Sophisticated Woman - The Northshore's Best 2024 Winners - April 2025 Issue
Northshore's THE
Egan
Bailey Metrejean
Felicity Kahn
Katie Kimble Wonch, OD
Shana Roig
Liza Ledet DVM, CVA
Brandi McAndrew APRN, MSN, FNP
The Northshore's Best
Sophisticated Woman Magazine
Learn more about the 2024 Northshore's Best Winners. Support local businesses!
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Publisher Barbara Edwards Doyle
Associate Editor Maureen O'Brien
Graphic Design Emily Haik, Chris Garcia and Brad Growden
Account Executives Michelle PlaisanceBilliot, Maureen O'Brien, Linda Larkin, Katie Chabreck, and Daphne Misuraca
Contributing Writer Jan Windhorst
Contributing Photographer Chuck Billiot
Production Barbie's Dream, LLC
Distribution Manager Anthony Figaro
Distribution for Rouses Danny Sunseri
Available at Rouses Markets, Barnes & Noble, and over 350 local businesses throughout St.Tammany, Tangipahoa and the Greater New Orleans Area. Mailed directly to almost 13,000 qualified homeowners.
Sophisticated Woman Magazine
200 Greenleaves Boulevard, Suite 4 Mandeville, LA 70448 985-893-7350
TWENTY-ONE YEARS AGO, the Northshore was a very different place than it is today.
The area had yet to be impacted by the population boom in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Highway 190 was a two-lane road through the heart of Mandeville, Madisonville was still considered “the country” and anyone who would’ve suggested an exit on Fremaux Avenue would have been laughed out of town. In order to meet the population explosion over the last two decades, subdivisions have been built, schools have opened and virtually every type of business has been introduced into the area. There is perhaps no better gauge of the growth in the business community than our Northshore’s Best awards.
As part of Sophisticated Woman Magazine’s 20th anniversary back in 2004, then-editor Francie Unger and publisher Joanne Gallinghouse created The Northshore’s Best to recognize and honor local businesses. As the original Northshore readers’ choice program, what started with 93 categories has since expanded into over 400 categories encompassing West St. Tammany, East St. Tammany and Tangipahoa. Throughout the years, our goal has been to give our readers a voice to identify those businesses that excel in delivering products and services to our community.
There have been many long-time businesses that continue to impress our readers with their commitment to excellence. In fact, St. Tammany Hospital, Acquistapace’s, Coffee Rani and Gallagher`s have been perennial winners in their respective specialties. Other categories have fierce rivalries with two or three businesses taking turns. Some companies even employ competitive “Vote for Us” campaigns to win the coveted The Northshore’s Best title. Almost everywhere you go throughout the area – from doctors’ offices to car washes – if a business has been awarded the title in the past, you are going to know about it. They proudly display our logo as their badge of recognition on stickers, banners, certificates, signage and in advertising materials.
With an open voting process, anyone can vote for any local business organically in just a few categories or all of them. The process is 100 percent objective. Advertising in Sophisticated Woman is not a pre-requisite to winning. This year, thousands of votes were cast – a testament to our loyal readers and their passion for the Northshore people and businesses they love. Congratulations to our 2024 winners and thanks to all of you who have helped make The Northshore’s Best successful for the last 21 years.
Higher Calling
For Pamela Egan pursuing a life of service was a given. “I remember always wanting to be a nurse. By the time I became an RN in 1978, I realized this would not be just a job, but a calling. I’m proud my lifelong journey of learning has resulted in life-changing care and results for my patients.”
To say that her achievements are impressive would be an understatement. After her first nursing degree, Egan attained multiple advanced nursing and medical degrees and certifications including Board
Certification as a Nurse Practitioner, Master of Nursing in Psychiatry, Master of Science in Metabolic and Nutrition Medicine, Certified Diabetes Educator and Anti-Aging & Functional Medicine Fellow. Her education culminated in a Doctor of Nursing Practice which included
authoring Managing Menopause with Bioidentical Hormones based on her clinical research and inspired by her personal health challenges.
“After completing our family at 35, my obstetrician suggested tubal ligation. My husband, Peter, advised against it fearing negative effects, but I went ahead with it - and it ruined my life.
I gained 60 pounds in six months, couldn’t sleep and was very irritable. I’m surprised Peter didn’t leave me – I was a wreck. Until 49, I had a horrible quality of life. I was depressed, had heavy bleeding, fibroids and endometriosis. After pursuing conventional treatments with no success, I decided to study hormones and menopause to find answers and relief for myself.”
