room can change everything. BY MISTY MILIOTO WITH SELECT PHOTOS BY HAYLEI SMITH
MEET THE EXPERTS
These three designers discuss how to deliver maximum impact and achieve a similar result on a budget.
Justine Hebert
Kim McLain
Sara Vincent
J DESIGN INTERIORS 1126 Coolidge St., Ste. 102 Lafayette (337) 247-7557 jdesignla.com
KIM MCLAIN INTERIORS 1915 W. Congress St. Lafayette (337) 501-7279 kimmclaininteriors.com
SARA VINCENT DESIGNS Crowley (337) 581-7651 @saravincent_designs
Where to Start For a homeowner standing in the middle of their home right now trying to decide where to put their energy first — weighing kitchen, bathroom and outdoor against a limited budget — the designers converge on one principle: Start with the room that brings you the most joy every day.
BIG IMPACT
KITCHEN
Of the three renovation zones, the kitchen carries the heaviest symbolic weight in Acadiana. It is the room that defines a home’s social life, and increasingly, designers say clients are rethinking how it looks and flows without starting from scratch. Justine Hebert, who specializes in residential renovations and teaches interior design at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, says the tension in kitchen renovations almost always comes back to the gap between inspiration and reality. “I find the confusion is what clients see from social media or friends’ homes versus what the space needs,” she says. “I love using Instagram or Pinterest as a reference, however, I find clients tend to be guided by an inspirational photo and miss the opportunity of following a style of architecture and also following their personal preferences.” Sara Vincent, whose Evangeline kitchen project was featured in Acadiana Profile, puts layout first. “I immediately scan the room for what could be — basically looking at the wall layout, doors and window placement, and start to visualize how functional, yet practical this area can become,” she says. That instinct drives every decision that follows, from whether a wall comes down to where the light falls. For budget-conscious refreshes, Vincent keeps it direct: lighting fixtures; hardware; metal finishes — and restraint. “Never over-clutter,” she says. “Allowing fewer pieces with a bigger impact makes the statements,” she says. “And of course, paint colors to complement the remainder of the
THE FORMULA
Refresh a Kitchen In Three Moves
Lighting
Cabinets
Hardware
It’s the jewelry of the room — the element that sets the mood and catches the eye before anything else.
Whether you’re painting, refacing or replacing fronts, the cabinet story is the bones of the space.
This is the punctuation mark. It’s the smallest change with one of the highest visibility returns.
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home that will be left as is.” Her approach to remodeling versus new construction is equally cleareyed. “My favorite is a remodel because I love being creative with it and the rewarding feeling of the transformation that takes place.” Kim McLain, who has been designing Lafayette homes for more than 25 years, takes a similarly restrained view when sourcing fresh ideas. “We’re seeing a renewed appreciation for kitchens that feel collected and architectural rather than overly built in or over designed,” she says. “We often prefer incorporating breathing room within the cabinetry layout — avoiding walls completely covered in upper cabinets whenever possible. Introducing open space,
Styled for Every Budget High-end kitchen upgrades or budget-friendly alternatives to create a beautiful, functional space
The Splurge Replace cabinet fronts while keeping existing boxes, upgrade to a statement range or custom hood vent and add pendant lighting over an island or peninsula. A zellige or handmade tile backsplash — nodding to the Spanish and French Colonial roots woven throughout Acadiana architecture — brings texture and regionalism to the space. New hardware in unlacquered brass or matte black completes the look. Estimated range: $8,000–$20,000.
The Budget Version Paint existing cabinets — Benjamin Moore Advance is the designer standard for a durable, factory-smooth finish — and swap hardware for $3 to $5 per knob. Add peel-and-stick backsplash tile (many options now convincingly mimic handmade ceramic), and replace a dated light fixture with a rattan pendant or schoolhouse globe for less than $150. Estimated range: $500–$2,500.
“We’re drawn to materials and details that will still feel beautiful and relevant years from now.” KIM MCLAIN KIM MCLAIN INTERIORS
windows, shelving or furniture-style elements helps a kitchen feel lighter, more inviting and connected to the rest of the home.” The result McLain describes is a kitchen built to last. “Natural materials, layered textures, warm wood tones, unlacquered metals and stone with movement and character — those elements bring depth and authenticity to a space in a way that feels enduring rather than trenddriven,” she says. “The goal is always to create kitchens that feel elevated, functional and timeless enough to evolve gracefully over time.”
PRIMARY BATH
Of the three renovation zones, the primary bathroom is the one designers say clients approach most emotionally — and where the most expensive mistakes happen. The good news is that targeted upgrades can do more than a full gut if the right elements are chosen.
Hebert’s research-based design philosophy translates directly into bathroom work. “Function of space and mood of the space — think lighting, color, ease of maintenance,” she says. “Bathrooms, especially primary bathrooms, need to feel soothing yet meet the needs for generally two people — and account for kids, too.”
Budget to Boutique Updating your bathroom with affordable cosmetic changes or elevated, designer-inspired renovations The Splurge Convert a standard tub-shower combo to a walk-in wet room or curbless shower, adding large-format tile in a warm travertine or limewashed finish. Install a freestanding soaking tub if space allows — a nod to the French Creole tradition of leisure. Add a lighted vanity mirror, new plumbing fixtures in a warm metal finish, and wallpaper or Venetian plaster on a single accent wall. Estimated range: $12,000–$30,000.
The Budget Version Reglaze the existing tub — which can cost between $300 and $500 versus $1,000 or more for a replacement. Swap the vanity light bar for a Hollywood-style or modern sconce pair. Add a statement mirror, refresh grout and hang high-impact wallpaper on one wall only. Estimated range: $600–$2,000.
