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Contents Holiday 2025 6
Long-Term Fitness Goals
How primary care and sports medicine support it
10
The Face Effect
26
Lola’s Favorite Things
Presented by The Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet
30
44
An Heirloom Christmas
Breathing New Lift into the Jewelry We Love
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32
Gratitude
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Comfort and Joy
Finding Calm in the Holiday Hustle
20
Holiday Hosting with Grace, Ease & Joy Jessica Comegys is back as The Balanced Host
The Nutcracker
Holiday Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List
Solutions to Loss of Facial Volume After GLP-1s
A Season of Thanks and Giving
40
Holiday High Tea at Hotel Monroe A New Tradition to Savor
Table of Contents 36 Tinsel Presented by Lola Magazine A Chauffeured Shopping Experience on Line Ave.
Home for the Holidays Sarah Overall Gives Tips on Holiday Decorating
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A Small Town Christmas Celebrate the Holidays in Webster Parish
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The Birth of Christ
A Timeless Story of Promise and Hope
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It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
A Letter from Your Sister Friend
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2025 Advertiser 3:Christmas in Roseland
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2025 De
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What a wonderful way to wrap up 2025—with you, our readers.
W
e lovingly call this Holiday Edition our issue of Thanks and Giving. To us, the holidays are the sweetest time of year—when we slow down, reflect on our
blessings, and look for meaningful ways to give to others: our families, friends, churches, and communities.
READLOLA.com
PUBLISHERS
Ellyn T. McKinney ellyn@readlola.com (318) 518-9258
This season reminds us that some of the sweetest gifts are not wrapped at all. They are
Sarah M. McKinney sarah@readlola.com (318) 286-4252
thoughtful and personal, rooted in presence rather than price. As a mother-daughter team,
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
one of our greatest blessings is the gift of time together. We share ideas around the kitchen table, attend fun events with friends, and continue to grow this vision side by side. And then there is the gift you give us—your kind words, your encouragement, and the way you welcome Lola into your homes and hearts. We feel deeply grateful for the gift of each other, and for you, our readers. The gift of presence makes this work more meaningful than we imagined. We hope you see each issue of Lola Magazine as a gift. It’s both an honor and a humbling privilege for us to publish. Our vision is that when you hold each edition in your hands, it brings joy, lifts your spirit, and encourages you. To our family: thank you. You have cheered us on from Texas to Louisiana, Arkansas, and all the way to Florida. You have made room for our dreams, shared your time and
Letter from Editor To our friends and community: we see you. have carried Lola into businesses and & You Contributors
energy, and covered us in love and understanding. We cherish you.
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homes, offered wisdom when we asked, “What if?” and “Why not?”, and lifted us with your
prayers. We could not have brought four beautiful issues of Lola to life this year without your encouragement, your belief, and your generous hearts. This journey is only just beginning. We cannot wait to share what is ahead—monthly
Sid McKinney
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Richard Creative Lola@Richard-Creative.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ellyn McKinney Sarah McKinney Dr. Naina Bouchereau-Lal Dr. Lindsey Pennington Dr. Skylar Souyoul Ragan Aple Jessica Comegys Sarah Overall PHOTOGRAPHY
Jill Stripling Brittany Strickland Micahla Vaughn Sandi Davis Hannah Finley Hector Sanchez
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sarah@readlola.com or visit Readlola.com
newsletters, events that gather and delight, and of course, even more meaningful stories and photos that speak to the heart. We have so much in store for 2026. But for this moment, we simply want to say: Thank you. We are grateful. As we close out 2025 and plan for 2026, our hope is that you embrace this holiday season with open hands and full hearts—celebrating the wonder, the joy, and the sacredness of thanks and giving.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @readlolamag *Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited Colossians 3:23
From our family to yours, May this truly be the most wonderful time of the year.
Sarah & Ellyn
Lola Magazine is published 5x annually by MAD MEDIA, LLC. Lola Magazine reserves the right to accept or reject any advertiser. Distribution of Lola Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products and/or services. Lola Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the publication’s content. Nonetheless, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information, nor the absence of errors. No responsibility will be assumed. Visit us online at readlola.com to subscribe. Lola Magazine is owned by MAD MEDIA, LLC.
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How Primary Care And Sports Advertorial p1: Ochsner Medicine Support LongTerm Fitness Goals Submitted/ Ready for Layout
By Naina Bouchereau-Lal, MD
6
R
eaching your fitness goals takes more than motivation. It also takes consistency, smart planning and the right medical support along the way. While many people think of fitness as gym memberships or workout routines, true progress starts with good health. That is where primary care and sports medicine get involved. Together, they help you stay active, prevent injuries and make fitness a lasting part of your life.
a team approach designed around you: your goals, your body and your lifestyle.
Sustaining Success Over Time
Hitting a fitness goal feels amazing, but keeping that momentum takes support. Your healthcare team can help adjust your plan as your body and routine change, whether that means updating your workouts, refining your diet or finding fresh ways to stay motivated. Life gets busy, and it’s easy to put your own wellness The Role Of Primary Care last. Making time for regular checkups, screenings and Think of your primary care physician as your health visits for injury prevention protects the progress you’ve coach for the long game. Regular checkups aren’t just worked hard to make. It also helps you keep doing the about catching illnesses. They’re about keeping your things you love. body ready for the life you want to live. Your provider can check for conditions that might affect your ability to The Path Forward When primary care and sports medicine work exercise (like high blood pressure or diabetes) and help together, they create a powerful partnership for lifelong you create healthy habits that fit your goals. Fitness is more than strong muscles or endurance. health. From preventing injuries to maximizing It’s also your heart, lungs, joints and mind working in performance, this team helps you move with confidence harmony. Your primary care doctor helps you find that today, tomorrow and for years to come. Your fitness Submitted/ balance. They can recommend where to start safely and journey isn’t just about reaching a goal. It’s about staying Ready for Page 7 make sure your medications don’t interfere with activity. strong, healthy and active for life. Layout
Advertorial p2: Ochsner
They can also help manage chronic conditions, so you can stay active with confidence. Dr. Naina Bouchereau-Lal is a board-certified family medicine Bridging Fitness And Function With and sports medicine physician at Sports Medicine Ochsner LSU Health Spring Lake, Sports medicine physicians take that foundation and located on Line Avenue. She helps help you move with strength and purpose. Whether patients optimize their fitness, you’re a weekend hiker, a high school athlete or someone prevent injuries and achieve getting back into shape, sports medicine specialists sustainable wellness goals. understand how the body responds to movement. One of their main goals is prevention. By looking at how you move (your flexibility, strength and balance), they can spot small issues before they turn into big problems. If an injury does happen, they are experts in nonsurgical treatments, rehabilitation plans and safe Visit ochsnerlsuhs. “return to play” guidance. org/doctors/nainaThey also work closely with primary care providers boucherau-lal to schedule an to fine-tune everything from nutrition to recovery. It’s appointment.
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Care for your whole family Amanda Callegan-Poche, MD | Primary Care
Care for your Care whole family whole
At Ochsner LSU Health, we provide compassionate Page 8 Advertiser 4: and Ochsner Ad comprehensive care for patients of all ages. From annual | Primary checkups and preventive screenings managing chronic Amanda Callegan-Poche, MD |to Primary Care Amanda Callegan-Poche, MD Care conditions and treating everyday illnesses, our team is dedicated to helping you and your family stay healthy.
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At Ochsner LSU Health, we provide compassionate and
At Ochsner LSU Health, wecare provide compassionate and We offer multiple primary andofurgent care locations comprehensive care for patients all ages. From annual comprehensive care for patients of all ages. From annual checkups and preventive screenings to managing chronic across Shreveport’ s communities - bringing expertchronic checkups and preventive screenings to managing conditions and treating everyday illnesses, our team is conditions and treating everyday illnesses, our team is primary care tocloser to home. dedicated helping you and your family stay healthy. dedicated to helping you and your family stay healthy. We offer multiple primary care and urgent care locations We offer multiple primary care and urgent care locations across Shreveport’s communities - bringing expert across Shreveport’s communities - bringing expert primary care closer to home. primary care closer to home.
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THE FACE EFFECT of GLP-1 Weight Loss BY DR. PENNINGTON AND DR. SOUYOUL BEFORE
AFTER
pads play a crucial role in maintaining youthful contours, soft transitions, and structural support. As these deeper fat compartments shrink, skin appears looser, fine lines become more noticeable, and volume diminishes in the cheeks, temples, under-eyes, and around the mouth. This constellation of changes is often called “Ozempic face.” Beyond fat reduction, rapid weight loss can also lead to decreased skin elasticity, changes in muscle tone, increased bone definition, and accentuated folds and shadows. Emerging research suggests GLP-1s may directly affect the skin by reducing collagen production, accelerating glycation (which stiffens and weakens collagen fibers), and diminishing hydration levels. In one study, GLP-1s were found to act directly on skin cells, potentially worsening facial thinning beyond fat loss alone.