Egan credits the mentorship of Dr. Pamela Smith for turning
her life around. “I attended one of her lectures and learned there was progress being made in the field. She suggested I pursue the Fellowship program at the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Functional Medicine in Florida. It was challenging and expensive, but I truly believe it saved my life and put me in a unique position to help my patients.”
Inspired to learn and put her knowledge into practice, Egan has dedicated decades of study, experience and research across many related areas to provide holistic care and answers to patients who, like her, were not satisfied with the traditional patient experience. The award-winning caregiver says Egan Wellness and MedSpa is a Preventative Medicine practice focused on helping patients attain optimum health. “We look at the whole patient and use tools like balancing hormones, detoxing, reducing inflammation, diet and exercise counseling and assisting in strengthening the mind-body connection for better stress management. Our evaluations last an hour because you can’t give real holistic care in a seven-minute session. We have great success in treating men’s and women’s issues like metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, menopause symptoms and high blood pressure, but we also focus on helping patients optimize cellular and metabolic function to prevent these issues. We’d rather focus on prevention, than wait for someone to get sick. Optimizing cell function helps male and female patients look and feel as young as possible with many reporting they now enjoy the quality of life they had 15 to 20 years ago. We also help young patients thrive by getting them off ADD and other medicines by aiding brain function with nutrition, not drugs.”
Egan emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection. “We’re always under pressure. Dealing with stress is a huge factor in our health. We recommend patients de-stress for 30 minutes a day. Take a walk, enjoy the outdoors, come get a massage or facial.” The MedSpa side of Egan’s practice offers relaxation, skincare and aesthetics services. “Once patients feel younger, they often want their appearance to reflect their new level of energy.”
Taking her own advice, Egan has carefully built her team to expand the practice’s reach and allow her more time for relaxation and balance. Lauren Dufour is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner serving 30 years in internal medicine, pain management and aesthetics and also certified in functional medicine.
Dr. Pamela Egan
Her personalized treatment plans combine conventional medicine with complementary and alternative therapies to improve overall health, reduce symptoms of chronic diseases and enhance quality of life. Debbie
Bordelon, RN, oversees the practice’s Weight Loss Clinic, and Anna Grace Brance, Licensed Aesthetician, performs MedSpa consultations and services.
The Egans’ work-life balance now includes eight grandkids that keep them busy, including taking frequent beach vacations. Along with their three sons, Peter and Pamela also work the 1200-acre family farm tending to cattle and harvesting hay. Although the Egans’ daughter wanted to pursue nursing, Pamela encouraged her to attend medical school instead. Now, as a facial plastic
in Shreveport, she appreciates her parents’ support and the time the family spends together. Pamela’s advice to family and patients alike? “Take stock in what’s needed to remain vital while you’re still young, even amidst working, caring for kids and elderly parents and life’s hectic pace. Take control of your health intentionally and consistently, and know we’re here with the knowledge and tools to help. At 75 and almost 70, Peter and I, along with many of our patients, are great examples of looking and feeling healthier and happier than our age would suggest. Although it was born out of hard work and a difficult time in my life, I feel blessed to now enjoy this health and the ability to share it with others.”
surgeon
RESTAURANTS
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SHOPPING
Villere's Florist
VILLERE'S FLORIST has been delivering the Magic of FLowers since 1969 specia izing in stunning wedding