When prioritizing a bathroom refresh without a full gut, Hebert has a clear framework. “Try to keep the floor and cabinets if you can — that will save cost and time,” she says. “Affordable upgrades include new countertops, decorative sinks and faucets and lighting. Artwork is always a great move if you want to change a space. Visit local galleries or art shows, or even estate sales.” Vincent puts wallpaper at the top of her budget bathroom list. “Wallpaper can make a room feel completely different,” she says. “Or simply add wall molding and a pretty, soothing paint color. Declutter countertops and tub areas, use pretty trays to accessorize and organize. Add pretty rugs and runners at the vanity and tub areas that can deflect from dated floors.” On tile selection — one of Vincent’s specialties — she says the most common client mistake is misreading scale and color tone. “Smaller baths can appear larger and more spacious just by carefully considering tile scale, placement and colors,” she says. “In the end, [everything] should
DESIGNER TIP
What To Keep, What To Replace
Keep Existing floors and cabinetry if the budget is tight. Replacing these drives the largest share of bathroom renovation costs.
Replace Lighting (the single highestimpact upgrade), faucets and countertops (affordable relative to their visual return) and mirrors — all regardless of budget.
“If I had a midrange budget to upgrade a bathroom, my first move is excellent lighting. Lighting built into mirrors is my go-to. I love a medicine cabinet — concealed storage elevates a bathroom.” JUSTINE HEBERT J DESIGN INTERIORS
complement each other and the overall style of the home. If your home is a nice traditional style, you do not want to use overly modern, contemporary or farmhouse finishes in the bathroom.” Vincent also makes the case for window treatments as a serious design element rather than an afterthought. “I consider window treatments a piece of art,” she says. “They can make a huge impact on the overall finished look and can be a fun addition to tie in the flooring or wallpaper, creating a very unique design.”
OUTDOORS
In most of the country, outdoor spaces are seasonal. In Acadiana, they are year-round — and they carry the full weight of the region’s culture of hospitality. The porch, the patio, the screened gallery — these are not amenities. They are extensions of how people live.
McLain tackles outdoor design with the same deliberate layering she brings to interiors. “Because of our climate, we pay close attention to shade, ventilation and how the space functions throughout different times of day and seasons,” she says. “We approach outdoor spaces with the same thoughtful layering we would use inside a home — incorporating a mix of materials, textures, lighting, greenery and furnishings to create depth and character. Whether it’s a quiet morning coffee spot or a large space for hosting family and friends, the goal is always to create an outdoor environment that feels effortless, livable and truly connected to the way our clients want to live.”
DESIGNER TIP
5 Ways to Ready Your Space for Louisiana Living
Fabric
Frames
Rugs
Cushions
Plants
UV-resistant textiles are nonnegotiable. Sunbrella is the industry standard for outdoor upholstery that holds color and resists mold in South Louisiana’s humidity.
Powder-coated aluminum or solid teak holds up to the climate. Avoid cheap wicker or unsealed wood.
Choose drainagefriendly outdoor rugs that won’t trap moisture on wet concrete.
For open, uncovered spaces, consider cushion-free furniture or invest in waterproof storage.
Stick to Zone 9-hardy varieties — bird of paradise, elephant ear, bromeliads and bougainvillea thrive in Acadiana’s heat.
“Down south and surrounding areas are always considering great entertainment options and large family gatherings. The South is very hospitable, [and people] love entertaining.” SARA VINCENT SARA VINCENT DESIGNS
Hebert’s practical experience with Louisiana outdoor living cuts to the durability question quickly. “It’s more about people wanting to buy outdoor furniture with cushions for open spaces,” she says. “It’s a chore to put away and set up cushions depending on the rainy season. When you forget to store cushions and it rains, it takes so long for cushions to dry out to use.” Her approach to making the interior-exterior transition feel seamless is equally grounded. “Outdoor living arrangements using comfortable furniture is key,” she says. “Adding touches of accessories such as pillows and rugs will help to make the space feel like an extension of the interior. The trick is no glass due to pollen and dust, and also not to over-clutter the area.” For Vincent, the distinction between a designed outdoor space and a merely furnished one comes down to intention. “Designed would be a carefully thought-out functional space that will enhance your family’s needs and build out for great entertaining,” she says. “Furnished would be more of basically furnishing the area for gatherings and lounging — using plants and florals to fluff things, pretty pillows, etc.”
Extend Your Living Space Upgrades made to your patio or backyard can be functional, beautiful and on budget
The Splurge Add a pergola or shade structure and install an outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill station and mini fridge. Lay large-format pavers or stained concrete and add string lighting or lanternstyle pendants on a weatherproof exterior fan. Potted subtropical plants complete the bayougarden aesthetic. Estimated range: $15,000–$40,000.
The Budget Version Define the space with an outdoor rug ($80–$200), add a freestanding grill ($300–$600) and hang string lights ($30–$60). Paint an existing concrete slab with exterior floor paint ($50–$100) and style with a few large planters. A fresh coat of paint on the exterior door or fence transforms the backdrop instantly. Estimated range: $600–$1,500.
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WHERE TO
A GROWING NUMBER OF HOMEBUYERS ARE STEERING AWAY FROM LARGE, HIGH-TRAFFIC METROPOLITAN AREAS TO EXPLORE SOME OF ACADIANA’S SMALLER, FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES. WE SPOTLIGHT THREE SMALL, NEIGHBORING CITIES WITH NOTABLY DIFFERENT CHARACTERISTICS ACROSS THREE PARISHES FOR INSPIRATION.
