St. Charles Avenue February 2023

FEB RUARY 2023

FASHION

CARNIVAL

EVENTS

NEW ORLEANS DEFINITIVE SOCIAL MAGAZINE S T. CHARLE S AVENUE MAG A ZINE

FEBRUARY 2023

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SOCIE T Y

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CELEBR ATION

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S T YLE

Associate Publisher Kate Henry EDITORIAL

Editor Andy Myer Art Director Ali Sullivan Web Editor Kelly Massicot Event Photo Coordinator Jeff Strout Contributing Writers Jyl Benson, Mirella Cameran, Amy Gabriel, Megan Holt, Penn Iarocci, Lindsay Mack, Stephen Maloney, Seale Paterson, Sue Strachan and Jenny Vorhoff ADVERTISING

Vice President of Sales & Marketing Kate Henry Kate@myneworleans.com or 504-830-7216 Account Director Meggie Schmidt Senior Account Executives Brooke Genusa, Rachel Webber, Erin Chiartano Business Development Director Becca Rubenstein

MARKETING

Coordinator Abbie Whatley PRODUCTION

Manager Rosa Balaguer Arostegui

Hungry?

Designer Meghan Rooney CIRCULATION

Subscriptions Jessica Armand

ON L Y

$17.9 5

A collection of 50 traditional and contemporary recipes

by Stanley Dry — Louisiana Life “Kitchen Gourmet” columnist, former senior editor of Food & Wine magazine and accomplished cook — top-notch ingredients are paired with fresh seafood to create delectable dishes imbued with the author’s signature simplicity. The easyto-follow recipes emphasize Louisiana seafood and quality, local ingredients. Inspired, innovative and delicious, the seafood dishes in this collection are sure to become favorites in your kitchen.

Visit LouisianaLife.com to order yours today!

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ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

Distribution John Holzer ADMINISTRATION

Office Manager Mallary Wolfe Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne For subscription information call (504) 828-1380

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 MyNewOrleans.com St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005, (504) 828-1380. Subscription rate: one year $24, no foreign subscriptions. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to St. Charles Avenue, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005.

Copyright © 2023 by Renaissance Publishing, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher.

The trademark St. Charles Avenue is registered. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in St. Charles Avenue are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

Contents

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 9

22

Features

Standards 6 | A Note from Andy

22 | A Fresh Take

+ On the Cover

Activewear picks to inspire you to keep moving

8 | On the Web 10 | Arts Calendar 12 | Around Town

Local happenings and events

14 | Fashion

14

Mister Mardi Gras

16 | Design

Ashley Porter

18 | What's Hot

The Gifted Hostess

20 | Change Makers

44

Gerald Rossen and Arnold H. Rossen

42 | Eat + Drink

A Deliberate Smear

16

Society

44 | How to Host

Open House Entertaining

46 | Wellness

Forest Bathing

33 | Social Events

47 | Nostalgia

40 | Snapshots

48 | With This Ring

The Silk Stocking Strutters

Philanthropic events

Throw a Wedding, Mister!

Quick looks at nonprofit events around town

64 | The Finishing Touch

A Signature Scent

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ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

A NOTE FROM ANDY

Because It's Carnival Time W

hen this issue hits stands and mailboxes, we will be in full Carnival mode. From balls to luncheons to hitting the streets to catch your favorite parades, this month we bring you a range of pieces covering how to celebrate the season with ease and style.

On our Nostalgia page, Seale Paterson writes about the interesting history of the Silk Stocking Strutters, New Orleans’ first all-female marching group.

Our style reporter Amy Gabriel has sourced a festive assortment of Mardi Gras decorations that will carry you through the season for years to come.

And on our fashion page, Amy has curated a fine selection of menswear that will suit even the most humble fellows on the route.

Jenny Vorhoff spoke with Mary Nell Bennett of Nell’s Catering to offer simple, crowd-pleasing suggestions for open house entertaining so that hosts are able to enjoy the party as well. From serveware to light bites, we have you covered.

And Jyl Benson brings us a “how to” guide to the latest edible viral sensation, the butter board. For a friend’s recent party, I made my own version combined with Boursin, crushed candied walnuts, a honey drizzle with edible flowers and herbs as a garnish and it was a hit. Not a slice of bread was left.

As we balance our town’s extended holiday decadence with reality, we feature activewear in our fashion spread to help you stay inspired to keep your body moving. (Note: these outfits are also easy to layer with seasonal accessories and super comfortable for long days on the parade route.)

It is our pleasure to highlight and discover local businesses and creatives. We are happy to hear from you regarding shop openings and other regional business news. Be sure to send any related information to shoptalk@myneworleans.com and check out our Shop Talk profiles on the website and on Instagram @stcharlesavenue.

Cheers!

ANDY MYER, EDITOR

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ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

On the Cover Fitness instructors Jon Sloan and Olivia Carisella model activewear for our February fashion feature on page 22. Swoot, Jon Sloan's new group fitness studio, opened last month at 2801 Magazine St., and offers seven different modalities including Indoor Cycling, HIIT, Yoga, Weight Training, Lagree Microformers, Boxing and Step Aerobics.

For more information visit swootnola.com.

Photographed by Theresa Cassagne

Never miss an issue, scan and subscribe today!

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ON THE WEB

SHOP TALK

Look for this and more every Wednesday in the Avenue newsletter and catch Shop Talk live every Friday on our Instagram @stcharlesavenuemag at lunchtime!

What local finds should we feature next? Email shoptalk@myneworleans.com.

D

Štúdium

eShawn Oravetz is a man of many creative talents. And, after years of developing product and design strategies for brands like Nike and Tasc, the native Tennessean amassed his experiences to conceive a brand of his own.

His newly launched Štúdium (Slovak for study) clothing brand is a 15-piece ready to wear collection inspired by his personal quest for knowledge both tacit and existential. He envisions the brand as visual a representation of an ever-evolving desire to learn through culture and design. “It’s the desire to keep learning that is so important in life,” he says on our recent phone conversation. Indeed, and with his ‘First Semester’ Autumn/Winter drop, he shows us that he has already learned quite a bit. Each piece is casually sophisticated and intentional in its comfort, durability and cool factor. Now, let’s learn a little more about the brand.

Meet Penn, Shop Talk Blogger Penn larocci is a born and raised New Orleanian.

After graduating from Tulane University she lived in NYC for nine years working in sales and marketing at an investment bank.

When she missed New Orleans more than she could stand, she moved back home, met her husband and started a family. She's now raising two rambunctious little boys and spending her free time on environmental sustainability projects.

What sets Štúdium apart from other brands?

Quality construction and thoughtful details are at the forefront of Štúdium, but what differentiates us is our intentionality in creating awareness around the importance of education through our products, culture and community. We’re utilizing our current collection, future experiences (activations/ pop-ups/collaborations) and our storytelling to reimagine what education is. We want to change the societal standards that dictate what is and isn’t educational through our own studious lens that’s embedded in the arts.

