December 2016

Sophisticated Woman Magazine

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

contents On the Cover:

December FOOD & ENTERTAINING

Holiday Gift Guide .................................16 Prepare the Perfect Tree For Christmas ........................................20

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Party in Style .........................................28

Recipe— Chocolate Almond Coffee Toffee ....................... 9 Book Review— The Very First Christmas Stocking and the Gifts of the Seven Coins............................... 27

ENTERPRISING WOMAN Juliana Chan— Juliana’s Wedding and Event Center ................. 22

BEAUTY & LIFESTYLE

HEALTH

Prepare the Perfect Tree.................................... 20

Dr. Robert Benson— Santa’s Rosy Cheeks and Jelly Belly .................. 15

Paying it Forward— EW Holiday...................... 26

Joy Feldmen— Candy Canes, Cookies and Coco ................... 32

Holiday Gift Guide.......................................... 16

Fashion— Party in Style................................................... 28

LEGAL

Home Feature— Home for the Holidays...................................... 34

Ronda M. Gabb— Year End Planning Tips ..................................... 6

Mary W. Speed— Christmas Now and Then................................. 36

BUSINESS

COMMUNITY

Farm Bureau— Real Service. Real People.™ ........................... 11 Florida Parish Bank— Banking for Your Community

.......................... 12

Gallinghouse Marketing + Creative— Three Last-Minute Holiday Marketing Tips

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Foodies and Friends— Season’s Eatings From the Heart.......................... 8

........ 18

Behind the Scenes ............................................. 4 Publisher’s Note ................................................ 5 The Northshore’s Best Featurette— Amy Smith Sawyer, DMD ................................ 19 Notes & Notables ........................................... 24 Kids Being Kids .............................................. 32 Sophisticated Social ........................................ 38 December Events ............................................ 40 Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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es t

behind the scenes

SW: What did you eat for breakfast this morning?

JC: Nothing! Just had some hot chocolate because I had to hurry out of the house to go vote!

SW: If you could be any place in the world right now, where would you be?

JC: Right here. Everything I enjoy to do is here and around me.

D ec

or t hsh

On the day of the cover photo shoot, we met up with our Enterprising Woman JULIANA CHAN on location at Juliana’s Wedding & Event Center where Johanna Frigola of She Laughs Hair & Makeup Boutique styled her hair and applied her makeup. While she got ready we asked her a few questions to get to know a different side of her.

ore’s B

with our Enterprising Woman Juliana Chan

eN ember 2016 | Th

Publisher Joanne Gallinghouse Project Manager Anna Kennemer Sales Manager Lorie Hollis Art Director Kristi Probst Graphic Designer Nick Salvetti Senior Account Executive Gwen Anderson Account Executives Corrinn Fisher and Emily Baker Contributing Writers Joy Feldman, Sarah Kennemer, Anna LeDonne, Jan Robert, Mary Speed and Jill Willie Contributing Editor Laura Tobin Contributing Photographers Amy Alberda-Acosta, Timothy Dunford, Michelle Preau, Steve Randon and Nick Salvetti Production Gallinghouse Marketing + Creative

SW: What does your ideal day-off consist of?

JC: I don’t really get one…but if I did, I would go dance!

SW: Of what accomplishment are you most proud?

JC: My five kids and seven grandkids with two more on the way! My little dynasty in America!

409 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 Phone: 985-893-7350, Fax: 985-893-7686 e-mail: editor@sophisticatedwoman.com www.SophisticatedWoman.com © 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. Views expressed are not necessarily shared by the publisher or staff of this publication. Please mail comments or submit articles and photographs to the above address. If you wish to be mailed a one year subscription, please send your name and address with $15 for handling. .

DISTRIBUTION—Your advertisement reaches approximately 75,000*

Dr. Mary Speed is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Therapist. She is a mother of two and is devoted to working with at-risk youth, counseling individuals and families, writing and teaching life lessons.

Nick Salvetti holds a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from SELU. A native of Mandeville, he enjoys photography and star-gazing.

Currently Nick is freelancing in both design and photography.

Amy Alberda-Acosta enjoys photographing kids and finding “letters” in nature. She tries to create art by looking at the world with a different perspective.

In the November issue of Sophisticated Woman magazine, the feature article had text that was omitted. The last paragraph should have read: Just like a quality piece of furniture, American Factory Direct has stood the test of time.

From their backgrounds in furniture sales and design to their forward thinking business acumen, the Comeaux family has a strong history of service, a solid

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

Distribution is guaranteed by direct mail plus s­upplemental pick-up locations. Our upscale mailing list

includes the most sought after customers in Abita Springs, Covington, Folsom, Hammond, Lacombe, Madisonville, Mandeville, Ponchatoula, Robert and Slidell. Why waste your advertising dollar on “throw away” publications when you could be advertising in Sophisticated Woman Magazine for pennies per mailbox? Call us today. You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is to advertise with the best.

Cover Photography: Steve Randon Photography, SteveRandon.com.

Hair and Makeup: Johanna Frigola, She Laughs Hair and Makeup Boutique, 403 N. Columbia St., Covington, 985-237-8537, shelaughsboutique.com. *Figures based on 2.5 readers per issue.

publisher’s note

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TIS THE SEASON FOR HEALING. While so many of us have been watching the history-making 2016 presidential election unfold, Christmas has sneaked up on us and is almost here! And it couldn't happen at a better time.

As we come together for holiday celebrations, we need to put our political differences behind us and use these gatherings to heal our relationships. It's time to stop engaging with others on social media and let it go.

Instead of feeling angry and disappointed with your grandmother for how she voted, remember how good it felt to sit on her lap or bake cookies in her kitchen. She's still the same person who nurtured and loves you unconditionally.

And that son you feel disgusted with for behaving childishly about his candidate losing? Remember instead holding him in your arms, teaching him how to tie his shoes and ride a bicycle. This is the same person who continues to look to you as a role model, the one who seeks your guidance, love and approval.

How do you just turn it all off? Well, you can start by reading Christmas Now and Then by Dr. Mary Speed on page 36. Or call your grandmother to get together and make special homemade treats, as Jan Robert writes about on page 8­­—Season Eatings from the Heart. Or read aloud The Very First Christmas Stocking and the Gifts of the Seven Coins by Terry Paul LaFargue (review on page 27) to your children.

Let's all use this season to reflect on what's most important-family and friends.

After all, they'll matter in our lives for far more than a four-or eight-year term!

The

CLOCK is ticking

On December 31, 2016 at 11:59 p.m., the counter on most health insurance plan deductibles resets to $0. If you have filled your deductible or are near it, you have until 5 p.m. on December 30 to get screening and diagnostic exams completed.

Minimize out-of-pocket costs. Perhaps eliminate them all-together.

Get scheduled quickly. Don’t wait days or weeks. Time is winding down.

71154 Highway 21, Covington |1310 Gause Boulevard, Slidell (P) 985-641-2390 | www.disnola.com

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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S E A S O N ’ S E AT I N G S F R O M T H E H E A R T. WRITTEN BY JAN ROBERT

THE HOLIDAY SEASON

is a time when you become the artist and your kitchen transforms into a magical workshop for creating edible homemade gifts. Will Santa fill your stocking with a lump of coal or will you be rewarded with sweets and treats?

In the second edition of my family cookbook, Almost as Good as Granny’s, I included a section called “Cooking with Friends” and compiled favorite recipes enjoyed together with friends over the years. For the holiday season, cooking for friends and family seems more appropriate.