Restoring Facial Balance
Page 10
The good news: modern aesthetic medicine offers effective, science-backed solutions to restore facial structure, vitality, and radiance—without compromising Submitted/ your weight-loss success. Ready for Biostimulatory Layout treatments like Sculptra® and hyaluronic acid fillers are an ideal c o m b i n a t i o n . R e c e n t l y, Galderma, the makers of Sculptra® and Restylane®, completed a landmark 9-month Phase IV clinical trial—the first study evaluating Sculptra® combined with HA fillers specifically for GLP-1–related volume loss.
Article 2 p1: PenningtonWeightloss & GLP1s
I
n recent years, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® have transformed weightloss journeys. These treatments can be life-changing for overall health, but their success can also bring surprising cosmetic changes—especially to the face. Recent studies show that patients on GLP-1s lose around 9% of their facial volume, contributing to looser skin, more visible lines, reduced collagen, and diminished radiance.
Key results included: › Sustained improvements in skin quality, hydration, and radiance › Over 88% of participants “loved” how treatment maintained their facial structure › 9 out of 10 participants would recommend it after GLP-1 weight loss › Visible improvements lasting up to 9 months
Sculptra® stimulates collagen and gradually improves When we lose weight, it’s not just fat around the laxity, while HA fillers restore immediate structure in midsection that disappears—we lose it everywhere, areas that flatten with weight loss. Together, they offer a including the face, which often shows change first. Facial fat synergistic, natural-looking transformation.
Why Weight Loss Affects the Face
10
all while maintaining natural harmony and radiance. Medical-Grade Skincare with Proven Surgical rejuvenation is particularly effective for advanced “Ozempic face” changes that non-surgical methods cannot GLP-1 Benefits Targeted skincare is an essential part of preventing and treating GLP-1–related aging. Over-the-counter products simply can’t match Scan here to shop our the potency or clinical weight loss bundle with AGE serum and Interrupter. research behind medicalgrade formulations. SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Ultra Serum and A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced Cream have been physician-tested in GLP-1 users, with results showing: › Visible reversal of laxity in as little as 4 weeks › Full improvements at 12 weeks
fully correct.
Where to Start Start early—ideally at the beginning of your weightloss journey—with medical-grade skincare backed by science. Preventive care lays the foundation, and additional treatments can be introduced as your BEFORE AFTER facial anatomy evolves. Reaching your goal weight is an extraordinary achievement, and your face should reflect that same vitality. With today’s advanced, research-driven options—Sculptra®, hyaluronic acid fillers, GLP-1–tested skincare, and surgical rejuvenation—we can restore balance, volume, and radiance in a way that feels entirely you.
› Enhanced collagen reinforcement › Reduced glycation
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Submitted/ Article 2 p2: Penningtonfor goals, Page 11 To explore the options bestReady suited to your When paired with in-office procedures such as Weightloss & GLP1s Layoutand together schedule a personalized consultation,
› Improved hydration, smoothness, and radiance
ultrasound lifting, clinical studies show:
› Up to a 44% reduction in facial laxity › Up to a 34% reduction in visible aging signs within 12 weeks
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For patients who prefer non-injectable improvements, treatments like Morpheus8 microneedling combined with radiofrequency energy can significantly improve firmness and collagen density with minimal downtime. This approach is especially helpful for facial and neck laxity following GLP-1–related weight loss.
Surgical Options for More Significant Change For individuals experiencing more dramatic volume loss or excess skin, surgical rejuvenation provides the most comprehensive and long-lasting correction. Procedures such as a deep plane facelift or neck lift with fat grafting restore natural fullness and address skin laxity, deep hollows, and loss of structural support—
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Patient before and after photos courtesy of Pennington Facial Plastics 11
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When Madison Sullivan began her career at Merle Norman Uptown, she knew she wanted to create something more than a makeup counter could offer. Submitted/ She wanted a boutique approach that felt elegant, Ready for thoughtful, and truly welcoming. LayoutShe believes that beauty is personal, and it shows in every detail. Here, guests are greeted like friends, and the experience feels unrushed and intentional. The Merle Norman Uptown team takes time to learn each client’s style, skin needs, and even their seasonal foundation shade. Services provided: • Bridal party boutique experiences
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BY SARAH MCKINNEY
I
have a confession to make: Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. There’s just something about the season of giving thanks that resonates so deeply with me. It’s not just a season or a holiday—it’s a state of mind and a heart posture I cherish every autumn. When it comes to the actual day, I’m a traditional Thanksgiving purist at heart. I’m talking turkey, cornbread dressing, green bean casserole, sweet potato something, and pecan pie—PURIST. You can find me somewhere between the couch and the kitchen, chopping, taste-testing, and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with coffee in hand. That’s my happy place, and I look forward to it all year long! As the baby of the family, my workload is admittedly light, and my 14 parents still make most of the magic Page happen—as they have for so many years. Every year, the
thought of having to do it without them weighs a little heavier as I see us all aging (not gonna cry—let’s keep it moving). Slowly, I’m learning the ropes and memorizing recipes that have never—and will never—be written down. We measure with love in our house. I’m a firm believer in holding off on the “holiday magic” until after the turkey is carved. And trust me, I know that to some, that makes me a Scrooge or a Grinch. It’s not that I don’t love Christmas—because I do! I just believe in savoring each season for what it is. Thanksgiving, for me, deserves its own sacred space in my heart and mind, and I choose to embrace it with a spirit of gratitude. With that, Submitted/ I want to share a few things I’m thankful for this season—and Ready invite for you to do the same. Layout
Article 1 p1: Gratitude
I'm Thankful For... Work
I’m thankful for the opportunities that have come my way this year through Lola Magazine. With every issue we publish, every mile we travel to distribute, and every conversation we share with our readers, I’m reminded what an absolute gift this journey is. It’s not without challenges, but there is so much joy in this work. We strive every day to share that with you!
Health
I often take my physical health for granted—waking up able-bodied, without major limitations or concerns for my well-being. What a blessing it is to take on each day with movement and clarity of mind. Note to self: schedule those Pilates classes joyfully!
Support
I truly believe God has blessed me with the most incredible friends, family, and acquaintances—people who uplift and support me in ways I never knew I needed. Time and time again, they show up: cheering, lending a hand, sharing little glimmers of joy. I hope they know how loved they are and how thankful I am for each of them.
I’m sensing a theme here. Through gratitude, joy is found. And isn’t that the perfect segue into our next season? See what I did there, Friends? Thanksgiving is the perfect way to prepare your heart for the Christmas season. These are just a few things I’m thankful for in this season of thanks and giving. I wonder what you’re thankful for this year. Please use the following page as a gratitude journal, and let us know what’s on your list! 14
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Article 1 p2: Gratitude
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Tag @readlolamag in your holiday posts and connect with us on social. 15
The holidays are often called “the most wonderful time of the year,” yet many families quietly admit they feel stretched thin, a little anxious, and unsure how to make everything merry and bright without burning out. If that sounds familiar, take a breath—nothing is wrong with you. A lot is simply happening. WRITTEN BY RAGAN APLE, LPC
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Article 3 p1: Comfort & Joy
Approved
s a counselor, I’ve noticed that holiday stress usually occurs around four areas: communication, expectations, routines, and organization. When we tend to these with kindness and clarity, the season softens. We make room for connection and create memories that feel like an exhale.
Communicate Clearly and Early Holiday stress often begins long before the first cookie is baked—because so much is assumed instead of said. Take fifteen quiet minutes to jot down your holiday picture: travel plans, meal times, who’s hosting, gift exchanges, faith traditions, and (please don’t skip this) how much downtime your family needs to feel like themselves. Then, call a quick “family huddle.” Ask each person— kids included—what they’re most looking forward to and what worries them. You might learn something surprising: a child who dreads loud greetings, a teen who craves a lazy 16
movie morning, or a partner who needs an afternoon to shop alone. Next, carry your plan outward. Text or call relatives to share the essentials and gently set boundaries: • Arrival & departure: “We’ll arrive at 2 and head out by 6 so the kids can keep their bedtime.” • Kid rhythms: “We’ll feed the little ones around 5— happy to bring something simple.” • Off-limit topics: “We’re keeping the day politics-free so we can relax and enjoy each other.” Boundaries aren’t about control—they’re about clarity.
