Social Northshore | February 2021

SOCIAL FEBRUARY 2021

GOING TO

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FROM THE EDITOR Hello, 2021! We have been so excited to kick this new year off with you. As soon as we got our December/January issue out, we were busy working on our annual Women Entrepreneurs publication, WE Social, that was distributed in January.

In this issue you will see an extension of the wedding section as we got a sneak peek inside the newest wedding site on the Northshore, The Chapel. We also spoke with Mayor Cromer about how he is making Slidell a more “connected” city. Patti Ellish shares her love for local restaurants and the local community through her twenty years of social Northshore living.

VOLUME 1 · ISSUE 5 PUBLISHER David Renfro EDITOR Jen Meadows

Mardi Gras may be cancelled but you will be able to find us at events this month as the locals have found ways to bring the true essence of fun around town. You will even see a familiar Mande Milkshaker, Tina Rhinehart, in our People You Should Know feature.

Social Northshore has so many amazing plans to showcase our community this year and we look forward to having you follow along! Thanks as always for your support to allow us to do what we love most - support local charities, showcase community leaders and highlight the great events of the Northshore.

JEN MEADOWS

Editor, Social Northshore

SOCIAL FEBRUARY 2021

NoRTHSHORE

COPY EDITOR Lana Cagle SALES Jen Meadows | 985.687.8980 Summer Morgan I 318.471.1001 Erin Heltz | 985.956.0297 David Renfro | 731.499.1414 PHOTOGRAPHY Casey Varnado Ashley George Shannon Serpas Eugenia Lubrano of NOLA Real Estate Marketing CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Liesel Schmidt Kayla Bertucci GRAPHIC DESIGN Corning Publishing Company SOCIAL MEDIA & WEB DESIGN Will Cross

ON THE COVER:

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE www.socialnorthshore.com Stay Connected:

@SocialNorthshore

GOING TO

theChapel

THE CARONNA WEDDING MAYOR CROMER NO HEART LEFT BEHIND

Jessica Gilmore, Tabitha Ledbetter & Amber Littlejohn

GET SOCIAL WITH US!

Find Social Northshore on your phone, tablet, or computer!

Make sure to subscribe at www.socialnorthshore.com 4

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

@SocialNorthshore

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CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2021

FEATURES 10

Community Leader:

14

Supermom:

18

People You Should Know:

26

La Belle Maison:

40

Socialite:

42

Impact & Give Back:

46

Bride:

53

Bride:

58

Bride:

10

Mayor Cromer

14

Kevinnie Dreher

Tina Rhinehart

The Natural

26

Patti Ellish

No Heart Left Behind

Erin + Vincent Caronna

Going to The Chapel

Wedding Traditions

42

46

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, SOCIAL NORTHSHORE ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF SOCIAL NORTHSHORE, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

SHOP. EAT. ENJOY. 6

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

LOCAL

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For birthday wishes past and present, they are depending on us.

And we are depending on you.

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CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2021

62

Bride:

71

Geaux Local:

74

Influencer:

78

Supermom:

Here Comes the Trend

74

Light It Up

Dashing Darlin'

Brandi Dalton

EVENTS 16 Money Hill: Santa's Winter Wonderland 23

Southern Hotel: Holiday Sip & Shop

66

A Merry Madisonville Christmas

76

Christmas at Terra Bella

MAINSTAYS 80 New & Noteworthy

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THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, SOCIAL NORTHSHORE ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF SOCIAL NORTHSHORE, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

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COMMUNITY Leader

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Mayor.

Wikipedia defines the word as “the highest-ranking official in a municipal government such as that of a city or a town.” With that title comes a great deal of responsibility, and for Greg Cromer, it is one he wears with great humility and respect.

As the mayor of Slidell since 2018, Cromer has seen the city through some of the most trying times in recent history.

Political unrest, racial tension, economic crises, hurricanes, and a worldwide pandemic have all befallen the nation, impacting the city at a cellular level that would challenge even the strongest leadership. Through it all, Cromer has never lost sight of his mission, which is to guide his city with strength and courage.

MR. MAYOR GREG CROMER

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Beginning his political career in 2002, Cromer spent the next 16 years working his way through various aspects of the inner workings of local and state government, serving as a member of Board of Zoning Adjustment as well as the Slidell City Council from 2002 to 2008 before he moved on to the Louisiana House of Representatives. Serving there from 2008 until 2018, he left the HOR to take office as mayor.