BY LISA LEBLANC-BERRY PHOTOS BY VICTORIA LAWSON
LIVE NEXT
BROUSSARD’S CYPRESS MEADOWS BEST NEIGHBORHOOD FOR PROFESSIONALS AND FAMILIES
course to gated, pet-friendly subdivisions with playgrounds. Among the top attractions for young professionals and families is the Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park, which recorded approximately 1 million visits in 2025. An expansive new pickleball and tennis development, along with a veterans memorial, is underway. Parish Brewing Co., one of Louisiana’s most recognized craft breweries, is set to undergo a major expansion at its headquarters. Broussard’s growing nightlife scene continues to attract young professionals to the area. Broussard and Youngsville are currently partnering to construct a new, shared roundabout at a highly traveled intersection (N. Larriviere Road and LA Highway 92) in the expanding Broussard-Youngsville corridor. Bordering Youngsville near the new roundabout, Cypress Meadows stands as one of Broussard’s most sought-after neighborhoods. While young professionals often favor newly built, move-in-ready modern homes, families are drawn to the upscale district for its stocked fishing ponds, walking trails, playgrounds, proximity to excellent schools, and wildlife safaris at nearby Zoosiana. “Cypress Meadows has a fire station right across the street, which helps with the fire insurance premiums,” says Kevin Rose, a real estate agent with ReMax Acadiana. “Since it’s not in a flood zone, it has a good Zone X rating that also lowers premiums. We did quite a few custom French country homes when I worked with different builders here. It isn’t your typical every house and block looks the same subdivision. It has character.” The neighborhood’s range of architectural styles includes French country, Southern traditional, modern transitional, Acadian, and transitional farmhouse. “Cypress Meadows has become one of the area’s most desirable family-oriented communities due to its location, neighborhood amenities and strong sense of community,” says Lulu David, owner of Lulu David Real Estate Co., based in Youngsville. “I’ve specialized in the Acadiana real estate market for the past 10 years and have helped hundreds of families buy and sell homes throughout Youngsville, Broussard, Lafayette and the surrounding area,” she adds. “One of the things residents love the most about Cypress Meadows is the active community involvement and events throughout the year. It tends to feel suburban-family focused, while still offering elevated custom homes and strong neighborhood appeal.”
ACADIANA PROFILE
the I-49 South corridor and U.S. Highway 90 is noticeably improving its connectivity. According to 2026 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Broussard ranks No. 1 in median household income in Acadiana ($116,000), followed by Prairieville and Youngsville. In a broader statewide standing, Broussard now ranks fourth among Louisiana’s towns. Buyers can find a wide range of new properties, from custom luxury residences designed around a championship golf
AUG/SEPT 26
O ONCE A SERENE rural outpost framed by sugarcane fields, Broussard has emerged as one of the most desirable places to live in Acadiana. Founded as a town in 1884 and designated as a city in 2002, the fast-growing community of 16,000 offers a small-town atmosphere with big-city amenities. Broussard is one of only a few Louisiana municipalities that do not collect a property tax. The rare incentive has fueled a booming residential and commercial real estate market. The ongoing completion of
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W NEW IBERIA’S EAST MAIN STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD FOR RETIREES ACADIANA PROFILE AUG/SEPT 26
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WHILE ACADIANA’S 22 PARISHES are best known for their Cajun and Creole heritage, New Iberia stands out as the primary example of a community with a distinct Spanish-speaking lineage. As the seat of Iberia Parish, the city of 26,000 residents proudly celebrates its Spanish heritage with the annual El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia, honoring the settlers from the Iberian Peninsula who established the community in 1779. Bouligny Plaza is named after its leader, Lieutenant Colonel Don Francisco Bouligny. The site of the annual World Championship Gumbo Cookoff and Books Along the Teche events, Bouligny Plaza added an expanded Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion designed by architect and New Iberia native David Allain in 2025. “For the last decade, our firm has been doing a lot in the downtown area,” Allain says. “The mayor, with his construction background, was able to find funding for many public spaces.” “The biggest addition to Bouligny Plaza is the public outdoor stage, which is bringing more events to New Iberia,” he says. “We’ve also added a veterans memorial, visitors center, and four docks downtown so boats can tie up near the outdoor stage. And we’ve tripled the size of the Bayou Teche Museum. The entire downtown district is on the National Historic Register.” Other nearby attractions include Avery Island, famous for its Tabasco Sauce Museum, Jungle Gardens and Bird City. The nearby semitropical Rip Van Winkle Gardens on Jefferson Island features ancient oaks along storied Lake Peigneur. Extending from the commercial district are the revered New Iberia East Main Street Historic District and adjacent residential corridors. Many of the elaborate homes were built by prosperous planters during the city’s sugar boom era in the 1800s. Retirees find the East Main Street Historic District appealing for its walkability and nearby attractions. Residents can stroll from the historic neighborhood to coffee shops, museums, festivals and Bayou Teche within minutes. Excellent health facilities are nearby. “A lot of people come in and decide to move into the area,” says Allain. “For retirees, it’s a great quality of life with good public amenities. And there’s a
very strong volunteer drive for festivals, weekend events and pop-up markets.” Homes in the broader East Main Street Historic District include dozens of residences with architectural styles ranging from Greek Revival and Victorian to Colonial Revival and raised Louisiana cottages. “I think this historic neighborhood is quite a special and unique cornerstone of our community,” Allain adds. “It ranges from very large multigenerational residences to small, cottage-like homes. The market is pretty flexible. Shadows-on-theTeche is the end of the historic residential district. It bleeds into one another.” History is on display at Shadows-on-theTeche, perhaps the city’s most celebrated historic home. The Greek Revival-style mansion was built in 1834 overlooking Bayou Teche. Further along Main Street is the famed Steamboat House, a Victorian-era residence that earned its nickname because of its multilayered galleries resembling a steamboat. Both remain visual reminders of New Iberia’s prosperous late-19th-century era tied to budding commerce along Bayou Teche.
TOP REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS Professional Research Services (PRS) conducted this survey of brokers and agents to determine the top agents from within the Acadiana area. To be considered, agents had to submit their total residential sales volume reported for the 2025 calendar year. The agents with the highest sales volumes in the area were the ones named 2026 Top Real Estate Professionals. Inclusion in Acadiana Profile’s Top Real Estate Professionals list is based solely upon agents’ total sales volume. There is no commercial relationship to the listing and listings cannot be purchased.