Clarity creates calm. When everyone knows the plan, there’s less room for hurt feelings or last-minute confusion. A small script to try: “Here’s what will help our family enjoy the day—we’ll be there at two, bring dessert, and head out by six for bedtime. We can’t wait to see everyone.” And remember, communication starts with listening—to yourself and your family. Ask, “What would make this feel good for you?” Then try to honor at least one thing for each person.
Set Realistic Expectations (and Share Them) A lot of holiday disappointment comes from unspoken or unrealistic Page 17 expectations. Adults have them, kids have them, grandparents have them. Because we love one another, we hope for magic—and feel let down when the day is simply human. Try this quick family exercise: Each person names three things— 1. One thing they hope happens 2. One thing they’d rather avoid 3. One way they can help the day go well When people feel heard, they behave better. Gift-giving deserves its own conversation. Too many presents can overstimulate kids. If gifts are plentiful, space them out: open a few on the holiday, then save some for later. Try a “Twelve Days of Play” basket to enjoy through the break. Let kids help decide: “Which two should
we open today, and which should we save?” That turns the day from a frenzy into something to savor. Adults need expectation-setting, too. If there’s been a tough year, a loss, or some simmering tension, name it privately and agree on a few ground rules that protect peace—like, “no political talk today.” Talking about what to expect doesn’t kill the magic; it creates safety. And safety is what lets us relax enough to feel the magic when it shows up.
Keep Gentle Routines Most of us feel calmer when at least a few things stay predictable. During the holidays, bedtimes drift, meals shift, and days blur. You don’t need a rigid schedule—but you do need anchors. Try: • A simple bedtime or morning rhythm (teeth, pajamas, story; or coffee, stretch, breakfast) • One meal at roughly the same time each day • A dose of daylight or fresh air • A short list of helpful tasks for older kids (“load the dishwasher,” “walk the dog,” “start laundry”) Teens especially benefit from clear expectations before break starts. Resentment builds when parents work all day and come home to a messy kitchen and motionless teenagers. Try saying, “Sleep in, enjoy your day, just clean up after meals and be ready for dinner at six.” That’s not strict—it’s supportive. Predictability regulates the nervous system, and a regulated nervous system makes for a calmer home.
If travel is on the agenda, bring a few “portable comforts”: a favorite blanket, sound machine, or bedtime ritual (three breaths, short prayer, one-page journal). Familiar cues tell the body, “You’re safe; you can rest.”
Organize for Calm, Not Perfection Planning ahead doesn’t mean orchestrating a Pinterest-perfect holiday; it means reducing decision fatigue so you can actually enjoy yourself. A few ideas: • Keep one running holiday list (on paper or your phone) for groceries, gifts, and to-dos. • Stock disposable containers for leftovers—your fridge will thank you. • Set up a simple “kid zone” with coloring or puzzles so adults can Approved visit after meals. • Bring snacks and water when you’re out—steady blood sugar equals better moods for everyone. The goal isn’t a flawless holiday. It’s one that feels peaceful, meaningful, and full of connection.
Article 3 p2: Comfort & Joy
When Sensory, Anxiety, or Trauma Needs Are in the Room Not ever yone experiences festivities as fun. Loud rooms, unfamiliar foods, crowds, or bright lights can overwhelm kids and adults with sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or trauma histories. Compassion helps enormously. A few tips: • Decide your time frame before 17
leaving home (“We’ll stay from 4 to 6”). • Create a signal—a word, hand squeeze, or emoji—that means “I need a break.” • Practice small exposures ahead of time (a slightly busier store, a larger church service). • Preview the plan with kids: who’ll be there, what the space will look like, where the quiet spot is, and which foods are safe. It’s okay to decline an event that you know will be too much. Protecting your (or your child’s) nervous system is health, not rudeness. If skipping everything leaves you lonely, choose one low-intensity gathering and build in an exit strategy. Sometimes a 45-minute visit is a brave, beautiful success. Page 18 Notice the signs of emotional flooding: withdrawal, fast talking, fidgeting, overeating, or overdrinking as a “social shield.” These aren’t moral failings—they’re signals. Meet them with compassion and a plan: step outside for air, take ten slow breaths, splash cool water, or drive around the block for a reset.
it—even if the pie is store-bought. Practice gratitude out loud. At the end of the day—or as gifts are opened—ask everyone to name three things they’re grateful for, including at least one person they appreciate. It shifts attention from the gift to the giver, from having to belonging. One tiny tradition I love: before guests arrive, light a candle and say together, “May our home be a place of gentleness and joy today.” Simple rituals like that reset the tone far better than any centerpiece.
Closing Thought The holidays aren’t meant to be perfect—they’re meant to be cherished. With a little planning, flexible routines, shared expectations, and courageous communication, your family can create a season that feels like you: imperfect, warm, and full of the kind of moments that linger long after the lights come down.
Micro-Practices That Calm the Room • Breathing: Inhale softly through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 2, exhale slowly for 4.
Article• 3 Comfort & Joy Fivep3: Senses Grounding (kidfriendly): Hold a chocolate or peppermint—look, smell, feel, then taste slowly.
• Two-Minute Reset: Step outside, plant your feet, feel the air, name one thing you see, hear, and feel. • Repair Script: “I got snappy earlier—I was overwhelmed, not mad at you. Can we start over?”
The Heart of It All: Noble Intent and Gratitude
When to Reach Out for Extra Support
Perfection is never the point. Ask yourself, “What’s my noble intent?” Am I trying to impress—or to connect? Create a magazine spread— or a memory? Use a simple filter: Does this choice bring us closer or push us apart? If it brings you closer, it’s probably worth
If the holidays consistently trigger panic, major conflict, heavy drinking, or deep sadness, it might be time to talk with a counselor or primary care provider. Getting support isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. It’s a gift to yourself and to the people who love you.
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Approved
Ragan Aple is a Licensed Professional Counselor at Unbroken Counseling LLC. in Shreveport, LA. She is a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors and specializes in: • Trauma therapy - Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) • Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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Article 4 p1: Holiday Hosting THE BALANCED HOST | Jessica Comegys with Grace, Ease & Joy Page 20
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Holiday Hosting with Grace, Ease & Joy It feels good to be back at the table. For years, I shared recipes and reflections on gathering — always through the lens of a chef and hostess, standing behind a counter, apron tied, candles lit before guests arrived. But life has changed. The tables have shifted from café to home, and these days, I write from a kitchen filled with everyday noise: the hum of the dishwasher, my son asking where the tape went for his school project, and the
gentle chaos that comes with a full, beautiful life. The truth is, I’m still learning what it means to host — but it looks different now. It’s less about perfect plating and more about making space. Space for the people who show up, for the laughter that spills out of the kitchen, for the imperfections that make a night memorable. Every November, I host a Friendsgiving that’s equal parts family reunion and open-door potluck for the people
Photography by Brittany Strickland, Sandi Davis, and Jessica Comegys 20
I love most — the ones with hometown ties and the ones who’ve built their families here through friendship. There’s always someone new at the table: a neighbor whose parents live far away, a teacher friend who can’t make it home this year, or a cousin who swore they’d “just stop by” and ends up staying until midnight. The house smells like roasted citrus and rosemary, and there’s always music playing — usually something jazzy, but not too serious. I start cooking early in the day, but I try to make dishes that hold well. A glazed salmon that’s just as delicious at room temperature, a wild rice salad that can sit on the buffet, and a pumpkin bread pudding that bakes quietly while we pour that second round of wine. One of my secrets: I never let guests bring wine. It’s not about control (well, maybe a little); it’s about creating a flow. I love curating the bottles that pair with each dish — the way a chilled rosé sparkles against the citrus salmon or how a velvety red makes dessert feel decadent. Everyone has their hosting non-negotiables, and that’s mine. As guests arrive, the kids gather around the breakfast table, which I’ve covered with a holiday color-on tablecloth. It’s the perfect distraction — they doodle turkeys and stars Page 21 and write their names in the margins while the adults mingle. By dessert, the table is covered in marker swirls and little hearts — a colorful time capsule of the night. The grown-ups eventually wander to the dining table, where branches of greenery, gold flatware, and flickering votives create the easiest kind of magic. I love mixing textures — rattan chargers with linen napkins, a touch of shimmer with something handmade. Nothing fussy, just layered and lived-in. And of course, someone always spills something. The rolls (or your father-in-law) get a little too toasty. The cousin bringing the ice forgets it. Someone’s late, someone’s early, and someone’s lost their phone charger. But these are the stories we retell every year, laughing harder each time. By the end of the night, the house is humming. The playlist has shifted to something nostalgic. A few guests are packing leftovers — I always have take-home containers ready, because there’s always someone who couldn’t make it. Grandma who didn’t feel like getting out. A friend home with a sick child. We make plates for them with care, because hospitality doesn’t end when the door closes.