owers that make your special day truly unforgettab e Whether you're planning a wedding celebrating an anniversary or simply looking to brighten someone's day, we are here to help you choose the perfect floral arrangements Victoria Villere Fonda offers free consultations to ensure your flowers match your vision whether it's a classic, modern or unique design Located at 1415 North Highway 190 in Covington, we offer a wide range of fresh flowers including roses, green and blooming plants, fresh fruit baskets thoughtful gifts, and balloons Each arrangement is carefully crafted to bring beauty and joy to any occassion We proudly serve the entire Metro New Or eans area, including both the Northshore and Southshore, with reliable and timely flower de very. At V llere's Florists we are committed to exceptiona customer service and creating floral arrangements that eave a lasting impression Let Villere's F orist be a part of your next celebration, and allow us to help make every moment more beautiful and memorable For mo r e nformation or to schedule and appointment and begin planning your perfect f loral designs, call 985-809-9101 or visit villeresf lorist.com
PEOPLE
WEST ST. TAMMANY
Aesthetician Harleigh Hodges
Anesthesiologist Nate Harrison, MD
Architect Justin Greenleaf, AIA, NCARB
Attorney Cameron Mary
Cardiologist Farhad X Aduli, MD, FACC
Chef Pat Gallagher - Gallagher's Grill
Chiropractor Jeffery Miller, DC
Coach - Personal/Health Eric Doran
Contractor/Builder Justin Sullivan
Cosmetic Surgeon Benjamin J. Boudreaux, MD
CPA Patrick Gros, CPA, APAC
Dentist Daniela Eversgerd, DMD
Dermatologist Emily Grieshaber, MD
Event/Party Planner Cristen Quick
Family Practitioner Catherine Fussell, MD
Fertility Doctor Peter Y. Lu, MD
Financial Advisor Jerrold Rabalais
Gastroenterologist Russel Wardlaw, MD
Hair Colorist Gracyn Griffin
Holistic Doctor/Practitioner Pamela B. Egan, DNP, CDE
Wound Care Specialist Todd Schaffett, DNP, FNP, CWS, FACCWS, DAPWCA
PEOPLE
EAST ST. TAMMANY
Aesthetician Jayna Dang
Attorney Rebecca Saucier
Chef Ross Elrich
Chiropractor Alicia Smith, DC
Cosmetic Surgeon M'liss Hogan, MD
CPA Jeffery Moyle, CPA
Dentist Chandler Goltz, DMD
Dermatologist Christel Malinski, MD
Event/Party Planner Lolita Garibaldi
Financial Advisor Ovid David
Hair Colorist Rachel Welch
Insurance Agent Dave Martin
Interior Designer Corrinn Fisher
Makeup Artist Bella Monteleone
Mortgage Lender Paul Chaisson, NMLS 112522
Neurologist Rex Hauser, MD
Nurse Practitioner Tammi Lebarre, NP
OB-GYN Melissa Smith, MD
Orthopedist Christopher Sanchez, MD
Orthodontist P. Jason Goltz, DMD
Pain Management Doctor Tod Aust, MD
Pediatric Dentist Tyler Mesa, DDS
Pediatrician Tracie Carter, MD
Photographer Jennifer Abney
Physical Therapist Chaise Bennett, DPT
Psychiatrist Emily Conner, PA-C
Psychotherapist Emily Holland, PLPC
Real Estate Agent Heidi Daigle
Veterinarian Kara Eilts, DMV
Aesthetician Connie Beard
Anesthesiologist Michael R. Maher, MD
Attorney Matthew Edmonds
Chef Laura AtkinsonBienvenue Mon Ami
Chiropractor George Anthon, Jr., DC
Contractor/Builder Michael Thompson
CPA Randi Matthews, CPA, MBA
Dentist Christina Givens, DDS
Dermatologist Rebecca D. Soine, MD
Event/Party Planner Jerica Fletcher
Gastroenterologist Jason Reina, MD
Handyman Michael Strayers
Insurance Agent Ken Courtney
Interior Designer Casey Roberts
Neurologist Dr. Najib Murr
OB-GYN Mark Berry, MD
Pain Management Doctor Jonathan Thompson, MD
Pediatric Dentist Brian Frothier
Pediatrician Samuel Hickey, Jr., MD
Photographer Berkley Martin
Physical Therapist Scott Higgs, MPT
Real Estate Agent Trent Anthony
Veterinarian-General Bonnie L. Duhon, DVM
Victor
Melissa W. Smith, MD
As a native of Slidell Dr. Melissa Smith never dreamed that she would spend her career serving the community where she grew up After residency young doctors often have to move away to find a job in their speciality As fate would have it ust as Dr. Melissa Smith was beginning her job search the perfect opportunity came up to join Camel ia City Obstetrics and Gynecology in her hometown
Since then Dr. Smith has spent the last 16 years building her practice at Camellia City delivering babies in the very same hospital where she was born Dr. Smith practices the full spectrum o obstetrics and gynecology, and she is committed to providing quality, compassionate care to women
"It s my privilege to be entrusted with the well-be ng of my patients and their babies and it is my pleasure to be there to take part in the most important day of their lives. " Dr. Smith is excited to have the Northshore's first certified nurse midwife in her practice " I believe it's is a huge asset to be able to offer midwifery services to women who want alternative birthing experiences and to provide these services in a safe hospital setting Collaboration and education are the key."