AGENTS COLDWELL BANKER INGLE SAFARI REALTY
765 BAYOU PINES E. LAKE CHARLES
Stephanie AritaLara 337-884-6752 Ashlee Babin 337-356-9219 Eric Blood 337-540-8061 Amy Britt 337-563-1900 Morgan Denman 337-540-7791 Lauren Dunn 337-912-4000 Drusilla Ellender 337-274-1320 Joshua Floyd 337-263-5954 Steve Floyd 337-274-5684 Robbie Ingle 337-304-0481 Malik Manuel 337-660-4108 Quinnetta Senegal 337-884-9577 Kaysha Sims 337-912-0474 Weston Webb 337-309-8133 COMPASS
2000 KALISTE SALOOM RD. SUITE 101 LAFAYETTE
Michelle Badeaux 337-366-7940 Jade Barras 337-551-3452 Charlie Baudoin 337-654-6881 Isabelle Beaullieu 337-451-7696
Brennan Billeaud 337-654-2591 Brandon Bourque 337-450-8771 Michael Chapple 337-366-5376 Dianne DeJean 337-319-1274 Teri Desormeaux 337-315-6116 Nanette Fisher 337-344-2973 Tricia Freeman 337-288-2880 Debbie Greene 337-962-6945 Melissa Guilliot 337-781-9658 Renisa Hampton 337-281-7925 Joyce Hannie 337-278-5874 Laurie Huff 337-315-0329 Dawn Justin 337-298-4148 Kellie Kinsland 337-298-1768 Angel Lamb Metrejean 337-298-2638 Mary Beth Langlinais 337-344-0030 Brittany LeBlanc 337-254-2730 Jackie Lyle 504-208-0089 Billy McCarthy 337-739-0938 Wendy McCombie 337-277-0590 Penny McGehee 337-344-7777 Setareh MirianDelcambre 337-344-0067 Jammie Parbhoo 337-739-0290 Alexis Peterson 337-578-4225
Kim Pham 337-322-8682 Padgette Richard 337-288-6334 Angele Roy 337-254-9422 Lisa Roy Sheppert 337-277-2077 Teresa Scarsella 337-962-3362 Kirk Schexnaider 337-962-2894 Arla Slaughter 337-344-5263 Jennifer Steen 337-296-4670 Kelly Streva 337-356-9835 Sandy Thibodeaux 337-278-6217 Merrick Valentino 337-288-3987 EXP REALTY
1318 CAMILLIA SUITE 222 LAFAYETTE
Destinee Allanson 337-252-2681 Blake Arceneaux 337-319-0417 Sydney Batiste 225-270-9766 Pam Bergeron 337-257-8614 Carrie Billeaud 337-258-5379 Emily Comeaux 337-298-4739 Kristie Comeaux 337-354-9969 Ashley Conway 225-938-2567 Misty Credeur 337-580-9004 Lexie Darby 337-321-0026
Lisa Day 337-570-1470 Jeannie DelGreco 337-356-6303 Leo Demouchet III 337-290-0619 Tony Dozart 337-277-7907 Charlotte Ducote 337-849-9736 Viki Falgout 337-356-8101 Stacy Folse 337-455-7659; 337-849-8957 Charlotte Gaspard 337-366-5551 Justin Gauthreaux 337-366-1610 Robin Godeaux 337-303-3200 Christa Granger 361-660-4100 Michael Guidroz 337-849-5257 Rhonda Hamic 337-658-6220 Jana Hickey 337-356-9917 Nick Hundley 337-704-7487 Stacy Johnston 337-654-2380 Lauren Judice 337-356-2208 Jennifer Kenney 337-254-6239 Laurie Kraemer 337-278-7594 Haley Krieg 337-552-8480 Brandon Landry 337-852-8210 Michelle Leger 337-581-2161 Ryan Meaux 337-255-6688 Blake Miller 337-290-6891 Emily Nealy 337-522-7554 ; 337-573-1664 Quincie Privat 337-534-3642 Dustan Quebodeaux 337-704-1045 Molli Rodriguez 337-578-0034 Emily Rosenquist 337-399-3915
Taylor Ryan 337-399-2858 Angela Seaux 337-298-3712 Elaina Silva Thrasher 337-516-6391 Tera Simon 337-849-5469 Brandy Smith 337-962-6733 Stephanie Spallino 615-498-7499 Rusty Steel 337-962-4635 Kennedi Stelly 337-458-9719 Beau Thomas 337-230-8260 Rachel Thomas 337-831-1734 Nonnie Touchet 409-273-0259 Lonnie Trimble 337-277-5185 Paul Tylock 337-654-0569 Blaise Verret 337-577-8855 Lance Vincent 337-330-6701 Marie Walther 800-746-9840 Clyde Warfel 337-380-6455 Blake Weaver 337-303-6933 David Wenger 337-347-0721 Nikki Wilson 337-806-4121 HUNCO REAL ESTATE
822 HARDING ST. SUITE 200 LAFAYETTE
Jodi Bolgiano 337-212-9973 Bailey Caldwell 774-254-4828 Tiffany Carter 337-581-4769 Drew Clark 337-962-6780 Ross Cullen 337-384-5150 Lizzie Herter 337-962-0253 Lacie Luke 337-349-4344 William Raines 337-344-7173 Shauna Stokes 337-517-1157
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY ACADIANA
100 ASMA BLVD. SUITE 100 LAFAYETTE
Doug Adams 337-552-3815 Trish Adler 337-501-9093 Frederick Arsement 337-654-9200 Pat Barnard 337-243-3332 Kristen Blanchard 361-727-7271 Cheryl Boullion 337-654-5521 Angela Broussard 337-781-1466 Maddie Cart 337-278-9337 Michelle Cart 337-344-8050 Bobbi Comeaux 337-552-8005 Dawn Foreman 337-280-3492 Diana Greene 337-739-3938 Carolyn Groner 337-578-4345 Robert Hillard 337-692-8474 Lucius Hornsby 337-344-9949 Charles Ilonya 337-255-1122 ; 337-344-9875 Ivan Jennings 337-298-0889 Krystal Jones 337-335-5140 Aimee Landry 337-456-1456 Jayde Landry 337-344-0850 Rhett Ledet 337-257-9299 MacArthur Lindon 337-552-5806 Selena Lormand 337-962-6305 Chanda Moffett 337-577-5456 Mitchell Pellerin 702-280-1264 John Perkins 337-654-9480 Ryan Petticrew 337-255-7481
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ABBEVILLE’S HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT BEST NEIGHBORHOOD FOR FOODIES AND FRANCOPHONES