Check out the recipes for sweet or savory scones, lemon curd, deep dark chocolate cookies, brownies, Emily’s mini pecan pies, spiced Cajun pecans, chocolate almond fudge sauce, chicken liver mousse, and kumquat chutney on the Sophisticated Woman website.

Each one of these, packaged in a special jar or wrapped in a beautiful tea towel, would be welcomed gratefully by any of your friends.

Last year I delivered homemade Bloody Mary mix, premixed Sazeracs and jars of our secret family remoulade sauce to special friends on my holiday list. Jars of my husband Gayden’s “Dr. BBQ’s Secret Sauce” is an annual favorite

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

from our family and is still requested each year by friends around town.

My friends and I agreed many years ago that when it comes to holiday gift giving, we all prefer consumables. No more stuff! Cooking for friends, a homemade gift from the heart, is a personal and more intimate gesture than a store-bought gift.

So what to make this year? Sometimes, months before Christmas I get lucky and stumble upon the perfect unique container and voila, it talks to me and tells me exactly how to fill it with love for my foodie friends. At other times, I may find the perfect recipe or rely on well-established traditions for gift giving.

Some of my family and friends expect certain food items for Christmas. I have been obligated by my family to bake French yule log cakes, bÛche de noël, for our Christmas Eve and Christmas day parties for over 25 years. Each year I threaten that this will be my last, but somehow, as much as I pretend to complain, I have not been able to give up this holiday tradition. I love to see the pure joy that the final masterpiece, complete with meringue mushrooms, green pine boughs, red marzipan berries

and buttery chocolate ganache kindles when it is brought to the table on a glimmering silver tray.

I love the last few weeks before Christmas when I come home from work and find little carefully wrapped parcels and delicate, beautifully packaged gifts filled with freshly baked goods from a friend’s kitchen on my front porch. What better way to show your love than warm cookies or a homemade, from scratch, fresh pound cake? Can you think of anything?

I can’t! Or, there is an unexpected knock at the door and a friend drops by with a surprise of Christmas cheer. Perhaps it’s a treasured jar of preserved figs or spicy pickles, homemade biscotti, milk punch or a carefully guarded family recipe for the best cheese straws in the south.

I will leave you now with a few of my favorite recipes for gift giving this year and warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! And, don’t forget, when cooking for friends I recommend making two batches—one to give away as gifts, and the other to keep for yourself!

For more of Jan’s holiday recipes, visit sophisticatedwoman.com/foodies-friends.

meet the owner

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C H O C O L AT E ALMOND COFFEE TOFFEE

Meribo VINNIE LEDONNE AND GAVIN JOBE

WRITTEN BY JAN ROBERT

FROM SMITTEN KITCHEN

Remember to make one batch for friends and one for yourself. This toffee is addictive!

Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks or 8 ounces) butter 1/2 cup light brown sugar 1/2 cup white sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons molasses (can swap corn syrup or honey) 1/4 teaspoon salt (or a heaping 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt) 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, or 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup roasted and chopped almonds

came up through fine-dining backgrounds and met while working together at a steakhouse in Baton Rouge. Vinnie specialized in restaurant management, hospitality and service training while Gavin’s passions were food and wine. The young, dynamic pair initially considered the current space of their modern Italian restaurant in 2012. “We knew we wanted to create our own dining experience incorporating everything we loved about the restaurant industry, but the timing wasn’t quite right,” Vinnie explained.

Four years later, the same building became vacant, and the timing to open their dream restaurant couldn’t have been better.

After a major facelift for the building, the space now boasts a chic interior with an equally appealing menu. “We like to think if an Italian chef got dropped off in Louisiana, this is how he would cook,” Chef Gavin explains. “We cook local ingredients with an Italian sensibility.”

The menu’s concept of modern Italian with a southern flair is reflected in the name of the restaurant, Meribo (pronounced Muh-REE-bo).

Owners Vinnie Ledonne and Gavin Jobe

Gavin and Vinnie coined the word by combining two Italian words: Meridionale meaning southern, and cibo meaning food.

The concept for Meribo developed from the desire to serve good food that you might see in a fine-dining restaurant, but in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. “We love pizza. We love good food, good wine and the joys of dining with friends and family. We want our guests to enjoy modern Italian cuisine with some southern influences in a comfortable environment. It’s that simple,” says Vinnie.

Meribo is located at 326 Lee Lane in Covington.

For more information call 985-302-5533 or visit meribopizza.com.

Directions: Line a 9”x13” baking sheet, with parchment paper or a silicon mat and set aside.

In medium heavy saucepan with a candy thermometer attached, melt butter, brown sugar, white sugar, molasses, salt and espresso together. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a whisk (one that reaches into the corners is especially helpful here) until the temperature approaches 250º F, at which point you should stir constantly until it reaches 300º F. Pour immediately into the prepared baking sheet—you can spread it more evenly with a silicon spatula. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the toffee and let them sit for a minute until soft, then spread the chocolate evenly over the candy base. Sprinkle the chocolate with chopped nuts and then, if you’re as impatient as we are, you can slide the sheet onto a cooling rack in the freezer until the toffee is set.

Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

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985-893-2450 10

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

business profile

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Real Service. Real People.™

PHOTOS BY NICK SALVETTI

WRITTEN BY JILL WILLIE

CHAD A. ROIG LUTCF, CLU.,

Agency Manager at St. Tammany Agency Farm Bureau Insurance has been with the company for the majority of his professional career. Yet, his 18-year tenure is surpassed by his time spent as a Farm Bureau member and customer.

While he was not actively looking for a new insurance company, he was open to learning about coverage options after being approached by an agent. “I learned very quickly how Farm Bureau could save me time and money. Once I became a member and had to make my first claim, I also learned about Farm Bureau’s personal service and convenience,” he recalled.

“A few years later when I was looking for a career change, that same agent recommended that I consider working for the agency. I knew Farm Bureau as a customer and experienced its hometown values first-hand. Joining the team as an agent made perfect sense.”

Today, Chad leads a team of six agents across St. Tammany Parish, along with an insurance adjuster and three support staff. “Our connection to the local community really sets us apart. Our agents are the people you are going to get on the phone if you have questions or issues. Whether a fender bender with your car or a flood in your home, we can get an adjuster to you quickly because we are already here,” he said. “We know the nuances of the area, weather events and accident-prone intersections. Our members don’t have to waste any time explaining these things to us when they make a claim. It allows us to get to a resolution much faster.”

Explaining that Farm Bureau is a memberbased organization, Chad said there are no add-on fees for applications or other assessments. “Our structure allows us to put our members first, to provide the most comprehensive coverage at the most reasonable price. Before we write a policy, we undergo a full-scale insurance assessment to educate our members on the type of coverage they may need. We periodically review these assessments to make sure coverage limits are where they need to be.”

With roots in the agricultural industry, Farm Bureau can also provide coverage that other insurance agencies can’t. “Large multi-acre farms, farm equipment, livestock—we can cover those just as easily as we can cover large homes, sports cars or anything in between,” Chad said.

Farm Bureau’s commitment to local agriculture goes beyond writing policies and providing coverage. A portion of membership dues are dedicated to educational programs to help develop and assist the agricultural community in St. Tammany.

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE® 635 Falconer Dr., Covington

985.892.4917 sttammanyfarmbureau.com

“Our motto ‘Real Service. Real People.™ is one we practice each and every day,” Chad said. “I am blessed to continue providing that same level of service that I received so many years ago.”

Farm Bureau is located at 635 Falconer Dr., in Covington. For more information, you can call 985-892-4917 or visit their website, sttammanyfarmbureau.com.