Are you inspired by living in New Orleans?

I am. Štúdium was an idea prior to me moving to New Orleans, but New Orleans’ history and culture have been an integral influence on the brand as a whole. Primarily, the bigger conversation around resources and accessibility to education for the residents of the city and its direct correlation to bigger goals we have further down the road (i.e. a museum and library program to create field trips/ frequent visits for students of all ages).

What's the most popular piece in the collection?

From a sales perspective the ‘Studious Crewneck Sweatshirt’ is our early top seller. However, our most engaging piece (viewed, inquired and shared) is the ‘Campus Pant.’

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ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

What’s next?

Our most important effort in 2023 is to build a meaningful community around the brand.

I firmly believe the more intentional we are about connecting with people around our product the more these creations and experiences create an energy and belonging that is far bigger than any one product.

Instagram: @stcharlesavenuemag Facebook: @stcharlesavenue

ARTS CALENDAR

3, 4 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets with the LPO Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St., 504-525-1052 Before you head out and hit the streets for Mardi Gras, head on over to the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s spellbinding live accompaniment of “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.”

FEBRUARY 1 Craft Happy Hour: Mardi Gras Headpiece Workshop Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 504-539-9650, ogdenmuseum.org 2-26 Fly The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org 4 Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com

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7-12 Tina: The Tina Turner Musical Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com 7 The Simon & Garfunkel Story Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St, 504-525-1052 9 Hey Y’all: Art Talk Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 504-539-9650, ogdenmuseum.org

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11 Shen Yun Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St., 504-525-1052 21 Mardi Gras Day Citywide 24 John Mellencamp: Live And In Person Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com

28 - March 5 Fiddler on the Roof Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com March _______________________________ 5 The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St., 504-525-1052 8 Joe Bonamassa Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com 17 Patti LaBelle Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com 24, 26 Puccini’s Madame Butterfly Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St., 504-525-1052

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

AROUND TOWN Hot Rocks After Mardi Gras, our bodies need some rejuvenation, so there is no better time than to go to Restorative Hot Stones Yoga with Charlotte Mabry, Feb. 26, 3 p.m.-5 p.m., at Swan River Yoga. The practice of using hot stones to improve health and relaxation has been round for thousands of years. In this class, hot Basalt stones will placed be along the spine, stomach, chest and palms of the hands. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. 2940 Canal St., swanriveryoga.com.

Louisiana State Museum “Rex: The 150th Anniversary of the School of Design” at the Presbytere (Jackson Square) showcases this krewe founded in 1872, and includes costumes, Rex finery, queens’ gowns, jewelry, photographs and other historical ephemera, as well as a float built and installed in one of the galleries by the krewe’s float builder, Royal Artists. On view through Dec. 23, 2023. “Carnival in the Nation’s Capital: The Washington Mardi Gras Ball”: Make a day trip to the Capitol Park State Museum in Baton Rouge to see this exhibition about the krewe that has the party all of Washington D.C. wants to go to.

Includes archival film footage of the ball. On view through Sept. 16, 2023.

Louisianastatemuseum.org.

Treasure Hunt How much are your antiques and family heirlooms worth? The answer awaits at WYES Antiques Showcase with New Orleans Auction Galleries, Feb. 4, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., at the WYES Paulette and Frank Stewart Innovation Center for Educational Media (916 Navarre Ave). Eight experts will evaluate jewelry, silver, decorative arts, fine books, art, sculpture and small pieces of furniture. (Please go on website to find out what is not allowed.) People can bring two items, which have to be carried in by owner; only photographs are allowed for large items. There will also be three informative seminars held throughout the day. Pre-registration is a must! Go to antiquesshowcase. eventbrite.com or wyes.org/events.

Let’s Dance, Cajun Style Time to put your dancing shoes on and get over to Tipitina’s on Feb. 5 for the Fais-Do-Do with Bruce Daigrepont’s Cajun Band. Back in 1986, Tip’s and Daigrepont teamed up to create their own fais-do-do tradition, this time in New Orleans on late Sunday afternoons. This party starts at 4:45 p.m. when doors open, with music — and lots of dancing — at 5:15 p.m. Alas, the party is only for ages 18 and up. Tipitinas.com.

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Show Me Something, Mister!

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he parade, the marching bands, the lights, costumes and Krewe of Muses shoes — it’s Carnival time in New Orleans. If not already excited, it is also a great time to check out these exhibitions focusing on what is probably the city’s favorite time of year. – By Sue Strachan

Vue Orleans Observatory Not only do visitors have great views of the city and the Mississippi River — Vue is located at the top of the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans — there are also the colorful beaded and feathered Mardi Gras Indian suits, as well as second line and walking club items. Don’t forget to get a taste of Haydel’s King Cake at the Vue Orleans Cafe. 2 Canal St., Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. vueorleans.com.

ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

Classic Movies Sometimes taking a small break in the Carnival madness is necessary, so why not go to the movies? Over at the Prytania Theatre, Rene Brunet’s Classic Movies series is showing North by Northwest, an Alfred Hitchcock movie starring Cary Grant and a wayward biplane, Feb. 1; The Red Shoes, a tale of love, jealousy and possibly murderous red ballet shoes, Feb. 5, 8; and Citizen Kane, an Orson Welles story of greed, ambition and Rosebud, Feb. 12, 15.

All start at 10 a.m. 5339 Prytania St., theprytania.com.

Backstreet Cultural Museum The museum “holds the world’s most comprehensive collection related to New Orleans’ African American community-based masking and processional traditions, including Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, social aid and pleasure clubs, Baby Dolls and Skull and Bone gangs,” says its website. 1531 St. Philip St., Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. backstreetmuseum.org.

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FASHION

MISTER MARDI GRAS

By Amy Gabriel

Get decked out for a boisterous brunch or a krewe luncheon in a dapper purple haze seersucker stretch sport coat paired with a Dauphine lavender Glenplaid dress shirt. Haspel, haspel.com.

While playing the part of host with the most, upgrade your bar cart with a set of double Old Fashioned glasses, made the merrier with multicolor ceramic printed beads hanging from Live Oak trees. Mignon Faget, 3801 Magazine St., 504891-2005; 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 504-8352244, mignonfaget.com.

From a party to the parade line, dress to impress in a Mardi Gras twill check sport shirt with the iconic crawfish embroidery on the pocket hem. Perlis Clothing, 6070 Magazine Street, 504-895-8661; 600 Decatur St., 504-523-6681, perlis.com.

When it’s raining beads, be prepared in a pair of parasol-inspired umbrella socks. Embroidered with the brand’s signature streetcar logo, an extra tall double cuff ensures these stylish slip-ons will be with you step by step. Bonfolk, bonfolk.com.

If the sun is shining brightly on the festivities or you had one too many Pimm’s Cups the day prior, slip on a pair of stylish frames like the CHARTRES in a classic aviator shape with a seemingly weightless fit. KREWE, 619 Royal St., 2925, 504407-2925; 1818 Magazine St., 504-342-2462, krewe.com.