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KNOWN AS “the most Cajun place on Earth” and the seat of Vermilion Parish, Abbeville captures the enduring spirit of French Acadiana. The close-knit community of 11,000 has deep-rooted traditions that prioritize faith, family and a thriving food culture based on oyster havens, fresh seafood, wild game and storied heirloom recipes. Founded in 1843 by French Capuchin missionary Père Antoine Désiré Mégret, the bilingual community was modeled after a traditional French village known for its Gothic cathedrals in the Picardy region of northern France. Abbeville still revolves around the historic downtown core near the Vermilion Bayou. The towering Gothic-Romanesque Revival St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church and picturesque, oak-shaded Magdalen Square, centered by a gazebo and statue of Mégret, create one of Acadiana’s most recognizable small-town settings. The cadence of Cajun French prevails downtown at the imposing, white-columned Vermilion Parish Courthouse, designed by renowned Louisiana architect A. Hays Town, one of many buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the recently revitalized commercial district. “Over half of the buildings contribute to the historic elements of the district,” says Charlene Beckett, Main Street manager. “There has been a huge transformation to our downtown streets.” “They’ve done an amazing job,” says James “Jim” Segrest, a longtime resident of the Historic Residential District. “Abbeville has a certain magical, timeless quality, but with all the modern amenities.”
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ACADIANA PROFILE
A retired principal, operatic tenor and member of the St. Mary Magdalen choir, Jim moved to Abbeville to marry a refined local beauty. “I’m blessed to be in this cultured little town with a sophisticated choir at St. Mary Magdalen, just minutes from our house.” A mother of six and an active community leader, Jim’s wife, Odile (née LeBlanc,
granddaughter of Sen. Dudley “Couzan Dud” LeBlanc), grew up in their circa 1895 house next door to her cousins, including philanthropist Phyllis M. Taylor, CEO of the Taylor Foundation, and her uncle, Frank Summers, former Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court. “When I relax on our front porch, instead of modern subdivisions, I see
beautiful 100-year-old homes and huge oak trees,” Jim reflects. Framed, oak-lined streets winding along the Vermilion Bayou, the Historic Residential District (notable for Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Victorian, and Stick-Eastlake architecture) stands out as Abbeville’s top neighborhood for foodies, francophones and festival fans. Residents are within walking distance of year-round festivals (including the Giant Omelette Celebration featuring French chefs from a dozen francophone nations), bilingual museums and businesses, restaurants, shops, theaters, garden shows, farmers markets and holidays in Magdalen Square. One of Louisiana’s most celebrated small foodie destinations, Abbeville is famed for oyster havens dating back to 1859, led by longtime favorites Dupuy’s, Shucks and River Front Grill. The legendary crawfish eateries have cult followings. Boudin abounds at Cajun meat markets offering custom butchering and deer processing for Abbeville’s abundant hunters. “I moved from Mississippi to downtown Abbeville for my foodie friends and became involved with many socials for the Giant Omelette Celebration,” says Nikki Dauterman, a former resident of Lafayette and Youngsville. “I love all the activities in Magdalen Square, the Cajun dancing and live music at my favorite waterfront restaurants in Acadiana.”
Deborah Pierce 337-316-0951 Kreshonda Robertson 337-704-1134 Alexia Robicheaux 337-581-9171 Jonetta Sam 337-280-7494 Nah Senpeng 337-349-8869 Jenn Stonicher 337-782-4932 Wesley Stonicher 337-456-9790 KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY RED STICK PARTNERS
8686 BLUEBONNET BLVD. BATON ROUGE
Joanna Arnold 225-522-1952 Christopher Aronstein 225-938-8229 Lori Bergstresser 225-505-3705 Matt Bruno 225-744-0044 Lisa Carline 225-776-7076 Sarah Carroll 225-485-5846 Dathan Chauvin 225-266-1868 Dione Collins 225-931-6591 Remy Curry 225-937-8002 Emily Do 225-281-6268 Natasha Engle 225-202-1170; 225-366-9114 Kelly Gable 225-324-5332 Sara Gummow 225-939-3598 Tim Houk 225-301-7467; 225-234-0022 LaTasha Johnson 225-936-6516 Jan King 225-229-2422 Michelle KnoblochMurphy 225-921-7477; 225-293-4448 Albert Nolan 225-603-2661 Soy Pizzolato 225-892-6238
Ericka Queen 225-223-1604 Joy Russell Hall 225-603-3559 Clonise Stewart 225-776-3166 Deante Thomas 225-726-1783 LaRhonda Thomas 225-202-9229 Jennifer Waguespack 225-445-3274 Trent Wilson 504-875-7645 LULU DAVID REAL ESTATE CO. 511 SHORE DR. SUITE 4 YOUNGSVILLE
Lulu David 337-296-3643 MCGEESCOTT REALTY 222 FULTON ST. NEW IBERIA
Lynette Bagala 337-256-3300 Candi Bellard 337-316-0302 Lisa Duhe Lourd 843-816-2209 Zonnie LaBry 337-256-2971 Rebekah McGee 337-579-0333 Andree' Schlicher 337-577-1414 Luke Scott 337-579-3133 RE/MAX ACADIANA
114 CURRAN LN. LAFAYETTE
Mandy Lavergne 337-412-8277 Brandi McKnight 337-316-1320 Lauren Meche 337-207-1254 Shonda Veronie 337-772-8923 REAL BROKER, LLC 300 RUE BEAUREGARD BLDG. I LAFAYETTE
Joel Bacque 337-739-0425 Robbie Breaux 337-761-6230