Article 4 p2: Holiday Hosting with Grace, Ease & Joy
Submitted/ Ready for Layout
Eventually, the family trickles out — some to bed, some to load the car, all insisting they’ll “help with dishes tomorrow.” And that’s perfectly fine with me. The dishes can wait. The glow of the night lingers longer than a clean sink ever will. When I look back on the years I’ve spent cooking, gathering, and writing about it all, I realize that what I’ve been chasing wasn’t the perfect party — it was connection. A reason to pause, to look around the table, to remember that we’re lucky to have these people, this meal, this moment. So, this holiday season, give yourself permission to host with grace, ease, and joy. Light the candles, set the tone, let go of perfection. Serve good food, pour generously, and remember —the true magic of gathering isn’t in the menu, the décor, or even the playlist. It’s in the laughter, the chaos, and the love that lingers long after everyone’s gone home. 21
JESSICA’S HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS Make-Ahead Favorites Smoked Maple Glazed Salmon
Always on Hand
Fresh greenery, votive candles, and to-go containers
For the Kids
A color-on tablecloth and washable markers
Mood Starter
A cozy bossa nova or vintage jazz playlist Page 22
Submitted/ Hosting Non-Negotiable: Article 4 p3: Holiday Hosting Ready The wine list — alwaysfor chosen by with Grace, Ease & Joy the hostess Layout
MENU
Sign up for Lola E-newletters for links to Jessica’s Holiday Essentials and so much more!
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• Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
OTHER ITEMS TO ASSIGN:
• Holiday Cheese Ball (assign to a guest)
Appetizers or Snack Nuts Soft drinks or sparkling juice for the kids Rolls or French Bread Cookies or fun dessert bites for kids (and dad)
• Smoked Maple Glazed Salmon • Cranberry Apple Pecan Wild Rice Salad • Parmesan Herb Roasted Delicata Squash (can assign to a guest, super easy) • Pumpkin Bread Pudding w/Praline Ice Cream
*(Yes, you can have turkey, pre order or even better have a guest bring a smoked or cajun fried one!)
Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates Serves 12 as an appetizer Profile: Sweet, salty, creamy, and festive 24 Medjool dates, pitted 4 oz soft goat cheese 1 tbsp honey ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves 12 slices bacon, halved crosswise Toothpicks • Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment. • Stir goat cheese, honey, and thyme until creamy. • Stuff each date with 1 tsp mixture, then wrap in a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. • Roast 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crisp. • Serve warm and glossy with a drizzle of extra honey if desired.
Optional Flair: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Parmesan Herb Roasted Delicata Squash Rings Serves 6–8 Profile: Crisp, savory, and stunning on a platter
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3 delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into ½-inch rings 2 tbsp olive oil ½ cup grated Parmesan Submitted/ 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage or rosemary Ready for Salt and pepper to taste • Preheat oven to 425°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. Layout • Toss squash rings with olive oil, salt, and pepper. • Arrange in a single layer, sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs. • Roast 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Article 4 p4: Holiday Hosting with Grace, Ease & Joy
Serve: On a platter garnished with rosemary sprigs and orange zest for holiday color.
Smoked Maple Glazed Salmon with Rosemary & Persimmons Serves 6–8 Profile: Crisp, savory, and stunning on a platter 3 delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into ½-inch rings 2 tbsp olive oil ½ cup grated Parmesan 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage or rosemary Salt and pepper to taste • Preheat oven to 425°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. • Toss squash rings with olive oil, salt, and pepper. • Arrange in a single layer, sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs. • Roast 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Serve: On a platter garnished with rosemary sprigs and orange zest for holiday color.
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CHEF-STYLE SHOPPING LIST Produce
V 2 lb salmon fillet V 2 ripe persimmons V 1 pomegranate (optional) V 3 delicata squash V 1 bunch rosemary V 1 bunch sage or thyme V 24 Medjool pitted dates V 1 orange (for zest and salad) V 1 lemon (for salad) V 1 red onion (for salad) V 1 bunch parsley or dill (for salad) V 1 can pumpkin purée
Dairy
V 4 oz goat cheese V ½ cup heavy cream V 2 cups milk (almond or whole) V 1 stick butter V Blue Bell Pralines & Cream Ice Cream V Optional: feta or goat cheese crumbles (for salad garnish)
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Pantry
Meat
V 12 slices bacon
V Fresh greenery & candles for tablescape V To-go containers for leftovers V Color-on kids’ tablecloth V Washable markers V Cozy jazz or bossa nova playlist
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Make-ahead friendly – serves 8 2 cups cooked wild rice blend 1 orange, zest + juice 1 lemon, juice ½ cup dried cranberries ½ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped ¼ cup olive oil 1 tbsp maple syrup ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper ¼ cup finely diced red onion ½ bunch parsley or dill, chopped • Toss everything together, chill, and serve at room temp.
Bonus Points: Sprinkle feta or goat cheese right before serving. Submitted/
Article 4 p6: Holiday Hosting with Grace, Ease & Joy
V Smoked maple syrup V Dijon mustard V Smoked paprika V Olive oil V Apple cider vinegar V Brown sugar V Vanilla extract V Cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper V Brioche or baguette V Honey V Pecans (for salad and bread pudding) V Caramel sauce V Wild rice blend – 2 cups cooked V Dried cranberries – ½ cup V Smoked Maple syrup (for salad dressing drizzle)
Garnish / Extras
Citrus Wild Rice Salad with Toasted Pecans & Cranberries
Ready for Layout
Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Salted Caramel & Pralines & Cream Ice Cream Serves 8–10 Profile: Cozy, spiced, and nostalgic with a creamy Southern twist 1 baguette or brioche loaf, cubed (about 6 cups) 3 eggs 1½ cups pumpkin purée 2 cups milk (almond or whole) ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup maple syrup or brown sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg ½ tsp salt 2 tbsp butter (for greasing) Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans • Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9x13-inch dish. • Whisk eggs, pumpkin, milk, cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and spices. • Add bread cubes, stir to coat, and let soak 15 minutes. • Pour into dish, sprinkle with pecans, and bake 45–50 minutes until golden and set. • Serve warm with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce and a scoop of Blue Bell Pralines & Cream.
Chef’s Tip: Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh before guests arrive or while dinner is being served, just remember to set a timer.
The Balanced Boarding Pass CURATED TRAVEL BY JESSICA COMEGYS
L
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ife is too short for rushed itineraries, mediocre meals, and vacations that feel like work. I bring the soul of a chef and the heart of a hostess to every journey I design— helping you blend culinary curiosity with meaningful experiences that flow effortlessly and leave you with unforgettable memories. As a chef and wellness entrepreneur, I curate travel for those who value both indulgence and intention. Think wine country adventures filled with unforgettable meals, restorative retreats that slow your pace, or thoughtfully planned weekend escapes that feel anything but ordinary. Each itinerary is bespoke and crafted with care so all you have to do is arrive and exhale. Your travels should feel like you at your most present, nourished, and Approved inspired. Let me help you discover a more balanced way to see the world rooted in wellness, wonder, and effortless luxury.
Advertiser: Gracia Party Boutique
Curating beautiful journeys, one balanced boarding pass at a time.
318.393.5371 www.balancedboardingpass.com Jessica.Comegys@fora.travel
Lola’s Favorite T H I N GS
Last year, we set up a retail pop-up shop under the name of our first business together, Mother Daughter Collective.
W
e filled our storefront with a selection of our favorite things — candles, holiday drink and dip mixes, and so much more. What we thought was simply scratching an itch for a boutique experience turned out to be the beginning of something much sweeter. Our favorite things aren’t just objects. They’re moments. They’re the small details that make life feel warm, thoughtful, and extraordinary. So, this holiday season, we’re opening our hearts and sharing our lists of all the things we return to again and again — the cozy, the meaningful, the playful, the beautifully practical. When life feels busy, loud, or overwhelming, we simply remember our favorite things... Pre-layout;
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Article 5 p1: Lola's Favorite Things
proofing, collecting assets, etc. 11/7
1. THE GIFT OF
Experience
Some gifts can be wrapped with ribbon. Others unfold slowly, like time itself. We believe the best gifts are the ones we experience together — unrushed dinners, road trips with playlists, hotel robes and terrace coffee, or a day where nothing matters except being present. GIFTING IDEA: Give a calendar and circle a date. Include a dinner reservation, road trip plans, or even plane tickets. Time is the one gift no one returns — and everyone remembers.