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DESIGN

Ashley Porter Porter Lyons

I

t’s possible to come to New Orleans, never leave the French Quarter, and go back home with only a cursory understanding of what makes the city tick. Ashley Lyons Porter did the opposite of that.

The world-renowned designer was born and raised in San Francisco, and she didn’t move to the Crescent City until college, when she enrolled at Tulane University. Something deep within Porter clicked, and she has been drawn to New Orleans ever since.

“I feel like, maybe in a past life or something, I was in New Orleans,” she said.

After graduating from Tulane with a masters in finance, Porter went to Los Angeles, where she worked for Merrill Lynch, earning an associate degree in fashion design at night. From there, she ended up in New York working for Balenciaga and Ralph Lauren.

Then Porter happened upon a $4,000 alligator skin belt, and everything changed.

“It got my wheels turning, and I have a business background, so I decided to write a business plan to launch an exotic skin belt line and use alligator from Louisiana, ethically sourced and sustainable,” she said. “I was vegetarian at the time, but I realized the livelihood of so many people in the South, and in the southern region, is based on this trade, and it has been for generations and generations.”

New business model in hand, Porter decided to move to New Orleans. On

the plane flying in, she happened to strike up a conversation with a local man who immediately told Porter he had “an alligator guy.”

Almost immediately, Porter set up a thriving business with alligator farmer Tab Pitre in Galliano.

“I got my first skin from him, and he could see how excited I was about where he lived and how in touch he was with nature and the topography of the land,” she said.

Pitre showed Porter some bones of animals he trapped and traded for their hides and skins, and a lightning bolt of inspiration hit Porter. Soon enough, she was teaching herself how to make molds and create jewelry based on those bones.

“I’m really inspired by materials down here,” she said. “Different reptiles and animals are seen in a lot of my work, as well as the cosmic connection that exists between all things, given that we are in the Crescent City. There is this cosmic tie.”

Porter said her favorite pieces, the ones she feels most inspired by, are her custom creations that are inspired by nature, possess an artistic energy, and are created for idiosyncratic individuals who stand out in their own way.

“There’s meaning behind every piece that I make,” she said. “I hand select all of my gemstones personally, and I do believe that gemstones and objects can harness a certain energy, and I try to bring that into all of the pieces that I create.” – By Stephen Maloney

Porter Lyons, 623 Royal St., porterlyons.com, @porterlyonsdesigns

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

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WHAT'S HOT

THE GIFTED HOSTESS

By Amy Gabriel

Art lovers will fall head over Muses shoes for “Chandeliers of St. Charles,” a whimsical depiction of beads strung through the trees to capture the magic of the celebratory season.

Available in limited edition prints and varying sizes. Casey Langteau Art Gallery, 4700 Magazine St., 504-5008164, caseylangteauart.com.

Be the matchmaker for your favorite baker and surprise her with a king cake spatula. When tied with a bow, this sweet little eco-friendly kitchen essential will elicit a queen-sized smile when paired with a like-themed tea towel.

Nola Tawk, nolatawk.com.

Because a picture-perfect presentation takes a thoughtful gift to the next level, bedeck your box in Mardi Gras themed gift wrap. Sold in a set of 3, each sheet features images of majorette marching boots, masks, king cakes and tasseled Carnival boots. Home Malone, 629 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-324-8352; 4610 Magazine St., 504-766-6148, homemalonenola.com.

For the entertainer who fancies a festive tablescape, a collection of metal crowns encircled with flowers from One Hundred 80 degrees will give any pre-parade brunch display a royal upgrade. Available in two sizes 7.5” X 10”; 8.75” X 13”.

Little Miss Muffin, 766 Harrison Ave., 504-482-8200; 3307 Severn Ave., 504-455-1444, shoplittlemissmuffin.com.

Befitting a batch of welcome Sazeracs, a French style, fleurde-lis pitcher set by Arthur Court is the epitome of service with a style. The three-piece set includes a clear glass pitcher, intricately detailed circular coaster base and fleur-de-lis-topped stirring ladle. Friend and Company, 7713 Maple St., 504-866-5433, friendandcompany.com.

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CHANGE MAKERS

HustleHawks Gerald Rossen, Founder + CEO and Arnold H. Rossen, President + COO

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ecently launched in New Orleans, the HustleHawks app encourages university students to perform cleaning, babysitting, tutoring, and more services for local community members. In an innovative twist, customers set the price for their desired service. As the company founders explain, HustleHawks provides an opportunity for students to earn a little extra cash while helping out their community.

Gerald Rossen first got the idea for HustleHawks as a school project at his university during freshman year. The original premise was for university students to help one another out with tasks around the campus. After working on this project for the entirety of his freshman year, Rossen decided to make it a real concept. He partnered with his father, Arnold H. Rossen, to bring the HustleHawks app to the world.

As Arnold H. Rossen explained, the concept of allowing the customer to set the price was an interesting innovation. Past companies have used the idea with great success (such as Priceline), so it

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seemed like a feature that customers would appreciate.

The idea is already catching on. So far, over 300 students have signed up for the app, and they are already completing tasks. As Gerald Rossen explained, many students like the idea of making money on their own time, rather than balancing work and class schedules.

Many of the app’s earliest customer users are mothers who need help with errands or childcare.

Seniors who want a little help around the house have also taken to the HustleHawks app.

In practice, the app is simple to use for both students and customers alike. Start by downloading the free HustleHawks app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Next, sign up as either a customer or a student. In the app’s lingo, customers are Hawks, while students who perform the jobs are Hustlers.

Hawks can then select a task from the list or create an original one.

Some of the services that HustleHawks customers can request include cleaning, tutoring, babysitting, yard work, moving and meal prep. You can also sign up for

ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

senior care, as well as enlist the help of an exercise buddy. In addition to individuals, businesses can post for help with tasks as well (such as moving to a new location).

After selecting the task, set a time and price. You can then choose a specific Hustler from the list of available ones. In addition, there are no extra fees involved, just the agreed-upon asking price.

Although they are not from the area, Gerald and Arnold H. Rossen deliberately chose New Orleans as the starting grounds for HustleHawks.

“When we looked at all the website traffic, most of it was from the South. When the app was getting ready, Hurricane Ida hit,” said Arnold H. Rossen. The HustleHawks team knew that people all over the city would need help with recovery efforts, so they launched the app here to connect customers with eager-to-help college students.

The Rossens, who appreciate New Orleans’ food and people, wanted to give back and contribute to storm recovery.

Right now, HustleHawks is primarily focused on operating in New Orleans. In time, however, they

plan to expand into Baton Rouge, with eventual plans to operate in additional areas.

In addition to getting tasks completed, the Rossens also see the HustleHawks app as a way to help form connections around New Orleans. One of their major goals is to help build community in the wake of pandemic-induced isolation.

As the Rossens explained, students from different colleges and universities do not always interact with one another or the community at large. With the app, they are trying to provide services and inspire more interaction between students and the rest of the city. In addition, students from different universities can form bonds with one another as part of the larger HustleHawks team.