Jessica Broussard 337-200-0048 Michael Carr 337-322-9160 AJ Francis 337-849-2668 Paige Gary 337-412-8977 Sam Hayes 337-680-0233 Caitlin Hebert 337-680-0323 Sean Hettich 337-207-9430 Stephen Hundley 337-789-6538 Darla LeJeune 337-789-1255 Noelle Montgomery 337-319-4873 Michelle Mouton 337-371-1033; Alison Periou 337-349-8596 Lindsey Reed 337-303-3987 Ava Trimble 337-441-4000
COMPASS
REAL BROKER, LLC
Arbor Lending Group 5001 Hwy. 190 Suite B5, Covington Hoby Givens 504-606-9534
516 CRESWELL LN. OPELOUSAS
Lana Soileau 337-945-1324
TEAMS COMPASS
2000 KALISTE SALOOM RD. SUITE 101 LAFAYETTE
The Lafleur Group Kimberly Lafleur 337-519-4425 Th A.H.C. Group Anna Corinne Mahtook Daigle 337-852-3085 The Listing Group Melanie Doyle 337-349-8981 The McDaniel/ Braun Team Heathyr McDaniel 337-298-7333 The Agent Group Mikaela Wiggins 720-299-2400 Hub City Home Team Corey Fontenot 337-501-4468
209 W. MAIN ST. NEW IBERIA
The Get Sold Team Amy Firmin 337-380-3744 EXP REALTY
1318 CAMILLIA SUITE 222 LAFAYETTE
CJ Group 337-534-3642 The Elite Home Team 337-347-0721 The TK Group Tyler Vallot 337-706-4673
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS Approved Mortgage 209 Rue Louis XIV Suite A, Lafayette Lo Weinstein 337-504-7604
Assurance Financial 1215 Camellia Blvd. Lafayette Jennifer Hebert 337-258-4871 Assurance Financial 1215 Camellia Blvd. Lafayette Rob Stewart 979-255-4093 BN Mortgage Services 326 Settlers Trace Blvd. Suite 101A, Lafayette Joshua Diaz 337-212-6061 CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC 218 Rue Beauregard Suite I & J, Lafayette TJ Favaloro 504-201-4519
Edge Mortgage 1819 W. Pinhook Rd. Suite 209, Lafayette Chris Bienvenu 337-230-1538 Edge Mortgage 1819 W. Pinhook Rd. Suite 209, Lafayette Timothy “Tozie” Mahoney 337-257-2739 First National Bank of Jeanerette 413 Jefferson Terrace Blvd., New Iberia Monica Hebert 337-367-6208 Hancock Whitney 1301 Camellia Blvd. Lafayette Tracey Lassere 337-257-9146 NEXA Lending 511 Shore Dr. Suite 4, Youngsville Anna Uriegas 337-230-5431 NOLA Lending Group 1420 Camellia Blvd. Lafayette Robert Romero 337-257-4607 Preferred Lending Solutions 1600 Camellia Blvd. Suite 104, Lafayette Jesse Regan 337-258-9992 South Street Mortgage 100 Rue Iberville Suite 110, Lafayette Austin Shumaker 337-557-8042 Universal Lending 5750 Johnston St. Suite 102, Lafayette Dawn Holmes 337-264-9990
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DU CHEF
MELANIE WARNER SPENCER
Pure Passion CHEF ERIC MCCREE AT AUGUSTINE IN LAKE CHARLES FINDS HIS CALLING IN SPREADING HAPPINESS AND JOY THROUGH FOOD 56
AUG/SEPT 26
ACADIANA PROFILE
EUGENIA UHL
CHEF ERIC MCCREE is making a name for himself as a savory chef — a path he did not expect. McCree, 27, initially trained to be a pastry chef. However, as the chef at Augustine in Lake Charles, he now creates dishes that delight a diverse clientele. ¶ “I would say my inspiration right now would be
MEET THE CHEF
ERIC McCREE
HOMETOWN: Lake Charles, Louisiana • MOST MEANINGFUL ITEM IN KITCHEN: KitchenAid mixer at home named Clarissa • FAV MUSIC TO COOK BY: ‘90s R&B soul, like Luther Vandross and Diana Ross, also 2000s hyperpop • QUICK MEAL AT HOME: Lean meals, such as chickpea pasta with turkey meatballs or barbecue
DESSERT the growth of the restaurant and watching how people actually react to my food,” says McCree. “And I’m like, oh, maybe I actually do know what I’m doing.” McCree’s culinary odyssey began in high school, inspired by his godmother, Thea Manuel, who baked him cakes for every birthday. He watched her transform ingredients into beautiful creations, bringing smiles and togetherness to family gatherings. This sparked McCree’s desire to contribute to the community through food. He attended culinary school at Johnson & Wales University in Miami, returning to Lake Charles to hone his skills. Working at 1910 and Fire & Oak (both now closed), McCree gained experience as a front-of-house manager and pastry chef. Later, as assistant general manager at Tia Juanita's Fish Camp, McCree realized he sought more. He joined Dave Evans at Luna Bar & Grill as a grill cook. Evans then offered him the opportunity to be the chef at Augustine, which he was opening in the former 1910 space. McCree and Evans, also a chef, collaborate on Augustine’s menu. McCree brings a young, fresh approach to the culinary scene, using a pastry chef’s precision in his savory cooking, while also valuing the freedom to experiment, culminating in an international menu with a Cajun and French flair. McCree’s personal touch extends to the desserts, which he prepares himself. McCree also aims to represent the LGBTQIA+ community in the culinary world, as well as wanting to show that chefs can be stern and run a great restaurant without being “hotheaded.” When not in the kitchen, McCree enjoys gaming and quad skating at the park. “It’s the smiles,” says McCree about his mission and motivation. “It’s the smiles brought to people’s faces from the food that I make.”