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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business

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Banking for Your Community WRITTEN BY SARAH KENNEMER PHOTOS BY NICK SALVETTI

OVER THE PAST 95 YEARS, Florida Parishes Bank (FPB) has become synonymous with community banking in Tangipahoa Parish.

Founded in Hammond in 1922, FPB now serves both Tangipahoa and St. Tammany parishes, with two full service branches in Hammond and additional locations in Amite, Ponchatoula, Covington and most recently, Mandeville. Florida Parishes Bank offers a full slate of commercial and personal loans as well as the latest in deposit accounts and online and mobile banking. What really sets them apart, though, is their dedication to the Northshore community.

The Local Connection for Home and Construction Mortgages Loan decisions at big banks are often handled remotely. At Florida Parishes Bank, loan officers at each branch review applications and make decisions locally. Leigh Harrison, Senior Vice President and Manager of the bank’s dedicated Home Loan Division, explains that FPB’s philosophy is that every family deserves the opportunity to own a home. Apparently, that philosophy is working—the bank has been busier with home loans the last few months than they have been in years.

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

“We always try to find a solution that works for our customers, rather than turn them down,” said Leigh. If a mortgage loan doesn’t qualify for the secondary market, Florida Parishes Bank looks at alternate financing until the customer can qualify for a fixed rate mortgage.” A 20-year mortgage veteran, Leigh elaborated, “We consider ourselves trusted advisors. And we know our customers well—not only their finances but their families and personal interests, too.” Being so entrenched in their local communities, FPB bankers form lasting relationships with their clientele.

The bank’s customers appreciate that personal touch when it comes to understanding their options. A common refrain heard from customers is, “We’ve spoken with other lenders, but you were the only one who took the time to talk to us.” And satisfied customers are FPB’s best advertising—most home loan business comes from customer referrals.

FRONT ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: COURTNEY DUCRE, MEGHAN LEVINE MIDDLE ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: CHRISTIE ROPER, RACHEL MEDKESSIE, FRANCINE FERRARA, TONI MANNO, LEIGH HARRISON

The Business Side of Things In addition to home loans, Florida Parishes Bank handles a full portfolio of commercial and business loans on both sides of the lake.

Denise Jackson, Senior Vice President and Loan Officer joined FPB three years ago with 15 years of commercial lending experience and over 30 years in financial services. “We wake up every day excited about what we do,” said Denise. “You have to love it.” Denise handles commercial and residential construction loans; some of her current projects include warehouses, the West Bank Flea Market, and lot land.

Florida Parishes Bank is invested in making the community better through supporting local businesses. The bank has even been known to turn away business when it is not in the customer’s best interest—a practice that is uncommon among big banking institutions.

Striving for honesty, compassion, and integrity, the bank provides an alternative in an industry that has become remote and impersonal. At FPB, you are not just another number—you are a name, a face, a friend.

Florida Parishes Bank Mandeville Branch is located at 2909 US-190. For more information, call 985-345-2265 or visit www.bankfpb.com.

ABOVE, FROM LEFT: BETTY TAYLOR, COURTNEY DUCRE, DENISE JACKSON, LEIGH HARRISON, MEGHAN LEVINE AND NICOLE SEILHANB BELOW, FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: THE FPB HOME MORTGAGE TEAM. RACHEL MEDKESSIE, LINDA RUSSO BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: SANDRA BAKER, PAM MENDER, LEIGH HARRISON, PATSY DELATTE, TONI MANNO

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AT CRYSTAL CLEAR EYECARE WE ARE FOCUSED ON YOU; MAKING SURE YOUR VISION IS PRISTINE AND YOUR OVERALL OCULAR HEALTH IS PRESERVED THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFE.

Remove allergens,

Sleeping with your eye

Remove sources of

Now you can remove

makeup debris and other

makeup is a dirty habit.

inflammation and your

your eye makeup without damaging your lashes.

sources of inflammation

Makeup leaves your eyes

contacts will feel less dry

to keep your eyes lookin’

inflamed and increases

and your eyes will look

whitest & brightest.

the signs of aging. Yikes!

whiter and brighter.

Stop by for Christmas shopping.

We are an authorized Costa merchandise dealer.

We carry shirts, hats, glasses, coozies, decals, lanyards and more.

114 N. 5th St. Ponchatoula To set up an appointment, please call the office at

985.467.1223 See us in the New Year for details on our Crystal Clear Eye Care Plan, our in-house vision plan.

DR. GUELDNER

A MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION AND OF THE OPTOMETRY ASSOCIATION OF LOUISIANA.

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

health

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Santa’s Rosy Cheeks and Jelly Belly WRITTEN BY DR. ROBERT BENSON

Dear Santa,

YOUR CHEEKS ARE LIKE ROSES and your nose like a cherry, and, on top of that, your belly shakes like a bowl full of jelly! Both of these conditions can be remedied by modern laser technology, often with absolutely no downtime at all.

The first condition is rosacea. Over the last decade, a very easy laser treatment called Laser Genesis has shown great success in eliminating this unsightly facial redness. A laser wand is held over the problem areas and simply airbrushes the skin. The warmth generated by the laser energy targets the tiny blood vessels underneath the skin, and they quietly vanish. It may take a few treatments, but elimination of the redness is almost always the case.

Your second problem is a common one.

A laser wand is held over the problem areas and simply air-brushes the skin.

When a belly shakes like jelly, it means that the extra fat is just under the skin, not deep within the intestinal cavity which is unreachable. This “squeezable” fat can be reached through an incision as small as a snowflake and melted away permanently with a special laser wand.

Another option to permanently remove belly fat is a non-invasive laser procedure called SculpSure. Using a comfortable belt of pads, fatmelting laser energy is beamed right through the skin reducing unwanted fat by 24% on average. Since you’re quite busy, this treatment may interest you because it takes only twenty five minutes with no downtime. In either case, you’d have to have your Santa suit taken up a few inches!

Finally, as you spread your holiday cheer, may we all in the healthcare profession do the same year round with broad smiles, kind words, and effective treatments for our patients.

Dr. Robert Benson is a board-certified dermatologist and experienced cosmetic surgeon with offices in Ponchatoula, Covington and Amite, 985-370-7546. QnA Cosmetic Surgery provides advanced laser and cosmetic treatments, 985-370-1762. Call or visit BensonDerm.com.

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Holiday

MARKETPLACE

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THE BLESSED MOTHER statue in soft gilded tones will add grace to any room. $65. Chaleureux, 120 West Pine St.,

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Ponchatoula, 985-486-0065, shopchaleureux.com.

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PREMIER CUSTOM FRAMING to preserve your holiday photos, children’s art, or update your art with a new frame. Featuring distinctive gifts by local artisans. Cypress Custom Framing, 100 Tyler Square, Covington, 985-327-7927, cypresscustomframing.com.

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OUR BEST-SELLING ONE-SIZE SLEEVELESS FLEECE WRAP

with pockets and shawl collar that folds up for a cozy hood. Perfect for our temperate southern weather! Available in ten colors. CDN Clothing, 221 Lee

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Lane Covington, 985-327-7300, info@cdnclothing.com.

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BRIGHTEN HER HOLIDAY with gemstone jewelry from the Michou Collection. This bracelet is one of many items perfect for under the tree Christmas morning. Champagne Jewelers,1344

Corporate Square, Slidell, 985-643-2599, champagnejewelers.com.

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BEAUTIFUL SWEATER

in soft loose yarn with simple back and alluring cross front design is a great gift for this upcoming holiday season. Michele Boutique, 1814 N. Causeway Blvd.,

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Mandeville, 985-951-2101.