Ideally, the students will earn more money to spend on local restaurants and other businesses, helping the New Orleans economy as well. – By Lindsay Mack

hustlehawks.com facebook.com/HustleHawks twitter.com/hustlehawks instagram.com/hustlehawksapp

PHOTO BY JAG PHOTOGRAPHY

GET INVOLVED HustleHawks needs more exposure in the community.

The team invites new customers to post jobs, whether they need help with meal prep, lawn care, or similar tasks. New Orleanians are welcome to download the app and give it a try.

Download the App: hustlehawks.page.link/cfAw

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The beginning of the year always brings a set of new resolutions, goals and closet updates. Jon Sloan and his long-awaited fitness studio, Swoot, create the fashionably perfect palette to inspire us to take on 2023.

By Melissa Coleman

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MAN IN CHARGE Color is the name of the game in 2023, and this periwinkle set from Lululemon will keep you cool and at the top of your game.

Lululemon, shop.lululemon.com.

GET ON THE BIKE Swoot's Sycle class will have your heart pumping and your face smiling.

Compression is key and Lululemon brings it with this leggings and top set, perfect for on and off the bike. Available at Lululemon, shop.lululemon.com.

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STAYING COOL No one does breathable clothes like tasc, and you’ll need them for Swoot's HIIT class Switch. Tasc's t-shirts and shorts are designed to keep you feeling cool and looking hot. Available at Perlis Clothing, perlis.com.

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PRACTICE WHAT YOU PEACH Daily workouts can be grueling. Alo's peach crop top and leggings help make your gym alarm a more welcome sound.

Available at Alo, aloyoga.com.

What better way to show your love for a new local business than to grab a few great-looking branded pieces? Available in studio at Swoot, swootnola.com.

TIGHTEN, TONE AND TAKE ON 2023 Swoot's Slow Burn microformer class requires workout clothes that move with you. We are signed up and ready to go in Beyond Yoga's Longline bra and leggings.

Available at Basics Underneath, basicsunderneath.com.

An exaggerated collar is everything. On chilly days we are tossing on this sweater from Varley as the perfect topper. Available at Varley, varley.com.

GOALS WITHIN REACH Setting intentions for the new year is important for yourself and your practice.

Suit up in this pistachio number from Alo for your next “Swoga” class at Swoot.

Available at Alo, aloyoga.com.

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PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

SOCIETY 28 | Touro Infirmary Foundation Casino Night

29 | WYES Gala: A Station For All Seasons

30 | Pro Bono Project Justice

32 | New Orleans Medical Mission

31 | New Orleans Museum of Art

33 | Ogden Museum of Southern

For All Ball

LOVE in the Garden

Services Celestial Celebration

Art O What a Night!

Written by Sue Strachan

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PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

Touro Infirmary Foundation Casino Night L

uck was a lady for the Touro Infirmary Foundation Casino Night, when supporters filled the Audubon Tea Room for the annual benefit.

Guests were there as part of the celebration of 100 years of maternity services at Touro Infirmary and to help raise funds for new Nursing Nests, which are stationary locations at venues around New Orleans that provide safe, clean and comfortable nursing areas for breastfeeding mothers. There is also a mobile Nursing Nest. In 2021, the Casino Night supported the Breast Care Center.

At the party guests could “gamble” at three card poker, craps, roulette and black jack, with the top three chip counts at the end of the evening receiving a special prize. There was also a silent auction with locally donated items. Further entertainment was provided

by Jimi Burtchaell, who is a Touro employee.

FUN FACTS • As a part of the 100-year celebration of being “Where Babies Come From,” Touro wanted to give back to the community through the Nursing Nest project.

• The event also featured a VIP area that had a special live owl from Audubon Zoo.

1. Dr. Stacey Holman, Manny Linares, Dr. Paul Dutrell 2. Dr. Ellen Zakris, Peter Sather, Ariella Zakris 3. Scott Westbrook, Ben Hamaway, Ray Blaylock 4. Zach Kupperman, Tiffany Delcour 5.

Elise Occhipinti, Robert Occhipinti, Chris Lege, Ken Paris 6. Dr. Leslie Estrada, Dr. Lance Estrada

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PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

WYES Gala: A Station For All Seasons W

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

YES-TV has seen a lot of seasons come and go — it just celebrated 65 years on air! The station remains a beloved broadcast icon televising PBS shows, as well as locally produced content, such as Steppin’ Out, which first aired in 1987.

The WYES Gala: A Station for All Seasons presented by Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust beckoned supporters to don cocktail or seasonal inspired attire to head to the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans on Sept. 23 to support the station.

Waiting for them was entertainment by another New Orleans icon — Deacon John — who performed with his band, the Ivories, courtesy of Tia and Jimmy Roddy.

An online auction, sponsored by Woodward Design+Build, featured more than 100 items, including a Scottsdale Luxury Getaway for six, a 2023 ride in the Krewe of Orpheus parade and lunch at Antoine’s with legendary and iconic writer Walter Isaacson.

New this year at the gala was the Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry raffle featuring a pair of 18-kt. white gold diamond loop earrings.

Event co-chairs were Stephanie and Ryan Burks, Karen and Henry Coaxum, and Anne and Edmund Redd.

FUN FACTS • Did you know Channel 12 used to be Channel 8? It wasn’t until 1970 that WYES made the change from Channel 8 to 12.

The movie, The Naked Jungle with Charlton Heston was showing during the switch.

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1. Henry Coaxum, Karen Coaxum, Stephanie Burks, Ryan Burks 2. Alfredo Sanchez, Rachelle Sanchez, Helen Graves, Sophie Burka, Allison Kupperman, Amanda Berger, Ashley Lengsfield 3. Judge Clint Smith, Dr. Sheryl Smith, Anne Redd, Edmund Redd 4. Aislinn Hinyup, Bobby Dandry, Allison Shapiro Dandry, Laurie Guillaume 5. Paul Flower, Donna Flower, Peggy Scott Laborde 6. Tia Roddy, Deacon John, Jimmy Roddy

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PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

Pro Bono Project Justice For All Ball I

n 1986, the Louisiana Bar Foundation created the New Orleans Pro Bono Project after seeing the need for free civil legal aid to be available to those most vulnerable in the community.

The organization does this by engaging volunteer attorneys, paralegals, law students and private citizens to offer pro bono services. This past year, more than 5,000 people were helped.

On Sept. 23, the organization hosted its annual Justice For All Ball, at which Donald T. “Boysie” Bollinger served as the honorary chair. For each gala, the Pro Bono Project selects the honorary chair from a person in the business or legal community who exemplifies the spirit of pro bono and is the model of philanthropy.

In addition to recognizing Bollinger, the event featured a silent auction, a wine pull and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind decorative wine glasses hand-painted by local artists and members of the legal community. Local artists included John Bukaty, Sigrid Forsythe, Drew Cook and Sean Clark.