ILLUSTRATION BY S.E.GEORGE
SALTED BOURBON FRENCH SILK PIE WITH OREO PRETZEL CRUST For even more decadence, garnish each slice with a salted caramel smear, candied bacon crumble, chocolate curls and a mini bourbon caramel sauce pitcher. PREP TIME: 20 MIN
COOK TIME: 8 MIN
For the Crust 24 Oreo cookies 1 cup of pretzels, crushed 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 tablespoon brown sugar For the Filling 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 1¼ cups granulated sugar 8 ounces dark chocolate (60–70% cacao) 2 tablespoons bourbon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 pasteurized eggs ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt For the Whipped Cream 1½ cups heavy whipping cream 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Garnish ½ cup chocolate-covered pretzels, broken 2 ounces dark chocolate for shaving Flaky sea salt ¼ cup salted caramel sauce
SERVES: 8-10
1
For the Crust Preheat oven to 350F. Pulse Oreos and pretzels into fine crumbs (or smash in Ziploc bag with mallet or rolling pin). Mix with butter and brown sugar. Press into a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 8 minutes. Cool completely.
2
For the Filling Beat butter and sugar for 4–5 minutes until fluffy. Add chocolate, bourbon, vanilla and salt. Add eggs one at a time, beating 3 minutes after each egg. Spread into cooled crust. Chill for at least 4 hours.
3
For the Whipped Cream Combine ingredients into a stand mixer. Whip to medium peaks and spread over pie.
4
Garnish Top with chocolate-covered pretzel pieces, shaved dark chocolate, flaky sea salt and a drizzle of salted caramel.
AUGUSTINE 949 RYAN ST. • LAKE CHARLES • 337-990-5826 THEAUGUSTINERESTAURANT.COM • @AUGUSTINERESTAURANTLC
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RECETTE DE COCKTAILS
LISA LEBLANC-BERRY
ROMERO & ROMERO
Duson Water Cocktail Recipe A LIVELY NEW GATHERING SPOT IN DUSON CELEBRATES CAJUN HOSPITALITY WITH COCKTAILS THAT CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF ACADIANA CAJUN RHYTHMS, expertly crafted cocktails and genuine hospitality converge at Naq’s N Duson, one of Acadiana’s most enticing new no-frills destinations. Since opening in 2025, Naq’s has quickly earned acclaim for its Cajun and zydeco weekend brunch, generous plate lunches, fresh seafood, whopping specialty burgers and signature drinks with a side of toe-tapping music. “I’ve been in politics and sales for 20 years, and I wanted to have my own spot with live music,” says proprietor Kevin Naquin. He is the legendary frontman and accordion player for Kevin Naquin & the Ossun Playboys, recipient of over 14 Le Cajun Awards, including multiple Best Album, Best Band and Best Accordionist honors. “I was in Destin two summers ago for my daughter’s softball tournament,” Naquin says. “I was at the pool bar sipping a rum drink. Looking out at the ocean, I was trying to come up with ideas about how to put Duson on the map. It was just a dream at first. That’s what inspired the Duson Water, our most popular cocktail. In 2025, The Acadiana Advocate announced that Naq’s N Duson was voted Best New Restaurant of the year. “It’s amazing how many people are traveling outside the area to come here,” he adds. “I’m playing this Thursday night. Y’all come!”
Fill a 12-ounce glass with ice. Add 0.75 oz. Blue Chair Bay Coconut Rum, 0.75 oz. Blue Chair Bay White Rum, slowly pour 0.75 oz. pineapple juice and 0.75 oz. Blue Curaçao to create the signature layered appearance. Top off with 0.50 oz. Monster Zero Sugar Energy drink. Do not stir immediately. Allow ingredients to stack and showcase the drink’s vibrant presentation. Garnish with 1 maraschino cherry and 1 slice fresh orange.
NAQ’S N DUSON • 207 N. A ST. • DUSON • NAQSNDUSON.COM
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ACADIANA PROFILE
DÎNER DEHORS
ERIC CORMIER
Let’s Eat Y’all SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA CUISINE AT ALLONS MANGE’ RESTAURANT
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Wonderful food, memorable service, all held together by a phenomenal restaurant family. ¶ Those are words that can describe the essence of a restaurant based in Acadia Parish that has visitors traveling from near and far to enjoy traditional Louisiana cuisine with a few twists. ¶ In December 2024, Crowley businessman Audie Hanks (along with his business partner, Michael Stutes) decided to add a new venture to his business portfolio. He opened Allons Mange’, located about six minutes off Interstate 10,
JOSEPH VIDRINE
as an eatery that pays tribute to Southwest Louisiana’s prairie and bayou culinary traditions. Allons Mange’ means “Let’s eat” in French. The moment you park and approach the restaurant’s entrance, the aromas and atmosphere stimulate all the senses … that make you want to eat! Inside the restaurant, Hanks and his team created a hunting camp ambience with alligator head-washing sinks, mounted deer and ducks and a few televisions on the walls broadcasting sports and rodeo. On the restaurant’s patio area, a fireplace bolsters the camp feeling. “There is no place like this between Lake Charles and Lafayette,” Hanks, 61, said. “This place is different.” The menu teems with staples from Southwest Louisiana’s food history. The shrimp en brochette is a customer favorite. A shrimp is stuffed with crab dressing, wrapped in bacon and prepared in pepper jelly. Another dish that thrills the restaurant’s customers is the Rice Festival. The dish is named after the annual event that was founded in Crowley back in October 1937. Fried shrimp brochettes
are placed over crawfish creamed rice and served alongside garlic toast. Hanks’ daughter, 34-year-old Kailey Hanks-Walsh along with Back of House Manager Kayla Guidry-Harmon created a big part of the Allons Mange’ menu. “Our thought was to do something a little different with our regional food staples,” she said. An example of that mindset is found in the boudin sushi roll. Hanks said the inspiration for the roll came to him while sipping bourbon. Hanks-Walsh then turned the idea into a delicious dish. “We fuse the East with Southwest Louisiana. We wrap house-made boudin from Mikey’s Seafood and Specialty Meats and pepper jack cheese in soy paper. Then we fry it and top it off with hoisin sauce, pepper jelly and Yum-Yum Cajun,” HanksWalsh said.