“I decided to run for mayor when I was on the City Council,” Cromer recalls. “I served under Mayor Ben Morris and saw what a good job he did, especially during the Katrina crisis, and realized that I could do the job. I decided then that I wanted to serve our community in that capacity and would do my best to do an even better job.”

Setting such high goals for himself at the outset of his mayoral career, Cromer was determined to deliver— regardless of the challenges that he might face. “I have tried to bring a calm, confident message to our community whenever we have been faced with adversity,” he says.

“During the storm season, we regularly aired videos on our city website and Facebook pages that presented pertinent information needed for our citizens to make sound, informed decisions regarding safety. We’ve also been actively working to change the perception that doing business in Slidell is difficult by presenting ours as a business-friendly community, one that is open and welcoming to folks that want to invest in us. Another great challenge presented in an IT infrastructure that was outdated or nonexistent; and we are now developing a new IT infrastructure to support a modern, ‘connected’ city.”

COMMUNITY LEADER

WE ARE NOT THE VISIONARIES FOR THE CITY, THE CITIZENS ARE. OUR JOB IS TO BE THE FACILITATOR TO MOLD AND DEVELOP OUR COMMUNITY

Over the remainder of his four years in office, Cromer has many goals that he wishes to accomplish; but even that list is not fixed, so evolutionary are the needs of the community that he serves. “The goals of a mayor are ever-changing,” he says. “We are not the visionaries for the city, the citizens are. Our job is to be the facilitator to mold and develop our community to be exactly what our citizens and business owners want and expect it be and become. They are the ones that are invested in our community with their money and this administration with their faith and confidence.”

Faith and confidence in his ability to lead are precisely what Cromer feels won his election; and over the past two and a half years that he’s been in office, he’s striven to prove that it was well-placed. “I would like to think that the people of Slidell saw someone that is friendly and approachable, someone who will listen with an open ear and an open mind,” he says. “People are often hesitant to speak to elected officials; but if people will not talk to you, it’s hard to do this job. I always

welcome the opportunity to speak to folks in the community whenever and wherever the opportunity presents itself.”

Even in the midst of a great period of uncertainty for the nation at large, Cromer can reflect on a great number of accomplishments. “We have had many small and large victories, and we celebrate them all,” says Cromer. “We have streamlined the permitting process in the city; and the impact of this has been huge for the business community. It’s helping identify Slidell as a place that is open and welcoming to both new and old businesses. We have even brought new businesses into town, filling vacant manufacturing and retail spaces with opportunities for our citizens to work in the same community in which they live.”

With more than a year left in his term as mayor, Cromer is still determined to prove his worthiness of the title and is deeply dedicated to the people who have put their faith in him.

FEBRUARY 2021

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B

eing a working mother is always a juggling act, but Kevinnie Dreher takes all that to a whole new level. With three jobs in the mix as a registered nurse at Lakeview Regional during the nightshift, an Aetna Family Nurse Practitioner during the day, the owner and operator of The Winewives, she wears many hats—and that doesn’t even include the one she wears as the mother of three children between the ages of eight and five.

Even with all of that, she wouldn’t trade a minute of it for a less hectic life. “It’s very fulfilling to do all of this and be a working mother,” says 31 yearold Dreher, who has been married to her husband Billy, a high school basketball coach, for 10 years.

“I am motivated every single day to be the best healthcare provider and business owner that I

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can be to set an example for my tiny humans.

I’m showing them that with, hard work, you can do anything that you set your mind to. No goal is out of reach. I have earned three degrees while working full time plus some and running a rapidly growing company—often breastfeeding twins while studying flash cards, writing papers at my husband’s basketball games and on work lunch breaks, taking day trips to cities across the U.S. to launch a Winewives chapter while FaceTiming a school performance, and grabbing sleep in between soccer games at Pelican Park.”

If that all makes her sound rushed off her feet, it’s because she is. But she still finds inspiration to carry on and push forward, even on the most challenging days. “When people see me at the hospital or in the clinic, they’re feeling their worst,” Dreher says. “Especially during this pandemic and all of its visitation restrictions, they haven’t had the ability to have their family’s support. Offering a little extra time and love can sometimes change the entire day or—more

importantly—an outcome for someone. When women meet monthly for the Winewives wine club, sometimes we are their sounding board, a break from their life’s stressors. My biggest lesson in all aspects of my work, both in my wine club and in healthcare, is to be kind because you can change the course of someone’s story with just one act of kindness.”