When she s not working Dr. Smith has a passion for travel, gardening and spend ng quality time with her family. She has been married to her high school sweetheart for almost 30 years, and they have 2 children together. "My family inspires me to work hard at being my absolute best I strive to treat my patients like they are my fmaily because that is what they deserve From the bottom of my heart I want to thank each person who voted for me for this award. I also want to thank my patients for trusting me with their care They are surely the heart of my business
Melissa W Smith , MD is located a t 1150 Robert R oad i n Sli d ell , LA For more informat on call 985-781-4848, visit camelliacityobgyncom.kinsta.cloud
Camellia City Obstretrics and Gynecology
Joshua Culp Hammerdubs
Dr. Peter Y. Lu
The Fertility Institute (FINO)
Shana is thankful to have been voted NorthShore’s best Agent for 6 years in a row. Shana and her team at Legacy Insurance are humbled and grateful for this for this honor! With almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, it is Shana’s mission at Legacy Insurance to deliver the highest professionalism while maintaining her Dedication to helping individuals and businesses protect what matters most to them. At Legacy Insurance, Shana’s team specializes in providing tailored insurance solutions, including business, commercial, auto, home and life insurance. Shana’s journey in insurance began with a passion for helping others navigate the complexities of risk management. She prides herself on building strong relationships with clients, taking the time to understand their unique needs and challenges. This personalized approach allows her to provide the best coverage options and ensure that clients feel secure and informed every step of the way. Shana is continually furthering her education and researching the best technology to stay current with industry trends and regulations to provide the highest level of services. Shana continues to strive to empower her clients with knowledge, helping them make an informed decisions that align with their financial goals and lifestyle. In addition to her professional commitments, she is actively involved in the community and loves supporting several causes on the Northshore. When not helping clients at Legacy Insurance, you can find Shana spending time with her family and friends, enjoying the outdoors, and tackling new projects which keeps her grounded and connected to her community. Shana’s favorite past time is traveling with her husband Chad. Feel free to reach out to Shana to discuss your insurance needs or to schedule a consultation. Together, she and her team can create a comprehensive plan that provides peace of mind and protects your future.
Legacy Insurance, LLC is located at 832 East Boston Street, Suite 7 in Covington, LA. For more information, call 985-590-4342, visit legacyinsla.com.
HAMMERDUBS is a proud veteran-owned company founded by Joshua Culp specializing in providing premium branded merchandise from awards and signage to high-quality promotional products With a diverse range of clients—including Super Bowl 59, healthcare o rga ni zat ions , c ons truct ion c o m p a ni e s , universities, high schools, human resources sports teams, the US military, and various levels of government—Hammerdubs has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional value and service.
Focused on creating impactful products Hammer du bs e nsure s that every ite m promotes a meaningful connection with em plo yee s , c li e n t s a nd p rospectiv e clients Hammerdubs offers a white-glove service, ensuring a seamless experience for every client, from concept to delivery What set s Hammer d u bs a p art is it s commitment to quality Using cutting-edge decoration techniques and sourcing only the finest products, they guarantee that each item is not only functional but also leaves a lasting impression. Additionally Hammerdubs provides custom zed websites for clients making it easy to manage and s ho w case the r branded merchandise Whether it’s for corporate gifts, events or employee recognition Hammerdubs is dedicated to delivering high-quality, impactful products that help businesses make a lasting impression.
For more information, call 985-317-7805 or visit hammerdubs.com.
FOR YEARS Dr. Peter Y. Lu has been the trusted name in fertility care, earning the Northshore’s Best Fertility Doctor award every year since 2014- eleven years in a row!
As a board - certified expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, Dr. Lu has helped bring countless babies into the arms of loving parents, changing lives forever. “Every person and couple with infertility requires a unique, personalized approach for treatment. Each plan must take into account both the medical and physical circumstances as well as personal feelings regarding the treatment options.”- Dr. Peter Y. Lu. At
The Fertility Institute (FINO), Dr. Lu leads a dedicated team of specialists who work together to provide exceptional care. With advanced treatments and a compassionate approach, the Mandeville office is proud to support every hopeful parent on their unique path to parenthood. We celebrate Dr. Lu’s unwavering commitment and the families he has helped create alongside- the entire entire FINO team.
The Fertility Institute (FINO) Where Families Begin is located at 806 N. Causeway Boulevard, Mandeville, LA. For more information, vist fertilityinstitute.com
Shana Roig Legacy Insurance, LLC
Northshore's Best Medical Spa, Northshore's Best Medical Spa, Nurse Practitioner, Aesthetician Nurse Practitioner, Aesthetician and Laser Hair Removal Laser Hair Removal
TAH
THE AESTHETIC HAUS
LIST OF SERVICES LIST OF SERVICES
Botox, Xeomin, Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, Daxxify
Facial Rejuvenation Facial Rejuvenation with Biostimulators with Biostimulators
Natural Lip Enhancements Enhancements
NouvaDerm
PRP Derma Filler
Laser Hair Removal Laser Hair Removal
Morpheus 8 Morpheus 8 IPL
TANGIPAHOA
Hours: Mon-Sat: 9:00-6:30 Sunday: CLOSED
E J Fielding Funeral Home is proud and honored that we have been awarded the prestigious title of Northshore's 2024 Best Funeral Home in West St Tammany!