The 2022 Justice For All Ball was co-chaired by Lacey Rochester and Scott Sternberg. The gala was held at the Port of New Orleans Place.

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FUN FACT • This was the organization’s first ball since 2019, and it was thrilled the legal community came together in celebration.

1. Scott Sternberg, Lacey Rochester, Joy Bollinger, Boysie Bollinger 2. Marcus Brown, C.C. Kahr 3. Vanessa D’Souza, Judge Bernadette D’Souza 4. Jedd Malish, Amy Malish 5. Crystal Domreis, Cory Vidal, Robin Vidal 6. Bridgette Lawrence, Brian Lawrence

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

New Orleans Museum of Art LOVE in the Garden W

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elcome back LOVE in the Garden! After a three-year hiatus, this benefit for the New Orleans Museum of Art returned to the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden on Sept. 23.

The event, presented by Hancock Whitney, honored the late Sydney Besthoff III, who with his wife Walda were known for their art collection, including the sculptures in the namesake garden, which opened in 2003 with an expansion in 2019.

While this year’s LOVE in the Garden was not held in the expansion, it did fill the rest of the garden with patrons who were eager to celebrate the Besthoff legacy.

In addition to food from 25 restaurants, chefs and other food purveyors, as well as entertainment from the NOCCA Trio and the Bucktown All-Stars, partygoers could also enjoy the LOVE in the Garden Cocktail Challenge presented by Sazerac Company. Unique drinks inspired by different types of love were created by five up-and-coming local talents, with Erika Flowers of Turning Tables winning Best in Show and the Fan Favorite awards.

Event co-chairs were Sarah and Marshall Hevron, and Taylor and Martin Pospisil; the NOMA Volunteer Committee Chair was Rebecca Friedman.

FUN FACTS • LOVE in the Garden 2022 had more than 1,100 attendees.

• All year long, the Besthoff Sculpture Garden is free and open to the public, seven days a week.

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

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1. Robert Steeg, Susan M. Taylor, Rebecca Friedman, Gary Lorio 2. Marshall Hevron, Sarah Hevron, Taylor Pospisil, Martin Pospisil 3. Beth Lavin, Austin Lavin, Valerie Besthoff 4. Ben Jaffe, Jeanette Jaffe, Liz Hefler 5. Clifton LeBlanc, Katie Stream, Gray Stream 6. Brent Wood, Katherine Gelderman, Tony Gelderman

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PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

New Orleans Medical Mission Services Celestial Celebration H

appy 20th anniversary New Orleans Medical Mission Services! And to mark the occasion — and raise funds — the organization hosted its Mission Possible 2022 Gala: Celestial Celebration at Generations Hall on Oct. 14.

The mission provides free medical treatment, consultation, education, equipment and supplies to those in need around the world. It wasn’t as able to do as many missions for the past year due to COVID-19 and the extensive damage to the warehouse from Hurricane Ida. The organization did one mission, sending out four containers of medical supplies to third-world countries. The next mission is scheduled for March 2023.

The benefit showcased the talents of Black Tie Auctions Chuck Mutz, whose spirited bantering had bidding high in the live auction of 10 items, with the seven-day stay in Steamboat, Colorado receiving the top bid. There were also about 300 items in the silent auction and a $10,000 Draw Down, which was split four ways.

New for this year — and for the first time in 20 years — the event had a naming sponsor, The Larry and Marla Garvey Donor Advised Fund.

Event co-chairs were Alecia Holinga and Jessica Schulman. The two Volunteers of the Year were Al Trevino and Mary Sue McLaughlin.

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FUN FACT • The party this year had indigo-toned celestial-effect lighting, along with the beautiful white flowers and twinkling lights that bedecked the tables representing the celestial theme.

1. Dr. Dan Jacob, Archbishop Gregory Aymond, Father Andrew Taormina, Dr. Thomas Kennedy 2. Mickey Loomis, Melanie Loomis, Alecia Holinga, Adam Holinga, Jessica Schulman, Jordan Schulman 3. Al Trevino, Mary Sue McLaughlin, Ralph Senner 4. Lindsay Koretzky, Amy Dannen, Melissa Guidry 5. Paige Prechter, Elizabeth Grace, Amy Wilson 6. Tiffany Delouise, Susan Gunn, Pumpkin Graugnard

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

PHILANTHROPIC EVENTS

Ogden Museum of Southern Art O What A Night!

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t was definitely “O What A Night!” when the Ogden Museum of Southern Art hosted its annual gala on Oct. 15.

Considered one of the premiere art events of the year, the fete attracted a multitude of artists and patrons to the museum.

The party started in the Patrick F. Taylor Library for cocktails presented by Sazerac, Inc., and a silent auction, sponsored by Neal Auction Company, which offered more than 100 items, including art and other interesting items to bid on.

Guests then moved to a tent adjacent to the Stephen Goldring Hall, where the main event took place.

Dinner was provided by Saba with desserts by Beth Biundo Sweets and a coffee bar provided by PJ’s Coffee.

Among the other highlights of the night was the presentation of the 2022 Opus Award to artist George Dunbar, whose “Rouville No. 128,” 2022, courtesy of the artist and Callan Contemporary, had the top bids in the live auction helmed by Swann Auction Galleries’ Nicholas Lowry.

Jeremy Davenport and KARMA! provided the night’s entertainment.

Event co-chairs were Penny Francis and Jason Waguespack.

FUN FACT • Auctioneer Nicholas Lowry always has a creative way to kick off the live auction, and this year was no different when he started it with bidding for love.

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1. Penny Francis, Jason Waguespack 2. Jason Richards, Jennie West, Geneva Kernstein, David Kernstein 3. Kenneth Jordan II, Gregory Saunders 4. Artist George Dunbar (Photo courtesy of The Ogden Museum of Southern Art) 5. Michael Deas, Rebecca Corman, Charles Urstadt 6. William Andrews, Jessie Haynes, Aron Bela, Ron Hunter

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SNAPSHOTS

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FIRST LADY OF FRANCE BRIGITTE MACRON TOURS LYCÉE FRANÇAIS WHEN: December 2 WHERE: Lycée Français de la Nouvelle-Orléans WHAT: Lycée Français de la Nouvelle-Orléans welcomed Mme. Brigitte Macron, first lady of France, to its Priestley campus uptown, Friday. After being welcomed with the Marseillaise, Mme. Macron toured the school, which included a brief presentation about LFNO, the only public PK-12 French accredited school in North America.

1. Mme. Macron receives a warm welcome from Lycée Français students and faculty. 2. LFNO leaders brought Mme. Macron to visit a PE class, a 10th grade class and a meeting with the student council. 3. The first lady discussed topics including impacts of cyberbullying, and the importance of students taking care of themselves and each other.

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RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE OPENING AT CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL WHEN: December 8 WHERE: Children’s Hospital Campus WHAT: Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Louisiana opened the doors to its new larger house in the heart of Children’s Hospital New Orleans’ campus, bringing much-needed housing to families from across the region whose children receive vital medical services in New Orleans.