That example of kindness is something she’s proud of showing her children, and Dreher feels it also makes her a better mother. “I am able to provide for my family by caring for others, and I find that so rewarding,” she says. “I also truly believe that it makes me better—both as a mother and as a business woman—because it isn’t often that I forget why I do what I do. Whether through healthcare or wine club, my purpose is to help people and make them feel better; and everyday, I wake up with that intention.”

As her children get older, Dreher hopes to instill in them all of the values that will make them

the best people they can be; but she also hopes to give them memories that will last them for the rest of their lives. “I want my children to remember my smile and the sound of my laugh,” she says. “Laughter is sometimes the best medicine, and I try to do it often.

Genuine belly laughs from the little humans that I helped create may be one of my greatest joys in life, and I believe that every memory made should be filled with a smile or laughter.”

Dreher has also created special traditions to share with her little ones that she hopes to carry on. “Every Sunday morning, even if I worked the night before, my husband makes the best homemade blueberry pancakes and fruit smoothies. We gather around the table and talk about something that we look forward to in the week ahead or anything that we enjoyed the week prior,” she says. “Another family tradition for us is that, if I am off from work on a basketball game night, my son dresses in a suit and tie just like his dad; and all kids sit on the bench with the team. Then we have a post-game dinner at Chili’s. It brings so much joy to both of us to see our kids enjoying the game that we love so much.” And no matter where she may be, Dreher never forgets the importance of the three “tiny humans” who watch her example.

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MONEY HILL | SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND

Aaron, Jennifer & Mae Brasuell, Allison & Heath Moss

Brooke & Hayden Heap, Hastings & Sharon Savage

Burt, Burton, Ashley, Sadie, Theresa, Alexa & McKenna Pereira

SANTA’S

Odin & Ari Pechon - Ruby, Catherine & Jonathan Pechon

WINTER WONDERLAND

Ivette, Julianna & Cadence Peterman

Photos by Erin Heltz

On Saturday, December 12th, guests enjoyed lots of festive fun at Money Hill Golf & Country Club’s Santa’s Winter Wonderland celebration. The event started with a delicious brunch, then the children took pictures with Santa, as Mrs. Claus handed them presents. Children also got to create their own gingerbread houses on the back terrace.

LeeAnn, Brittany, RJ & Lila Dill

Chrissy, Emma & Ben Luzynski

Dennis & Cindy Haines, Maria, Johansson & Carlos Ebanks, Fernanda Vallecillo

COMING IN MAY

Gary, Shelly, Liam & Chase Lunsford, Katherine, Margaret Rose, & Kody Girault - Renee Girault Branch

REAL ESTATE

KEY PLAYERS & PERSONALITIES IN THE NORTHSHORE’S REAL ESTATE MARKET 16

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

Tina Rhinehart

STORY BY KAYLA BERTUCCI Laissez les bons temps rouler — Let the good times roll!

Though your favorite parades might not be rolling this year per usual, that doesn’t mean the good times can’t roll this Mardi Gras season. Just ask Tina Rhinehart, the spirited and vivacious captain of the marching krewe, the Mande Milkshakers.

Sporting bright red dresses with white polka dots in a 1950s style with cherry red lips, this krewe is hard to miss, come parade season. These ladies live it up while maintaining their four pillars of Fitness, Fun, Friendship, and Philanthropy.

“I’ve always loved to dance! I actually danced all through middle school and high school, and there was nothing quite like watching the dancers during the Uptown and Metairie parades,” explains Tina. “It was 2017 when I was surrounded by a group of my friends, and I just threw out the idea of creating our own marching krewe for the Northshore. Just a few short weeks later we were parading down the streets of Slidell showing of our housewife, 1950s-retro look during the Krewe of Dionysus parade.”

Fast forward to 2021, Tina is navigating how to keep the spirits of the Mande Milkshakers alive during this unprecedented worldwide pandemic.

Being the type of woman who doesn’t mind a challenge and loves to make others happy, Tina saw this Carnival season shake up as a welcomed hurdle. After all, what’s a Mande Milkshaker without a little shake?