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WE HAVE OVER 150 FLAVORS

of fresh, locally made gourmet popcorn perfect for holiday gifts or snacking. Each one is made with 100% natural ingredients. Popcorn Bistro, 6107

Pinnacle Pkwy., Covington, 985-871-6996, popcornbistro.com.

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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#GIFTGUIDE # L O C A L F AV S 7

THE VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS STOCKING AND THE GIFTS OF THE SEVEN COINS Join in on this never before

told Christmas story. To purchase your copy go to TheVeryFirstChristmasStocking.com 1

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THIS IS YOUR ONE STOP

Santa shop! With fantastic items arriving daily, you’ll be sure to find something your little one will love, at a price you’ll love even more. Once Upon A Child, 1597 Gause Blvd, Slidell,

985-445-1404, onceuponachildslidell.com.

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WHEN IT COMES TO ACCESSORIZING a gold cuff is a must for your someone special holiday list. The Leaf Me Alone Cuff is a custom gold tone palm leaf cuff that compliments almost every outfit. $68. Palm Village, A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store, 2735 US 190, Suite C, Mandeville, 985-778-2547.

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LIL’ BIT CRAWFISH BOIL SET is the perfect gift for family traditions to share with your lil’ chef. Comes with boiler pot, strainer, crawfish, potatoes, corn, seasoning and a wooden paddle. $34.95. Baby’s Corner, 70448 Hwy. 21, Covington, 985-892-5300, thebabyscorner.com.

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THE FALL UNIFORM found exclusively at The Villa. Contemporary and chic says it all. Designer clothing, gifts & accessories arrive daily.

Celebrating 15 years in business. The Villa, 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-626-9797, thevilla-mandeville.com.

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GEODE NAPKIN RINGS

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8 9 3

will make a lovely addition to any holiday

table setting. Available in white, black, grey and gold. $38 for a set of 2.

Niche Modern Home, 1901 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, 985-624-4045, nichemodernhome.com.

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meet the owner .......................................................................

Three Last-Minute Holiday Marketing Tips

Cypress Custom Framing & Gifts WRITTEN BY JOSH DEMELO

WRITTEN BY LAURA TOBIN

DOWNTOWN COVINGTON GAINED

a unique new establishment in August with the opening of Cypress Custom Framing and Gifts.

The chic little shop in Tyler Square features an array of frames, some of which are hand-crafted in the store by owners Nicole MacRae-DeMatteo and Jake DeMatteo. Nicole expresses sincere gratitude for her husband, Jake, and says Cypress would not be possible without his support.

The name Cypress not only reflects one of the materials used to create her frames, but also the distinctiveness of the Louisiana cypress tree.

Nicole’s love for framing encompasses more than the frame itself. It’s also the connection she makes with her customers when she discovers the significance behind each frame.

Whether it be contemporary, traditional or rustic frames, customers will surely find one to fit their needs.

Nicole is a firm believer in supporting local businesses. In addition to the hand-crafted frames, the shop also serves as a platform for local artisans to display their work.

“My bread and butter is framing, but if I

can help a local artist gain exposure through displaying their work in my shop, I’m happy to help,” expresses Nicole.

Nicole is a charming, creative individual who started framing while attending Nichols State University, where she worked at a local framing shop. After developing a passion for the trade years ago, she is now the proud owner of this new Covington gem.

Nicole says, “I plan on being here for a long time and I look forward to the relationships I will build in this community through my passion of framing.”

Cypress Custom Framing and Gifts is located at 100 Tyler Square, Covington, (985) 327-7927.

FOR SOME BUSINESSES, it seems the holidays have been in full swing since before Halloween. Just as with holiday shoppers, though, there are always those marketers who wait until the last minute to promote. And some may need a last-minute boost to get yearend numbers where they need to be. Here are three tips for the marketing stragglers among you.

• Think digital—Because digital campaigns can be implemented so quickly—particularly pay-per-click search marketing campaigns like Google AdWords—digital advertising can be a great solution for last-minute sales help. Online search traffic peaks in early December as people look for deals and gift-giving ideas.

• Social-ize—Facebook remarketing offers tremendous opportunities for impromptu promotions at any budget level. Through the platform, you can set your spending level and micro-target your advertising to the people you most want to reach. Feel like you’re missing a certain customer segment? Create a custom audience to hone in on a very specific demographic by age, location, gender and interests. The beauty of Facebook advertising is that you set the spending level where you need it to be, and you can start or stop a promotion at any time.

• Connect at a personal level—Especially for businesses that don’t see a holiday spike in activity, the end of the year can be a perfect time to connect more personally with customers, to thank them for loyalty and show your appreciation. Share some holiday cheer over lunch or open-house gatherings. Give your best clients a small holiday gift. Use your social media channels for non-commercial messages— share office celebrations or employee holiday anecdotes that show the people behind the business, and the values you as a company stand for.

Here’s to a dazzling year-end finish. Merry marketing and happy 2017 planning!

Laura Tobin is the Vice President of Gallinghouse Marketing + Creative. She is a 25+ year veteran of the ad industry with regional and national experience in marketing.

Gallinghouse is located at 409 W. 21st Ave., Covington.

For more information call 985-893-7631 or visit gallinghouse.com.

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

northshore’s best

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Sawyer Orthodonics

2015

“A BEAUTIFUL SMILE can not only improve your appearance, it can increase your confidence in daily life,” says Amy Smith Sawyer, DMD, owner of Sawyer Orthodontics. Dr. Sawyer grew up on the Northshore, attending St. Scholastica Academy before continuing to Millsaps College for her undergraduate and MBA degrees followed by dental school and orthodontic residency at Medical College of Georgia.

“As an orthodontist, I have the unique opportunity to change people’s lives by improving their smile and self-esteem.

I love knowing that I impact the children and adults of our community by enabling them to feel confident as they pursue their dreams,” Dr. Sawyer explains. For this reason, returning to her hometown of Covington to open a practice focused on caring for patients of all ages was an easy decision.

Sawyer Orthodontics prides itself on offering the highest level of orthodontic care with treatments like Invisalign® and 3D X-Ray capability, while providing fun activities for children and a relaxing atmosphere for adults.

“Our friendly staff and comfortable environment makes your experience enjoyable while we work to create the smile of your dreams,” says Dr. Sawyer. Their service-oriented team helps patients understand their insurance coverage and will work out a payment plan that fits each person’s budget. This dedication to quality and comfort prompted her loyal patients to vote Dr. Sawyer the Northshore’s Best Orthodontist in 2015.

Dr. Sawyer lives up to the expectations of the Northshore’s Best by providing the most effective, efficient and comfortable treatments for her patients and your family can rest assured that her team will prepare an orthodontic treatment plan that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle.

Sawyer Orthodontics is located at 216 W. 21st Ave. in Covington. For more information call 985-327-7181 or visit sawyerortho.com.

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Prepare the Perfect Tree WRITTEN BY CORRINN FISHER PHOTOS BY MICHELLE PREAU

IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR. And one of the items on almost everyone's to-do list this season is to decorate the house with all things Christmas.

Gathering with family and friends and listening to Christmas music while trimming the tree embodies the true holiday spirit. This year, we were fortunate to be able to visit with a few local shops and gather some pictures for decorating

I always use pre-lit trees. And snow-flocked trees are nice, too. I start with my tree topper and put it into place. Then I grab my larger ornaments and kind of zigzag the placement throughout the tree. So use the larger ornaments first and transition to smaller sizes. The smaller ornaments serve as fillers. The part I save for last is the garland.

-Johna Costa, Motif

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Start with your lights if you do not have a pre-lit tree.