1. The ribbon cutting ceremony marked the opening of a new Ronald McDonald House, which would not have been possible without the partnership and investment of Children’s Hospital New Orleans, who jointly funded the more than $6 million project. 2. Ronald McDonald delighted patients and guests. 3. Nestled inside Children’s Hospital’s State Street campus, the new 17,500 square foot house increases accommodations for families by 47%.

SNAPSHOTS

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NOLA BLUEDOO FEST AT TULANE WHEN: September 17 WHERE: Tulane University – Gibson Quad WHAT: NOLA Bluedoo is a festival that raises research funds and promotes awareness of prostate cancer. Proceeds from donations and sponsorships benefit Dr. Oliver Sartor’s Prostate Cancer Research Fund at Tulane Cancer Center.

1. Tad Breaux, John Jableg, Sig Greenebaum, Pearce Wood 2. Melanie Cross, Oliver Sartor, M.D. Keadren Green 3. Priya Bhandari, Olivia Pacha, Alex Lieberman

VCPORA A FÊTE FOR ALL SAINTS GALA WHEN: November 12 WHERE: 1236 N. Rampart Street WHAT: The VCPORA Gala offers our community the chance to support and celebrate the Vieux Carré and its oldest guardian, Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents, and Associates. The VCPORA remains firmly committed to defending the neighborhood and will continue advocating to increase residential opportunities and quality of life in the French Quarter. Designed by James Freret and completed in 1895 for the Discalced Carmelite nuns, the Carmelite Monastery at 1236 N. Rampart Street, will introduce 25 new apartments for rent into the French Quarter community.

1. Robby Cangelosi, Ann Masson, Perry Chapman, Sandra Dartus 2. Jason Waguespack, Martin Robinson, Angie Bowlin, Jeff Morgan 3. Karen Memmolo, Monique Motil, Alyssa Kraemer, Lizz Karp

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EAT + DRINK

What Is It? A lazy or harried person’s answer to feeding a crowd. Softened butter as common or as artisan as you chose—you could also use a vegan “butter” product— artfully smeared across a serving board or platter of some kind, and adorned with sweet or savory toppings—herbs, spices, roasted garlic, honey, flakey salt, bits of dried fruit, andouille dust, chili crisp, citrus zest, candied nuts or fruits, small chocolate chips. Anything goes.

HOW TO

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Choose a board or platter that looks nice but is easy to clean. Think wooden cutting board, slate cheese plate, or pottery platter.

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Let your butter soften naturally on the counter. If you nuke it in the microwave to speed things up, the fat and milk solids may separate. Consider blending your butter with a flavorful softened cheese such as Boursin, Gorgonzola, Stilton, Saint Andre, or Epoisses de Bourgogne.

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The Expert Maureen Wolfe of Food & Board NOLA created the butter board shown here.

“This board is made with softened Kerry Gold Pure Irish Butter spread out as a base,“ Wolfe said. Then I gave it a generous sprinkle of Maldon Sea Salt flakes and added fresh herbs: lavender, thyme and basil, cut into small pieces. Next I added a liberal amount of lemon zest. Last, I added a drizzle of Acadiana Honey.

I served with a warm crusty loaf of Italian bread.”

A skilled cook and entertainer with a flair for food styling, Wolfe creates custom boards and platters heaped with butter, produce, honey, charcuterie, cheeses, nuts and edible flowers that are perfect for stress-free home entertaining. The lavish spreads are delivered on sustainable, reusable palm leaf platters or balsa wood trays.

Use an offset spatula or a butter knife to make swoops and swirls with the softened butter or butter mixture on your serving piece. Use the back of a spoon to make small dips and divots.

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Scatter herbs, spices, zest, nuts, dried fruit, etc., over the butter.

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A Deliberate Smear Put out a Butter Board for Easy Entertaining

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hose of you anywhere near a parade route are about to get hit with the annual swarm of revelers. All the rage in entertaining yet easy to concoct and customize, the Butter Board is a smart, communal, addition to your entertaining repertoire. Butter boards went viral when influencer Justine Doiron (@justine_ snacks on TikTok and Instagram) shared her version on her feed. – By Jyl Benson

Food & Board NOLA, 504-234-5870, marliestable@gmail.com, @foodandboardnola

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Drizzle honey, glaze, or maple syrup atop the butter and toppings, taking care to get the liquid drizzle into some of those dips and divots you made with your spoon.

ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

What to serve with a Butter Board?

Sliced bread, toasted bread rounds, crackers, and crudités, boiled and peeled shrimp, bits of steak for dipping.

Place several spreaders and spoons around the board for smearing.

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HOW TO HOST

Outsource Leave the heavy lifting to the pros. Nell’s Catering does full-service catering and offers many to-go options. Order favorites such as Shrimp & Orzo Pasta Salad, Beef Tenderloin, Country Ham Cuban Sliders, Brian’s Salad, Chicken & Waffles, Deviled Eggs and Goat Gouda Pimento Spread amongst others!

Nell’s Catering Company, nellscateringcompany.com.

Timber These beauties are perfect for your center spread or a king cake! Nola Boards, nolaboards.com.

Lighten Your Load Since you likely have no idea how many people will show up, give yourself a break and use paper. Scriptura, scriptura.com.

F Mardi Gras Cups When in New Orleans… serve guests their beverage in cups with a design of your choosing. Sparkle & Swag, sparkleandswag.com.

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Open House Entertaining

ebruary brings plenty of opportunities to host friends and loved ones, and openhouse style entertaining suits best this time of year. I enlisted local caterer, Mary Nell Bennett of Nell’s Catering Company, to share some pro-tips for your next soirée.

“People often get anxious about the idea of hosting a larger crowd, especially if the event is an open-house style format and for an extended period of time. My grandmother used to say that entertaining is all about the ‘pick-ups’, which was her phrase for small bites that are easy to pick-up, walk around with, and still be able to hold your drink. She loved a variety of fancy hors d’oeuvres but was not afraid to put out a less lavish crowd-pleaser, like her famous 'Memaw’s Queso' with Frito scoops. Variety is key. Center your table with a big grazing board and flank the other ends with two small bites & three family style offerings. Prep as much as you can beforehand. Small bites will usually keep for 1-2 days in the refrigerator and can be heated or assembled just before. Ditch the china and opt for a nicer, but small cocktail plate. There are so many quality disposable plates and utensil options now, many of which resemble real china and flatware. Or, if you want to stay semi-fancy, opt for finer, disposable plates but real flatware that are dishwasher safe and a heavy dinner napkin. For cocktails, pre-mix a specialty drink that can be dispensed. Most importantly, outsource some or all of your spread to lessen your stress!” – By Jenny Vorhoff

ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2023

Treat Yourself Is it even a Mardi Gras party if there’s no king cake?

Sucre, shopsucre.com.

A Regal Touch With casual paper goods, it’s always fun to throw in fancier touches like this Royal themed “king cake knife”.