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“We haven’t stopped! From the beginning when the lockdown began, we instantly offered support to our members to help everyone get through such a culture shock. We hosted zoom social hours and fun video submission contest within the group,” Tina says. “It became our utmost priority to keep those close connections to our girls. I would say our social and emotional wellness depends on keeping close ties within our group.”

Following state-wide regulations, the usual spring auditions to become a Mande Milkshaker wasn’t going to be the same. That’s why Tina spearheaded a virtual audition space on Zoom, and spirits were lifted as this exciting tradition carried on. However, being a part of this

dream team isn’t just about the shimmy and shake. On August 1st, the Mande Milkshakers held their traditional milkshake day fundraiser for their charity partner, Safe Harbor. This non-profit agency helps survivors who fall victim to domestic abuse by providing services such as crisis intervention, legal advocacy, and services to children who also feel the effects of abuse. Instead of holding an in-person event, Tina helped the krewe’s fundraising efforts by utilizing another online portal - Facebook.

“It was a live Facebook event where different girls got to produce different segments and we hosted them live from their household. We were able to raise about $2,500,” Tina says. “Then, we held a second virtual event. The annual walk a mile

event also became an online fundraiser in which girls hosted individual walks with their friends and family members, sent in videos and pictures, and we raised $5,600 for that month-long campaign.”

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

This month, as you crave your usual flavor of Mardi Gras, the Mande Milkshakers plan to serve up a treat of their own. Members of the group will participate in the Krewe of House Floats, which is a new to Carnival where certain streets and homes will be decked from roof to lawn in Mardi Gras décor. The krewe will also be a part of a fundraiser for Hospice House in Slidell by performing in stationary spots where anyone is welcome to drive

by. Keeping the spirit alive and well, Tina says this krewe will continue to adapt to any situation.

Because after all, milkshakes are just a delicious treat no matter what the circumstance. Am I right?

“These women and their trust in our group and in our philanthropy mean everything to me,” Tina shares. “I can’t just sit back and do nothing.

If they had to describe my personality, they would probably say I’m sassy with a bit of class. I’m a little bit of yolo (you only live once) with a little bit of fomo (fear of missing out). These attributes drive me to continue to make the people around me happy and to get things done.”

We are so excited to work with VIP SOCIAL MAGAZINES! We love that their issues depict the lives and stories of those who do good in our community, who live colorfully, and who inspire the rest of us.

We look forward to seeing in these pages all the wonderful things our friends and community members are doing to breathe life into our community” - Ken Friend, Owner - Friend & Co.

FEBRUARY 2021

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THE NATURAL 26

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

F

or some, the architecture of a home is simple and practical in its design, showing no thought to aesthetic appeal or artistry. For visionaries like Frank Llyod Wright, however, the design of a home was a thoughtful undertaking that reflected an understanding of shapes and lines and how to incorporate the natural beauty of the land into every detail.

It was that kind of thinking that went into the plans for the home that Renee and Randy Guillot built at 9 Mulberry Point in Covington. Completed in 2014 after two years of work, the 4,500 square foot house is a master work of rustic modernism mixed with just the perfect amount of Wright’s “organic architecture.”

Featuring stacked stone accents and architectural weathered sinker cypress, the house is eye-catching and unique, with a low roofline and frameless glass courtyard doors that give an unobstructed view of the lush green world outside.

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Those views are given even more play in the large ten-foot windows that abound throughout the house, giving it a sense of serenity that can only come from so much nature. Soft, neutral colors provide a blank canvas for décor and design details that continue the natural theme. “We kept casual comfort in mind and created a relaxing home that truly reflects the nature all around us,” says Renee, whose love of art and decorating can be seen all throughout the home. A homemaker while Randy is the owner of two transportation companies, Renee is also a mother and grandmother as well as a consummate host who loves to entertain family and friends.

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Naturally, a good host needs a good kitchen, and the Guillot’s home boasts a massive space with soaring 14-foot ceilings and a seven-foot stainless steel fan. The large island is topped with a beautiful quartzite slab, while London Fog quartz countertops run along the perimeter of the kitchen, crowning the Alder wood custom cabinetry. Adding a unique touch of design, a stunning backsplash of Carrera marble laid in a modern geometric cubed pattern of varying sizes runs up the wall to a height of ten feet. Perfect for any home chef, the suite of Thermador appliances includes an oversized refrigerator, two ovens, two dishwashers, a microwave, and a Thermador Professional Series stove. A built-in wine rack is centered between the large stainless steel refrigerator and walk-in pantry.