Then I place the garland. Once the garland is in place I start the ornaments. I alternate the sizes big and small to find balance. The topper I do last but make sure whatever is in your topper is also incorporated throughout the tree to help it make sense. Remember, that even with your traditional tree, you can still have a theme. As an example, for a gold theme, use gold accents of garland and sprigs. This way you can create a new theme each year.

-Steve Macloud, Niche Modern Home

We always put the topper on last. We save it as the finishing touch. Remember to make it personal and let the whole family by involved!

That is what Christmas is all about.

-Carol O’Donnell, Gild Home DÊcor Items available at Gild Home Decor and Niche Modern Home, both located in Mandeville.

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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cover story

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Juliana Chan

Enterprising Woman ZEST FOR LIFE WRITTEN BY JILL WILLIE PHOTOS BY STEVE RANDON

JULIANA CHAN loves to learn. Her passion for new adventures and opportunities to expand her mind is what gave her the confidence to leave her home and family in Hong Kong as a young bride and begin married life in a suburb of New Orleans. It’s what propelled her to open a small restaurant in Ponchatoula as a way to provide a livelihood for her five children and gave her the confidence to expand into a larger location in Hammond just three years later. It is what continues to drive her success with China Lotus and continued business growth with her most recent venture, Juliana’s Wedding and Event Center.

Building on lessons learned from parents who were shaped by postwar China and its fall to communism, Juliana grew up understanding the importance of self-sufficiency and the value of compassion. While many children were not given the opportunity to pursue formal education, Juliana attended a fellowship school in Hong Kong. Reinforcing their belief to share with others less fortunate, her family hosted many gatherings for friends and family where they would share meals and fellowship.

Looking back on the early years, Juliana had no idea the extent to which those experiences would influence her life and her career. The fact that she attended cooking school in Hong Kong before coming to the United States is perhaps the biggest example. Heeding her mother’s advice to learn skills that would take her far in life, Juliana applied to cooking school—not to become a professional chef, but simply to learn how to cook the meals she loved. “I realized the best way for me to eat the dishes I wanted was to learn to cook them myself,” she said. Her effort to become more independent and self-sufficient in her own kitchen is what gave her the confidence to open her restaurant’s kitchen all those years later.

In a similar way, Juliana’s exposure to Christianity while in school— paired with her parents’ Buddhist religion and her marriage to a Roman Catholic—has helped mold her own belief system. For someone who originally thought she did not want to have kids, she firmly believes God put her on the earth to be a mother to her five children. “My purpose is very simple. My fundamental job, my calling, is to be a good mother.

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This is what drives me both personally and professionally,” she said.

“Family is the most important thing to me,” she continued. “All my children—Garrick, Justin, Chanrina, Julina and Richina—have been such a support to me, especially through the tough times. A grouping of flowers in a vase is prettier than one alone.

We get our strength and our beauty through one another.”

Beauty is something Juliana certainly can appreciate. She is drawn to the visual and performing arts and loves being involved in creative endeavors. From painting water colors to working on a pottery wheel, her interest is evident not only in China Lotus’ décor, but also in its motto, Where Cooking Becomes Art. “We bring quality into the restaurant in everything we do. We start with high quality, fresh ingredients and prepare dishes to our exact specifications at the time of a customer’s order. Our dishes are specially blended, individual works of art, created by our talented chef Andrew (An Lam),” she said.

Perfectly complementing the cuisine at China Lotus are Juliana’s hand-made pottery pieces and watercolors. The soft color palette was deliberately chosen by Juliana and Andrew when they moved to the Hammond location

as a way to further separate China Lotus from the stereotypical buffet-style Chinese restaurant decorated in a harsh red and gold color scheme.

Juliana’s eye for design isn’t limited to the restaurant. Her talent in sewing and tailoring clothes has evolved into fashion design. “I have my own personal style and like that I can actuallycreate clothing that shows off who I am.

Whether I am working with patterns and starting from scratch or tailoring something I bought off the rack, I always add my own touch or embellishment for a distinctive look.”

After almost 30 years in the restaurant business, Juliana expanded her business horizons into wedding and events last year with Juliana’s Wedding and Event Center in Ponchatoula. Together with business partners Don Jones, Bill Hammack and Will Hammack, and their executive chef Kevin Gregory, she is helping to create one-of-a-kind weddings, business dinners, cocktail parties and other special occasions for people across the Northshore.

As an avid ballroom dancer, Juliana jokes that one of the best things about owning Juliana’s is having a place where she can dance.

“I feel invigorated when I dance. It’s a different

“Family is the most important thing to me.”

feeling than I get when I paint, sew or put my hands on a pottery wheel. Those hobbies calm me. Dancing exhilarates me. When I am all dressed up and twirling on the dance floor, I feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. I feel like Cinderella,” she said. “If I can make our brides and guests of honor feel that same way during their special events, then I’ve been successful.”

Juliana’s Wedding and Event Center is located at 18444 Hwy. 22, in Ponchatoula. For more information, call 985-261-0088 or visit their website, julianascenter.com.

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NEW ORLEANS SAINTS Long Snapper Justin Drescher surprised young patients at St. Tammany Parish Hospital.

SEALE & ROSS

sponsored the first annual Flight Fete with the Greater Hammond Chamber.

THE GREATER HAMMOND CHAMBER of Commerce presents the September Link Award to Sunshine Quality Solutions. Pictured from left to right are Chamber Chair-Elect Mark Dispenza, Link Award Committee Chair Dr. Rusty Mayer, Justin Morel with Sunshine Equipment, Dr. George Anthon, Whitney Statham with the City of Hammond, Bridget LaBorde and Anna Domiano with Sunshine Equipment.

Pictured from left to right are Joe Mier with the Hammond Area Economic and Industrial Development District Board, Hammond Northshore Regional Airport Director of Operations David Lobue, Airport Board Member Mark Rolling, HAEIDD Director Melody Woodworth, Michael Gray with Gray Aviation, City of Hammond Mayor Pete Panepinto, Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller, Eric Gray with Gray Aviation, Greater Hammond Chamber Chairman Brian Shirey, Tangipahoa Economic Development Foundation Director Stacey Neal, Airport Board Member Ken Ross, Chamber President and CEO Melissa Bordelon and Tangipahoa Chief Administrative Officer, Joe Thomas.

Eleanore Pitard, SSA class of 1998 and Lizzie McCulla, SSA class of 2011 are pictured with Cynthia Glancy, regent, Spirit of ‘76 Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution and their paintings of flags of the United States chosen to adorn the halls of the Veterans Administration Hospital in New Orleans.

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Ribbon Cuttings

de la Bleau B&B

Fleur de Lis Event Center Restaurant

Florida Parish Bank

Hammond Pre-Owned

Kay Jewelers

Metairie Bank

One Direction Healthcare

Rob’s Rockin’ Dogs

Soar Creative Arts Center

St. Scholastica Academy’s STEM Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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2016 Enterprising Women

Give Back

MICHELLE THIBODEAUX MARCH “I am on the Serve Team at The Church Of The King. I also donate gifts for children and adults to Pelican Athletic Club every Christmas.”

SHARON THIBODEAUX MARCH “I donate through my Church and to the Covington Food Bank.

Year round I donate to The Samaritan Center, especially more this time of year.”

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KELLY BURKENSTOCK OCTOBER

BILLIE COMEAUX NOVEMBER

JULIANA CHAN DECEMBER

“Thanksgiving and Christmas are special ‘Times of Thankfulness’ when I gather clothing, home décor and food to give to families and people in need. I also volunteer at the Bethel Community Snowball stand, Carwash & Coffee Shop where proceeds are used to enrich the lives of the downtrodden in need.