ALLONS MANGE’ 165 ODD FELLOWS ROAD STE. B CROWLEY 337-398-1112 ALLONSMANGE.COM
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Other must try dishes are staple Cajun country delicacies like chicken and sausage gumbo, seafood bisque and seafood etouffee. All three have a pleasant earthy flavor profile from the roux which is cooked slowly and has a gentle smokey flavor profile. As much as the atmosphere and food stand out, the heart of the Allons Mange’ experience is the family behind it. The Hanks family proudly praises staff members such as Doran Adams, general manager; Harmon, back-of-house manager; bartender Natasha Hoffpauir;
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Felicia Myers, assistant front-of-house manager; and Cat Hodges, lead server. “We have a team-oriented, family-operated restaurant. We treat our employees like family,” Hanks-Walsh said. “The people who come to work with us enjoy being here and working with each other and serving our customers.” The customer list is long. If you don’t believe it, then look at the map near the restaurant entrance that is full of pinpoints representing customers’ place of origin. Allon Mange’ is the place to eat.
ACADIANAPROFILE.COM
TRY THIS 1
RIBEYE PO’BOY
This sandwich pays respect to the Cajun cowboy culture that is vibrant in Southwest Louisiana. The flavors are straightforward and delicious.
2
DUCK ALLONS MANAGE’
Another dish that celebrates Southwest Louisiana culinary culture, this menu item pairs duck, crawfish and sauce in a way that recalls memorable campcooking experiences.
3
BOILED SEAFOOD SALAD
This dish might win over even diners who usually avoid vegetables, especially when topped with sautéed shrimp and crawfish. The lemon vinaigrette makes the salad pop with fresh, natural flavors.
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EN FRANÇAIS, S’IL VOUS PLAÎT
COLBY LEJEUNE
SARA WILLIA
Les plantes de maison LA NATURE REJOINT LA CONTRE-NATURE; OU, POURQUOI ÇA CRÈVE TOUJOURS ?
EDWARD ABBEY (*1927-†1989), écrivain et grand défendeur de la Nature, a écrit que « la vie d’en-dedans, c’est la meuilleure chose après l’enterrement prématuré. » Comme des citoyens du vingt-et-unième siècle, la plupart de nous-autres passe la grande majorité de notre temps en-dedans, profondément déconnecté du plein air — ses arbres, ses herbes et ses fleurs — que l’espèce humaine a dépuis des millénaires appelé la maison. C’est pas drôle, alors, qu’à mesure que notres vies a grouillé en-dedans et que la vie végétale — ses textures et formes, dans leur exubérance et clairsemence variées — s’a retiré aux marges de la vie de chaque jour, beaucoup de nous-autres a, en cherchant une connexion à ses autres citoyens de la planète Terre, choisi d’amener un semblant de la Nature dedans notre maisons — sous la forme des cactus, philodendrons, dracénas et d’autres plantes en pots qui orne notres linteaux et notres comptoirs autrement stériles. Les environnements non-naturels dans lesquels on emmène ces plantes, donc,
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présente la vie végétale avec plusieurs défis. Quand-même que ces espaces intérieurs sont précisément adaptés au confort humain, ils sont affreusement hostiles pour presque tous les autres formes de la vie. Pour une chose, les intérieurs climatisés de notres maisons présente typiquement une température constante de 68°F – 74°F tout le long de l’année, qui est beaucoup plus frais que la plupart des plantes sont habitués d’avoir durant leur saison de croissance. Un tas des plantes privilégie aussi un plus haut niveau d’humidité que cil-là ça expérience dedans notres maisons, l’air déchessé par l’action de ces systèmes de chauffage et de rafrédissement centrals. Mais le plus grand défi que les plantes de maison figure, c’est la lumière. Tirez-voir un œil en bas de la canopée d’un grand chêne vert, une qui pousse ouvert dedans une cour bien soignée, et vous allez voir la couilte épaisse d’herbe à Saint Augustin, herbe de Bermude, trèfle, géranium, faux fraisier et d’autres plantes de gazon en perdre et faner, donnant le chemin à un épaillement
de tites huppes de laîches et d’autres annuelles adventices et aventureuse après vivocher parmi le détritus tombé de feuilles, bouts de bois, chatons et, ultimement, de la terre nue — et des brûlés comme ça, c’est des francs serres comparés à l’intérieur d’une maison typique : malgré qu’on s’aperçoit peutêtre pas, les humains ont une vision remarquable en faible luminosité, et tandis que le salon qu’abrite à présent votre plantes est, aussi loin que votre œil humain est concerné, confortablement illuminé, il fait, plus de probable, jusqu’à cinq cents fois plus noir au beau milieu de cette chambre qu’en dehors durant les journées d’été claires et ensoleillées que la plupart des plantes a évolué pour pousser dedans. Alors, quand ça vient pour bien soigner votres plantes de maison, plus que juste la sélection de la bonne espèce et l’horaire d’arrosement convenable, c’est souvent le bon placement de votre plante, près d’une fenêtre qui attrape du vrai soleil direct, qui peut faire la différence entre la vie et la mort.
ENGLISH TRANSLATION ONLINE AT ACADIANAPROFILE.COM