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Flowing throughout the house are diamond tip-polished concrete floors in a soft grey tone, adding to the sense of modern design, while the family room, hallway, living room, and office feature steel tube-hung Louisiana Sinker Cypress wood beams from the Manchac Basin area. “They create a really cool effect that softens the hard lines and add warmth and interest to each of the rooms,” Renee notes.

Bringing even more natural warmth is an accent wall of weathered wood cladding that runs up the entire height of the 14foot ceilings in the family room. Centered between the living room and kitchen is a large six-foot by 11 ½-foot stacked stone wall, with an off-center fireplace facing the living room.

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The master suite is a masterpiece, with polished concrete floors inlaid with weathered wood. A beautifully handcrafted artistic iron light fixture topped with a 36� rectangular off-white linen shade hangs over the bed, and 10-foot windows surround glass double doors leading out to the courtyard pool and waterfall. Naturally, Renee and Randy each have their own spacious walk-in closets.

In the master bath, a gorgeous white cast iron Kohler floating soaker tub is set off by a backsplash wall of varied marble hexagon tiles and flanked by two eight-foot-tall Alder wood cabinet towers. High above, a long tubular light fixture with a white linen shade casts a soft glow over the tub. Steps away, a massive triangular-shaped walk-in steamer shower is beautifully tiled in elongated white ceramic with a river rock floor. Continuing the crisp whiteness of the space, the countertops are a stunning white Crystallo Quartzite topped with two vessel sinks and brushed stainless steel wall mounted faucets.

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As beautiful as the home itself is, the location was important to the Guillots. “The oversized lot resembles a baseball diamond in its shape and frames out our home perfectly, with plenty of lush green foliage that creates privacy and adds as a serene park-like atmosphere,” says Renee. “We felt that the subdivision was beautiful with its hills and curvy, wandering streets.

The feeling of seclusion and privacy was important to us, and its location on a beautiful cul-de-sac street was perfect for our vision.”

Bringing the outdoors in and connecting to nature, they’ve created the perfect sanctuary of calm in a world that can often feel too far away from peace—and that’s a beautiful thing to come home to.

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FEBRUARY 2021

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Socialite

By Liesel Schmidt

As the former CEO of St. Tammany Parish Hospital, Patti Ellish used her background in nursing as the foundation for bridging the distance between hospital administration and personal patient care.

Over the course of nearly two decades, she helped changed the face of healthcare. Now that she’s retired, she’s staying connected to the community in other ways.

PAT TI ELLI S H Social Northshore: You were the CEO of St. Tammany Parish Hospital for 18 years...

What made you want to take on that role?

Patti Ellish: New Orleans is our home. Both my husband and I grew up in the area, and the chance to come home was a motivator for me.

I was the Chief Operating Officer of Memorial Health System of East Texas at the time, so the move back home was attractive. The thought that I could shape the vision and mission of one of our hospitals was exciting. This was the very opportunity that I had prepared for after graduating from Tulane University with a Master of Health Administration.

SN: How do you feel you changed things?

PE: St. Tammany Health System is a premier health center, and I helped shaped its development from a small community hospital to a premier regional medical center. Over my 18 years there, I was blessed to work with a talented team, many of whom are still there today.

SN: What do you do now that you’ve retired from that position?

PE: My husband and I are both retired, and we love to travel. I also stay busy with volunteer and community service. I currently serve on four community boards: the St. Tammany Tourist Commission, the Northshore Community Foundation, The Safe Haven Foundation board, and the Christwood Retirement Community board.

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SN: What are some of your favorite things to do on the Northshore?

SN: Where would you tell a visitor they should definitely go on the Northshore?

PE: I enjoy our great restaurants and visiting PE: Downtown Covington. It has beautiful art, with friends. I am also active in a Northshore ladies’ great shopping, and delicious food. There is so carnival group that parades in the French Quarter much to see and do, especially if you love the called the Primadonnas. We are 150 ladies strong, outdoors—like bicycling on the Tammany Trace. predominately coming from the Northshore. It’s The tourist commission website really showcases a fun group with a purpose that meets periodically what our community has to offer. for community causes (such as support for breast cancer survivors) or just to have fun. As SN: If you could have one day to do anything you Primadonnas—guardians of haute couture— wanted on the Northshore, what would you do? we all wear a signature headpiece the day of the march along with our matching handmade beaded PE: I would begin at Abita Brew Pub for coffee, bustiers (we use Mardi Gras beads). Our coveted stroll along the Lee Lane shops, and then lunch at signature throw is a beaded bra.