As I often quote Robert Ingersoll’s truism, “We rise by lifting others.”

May God bless each one of you and our Nation this Holiday Season.”

“The Christmas season inspires me to give back to the community.

This opportunity often has me finding treasures bought, but not given. These items are perfect to be a blessing to our local community organizations.”

Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord ... Deuteronomy 16:17

“To be honest, my mentality is to be kind and pay it forward all year round, not just for the holidays. I like to support our military, especially throughout our community. Even something as simple as paying for their breakfast and coffee when I see them in a coffee shop, which is something I actually did this morning. I have a special place in my heart for animals. I love to donate to the local SPCA, not only during the holidays, but throughout the year as well.”

book review

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The Very First Christmas Stocking and the Gifts of the Seven Coins WRITTEN BY SARAH KENNEMER

THE VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS STOCKING and The Gifts of the Seven Coins is a new and creative holiday story whose roots are nestled sweetly in tradition. Author Terry Paul LaFargue captures the warmth of the original Christmas story with a modern twist the whole family can enjoy.

Two young angels, Gabriel and Gabriella, haphazardly fly down from the heavens on a shooting star, crashing in a meadow. Upon arrival, the angels meet a shepherd’s family and tell them the good news of a child to be born in the town of Bethlehem. Gabe and Gabriella give each member of the family a blank coin that is to be given as a gift to the newborn child. As they begin their journey, following the Bethlehem star, they discover that the coins are no longer blank. Each of the seven coins has a different gift written on it representing what is within each person’s heart. The gifts of truth, forgiveness and love are just some of the labels on the seven coins.

When they finally reach Bethlehem, the family meets Mary and Joseph, the parents of Jesus. Each family member proceeds to give a coin to Mary, who then places them in the stocking with care. It was the very first Christmas stocking given as a gift to the baby Jesus. Both families and the angels form a bond of friendship and love that exemplifies the Christmas spirit. In the end, all family members are given their own coins to keep with them throughout the year to guide and remind them of what matters most—friendship and family.

The beautiful illustrations and imaginative descriptions take the reader on a spectacular Christmas journey. This book is a beautiful addition for your family’s holiday collection that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Party inStyle

OUR FA S H I O N PICKS

Holiday parties are fast approaching. From your office Christmas party to your family’s New Year soirée, we have ideas on how you can dress to impress this holiday season.

EMBELLISHED SHIFTS A simple shift dress with understated embellishments paired with metallic heels sets the perfect tone for a formal event.

LEFT: Rachel: Navy shift dress with silver metallic lining and cape detail $79, Columbia Street Mercantile. Steve Madden silver snake sandals $79.

Samantha: Lilly Pulitzer agate green Owen shift with gold embellishments $238, and banana leaf cuff $68, Palm Village. Gold peep-toe heels with bow detail $79 and gold snake print clutch $69, Shoefflé.

Marilyn: Lilly Pulitzer navy shift dress with gold embroidery $198, and gold Janie Wedge $198, Palm Village.

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fashion

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SHOW STOPPING COATS If you are looking for a classic combination, stick with a timeless LBD and let your outerwear do the talking.

RIGHT: Samantha: Smokey gray faux fur jacket $115 and black velvet ruched drees $78, Stella Dallas.

Black suede over-the-knee boots $98, Shoefflé.

Marilyn: Sequin blazer $85, and Kendall & Kylie black dress $198, Stella Dallas. Sacha London black cage heels $149, earrings $29, and black clutch $49, Shoefflé.

Rachel: Black jumpsuit $62, and leopard print coat $68, Michele Boutique. Vince Camuto black suede, pointy-toe pumps $109, Shoefflé.

PHOTOS BY AMY ALBERDA-ACOSTA STYLED AND COORDINATED BY ANNA LEDONNE MODELS: SAMANTHA BEYER, RACHEL KEIFFER AND MARILYN WHITAKER SHOT ON LOCATION AT MERIBO

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fashion

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LEFT:

Rachel: Fitted burgundy racerback dress $52, Columbia Street Mercantile. BCBG pumice suede peep-toe booties $139, Shoefflé. Faux fur jewel tone purse $38, Michele Boutique.

Samantha: Burgundy and gold shift dress $48, Simply Chic Boutique. Gold tassel necklace $78, Palm Village. Gold peep-toe heels with bow detail $79, Shoefflé.

BELOW:

Marilyn: Burgundy shift dress with pearl collar $49, Columbia Street Mercantile.

Lilly Pulitzer star bright bracelet $48, Palm Village. BCBG Pumice Suede Pumps $69, Shoefflé.

HOLIDAY HUES Red and green are a classic holiday color combination. This season, burgundy is the fashion industry’s favorite variation of red.

To complete the look, opt for a nude shoe, bootie or a metallic pump.

BOUTIQUE CONTACT INFO: COLUMBIA STREET MERCANTILE, 985-809-1789.

MICHELE BOUTIQUE, 985-951-2101.

PALM VILLAGE, 985-778-2547.

SHOEFFLÉ, 985-898-6465.

SIMPLY CHIC BOUTIQUE, 985-778-2010.

STELLA DALLAS, 985-951-2047.

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www.shopchaleureux.com

985-869-0691

Happy Holidays!

SWEATERS VESTS BOOTIES JEWELERY 1357 N. CAUSEWAY BLVD. MANDEVILLE 985.778.2010 INSTAGRAM.COM/ SIMPLYCHICMANDEVILLE

PHOTO BY KRISTINA BRITT PHOTOGRAPHY Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Kids

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Reece Hazard, a fifth grader at Tchefuncte Middle School, won the T-shirt Art Contest for the design to be printed on the Gator Fest t-shirts. Reece’s award was presented to her at Gator Gathering by Nikki Voelkel, chairperson of Gator Fest.

BEING

Kids

ˆ ‹ Mrs. Carter celebrates with Little Oak Middle School students at their PBiS Party. Students cashed in their Power of One tickets they earned by following expectations. They enjoyed nachos and popsicles.

‹

Hope Von Eberstein and Emma Biondolillo, 8th graders at Fontainebleau Jr. High, recently were accepted into the Louisiana American Choral Directors Association 2016 All-State Honor Choir.

Madisonville Elementary students were taught the importance of being safe around strangers. Mrs. Jennifer Hoover Houston from JFK Martial Arts taught the class to the students. In this photo is Sean Hoover, Jennifer Hoover Houston and Jackson Bourgeois from Ms. Judy Helmstetter’ s kindergarten class.

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Emily Roche (Culinary Kids student and Chopped Junior Season 2 Champion), Chef Eileen Bennett, Ella Petitto (Culinary Kids student and Chopped Junior Season 3 Champion), Sherri Hansen (Owner, Culinary Kids), Ethan Hansen (Culinary Kids student, recently filmed another culinary competition show). Chopped Junior viewing party at the Pontchartrain Yacht Club and mentor chef Eileen Bennett helped Ella serve her signature dish of grilled scallops with corn maque choux.

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Little Oak Middle School students, Meredith Link, Renee Ory, Sarah Dubuisson, Emerson Ray and Delaney Cousin, at Friday Fun Night. There were food, games, dancing and a costume contest.

Candy Canes, Cookies and Cocoa WRITTEN BY JOY FELDMAN, NC, JD

DECEMBER IS THE MONTH where sugar plum fairies dance through your children’s school day. Everywhere they turn, there is a holiday celebration offering a sweet treat. I know that many parents might feel defeated and wonder how to stop the sugar from flowing, but please don’t despair. Here are some simple ideas to help steer your children to healthier eating through this sugar laden holiday season.