2. THE GIFT OF
Scent
Scent is the quiet narrator of home. In autumn, we simmer Cinnamon Cider from Aromatique — apples, clove, and golden warmth you feel before you see. In December, we return to Frasier Fir by Thymes — that first inhale of fresh-cut tree when the door opens to winter. For Page something 27 handmade, we adore the candle-pouring workshops at Clean Slate Botanicals in Shreveport. Bring your sisters, your best friend, your mother, your daughter — and pour a scent that becomes a memory. GIFTING IDEA: A candle and a handwritten note about a shared moment — or schedule a candlepouring workshop and make a memory. Simple. Human. Felt.
3. THE GIFT OF
Taste
Our holiday beverage of choice isn’t just a drink — it’s a tradition. Hot Ruby, with its blend of cranberry, pineapple, citrus, and clove, fills the whole house with warmth the moment it begins to simmer. Serve it steaming in mugs by the fire or chilled with sparkling cider or ginger ale. And if the evening leans festive, a splash of bourbon or bubbly turns it Pre-layout; into something gently celebratory. Trust us: buy two bottles — one for the party, andproofing, one to hide for later. collecting Mayhaw and muscadine jellies, along with hot jalapeño salsa, carry assets, the stories of kitchens and hands that came before us — little heirlooms etc. 11/7 of flavor passed from one holiday to the next. This is the season when taste buds wake up — when something as simple as stirring, pouring, and sharing feels holy.
Article 5 p2: Lola's Favorite Things
GIFTING IDEA: Bundle a jar of homemade jelly, a loaf of fresh bread, and a handwritten recipe card tied with twine.
4. THE GIFT OF
Paper and Pen
There is a certain magic in good paper — the kind that makes your handwriting look prettier and your thoughts feel more possible. If Lola has a signature gift, this is it: paper and pen. It’s how she remembers, creates, processes, and dreams. It’s how she lives. We keep Sugar Paper journals tucked in our tote bags and Rifle Paper Co. notecards ready in our desk drawers. And there is always one special pen — the favorite — the one we’ll loan only if we stand nearby and watch. Lists. Letters. Prayers. Grocery reminders. Someday dreams. All written by hand — because handwriting is a portrait of the heart. GIFTING IDEA: A journal and a beautiful pen with one line handwritten inside the front cover: “For the things that matter most.”
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5. THE GIFT OF
Green (ery)
Fresh winter greens have a way of turning any house into a home. We love winter stems tucked into pitchers, rosemary topiaries in the kitchen window, and simple garland trailing across the mantel. A small plant is never just décor — it’s a living bit of hope. You may find us wandering through local nurseries and flower shops to purchase living gifts for others while gathering magnolia branches and cedar clippings to decorate our homes. GIFTING IDEA: A small potted rosemary wrapped in brown kraft paper and tied with jute string makes the perfect hostess gift.
6. THE GIFT FOR
Furry Friends
Our pets are family, too — and they know when the good treats come out. This year, we’re spoiling the whiskered and wiggly ones with homemade dog treats, a fresh collar or bandana, or a ridiculously soft pet bed. After all, why should humans have all the cozy? We’ve learned that when the days are short and the world is busy, a dog curled at your feet or a kitten purring in your lap can soothe things you didn’t know were tired.
Article 5 p3: Lola's Favorite Things treats, a toy, and a note that says, “Give them extra cuddles from us.” PageMake 28 a little “Pet Joy Bag” for your dog-loving friends — GIFTING IDEA:
7. THE GIFT OF
When the world feels too busy, we simply remember our favorite things Pre-layout; — and proofing, joy finds collecting assets, us again. etc. 11/7
Cozy Textures
Some things just feel like comfort — cable-knit throws, soft mittens, wool scarves, slippers that make you slower in the best way. These aren’t just objects; they are permission: to rest, to slow down, to stay in and light the candles early. We believe in the art of coziness — especially in winter. GIFTING IDEA: Wrap a throw blanket with velvet ribbon and tuck a tea bag or cocoa packet under the knot. It says: Sit. Sip. Exhale.
8. THE GIFT OF
Sparkle
Not all sparkle is loud. Some shimmer is subtle — a gold bracelet layered with meaning, a pair of earrings saved for special evenings, a piece of jewelry gently restored instead of replaced. Jewelry holds stories — the ones we wear close, always. GIFTING IDEA: Have an heirloom cleaned, polished, or reset for someone you love. Sometimes the most meaningful gift is one they already have.
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Lola’s Favorite Places to Shop, Eat & Stay SHREVEPORT / BOSSIER › Balentine Jewelry Co. › Birdwell’s › JAC Clothing › Jolie Blonde › Merle Norman Uptown › Remington Suite Hotel & Spa › Simply Chic › We Rock the Spectrum › Pennington Facial Plastics › Akin’s Nursery
HOMER › Michael’s Men’s Store › Port-Au-Prince Restaurant
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NATCHITOCHES › Church Street Inn › Merci Beaucoup › Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant
9. THE GIFT OF
Seasonal Sounds
Every holiday has a soundtrack — and it begins long before the first ornament is hung. For us, it’s the gentle crackle of vinyl spinning in the corner and voices that feel like family filling the room. Some nights it’s Michael Bublé or Kelly Clarkson — bright, festive, and full of sparkle. Other nights, we lean into that deep Southern Christmas memory — Alabama singing “Thistlehair the Christmas Bear” — and suddenly we’re young again, riding in the car with our favorite people, noses pressed to cold windows, looking for Christmas lights. Pre-layout; And then there are the sounds that don’t come from speakers at all — proofing, the hush before the first choral note in a church Christmas musical, the collecting triumphant swell of brass, the soft harmony of people who’ve rehearsed assets, with heart, the tenderness of candlelight and silent reverence. etc. 11/7
Article 5 p4: Lola's Favorite Things
GIFTING IDEA: Create a holiday playlist mixing childhood favorites and new discoveries. Share it with those you love, near and far.
RUSTON › Lauren Roebuck Designs › Lula Perl Café › Lowder’s › Simply Chic
MONROE / WEST MONROE › Butter › Delta Biscuit Company › Hemline › Hotel Monroe & Heirloom Restaurant › Muffin Tin
LOLA’S PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM – REGIONAL › Britt Elizabeth Photography › Sandi Davis Photography › Hannah Finley Photography › Micahla Vaughn Photography
10. THE GIFT OF A
Photograph
There are seasons of life we wish we could hold in our hands — the gaptoothed smiles, the sleepy toddlers, the just-engaged glow, the “everyone made it home” holidays, the three generations gathered around one table. A photograph lets us keep a moment long after it passes. Whether it’s a family session in the golden light, a tripod set up in the backyard, or a quick candid taken in the kitchen — the magic is the same. It says: We were here. We loved each other like this. We believe in booking the shoot, printing the picture, and hanging it on the wall — because our lives deserve to be documented, not just remembered. GIFTING IDEA: Schedule a family photo session for someone you love. Wrap the appointment card in an envelope with a note: “Let’s remember this season — on purpose.”
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An Heirloom Christmas B reath ing n ew L i fe i nto th e J ew eLry w e L ov e
T
Featuring Balentine & Co. Jewelers
here is a quiet kind of magic inside Balentine & Co. Jewelers. The kind that doesn’t sparkle in a display case—but in the way people talk to one another. Soft laughter, familiar greetings, and that unmistakable feeling Page 30 that your story matters. When I walked in, I noticed it immediately. A father and daughter working side-by-side—Lee Balentine and Alexis Balentine Schmaltz, each carrying the legacy of this family-owned business not only through their craft, but through the way they treat the people who walk through their doors. I didn’t go looking for diamonds. I went looking for meaning. Like many of us, I have jewelry tucked away in drawers—some wrapped in tissue, some resting in small boxes—each piece holding a chapter of my life. The necklace my now-husband gave me when we were young teenagers. The promise ring that followed. The engagement ring. The wedding set I have cherished through 48 years of life with him. And then the heirloom pieces passed through the hands of the women whose lives shaped my own. My mother. My grandmother. Jewelry that holds sentiment, but not always wearability. It was time to breathe new life into what I love. When Alexis sat with me and gently asked, “Do you
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Written by Ellyn T. McKinney know what you want this to become?” I realized I didn’t— not yet. I just knew the stories mattered. So, she guided me the way someone guides you through a memory-filled attic. No pressure. No rush. Only curiosity. “Start by noticing what you’re drawn to,” she suggested. I Approved learned from Alexis that when we use our everyday jewelry to guide us and take time to notice pieces we admire, we lean into designs that feel like they belong. Then, consider that these treasures don’t belong only to yesterday. They will one day belong to someone we love, so why not invite them into the story – allowing it to continue like new characters added to the chapters of a beloved book. I looked at pictures and noticed what I wear and what I don’t. I thought about my daughter and my granddaughters. Then, I began to imagine the legacy in motion. This thought process took me to the sweetest memory when my own grandmother gave me her engagement ring the Christmas after I turned 15. She had no intention of waiting until Christmas day and wanted to see me enjoying this treasured piece. As soon as I arrived at her house, she gently took me by the hand and led me to the Christmas tree where a tiny, velvet-lined box was tucked within the branches. She handed it to me and shared that my grandfather had given
Advertiser: An Heirloom Christmas Balentine Jewelry Co
it to her when she was about my age. “Heirloom jewelry isn’t really about jewelry. It’s about the hands that have worn it and the love that travels with it.”
HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN
A TRAY OF MEMORIES
Gather Storied Pieces
When I returned to Balentine’s with my collection, Alexis prepared a velvet-lined tray. As each piece was placed carefully inside, it was as if time paused. Stones glittered more brightly than I remembered. Gold carried the warmth of loved hands. Stories rose to the surface of my mind and we talked. I shared the memory of who gave each piece, about weddings and promises and celebrations. I spoke about the women who are the true heirlooms of my life – the ones who poured into me and the love they gave that shaped my life. Then Alexis explained the process - how the metals could be melted and reformed, gemstones could be set in new designs and how something Page 31 treasured and tucked away, could become something new and live again. The entire process felt less like jewelry-making and more like storytelling. And just when I thought we were nearly finished, she offered something I did not expect. “Bring the person who will receive the piece with you next time,” she said. “Allow the giving to become a memory- make the gift more than an object, create an experience for the one who will wear it.” I sat still and realized that this is the gift – not the necklace, not the ring, but the moment. Just like the day when Pearl Surber gave me her engagement ring, the gift was not what was found in the box. The true gift is the memory itself- of those treasured moments when someone you love places something they love in your hands, to be passed along again and again. What if the memory itself is wrapped up and given? A grandmother and granddaughter sitting side-by-side, choosing the design together. A mother and daughter laughing over sketches and settings. Sisters holding the ring their mother wore, imagining how it will live on. These are the moments that become heirlooms, even before the jewelry ever touches the hand.
Heirloom Experience Rings, pendants, earrings—any piece with meaning.
Reflect and Share the Stories Write the memory that came with each piece. Your words will outlast the jewelry.
Schedule a Joint Design Appointment Invite the future wearer to join you. This becomes a moment to remember.
Advertiser: An Heirloom Christmas Balentine Jewelry Co
Approved
Design Something Beautiful Together Old metals melted. Stones reset. Legacy renewed.
Celebrate the Day Brunch, coffee or a quiet afternoon— a photo together to frame for later.
To shop or book an appointment with Balentine Jewelers, scan the QR code. 31
HOTEL MONROE’S
HOLIDAY HIGH TEA A New Tradition to Savor Written by Lola Magazine | Photography by Hannah Finley
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Article 6 p1: Hotel Monroe Holiday Events
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f you’re looking to add a touch of sparkle, sophistication, and heartfelt southern charm to your holiday season, make plans to visit The Hotel Monroe, a Hilton Boutique Property owned by Christie and Michael Echols. Nestled in the heart of Monroe, The
Hotel Monroe offers guests a lovely, timeless experience where hospitality is more than a gesture—it’s a feeling that lingers long after you leave. The moment you step through its historic doors, you’re greeted by a sense of Page 33 warmth, tradition, and elegance that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. This year, The Hotel Monroe is transforming its property into a dazzling holiday wonderland. Every corner will glisten with festive décor, from sparkling trees to garlands aglow with twinkling lights. One of the season’s most enchanting experiences, Cocoa in the Courtyard, will take place each evening from December 4th through December 23rd, between 5–7 p.m. Guests can gather in the courtyard, wrapped in cozy scarves, sipping steaming cups of rich cocoa as they bask beneath the soft shimmer of holiday lights. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, savor the moment, and soak in the magic of the season. Inside, the hotel lobby will be dressed in its most elegant Christmas finery—an irresistible backdrop for capturing those cherished holiday photos with family and friends. The highlight of the month will be the Christmas High Tea, hosted on Sunday, December 21st, from 3–5 p.m. This signature event invites guests to indulge in a celebration of taste and tradition. Beautifully
tiered trays will feature delicate finger sandwiches, handcrafted pastries, and an array of sweets as pretty as they are delicious. Each treat will be perfectly paired with a curated selection of fine teas and festive beverages. Whether shared with loved ones or savored as a special personal indulgence, the afternoon promises to transport guests straight into a storybook of holiday enchantment. Throughout December, The Hotel Monroe will brim with seasonal delights. Strolling carolers and live musicians will fill the air with familiar melodies, adding to the joyful ambiance. Children and the young-at-heart may even be treated to a surprise visit from the North Pole. As evening falls, guests are invited to continue the celebration at Heirloom, the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, renowned for its locally inspired cuisine. For those who prefer to toast the night sky, The Star Bar, the rooftop lounge, offers breathtaking city views and handcrafted cocktails that capture the flavor of the holidays. From glittering lights to the scent of fresh pine and the sound of laughter echoing through its halls, every detail at The Hotel Monroe has been thoughtfully designed to Approved make your holiday stay or visit unforgettable. Whether you join for Cocoa in the Courtyard, the Christmas High Tea, or simply to enjoy the décor and ambiance, one thing is certain—this season at Hotel Monroe will be nothing short of magical.
Article 6 p2: Hotel Monroe Holiday Events
Scan here for Hotel Monroe’s Calendar of Events
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Advertiser: WK (2 1/2 pgs)
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Advertiser: WK (2 1/2 pgs)
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ApprovedCamera ready artwork provided
ARCHANA SONIG, MD OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY
Board Certified, American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Connect with Dr. Sonig: Women’s Health Clinic 2508 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop Suite 201 Shreveport, LA 71118 318-212-5790
whc-shreveport.com Dr. Sonig accepts new patients and most insurance plans.
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There are many ways to welcome the holiday season—but if you know, you know: the holidays begin with Tinsel- a chauffeured shopping experience on Line Avenue in Submitted/ Ready for Shreveport. Advertorial p1: Tinsel Preview
For one magical evening, the doors of Layout your favorite local boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants open after hours, offering an exclusive night of shopping, laughter, cocktails, and community. It’s festive. It’s fun. And it’s all about celebrating with the women who make our homes, gatherings, and gift-giving meaningful. This year, Lola Magazine is the Presenting Sponsor of Tinsel, and we are thrilled to invite our readers to experience the joy, sparkle, and sisterhood of this beloved event.
What Makes Tinsel So Special?
Tinsel isn’t just shopping. It’s tradition, friendship, and holiday spirit—wrapped in twinkle lights and tied with a satin bow. Groups of friends gather together—sometimes in matching sweaters and other festive garb—ready to dine at Superiors Steakhouse, sip cocoa along the route, shop with intention and toast the season at the end of the night. Whether you're hunting for the perfect hostess gift, something meaningful for a teacher, the must-have toy on your child’s list, or the perfect dress for your upcoming holiday soirée—you’ll find it here, and you’ll find it locally. Along the way, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles, festive treats, and the kind of hospitality that reminds us why community matters.
Assigned & work 36
• • • • •
Private transportation between shopping stops After-hours boutique access + pop-up shops along the way Complimentary holiday bites + festive beverages Exclusive Tinsel-only discounts & specials A night of memory-making with your favorite people We’ll see you at event check-in, where you can pick up your wristband,
holiday shopping bag, and enter to win the Lola Holiday Gift Basket—a curated collection of our favorite seasonal finds.
• 318 Art Co.
• L.E. & Chalk
• Clean Slate Botanicals
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• Learning Express Toys & Gifts Submitted/ • Canatella Interiors • M. (Clothes/Shoes/Lifestyle) Ready for Advertorial• Duggan p2: Tinsel ContractorsPreview • Parish Girls Boutique Layout • Grace & Mercy Gifts • Pennington Facial Plastics • Isadora Gifts
• Pretenses Boutique
• Jac Clothing
• Simply Chic – Shreveport
• John Pickens Clothiers
• The Gilded Oyster
• Krush Boutique
• Waves of Color Salon
• LaBambolina Boutique
…and more joining each week.