Ox Lot in the Southern Hotel. In the afternoon, I would go to Stone Creek Spa for a facial and a SN: How have you stayed social during these times massage, ending up at Sal ’n Judy’s for dinner. of the pandemic?

SN: Tell us about your family...

PE: It certainly has been difficult to gather; but I do participate using Zoom for the board meetings, PE: I’ve been married to Gary Ellish for 45 years. and I’ve even used Zoom for happy hours with my We met while I was in nursing school at Charity girlfriends to stay in touch.

Hospital School of Nursing and married in 1975.

We have two children, Melissa and Michael.

SN: What are your hopes for the community going Melissa works as a nurse practitioner at Ochsner forward? and is married to Casey Varnado; and they have our only grandchild, Aiden, who is a sophomore PE: My hope is that we can recover from the at St. Paul’s High School. Michael graduated from pandemic and return to the quality of life that we the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, have come to enjoy.

New York, and now works as an executive chef.

SN: How long have you lived on the Northshore?

PE: 20 years.

Our Thanks TO THE WOMEN OF

FEBRUARY 2021

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IMPACT & GIVE BACK

D

uring the nearly two decades that Abby Shields worked as an educator, she saw it all: brilliant children who she knew would one day set the world on fire, those who needed a little encouragement to reach their full potential, and some for whom her heart absolutely broke. The underlying thread, it seemed, was their home life. Shields found that their families were at the core, and so she left the school system to begin working with families.

Built on the belief that strong families make strong communities, Shields founded No Heart Left Behind in 2006. Since then, the organization has been offering Southeast Louisiana and the surrounding areas support and the tools to strengthen families facing difficult times. “Our mission is to serve, support, and strengthen families with the Love of Christ and the truth of God’s Word,” explains Alicia Stickles, who serves as NHLB’s Executive Director. “We look to educate and empower families to thrive in a broken world through counseling, mentorship, and community programs that equip them with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of family life. We also support families who have fallen on hard times due to life’s various circumstances.”

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Over the past 15 years, NHLB has helped countless families, though the exact number they work with each year is constantly in flux. “It changes year to year; and with the variety of services we offer, we have never kept a running ‘tally,’” Stickles explains.

“For example, our counseling office is at full capacity with approximately 56 clients a week. We also serve 100 children in our Adopt a Family program; and we average about 20 people in our Family Focused classes, which are held about two to three times a year. These numbers don’t even include the audiences from the various speaking events and retreats that we participate in each year. With all of that being said, it would be safe to say that the number of individuals impacted by the work of NHLB would be well into the hundreds each year—which would mean thousands over the course of the last decade and a half.”

Completely supported by the donations of individuals who believe in their mission, NHLB naturally faces challenges in finding

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“

We look to educate and empower families to thrive in a broken world through counseling, mentorship, and community programs that equip them with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of family life”

“NHLB is a ministry that invests in people and in family relationships. We do not represent a cause or a building.

enough funding to keep going; but their passion for the mission has been one of their strongest assets. “Conveying the importance of the work that we do can be a struggle,” admits Stickles. “NHLB is a ministry that invests in people and in family relationships. We do not represent a cause or a building, people often struggle to see the impact our ministry has in the community and beyond. However, like Mother Teresa once said, ‘If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.’ Community change and world change happens when families are equipped to love each other well. That is why the work we do is so valuable.”

The challenges, however, are nothing compared to the triumphs.

“We can see the difference we’re making in each and every family that has been transformed by the Gospel,” Stickles says. “We meet many families and individuals who come to us feeling hopeless and struggling mentally/relationally/spiritually. When we help them come to understand God’s love and we equip them with tools to love their spouse or their family well, they stop a family cycle of pain, instability, and—in some cases—abuse, to begin a legacy of love and wholeness for their family.”

”

The year 2020 brought even more challenges than anyone could have ever expected, but NHLB met them head-on. “We were expecting an increase in the need for financial assistance, but the greatest increase of need has been in our counseling services,” says Stickles. “Issues facing individuals, marriages, and even children are being intensified by the pandemic; and many are finding it difficult to cope.”