Jade, jadenola.com.

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WELLNESS

Forest Bathing Mother Nature’s Stress Buster

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here are infinite products on sale promising stress reduction.

We are trying all kinds of pursuits and products to help us manage the growing problem of stress and the ever-increasing toll it is taking on our lives. However, growing research shows that a simple walk in the woods can reduce stress and boost immunity. “Spending time near trees improves physical and mental health by increasing energy levels and speed of recovery, while decreasing blood pressure and stress.

Forest bathing is a form of meditation that connects you to nature using all your different senses. It is also called nature therapy or eco therapy. It is meditation in forest ecology,” Scott Courtright, Owner, Trinity Tree Consultants, Louisiana Licensed Arborist, BSC Forest Management, LSU. Mother Nature, in its forest form, is offering a solution and it is free. Forest bathing, originally known as Shinrin-yoku in Japan where it originated, is the term becoming increasingly popular to describe the act of immersing oneself in nature to create relief from daily worries while inducing calm and providing perspective.

Forest bathing guides suggest that participants take an unstructured walk in woodland. The aim is not to go somewhere but to indulge in the

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nature around you. Guides will often suggest closing your eyes at the beginning of the ‘bath’ to reset your senses, for a minute or two. On opening your eyes you are able to take in the colors and structures more clearly.

Guides will then advise you to smell the plants, feel the fibers of trees and leaves and fully absorb the living eco system you are part of and enjoy.

Humans have always appreciated the great outdoors, but now as we are increasingly leading indoor lives, in artificial light and air, necks crooked looking at screens, the benefits of being in nature are being recognized for the positive impact they can have on our health and wellbeing.

Studies in Japan have shown a decrease in blood pressure after taking a walk in a forest and further research is being undertaken at Duke university to quantify the cardiovascular and immune system benefits. Another study showed a walk in nature vs. in the city was far more effective at reducing stress hormones while using the same amount of physical activity.

This understanding supports the US Association of Nature and Forest Therapy plans to train and certify 1,000 forest bathing guides in the next three years. Alternatively, just take a trip to one of Louisiana’s great state parks and indulge your senses. – By Mirella Cameran

NOSTALGIA

The Silk Stocking Strutters

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eggy Landry, an avowed Mardi Gras enthusiast, had watched The Strutters debuted on March 2, 1976, marching ahead of the marching clubs like The Lyons Club parade during Carnival Jefferson City Buzzards, along the same Audubon Park to Canal St. for years and always thought it would be fun to join in. In 1975, route. Their costumes were styled like chorus girls from the 1920s, on a dare from a friend, she and her two teenage daughters and instead of trading kisses for f lowers like the mens’ groups, a kiss decided to start their own group, and New Orleans from a lucky lad along the parade route earned got its very first exclusively female marching club. him a garter. The club was greeted with enthusiasThe Silk Stocking Strutters was an Uptown club, tic shouts of “It’s a ladies group!” as they paraded The theme for the first year was the Ziegfeld Follies, and the Silk named for the “silk stocking ward” (aka the 14th down the Avenue.

Stocking Strutters’ bright pink Ward, which includes the areas near Audubon Another custom traditional to men’s marching doubloons featured a chorus girl Park), were organized for the purpose of “encourclubs was also adopted by the Strutters: bar hopping in the spotlights on one side, and aging, promoting, and advancing the spirit of Mardi along the route. However, Grand Damme Peggy a gartered leg on the other. DouGras.” Peggy, an employee at DH Holmes, and her Landry wrote into the club rules that marching bloon provided courtesy of Charles daughters Susan and Shelly, were written into the ladies were prohibited from getting drunk during V Booth Collection, Earl K. Long charter as the club’s leaders. their march. So, the Silk Stocking Strutters visited Library, University of New Orleans Their first year marching was heralded by a procfewer bars than the men; they stopped at only 25 lamation from the City Council on February 26, 1976. bars before and during their route.

It began with “Whereas the gaiety of the forthcoming The Strutters only marched for three years, Mardi Gras is to be enhanced by the emergence of a new club,” acknowlwith only about 20 members, but they laid the groundwork for edged their status as the first ladies marching club, and ends by extendwomen’s Mardi Gras marching clubs and dance troupes to come. ing “its felicitations to Peggy Landry’s Silk Stocking Strutters, Inc.” – By Seale Paterson

HTTP://LIBRARY.UNO.EDU/SPECIALCOLLECTIONS/LACOL_INDEX.CFM

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WITH THIS RING

Throw a Wedding, Mister!

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he month of Februar y brings many things to celebrate— one of which is Valentine’s Day. Across the globe, Februar y 14 is one of the most popular days to get engaged or hold a wedding. But in New Orleans, this date often falls smack dab in the middle of Carnival season, which can present a whole new level of logistics. Christian Galvin with Solari Orleans and Emmeline Johnson, Concept Director at Bonf ire Events + Catering, offer some pro tips for planning a Carnival wedding.

There are many practical things to take into consideration when

getting married in New Orleans this time of year, and planning early is key. Johnson notes that “many local musicians, performers and ar tists that you might be looking to incorporate into your reception are likely involved in krewes resulting, in limited availabilit y.” The same holds true for local guests, who may have Mardi Gras balls on their calendars long before they receive a couple’s save-the-date.

Out-of-town guests may experience sticker shock when traveling for the big day, as both hotels and f lights will be at a premium.

However, as Galvin emphasizes, out-of-town guests will love the

Submit your wedding to aveweddings@myneworleans.com

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chance to experience Mardi Gras and will be thrilled with a bundle of beads and trinkets to take home—either as a wedding favor or in a welcome bag to greet them when they arrive at the hotel. “Solari Orleans is directly on the St. Charles Avenue parade route,” he enthuses, “which means guests have a front row seat to the Greatest Free Show On Earth.”

Because Solari Orleans is directly on the parade route, newlyweds should expect spontaneous par ticipation in their celebration, obser ves Galvin: “Second Line Wedding parades are even more fun with one lane of St. Charles Avenue reser ved for pedestrians. Expect carnival revelers to join in the festivities!”

Should a couple not wish to mingle their wedding with the revelr y of a nearby parade, Johnson points out that there are plent y of areas of the cit y away from the chaos. When choosing a venue away from the parade routes, she advises adding extra time for your guests to arrive and for vendors to load in and load out. Traff ic is often impacted in other areas that you might not consider, such as where

SELECT PHOTOS BY WILD HIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

the f loats line up before and after parades. This information is not published the same way as parade route street closures, so couples should be sure to do their research!

Johnson and Galvin agree that a Carnival season wedding offers tons of oppor tunities to be inventive. According to Johnson, it ’s a time for “guests to attend in more playful and creative attire.” Echoing this sentiment, Galvin remarks “Once a year, there’s a distinctive color palette quintessential to the season. Mardi Gras presents an ideal oppor tunit y for brides and grooms seeking to explore an adventurous dress code.” Couples can even incorporate the traditional purple, green and gold into wedding and bridesmaids’ dresses, creating a truly unique visual.