We are locally owned and operated, and it is our honor to serve and guide our community as the Premier Funeral Home and Cemetery on the Northshore. We have been the resource f o r c o m p assio n ate , gr i e f-centri c service, education, and support for the past 33 years Our dedicated funeral directors and associates are committed to providing compassionate care and support to families during their time of need. We re not a big impersonal corporation headquartered in a far distant city. We make decisions that suit our community and understand saying goodbye to a loved one is one of life's most challenging moments. We will continue to provide outstanding professional services without missing any details important to you and your family
Thank you to our community for trusting us with your loved one Come for coffee to see our facility, meet our staff, and learn about funerals, our on-site crematory, pre-planning, and our expanding cemetery with no obligations
St Paul's is located at 917 S Jahnck e Avenue n Covington, LA For more information, call 985-892-3200, visit stpauls.com
Elwin Ordoyne ECO Builders, INC
ECO BUILDERS is a locally owned and operated, three-generation company specializing in all phases of construction, including residental and commerical projects. With deep roots in the community, we take pride in delivering high-quality construction solutions tailored to meet the needs of our clients. Our expertise spans from custom home building and renovations, to innovative commerical spaces, ensuring every project is completed with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Our experienced team is dedicated to transparent communication and unparalleled customer satisfaction, fostering trust and reliabilty throughout every phase of construction. As a Veteran and family owned business, we bring legacy of expertise, integrity, and community- focused values to each project. Recognized for our commitment to excellence, ECO Builders continues to strive to bring you the best value to your project. Whether it’s a dream home or a state-of-the-art commerical space, ECO Builders is committed to building a better tomorrow, one project at a time. Voted Best Contractor/ Builder in East St. Tammany.
Paws ReTreat
PAWS RETREAT opened its doors in 2021 to provide our community with top notch one on one care for your dog s grooming needs. Since then we have grown from a single salon to now offering mobile services right in your driveway We offer nose to toes grooming services for all different dog breeds Our groomers take pride in what they do and it shows Every year our staff attends continuing education classes and safety seminars this ensures that we are educated in the top grooming and safety practices Our primary goal is safety and convenience for you and your furbaby For your convenience, all of our services are detailed through our online booking systems where we offer transparent pricing We are now offering appointments 7 days a week, as well as morning and evening availability
At Paws you will be greeted by our team and treated with the utmost respect while we work together to customize the perfect appointment for your dog We work by appointment to ensure that your dog receives one on one care in a safe and timely manner. This allows pet owners to use their time efficiently instead of spending the day wondering about your pet. We look forward to meeting customers loyal our to you thank and you
Clearview Auto Title & Notary: Efficient, Quick, And Friendly
CLEARVIEW AUTO TITLE & NOTARY
In 2025, Clearview Auto Title & Notary will celebrate their 50-year anniversary! Clearview Auto Title & Notary, which was established by Sal Mortillaro in Metairie in 1975, adding the Covington location in 2007. Sal Mortillaro II, who became part of the business in 1999 and has carried on his father’s legacy by providing a warm friendly atmosphere for most DMV services. As a licensed Louisiana Public Tag Agent, they perform title transfers, issue license plates, sticker renewals and more on the spot and provide driver’s license services including issuing including drivers permits and clearing license flags. With three notaries on staff, they can take care of most of your personal and business notarial needs, excluding wills and Louisiana immovable property transfers. Located in Covington on Hwy 190, in front of Lowe’s, they are conveniently open six days a week, Monday- Friday open 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Clearview Auto Title & Notary is proud to be labeled as a Louisiana Military Owned Business, with both, Sal Sr., a former, Louisiana Army National Guard soldier, and Sal II, a former Marine and current Louisiana Army National Guard officer, serving their community with honor and dedication.
Located at 2990 Gause Boulevard East in Slidell, LA. For more information, call 985-645-9558, visit ecobuildersinc.com
Paw s R eTreat i s o c at e d at 2661 Florid a St i n Mandeville LA For mor e information, c al l 985-778-0162 , visit facebook.com / PawsReTreatmandeville
Clearview Auto Title & Notary is located at 1102 U.S. Hwy 190 in Covington. For more visit: clearviewtitle.com