When you shop local, your dollars stay here—supporting small business owners, families, and the heart of our community. You’re not just checking gifts off your list—you’re helping someone’s dream stay alive. At Lola, we believe those choices matter. Let’s Make It a Night to Remember. Gather your girls. Dress in something festive. Bring your Christmas list—and maybe your dancing shoes. Because the most wonderful time of the year begins together. And this year, it begins at Tinsel.
king on this now
SCAN for Tickets & Event Details Follow along on Social as we announce updates, feature special offers and more! Lola Magazine @readlolamag
Tinsel Shreveport 2025 @tinselshreveport 37
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Advertiser: JAC Boutique
6 012 Line Avenue, Shreveport (318) 606-4558
Approved
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Advertiser: TBD- Dr. Gifts That Inspire. A Mission That Matters. Page 39 That Inspire. A Mission That Matters. Gifts
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I remember it well. I was six years old and still learning the proper order in which to layer my ballet apparel—first tights, then leotard, elastic waistband, and finally a pair of pink ballet shoes. Every week, my mom pulled my hair into a tight bun on the crown of my head, WRITTEN BY SARAH MCKINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL STRIPLING PHOTOGRAPHY
The Nutcracker, presented by the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet, featuring The Shreveport Symphony Orchestra
checked my ballet bag, and gave me one last look before whisking me away to lessons
Submitted/ Article 7 p1: SMB presents with Miss CeceReady at theforTheatre Scan to tickets Thepurchase Nutcracker School of Layout Dance.
40 • Dec 13 & 14 SatPage & Sun
I
remember the way the cold floor felt beneath me as we sat patiently in our places before class. I remember peeking into an adjacent studio and watching the “big girls” float effortlessly across the floor, their skirts flowing in waves around them. I also remember the pomp and circumstance of my first recital—the dress rehearsals where moms held piles of tulle tutus while little girls crawled between rows of chairs, waiting their turn to practice on stage. I remember the heaviness of eyelashes, blush, and lipstick applied expertly to show up under the bright stage lights. There’s something so special about those early dance experiences, and to this day, I hold them close. That same year, my mom took me Page 41 to see The Nutcracker, presented by the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet,
and 30 years later, I still cherish that experience. We dolled up in “fancy,” festive attire, swept through a cloud of hairspray and perfume, and I may have slipped a swipe of Mom’s lipstick before leaving the house. I wore a burgundy coat with faux fur around the collar that made me feel just like the American Girl® doll, Samantha. Remember, this was the 1990s, and apparently, that’s all it took for sixyear-old Sarah to have the time of her life! And that was only the beginning. Before the ballet, we met up with my Aunt Barbara and cousin Britney—friends we call family—at a local Italian restaurant that served sweet mint tea out of giant goblets, too big to hold even with two hands. Everything about the night was special, and we hadn’t even made it to the theater yet. Upon arrival, I distinctly
remember the sounds of the orchestra warming up, the chatter of the crowd, and the occasional burst of laughter. We took our seats, and for the rest of the evening, I was entranced. The costumes, the beauty, the music—it was all such a magical experience— one that you can celebrate this holiday season as well. This December, the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet will once again celebrate this beloved holiday classic at Riverview Theater. This muchanticipated annual performance will feature more than 100 talented local dancers, guest artists Annia Hidalgo and Cristian Laverde König, and the beautiful music of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra. You’re invited
Submitted/ to share in this sweet tradition, and Article 7 p2: SMB presents Ready for create your own cherished memories The Nutcracker Layout with the ones you love.
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ind joy in play this holiday season at We Rock the Spectrum–Shreveport, the Ark-La-Tex’s first indoor sensoryfriendly gym created so every child can play, explore, and thrive. Our space offers a supportive, welcoming environment where neurodivergent children can enjoy meaningful play experiences that are calming, confidence-building, and fun. Parents can relax knowing their children are safe, celebrated, and understood. While you’re here, make sure Page 43 to stop by The Rock Shop, located inside the gym. Our boutique features a thoughtfully curated selection of sensory-based toys, puzzles, and gift items chosen and recommended by experts in sensory development. You’ll find favorites like Melissa & Doug games, fidget and sensory tools, puzzle piece jewelry, and more—perfect for holiday gifting or stocking stuffers. Not sure what to choose? We Rock the Spectrum also offers gift cards that can be used for open play or shopping in the Rock Store. This holiday season, give the gift of joyful play. Where every child shines.
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Article 8 p1: Home for the Holidays w/ Sarah Overall
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Home for the Holidays
By Sarah Overall, Director of Minden Main Street & Economic Development | Owner, Sarah Overall Events
Photography by Hector Sanchez & Courtesy of Sarah Overall 44
I
SARAH’S HOLIDAY TIPS
was raised in a Southern home where entertaining wasn’t reserved for special occasions—it was simply a way of life. My mother had a gift for bringing beauty and warmth to every gathering, from our perfectly matched holiday dresses to the coordinating bows on the Christmas tree. Every detail mattered, and I absorbed it all—watching her plan, prep, arrange, and pour her heart into making others feel welcome. And believe me, it was always a family affair, whether we wanted to be part of it or not. My grandmother shared that same spirit, but she expressed it through food—Southern soul food served daily to family, neighbors, and whoever happened to walk through her door. Instead of scolding when we misbehaved, her warning was, “I’ll break your plate,” which was all the motivation any of us needed to get ourselves together. From these two Page 45remarkable women, I learned that hospitality is not just hosting—it is care. It is love, expressed through intention. As a teenager, I stepped into the world of events by working for a local caterer. I loved the energy, the creativity, the way every detail led to a moment. Later, in college, I helped plan holiday gatherings for my sorority, Phi Mu, and realized I had inherited that same eye and heart for hospitality. Creating spaces that made people feel something brought me joy. Though I pursued a career in nursing—a calling I deeply respect—my creative side never quieted. Over time, I learned that nurturing people can happen in many forms: through thoughtful design, through styling, through a meal, through a moment. Whether I’m setting a holiday table, styling a photo shoot, or transforming a venue, I approach every detail with purpose—and always with heart.
Start with a vision.
Decide how you want your home to feel before you buy a single thing.
Use what you have.
The “good china” deserves to be loved, not stored.
Focus on high-impact zones.
Entryway, tree, mantel, dining table.
Design from the heart.
Let meaning guide your choices.
Article 8 p2: Home for the Approved Less can be more. Holidays w/ Sarah Overall
A curated space feels calm and intentional.
Bring back the dinner party.
Hospitality is not performance— it’s presence.
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layering fabrics adds depth and softness. Velvet or satin ribbons, woven runners, and elegant napkins instantly elevate a table. The goal is not perfection—it’s feeling. One of my favorite tablescapes was built around the beauty of the wood table itself. I skipped the full cloth and used a rich velvet runner, greenery, and gathered accents to enhance what was already there, not hide it.
Designing with Heart Today, as a designer, stylist, and event planner, my goal is simple: to create meaningful moments
Mixing Old and New Around the Home
Article 8 p3: Home for the Holidays w/ Sarah Overall
Decorating for the holidays goes beyond the Page 46 tree and the mantle – it captures the heart of the home, as well. The place where family and friends gather – around the table. When creating a holiday tablescape, I always encourage mixing the old with the new—because that’s where meaning lives. Start with one anchor piece: a special linen, a favorite set of china, a sentimental heirloom. Let that be your guide. For instance, I knew I wanted to use my Spode Christmas Tree plates, but since the room already carried a lot of green, I brought in deep red velvet and natural textures to create warmth and balance. Linens matter— 46
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through beautiful, intentional details. When I walk into a space, the first things I notice are color, lighting, and layout. In homes, I layer textures and tones that feel cozy, not cluttered. A few thoughtfully chosen statement pieces—a styled mantel, a well-lit tree, a welcoming porch—can define the whole atmosphere. For porches, I love playing with scale: oversized garlands, planters, lantern clusters,
“When you think about decorating your home, think about purpose. What are you trying to achieve through your home décor?” and soft lighting that make guests feel embraced before they even knock on the door. In commercial spaces, it’s about design that stands up to traffic and movement while still inviting warmth and wonder. My design philosophy is to first understand the purpose then, tell the story and let the space make people feel something.
Tradition Meets Whimsy
Article 8 p4: Home for the Holidays w/ Sarah Overall
Decorating Page 47my own home is where my roots and my creativity meet. Pulling out the holiday bins each year feels like opening a time capsule of memories. The nostalgia paired with something new helps create a look that feels both familiar and fresh. Last year, I decorated with vintage Shiny Brite ornaments from local antique shops—their soft shimmer reminded me of childhood magic. I loved it so much that I’ll be doing it again this year. But holiday decorating is not just about my style— it’s about my family. My daughter has had themed trees of her very own, from Santa to full pink tinsel wonderlands. Every home should have a place where each person feels celebrated.