These are just a few ways couples can make sure that their Carnival wedding f lows smoothly so that they can create an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of the season.

– By Megan Holt

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SPONSORED

Mardi Gras Gift Guide

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO CELEBRATE IN STYLE THIS SEASON!

The Historic New Orleans Collection Hnoc.org 520 Royal St, New Orleans 504-523-4662 Instagram: @visit_thnoc Maison NOLA Silicone Wine Tumbler, $14.

Large “Arthur” King Cake Baby Platter Oval Size, $250.

Large “Louis” King Cake Baby Platter Oval Size, $250.

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Sazerac House Sazerachouse.com 101 Magazine St, New Orleans 504-910-0100 Instagram: @sazerachouse Mixology Bar Kit, $75.00 Stainless steel bar kit includes: Japanese-style jigger (2 oz./1 oz), shaker tins (28 oz. & 18 oz), bar spoon, and strainer.

SPONSORED

PERLIS Clothing Perlis.com 6070 Magazine St, Uptown 600 Decatur St, French Quarter 1281 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville 8366 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge 800-725-6070 Instagram: @perlisclothing

Parade and party ready your Valentine with the Tossed Crawfish Mardi Gras Print Polo. Featuring stretch performance 92% polyester and 8% lycra with the iconic crawfish logo embroidery.

Warm your Valentine's heart with the new wide purple ground stripe PERLIS Mardi Gras Rugby featuring the iconic crawfish embroidered logo.

Quality-made in the USA.

Give your Valentine our exclusive Mardi Gras Icons handstitched 100% cotton needlepoint belt made of genuine Italian leather by Smathers & Branson.

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SPONSORED

VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE Ballin’s LTD BallinsLTD.com 721 Dante St. New Orleans 504-866-4367 2917 Magazine St. #105 504-891-4502 Hazel Smyth Jewelry Carved “Train” Earrings $390

Cuoieria Fiorentina brand Alice Puch in Ruby $120

Eye Wares Eyewaresnola.com 6001 Magazine St, New Orleans 800 Metairie Rd, Suite Q, Metairie 3601 Hwy 190 B, Mandeville

Rose Dress is a Lucian Matis, available for special order, $1,116. (Ballin's Exclusive! Not available to order online)

Gucci Yellow Full Rim Cat Eye eyeglasses, $484.

Classic and classy, but never without style. KIRK&KIRK Frank eyeglasses in Fuchsia, $489.

Hana is cheeky frame that beams charms. KIRK&KIRK Hana eyeglasses in Purple, $489.

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SPONSORED

Sosusu Boutique Sosusuboutique.com 3427 Magazine St, New Orleans 504-309-5026 Instagram: @sosusuboutique Show your love in a playful way this Valentine’s day. Keep gifting whimsy and Kule!

Victoria’s Indigo Boutique Shopindigoboutique.com 605 Metairie Rd. Suite C, Metairie 504-635-7874 Instagram: @inspired_by_Indigo Checkered color block sweater featuring heart details at front, $58.

Ruby velvet sheer sleeve romper, $58.

Dixie brand open back pleated midi dress in lipstick red, $198.

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SPONSORED

Weddings

Z Event Company

Compass Point

New Orleans Marriott

Symmetry Jewelers

Zeventco.com | 508 Metairie Rd, Metairie | 504-510-5838 | @zeventcompany “Gorgeous, fabulous, fun, heartwarming, crazy, special, magical, beautiful, organized, EPIC, creative, professional, a gift, never misses a beat, the BEST DAY EVER.” These are just a few words from the notes we receive from our clients. This is what drives us and what we strive for on every event we produce. Let us make your wedding everything you ever dreamed of and The Best Day Ever!

Neworleansmarriott.com | 555 Canal St, New Orleans | 504-581-1000 | @neworleansmarriott Let us bring your special day to life at the New Orleans Marriott. Our experts will go above and beyond to make your vision, your tastes and your dreams come true for an unforgettable happily ever after that exceeds every expectation.

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Compasspointevents.com | 200 Opelousas Ave, New Orleans | 504-366-1768 | @compasspointevents A Hidden Gem in Algiers Point that is worth discovering. In-House catering, nightly guest cottages set amongst old oak trees filled with magical lights.

Symmetryjewelers.com | 8138 Hampson St, New Orleans | 504-861-9925 | @symmetryjewelers_nola 14k white gold diamond engagement ring featuring a 1.07 carat Lab Grown pear shape diamond (F color/ VVS2 clarity) in a classic halo style and .24 ct total weight accent diamonds: $4,300. Ideal for stacking multiple bands. Shown with various diamond stackers.

SPONSORED

I Do Bridal Couture

Idobordalcouture.com | 4343 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge | 225-361-0377 316 Lee Ln, Covington | 985-327-5598 | @idobridalcouture Couture Elegance, Southern Charm. I Do Bridal Couture has curated collections of exquisite wedding and debutante dresses in two lovely Louisiana locations; historic downtown Covington and Baton Rouge. True southern elegance awaits brides looking for “the” wedding dress experience tailored to their individuality, style, and vision. Experience pampered private suites and exclusive wedding dress designers like Monique Lhuillier, Amsale, Rivini, Reem Acra, Anne Barge, and many others. See what brides are talking about, experience I Do Bridal Couture.

The Chicory

Chicoryvenue.com | 610 S Peters St, New Orleans | 504-521-8055 | @thechicory The Chicory is a beautiful, historic events venue in the New Orleans Warehouse District.

Originally built in 1852, our exposed brick walls, original wood beams, and gas lamps offer the perfect ambiance for wedding, social, or corporate events.

Sheraton New Orleans Hotel

Sheratonneworleans.com | 500 Canal St, New Orleans | 504-525-2500 | @sheratonnola Whether a traditional wedding or a one-of-a-kind celebration, Sheraton New Orleans will exceed every expectation. From inspiring spaces and creative menus to an exceptional events team, we offer everything you need to make your big day an affair to remember.

John’s Tuxedos

Johnstuxedos.com | 3200 Houma Blvd, Metairie | 504-455-5353 | @johnstuxedos Locally owned and operated since 1984. Slim fit inventory in-stock. Alterations done on-site.

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Ace and the Louisiana Open Housing Act, which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. For more information, call the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-273-5718.

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PREMIER

P RO P E RT I E S

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THE FINISHING TOUCH

A Signature Scent Recently opened in the heart of the French Quarter, Tijon offers perfume-making classes suited for small to large-scale groups – perfect for couples, birthday parties and much more. Don a lab coat while experimenting with a wide range of scented oils to suit your taste and create your own scent. Participants are guided step-by-step throughout the process while learning about the art and history of perfume making. Depending on which class you choose, you will craft a number of blends and select your favorite to bottle and take home. Tijon, 631 Toulouse St., 504-428-8422, tijon.com.

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IMAGE COURTESY OF TIJON