1. CREATE A SPECIAL SPACE. Make some space for a kid’s foodie section in your refrigerator.

Pick a drawer they can easily reach and fill it with fruits, vegetables and any other snacks that meet your approval.

2. JOURNALING YOUR FOOD is not just for adults. When grownups want to watch their weight, they often keep a food journal. Why not have children do the same? If they want to be aware of what they are eating, help them keep track too.

3. GET YOUR KIDS COOKING. Encourage your kids to be the creators of their own special meals. Allow your child to be the chef. Set aside one special night during this holiday season for your child to be in charge of dinner.

4. STAY ON SCHEDULE. Even though the holiday season is filled with those midafternoon buffets, keep your family’s schedule.

Continue to serve healthy meals at the normal time each day. This will help your little ones graze instead of gobble.

5. TAKE THE FOCUS OFF FOOD. Shift your focus from food to fun. Get the whole family involved in board games, craft activities or your own family fun walk by the lakefront. Bring out photo albums from years past and talk about fun times you shared as a family that did not focus on food.

Here’s to your health!

IMPASTATO GALLERY & ART THERAPY Start off the New Year with Impastato Gallery & Art Therapy at our NEW LOCATION: The Market at Chenier 1901 us 190 suite 28, mandeville, la 70448 (985) 778-5338 & (985) 951-2221 impastatogallery.com

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Home for the Holidays WRITTEN BY CASEY ROBERT PHOTOS BY TIM DUNFORD

THE JOY AND SERENITY of the holiday season arrives early each year at the home of Greg and Keri Peace of Mandeville. Their elegant Europeaninspired home is the first stop of Johna Costa, who specializes in seasonal decorating. Keri and Johna have worked together for 10 years, and these two organized women agree that starting early on this home makes the whole season more enjoyable for the family.

The Beau ChĂŞne home is inviting year-round, featuring tall windows that let natural light fill each room. Greg, who is a builder and real estate investor, helped develop the floor plan and did his own construction management on the project when they built six years ago. Designer Kim DeBrock of KD Designs gets full credit from Keri on the interior details and color selections. Kim and Keri have recently decided to inject accents of champagne and blush into the creamy white interior, and the holiday decorations for this year echo that color scheme.

The main tree, next to the cast-stone fireplace in the living room, is a pre-lit and flocked artificial tree topped with fanciful feathers and wrapped in twig garland. The tree is the perfect bow atop the giftwrapping of the home, finishing off the feminine color scheme with largescale ornaments in various shapes and colors. Adding punch with blush

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ornaments gives balance to the gold and cream ones that last from year to year. Crystal-clear blown glass ornaments are barely noticeable at first glance, but reflect the tiny lights that are mixed into the foliage, providing more sparkle to the overall look.

The stockings that the family uses every year hang from the mantel draped in soft, elegant green garland. Using flocked foliage all throughout the home unifies the look, and the touches of blush appear again in the ribbon that weaves through the mantel greenery. They use the same approach on the dining room table, which features a custom blush linen runner as a base for the heirlooms that line the table.

The couple’s wedding china rests under newly monogrammed linen napkins, customized by Johna’s retail store, Motif, located in downtown Covington. Modern accents such as the frosted garland and white deer figurines sit alongside antique crystal Christmas trees, proving that Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Christmas Now and Then WRITTEN BY DR. MARY W. SPEED

mix of old and new that makes for the most truly custom and comfortable designs.

All throughout the home, it is evident that these residents are family-oriented. Built-in bookcases are brimming with family snapshots, and commissioned art pieces feature the children’s names and favorite scripture verses.

In the family room, a smaller tree holds the ornaments they have collected throughout their lives. “This is my favorite tree every year,” says Keri. “Every single ornament is a memory of time we had together as a family, and that’s what makes it special to me.”

At a time of year when so many of us seem to run out of hours in each day, Keri Peace truly echoes her own name when she describes her home and its Christmas decor. “Having the decorations up early gives us more time to enjoy the season. We love having family over; my daughter has friends here all the time, and we just love cooking for everyone and spending time together. That’s what this house is all about.”

I LOVE CHRISTMAS. Celebrations all over the world brighten our hearts.

I’m thinking now, like many of you, about first Christmases. I recall adults holding my mitten-covered hands, walking me to and from mass on moonlit nights through crunching, scrunching snow. I feel the warmth of the church and smell the incense, fur coats, and candle wax.

Louisiana Christmases are alike in this way—we gather, we look, we listen. But unlike in childhood, most of us now are more excited about the giving than the getting.

Presence means more to us. The sweetness of those who gather and tell again the stories of how it used to be ground us securely in hope. Yeah, it is funny how we sat there waiting for the turkey to cook, and it did not because SOMEONE (not mentioning any names, UNCLE JACK!) did not turn the oven on.

We grow in our understanding that it is not the absence of hardship that caused our families to know how to make do—and make do some more—but that we got to be great at problem solving because we had problems to solve.

So, y’all, let’s celebrate the things this season that go wrong because some things surely will. And this may be your own “present” for Christmas gatherings ahead of you.

God bless you and yours.

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Sophisticated Social HARVEST CUP POLO CLASSIC 2016 This unique fundraising event boasts over 1,200 patrons in attendance annually. Now in its 20th year, the Northshore’s “Premier Fall Event” serves as the primary fundraiser of the Junior League of Greater Covington.

Three Rivers Art Festival Since 1997, the Three Rivers Art Festival has bombarded the streets of downtown Covington, with fun, music, color, and most importantly, art. It has grown from 49 to 200 exhibiting artists. The festival attracts a sophisticated buying public and a talented group of artists and fine craftsmen, with upwards of 60,000 visitors attending each year.

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2016 Men Who Cook was a great success!

Sixteen teams of local “celebrity” cooks partnered with some of the best local restaurants– all cooking to end child abuse. These local HEROES raised over $54,000 to benefit Hope House, an area non-profit fighting to end the cycle of violence in our community.

Photos by: Joey Michel

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Every Monday

Weekly Square Dance with the Ozone Squares Square Dance Club. 8–10 p.m., Bogue Falaya Hall, 317 Jefferson Ave., Covington, 985-626-540, ozonesquares.com.

Story Time for Toddlers. Arts & Crafts, Singing, Dancing, and Characters, 10 a.m., reservation required, X Fusion Family Arena, 1455 N. Collins Blvd., Covington, 985-273-1385, xfusioninfo@gmail.com.

Every 2nd & 4th Monday

St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide SOS Survivors of Suicide Support Group meetings. 6:30–8 p.m., First Baptist Church, 1895 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, 985-237-5506, stops-la.org.

Every Wednesday

Covington Farmers Market. 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

Every 3rd Thursday

Women of Infinite Possibilities presents Self Defense and Gun Safety. 10 a.m.−Noon, Grace Disciple Church, 975 US-190 Service Rd., Covington, 985-867-5234, womenofwip.org.

Every Saturday

Covington Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–Noon, 609 N. Columbia St. or side lawn of the Covington Police Dept., covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

Hammond Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–Noon, corner of W. Thomas St. and S.W. Railroad Ave., downtown Hammond, 985-277-5680, dddhammond.com.

Camellia City Market. 8 a.m.– Noon, 1808 Front St., Slidell, camelliacitymarket.org.

Mandeville Trailhead Community Market.

9 a.m.–1 p.m., Mandeville Trailhead Cultural Interpretive Center, 985-624-3147, mandevillemarket@gmail.com.