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Creating Welcoming Holiday Designs When I think about being home for the holidays, I think of warmth. The fragrance of a Frasier fir candle. Soft, twinkling lights on the tree and mantle. Laughter echoing from the dining room table where we gather. Slowing the busy pace of life down, even just for a moment to savor precious moments and make memories that last a lifetime. At the end of the day, creating a beautiful holiday home isn’t about extravagance—it’s about intention, connection, and heart. The goal is to make spaces that feel as welcoming as they look. That’s the kind of beauty that lingers long after the season ends. 47
Have Yourself a Small Town Christmas in Webster Parish By Lola Magazine | Photography courtesy of Webster Parish CVC
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Article 9 p1: Christmas in Webster Parish
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Across Webster Parish, the holiday season is woven together by a simple truth: Christmas is supposed to feel joyful, genuine, and close to home. The streets sparkle with twinkling lights, carols drift through the air, and there’s a sense of community that feels almost like stepping into a storybook. It’s the kind of place where holiday spirit isn’t manufactured—it’s shared, neighbor to neighbor, year after year. From the moment you arrive in Springhill, Minden, Serepta or Sibley, the charm of Webster Parish unfolds in every direction. Downtowns glow with festive displays, and local shops brim with handcrafted treasures and warm welcomes. Holiday hayrides make for fun evenings with family and friends, and there’s something special about wandering red bricked streets on a chilly evening. Throughout the season, each corner of the parish offers something special—parades that fill the streets with laughter, tree lightings that draw the community together, and cozy Page 49gatherings where you can savor homemade fudge or freshly baked pies. It’s easy to see why visitors return year after year, eager to experience that unmistakable warmth that only a hometown Christmas can bring. In Webster Parish, holiday magic isn’t found in grand gestures or big-city displays—it’s in the little moments. It’s in the laughter echoing down a small-town street, the scent of pine and cinnamon in the air, and the simple act of coming together to celebrate what really matters. S o, p l a n y ou r holiday getaway to Webster Parish—walk the lights, sip the cocoa, meet Santa, and let the season remind you how good Christmas can be when it’s shared. If you’re looking for a small town Hallmark holiday, this is it.
WEBSTER PARISH EVENT DETAILS SPRINGHILL | NOV 29, 2025 Mistletoe Market, Hot Cocoa Crawl, Springhill Annual Lighted Christmas Parade, Downtown Storefront Decorating Contest, Pictures with Santa, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Christmas in the Park (food vendors including hot chocolate, Christmas music, horse-drawn carriage rides, caricature drawings, barrel train rides, face painting, games, and a bounce house—all free and familyfriendly, Springhill’s Christmas gift to the city.
SIBLEY | DEC 5, 2025 Article 9 p2: Christmas Approved Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit Sibley Town Hall in Webster Parish SAREPTA | DEC 6, 2025
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Festival—live entertainment all day starting at 10 AM, food & craft vendors, pony rides, bounce houses, and fireworks at dark.
MINDEN | DEC 12–14, 2025 Wine Walk, Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride, Christmas Cards to the Community, Presents on Pearl Craft Vendor Market, Christmas Parade, Fireworks Show, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Christmas Tour of Homes, Live Nativity, and Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Germantown Colony Museum.
COTTON VALLEY | DEC 20, 2025 Cotton Valley Christmas Parade Visit visitwebster.net or scan the QR code to plan your trip today!
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Article 10 p1: Willow Point Christmas Story
Submitted/ Ready for Layout
Long before the manger, the star, or the shepherds’ song, the birth of Christ was spoken into history. The prophet Isaiah, writing nearly seven centuries before Jesus was born, declared, “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14) Immanuel—God with us. The promise was set in motion long before the world realized it needed to be saved . In the quiet town of Nazareth, God sent the archangel Gabriel to a young woman named Mary. Scripture tells us Mary was humble, faithful, and chosen. Gabriel greeted her, saying, “Hail, thou that art highly favored,” and revealed that she would conceive and bear a son—Jesus— the One whose kingdom would never end. (Luke 1:26–33) Mary received this calling on her life with wonder, asking how such a thing could be. Gabriel answered that this child would be conceived not by earthly means, but Page 51Holy Spirit. “The Holy Ghost shall by the power of the come upon thee… therefore that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” (Luke 1:34–35) His birth would be miraculous—divine. When Mary told Joseph she was expecting, he struggled, wanting to do what was right. But God sent a messenger to him as well, assuring him that the child was from the Holy Spirit. So, Joseph, obedient and steadfast, took Mary as his wife and awaited the child to be born. (Matthew 1:19–25) On the night Christ entered the world, heaven chose an extraordinary audience for the announcement— not royalty, not the powerful, but shepherds in a field.
As they kept watch, an angel appeared, and the glory of the Lord surrounded them. In their fear, they were told words that still echo in every heart that seeks hope: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:8–11) This message was not only for the learned, or the deserving, or the holy. It was for all people. For every household, every nation, every generation. And it is still being spoken today—whispering comfort, offering joy, and reminding us that the Savior came for each one of us. Across distant lands, wise men saw a star rise and followed it, seeking the One born King of the Jews. They journeyed far to worship Him. (Matthew 2:1–2) The news of His birth spread, retoldSubmitted/ by many who saw and Ready for carefully believed. Luke would later write that eyewitnesses Layout recorded these events so that we might know the truth and the certainty of what took place. (Luke 1:1–3) And so, in Bethlehem, in a humble manger, the divine entered the world as a child. Jesus—Savior, Redeemer, God’s gift of love to all humanity. This is the miracle of Christmas. This is the story we return to each year. Not simply to remember what happened, but to remember why. Because God came near. Because hope was born. Because love came wrapped in swaddling cloth, lying in a manger.
Article 10 p2: Willow Point Christmas Story
WILLOW POINT BAPTIST CHURCH
5500 S. Lakeshore Dr. Shreveport, LA 71119 • (318) 631-8500 Pastor: Dr. Kenny Joyner Sunday Bible Study | 9:30 a.m. • Worship | 10:45 a.m. WED Mid-week Bible Study | 6:00 p.m.
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an you hear the holiday jingle in your head too? Can you also hear the record scratch when reality sinks in? Y’all, I’m gonna be so real with you right now—I’m tired. Even as I write this, weeks ahead of the holiday hustle and bustle, I feel it. Is it just me, or is the holiday season longer and more jam-packed than it used to be?
It’s the
Recently, we’ve spent time with several small business owner friends, and I genuinely don’t know how they do it. Managing households, corralling kiddos, participating in every school, church, and extracurricular activity under the sun, and somehow still operating storefronts, conducting business, and showing up for every commitment there ever was—land almighty, it’s a lot! ’Tis the season for all things joy, gratitude, thanks, and giving, but for the love—we are wearing ourselves so thin! (Whew! Deep breath...) I am thankful for this season. Truly, I am. What a blessing it is to gather with family and Submitted/ friends and celebrate all thatReady we’re grateful for for— and the greatest gift of all. Personally, I don’t want the Layout busyness to take away from the blessing. So here’s how I’m committing my time and energy this holiday season—intentionally. I’m showing up for friends and family who need a helping hand. I’m choosing quality over quantity when it comes to gifting. I’m carving out quiet time each week to rest and reflect on the many wonderful things this year has brought me and my family. I realize this might sound like a luxury—the ability to command a schedule and be intentional with time. Maybe it is just wishful thinking, but I’m going to do my best to honor this intention. Would you like to join me in this journey over the last few weeks of 2025? As we step into the holiday season, I hope you give yourself permission to rest when you need it. I hope you find joy in the small things. I hope you choose memories over messes made. I hope you embrace what truly makes this the most wonderful time of the year—and I hope you’ll share it with us. With love and light,
Most Wonderful
time of the year! (R
) ? IGHT?!
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Sarah/Ellyn Letter to Readers/SisterFriend
We have exciting
things planned for Holiday 2025, and we want you to come along with us.
Sign up for our e-newsletter and connect with us on social @readlolamag.
-Your Sister Friend Sarah 53
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Must Attend Events Stonewall
Ruston
Many
Lumiere: An Immersive Christmas Experience
Lincoln Lights Up the Pines
Many Christmas Parade & Festival
NOV 21 - DEC 31
Shreveport/ Bossier City Rockets Over the Red NOV 29
Believe! Lights the Night
DEC 6 & SELECT DATES
Tinsel
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DEC 5
Christmas in Roseland WEEKENDS DEC 4 - 22 SELECT NIGHTS
The Nutcracker
DEC 4-6 & 11-14
Christmas on the Farm DEC 6
Ruston Rudolph 5K DEC 18
DEC 13
Natchitoches Natchitoches Christmas Festival NOV 22 - JAN 6
Monroe/ West Monroe Champagne Stroll
Article/Advertiser: NOV 20 MustLand Attend Event of Lights NOV 21 - JAN 2
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Hotel Monroe Holiday Events DEC 4 - 23
DEC 13 & 14
Webster Parish Springhill Christmas Parade NOV 29
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Festival
Learn more and view an expanded selection of events at readlola.com/events
DEC 6
Minden Christmas Parade & Events DEC 12 - 14
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