DECEMBER

Nov. 1- Dec. 31

3

Nov. 19–Jan. 1

3

WGNO "Coats for Kids" Drop off your gently used coats at Once Upon a Child throughout the holidays. Help warm a heart and support our local community. 1597 Gause Blvd, Slidell. 985-445-1404.

Abita Springs Trailhead Museum presents Hometown Teams: How Sports Shape America, a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street program. Exhibit open during museum hours, Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m–4 p.m., Abita Springs Trailhead Museum, 22049 Main Street, Abita Springs, 985-871-5327, facebook.com/AbitaTrailheadMuseum.

Nov. 25–Dec. 24

Christmas in the Country. Time varies; most shops open 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Saturday, some Sundays. Restaurant and nightclub hours vary, free, throughout historic downtown Covington, 985-892-1873.

2

Christmas Craft Show. 7 a.m.– 7 p.m., 25% off camping, Land-O-Pines Family Campground, 17145 Million Dollar Road, Covington, 985-892-6023.

2

Dew Drop Jazz Hall Fall Concert Series featuring Barney Floyd Jazz Band, 6:30 – 9 p.m., tickets $10 at the door, Dew Drop Social & Benevolent Jazz Hall, 430 Lamarque St., Mandeville, 985-624-9604, dewdropjazzhall.com.

2–4

A Christmas Tradition holiday performance.

8–10 p.m., Admission: $22.50–$30, Cutting Edge Theater, 767 Robert Blvd., Slidell, 985-649-3727. cuttingedgetheather.com.

2–3

Christmas Under the Stars. 6–9 p.m., free, Griffith Park in Olde Town, Slidell, 895-646-4375, myslidell.com.

Every 2nd Saturday 2–3 & 9–10 Madisonville Art Market. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Water St., Madisonville, 985-643-5340, madisonvilleartmarket.com.

Every Sunday

Abita Springs Farmers Market.

Noon–4 p.m., Abita Trailhead, 985-807-4447, mrnmedic@gmail.com.

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17th Annual Holiday of Lights. 6–8:30 p.m., free, Tammany Trace Kids Town Pavilion & Kids Konnection Playground, 21490 Koop Drive, Mandeville, tammanytrace.org.

Cypress Custom Framing presents: An Evening with Artist Philip Sage. 2- 7p.m.,100 Tyler Square, Covington, 985-327-7927, cypresscustomframing.com.

Covington Holiday Art Market, 9 a.m.–1p.m., Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire, Covington, 985-892-8650.

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Merry Madisonville and Tree Lighting.

Caroling, kids' activities and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus who arrive by boat on the Tchefuncte.

Lighting of the Oaks after Santa's Workshop.

4–8p.m., Madisonville Town Hall, 403 St. Francis St., Madisonville, 985-845-9824.

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Christmas on the Northshore Concert with the St. Timothy Choir, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., free tickets reserved in advance, St. Timothy on the Northshore UMC, 335 Asbury Dr., Mandeville, 985-626-3307, sttimothyumc.org.

4

ELF University, The Musical presented by The Crescent City Sound Chorus. Adults: $20, Children $10, 4–6 p.m, Fuhrmann Auditorium, 317 N. Jefferson Ave., Covington, crescentcitysoundchorus.com.

4

Supper Under The Stars, 5–10 p.m, community dinner featuring the culinary delights of Chef Jeffrey Hansell of Oxlot 9 and Chefs Torre and David Solazzo of Del Porto Ristorante. Tickets: $175, Old Covington Courthouse Lawn, 510 E. Boston St., Covington. For tickets contact Gena at 985-875-1006 or Leah at 985-400-5663.

6

Mandeville High School Chorus Christmas Concert, 7p.m., Adults $8, Students $5, MHS Auditorium, #1 Skipper Dr., Mandeville.

EVENTS

9

Sips of the Season. 5–8 p.m., free, stop at more than a dozen Old Mandeville shops and restaurants, Old Mandeville, cityofmandeville.com.

9–10

Christmas Under the Stars. 6–9 p.m., free, Griffith Park in Olde Town, Slidell, 895-646-4375, myslidell.com.

7

Land Trust for Louisiana Annual Membership Dinner and Meeting with guest speaker John Snell, WVUE Anchor. 6 p.m., free admission, reservation required, Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum, 133 Mabel Dr., Madisonville, 985-542-5006, info@landtrustforlouisiana.org.

10

A Christmas Past, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., old-time holiday theme, arts and crafts, food, beverage booths, bands and strolling caroling groups. Girod Street, Old Mandeville, cityofmandeville.com.

10

Winter on the Water, 4–6 p.m., Santa Parade and lighting of the oaks, Lakeshore Drive from the Harbor to the Gazebo, Old Mandeville, cityofmandeville.com.

10

Healthy Community Kickoff presented by MDA, Abita Fresh, Walgreens and True Body Nutrition.

6 p.m., Ain’t Life Grand Corporate Headquarters, 1950 N. Highway 190, Covington, 985-590-7043.

8

Holiday Hat Fling Open House at the Cottage presented by Haute Dames Couture Milliners and “Friends of the Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage” wine and cheese reception. 2–5 p.m., Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum, 133 Mabel Drive, Madisonville, 985-845-9200, educator@lpbmm.org.

Slidell’s Bayou Christmas presented by the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Louisiana, 6– 10 p.m., lighted displays, animated to holiday music, live entertainment from local groups, churches and schools.

Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell, 985-960-1241, facebook.com/Slidells-BayouChristmas.

16

Dew Drop Jazz Hall Fall Concert Series featuring Don Vappie's Creole Christmas, 6:30– 9 p.m., tickets $10 at the door, Dew Drop Social & Benevolent Jazz Hall, 430 Lamarque Street, Mandeville, 985-624-9604, dewdropjazzhall.com.

17

Slidell Movie Nights presents Home Alone, 7– 9 p.m., free, Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell, myslidell.com.

18

Santa Photos at Baby’s Corner. 1–4 p.m., $10 for emailed professional photo, Baby’s Corner, 70448 Hwy. 21, Covington, 98985-892-5300.

A Christmas Brass Spectacular performing traditional Christmas music as well as original compositions of Erik Morales. 5 p.m., free admission, Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire Street, Covington, 985-892-3177.

10

20

10

31

50th Anniversary Performance of A Joyful Noise Unto the Lord, Fuhrmann Auditorium, 317 N. Jefferson Avenue, Covington, facebook.com/dancescapestudio.

8

15–25

St. Tammany Art Association Presents Jason Kofke Opening Reception. 6–9 p.m., free, exhibit open during regular gallery hours through January 28, 2017, 320 N. Columbia Street, Covington, sttammanyartassociation.org.

Holiday Concert with the Northshore Community Orchestra, 7– 8:30 p.m., free, Slidell Municipal Auditorium, 2055 Second St., Slidell, 985646-4375, myslidell.com.

New Year’s Eve Party & Fireworks, Land-O-Pines Family Campground, 17145 Million Dollar Rd., Covington, 985-892-6023.

11

History & Holly “Then and Now” Home Tour presented by the Covington Heritage Foundation, 3–7 p.m., tickets: $20 available at Braswell Drugs, The Southern Hotel and Hebert Cleaners. Day-of-event tickets available at St. Cecelia Hall, Historic Downtown Covington, Bogue Falaya Hall, 317 N. Jefferson Ave., Covington, covingtonheritagefoundation.com.

8

Charles Dickens Presents A Christmas Carol, a solo performance starring Mike Randall presented

by OnSTAGE in Covington. 7:30 p.m., Fuhrmann Auditorium, 317 N. Jefferson Ave., Covington, 985-892-1873.

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

Sophisticated Woman | December 2016

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Sophisticated Woman | December 2016