Most recently, their annual Christmas Adopt a Family Program helped make the Christmas season just a little bit more magical. “The need for assistance was great due to the pandemic,” says Stickles. “However, the generosity of the donors didn’t waiver. We were able to serve 100 children with multiple gifts this Christmas and had a great volunteer turnout on our distribution day. Due to COVID, we did have to change format from an in-person pick up to a drive through format. Even so, we were able to provide gifts, a meal, and lots of God’s love at the event!”

For more information on the services offered by No Heart Left Behind or on donation information, visit www.noheartleftbehind.com.

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BRIDE

Erin & Vincent

LOVE AT LONG LAST

By Liesel Schmidt When Erin LeBlanc met Vincent “Cenzo” Caronna in the fourth grade, there were no thoughts of the future that might happen. School mates from then on, the pair didn’t actually consider more until college, when serendipity threw them into the same classes. “After spending more time together, we realized how much we had in common,” says Erin. “We fell in love and have been together ever since!”

After graduation, Cenzo took a job in Raleigh, North Carolina, while Erin moved to Madison, Wisconsin. Braving the distance as a couple, it all changed on December 22, 2018, when they came to Mandeville for the holidays. “Cenzo told me he was taking me out to lunch to belatedly celebrate my birthday as well as the holidays,” Erin recalls. “Little did I know that he had reserved the balcony of the Lake House and had flowers and candles set up. He’d also written me a sweet letter that he’d had printed in gold foil and framed.” Presented with a ring custom designed at Texada Jewelry and Gifts, Erin said yes to the boy she’d known since childhood.

Nearly two years after their engagement, Erin walked down the aisle at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Mandeville on October 3, 2020, determined not to let the pandemic that had the world well in its grasp steal her joy. “We faced a great deal of adversity to get there,” says Erin, who moved to North Carolina to live with Cenzo in June of 2019. “We'd decided on a long engagement because of the distance, and then COVID hit. Not only were we planning a wedding in Louisiana while living in North Carolina, but we also had to deal with a global pandemic (thank goodness my mom helped plan the entire thing). Never in my life did I think that I would I need hand sanitizer and masks at my wedding, but we made the best of it and personalized them! Everything was so volatile all year that we weren’t sure we would ever finally make it to the actual wedding day. On top of that, my entire family is from Lake Charles; and they were devastated by the hurricane right before, so we weren’t sure if we should cancel or if we just weren’t going to have a lot of our family members there (half of which were in the wedding). Luckily, most of them were able to make it!”

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W

earing a long-sleeved, form-fitting Pronovias gown with jeweled detailing on the sides and down the sleeves and an open back with buttons down it, made even more dramatic by a long train that was complimented by her cathedral length veil, Erin exchanged vows with Cenzo while their friends and family watched. “We were the Caronnas getting married during the coronavirus pandemic.” she says with a sheepish smile. “My sister says that it was all my fault because I kept saying Caronna 2020. If only I had known what that really meant!”

Having been pronounced man and wife, the newlyweds joined their guests at a reception at Maison Lafitte. After “living on the dance floor”, they dined on a buffet that included shrimp and grits, a pasta bar, and a carving station as well as a cannoli bar that honored the groom’s Italian roots.

Finally, the couple cut into a four-tiered cake featuring one layer of red velvet with butter cream filling, two layers of Italian cream cake with pineapple filling, and a top layer of Italian cream cake with apple/ raspberry filling.

“We were blessed to get to have the absolute perfect day and work with amazing vendors that supported us throughout the entire process,” says Erin.

Sent off with wishes of a happy future, the newly married Caronnas spent their honeymoon in Key Largo, school mates who had become soul mates.

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BRIDE

“We were blessed to get to have the absolute perfect day and work with amazing vendors that supported us throughout the entire process.�

FEBRUARY 2021

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ENGAGEMENTS

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BRIDALS

| WEDDINGS

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BRIDE Photographer: Emily Songer Wedding Planner: Amanda Price Events Wedding Dress: Town and Country Bridal Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Ceremony: Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church Reception: Maison Lafitte Decor: Glo Event Decor (Chloe Tassin) Flowers: Delphine floral Videography: Wedding Film Solutions Tuxedos: Top Hat Tuxedos Hair: Caitlin Freeman at Air Blow Dry Bar Makeup: Lauren Michelet Knoblauch with About Face Mandeville Wedding Cake: Nonna Randazzo’s Grooms Cake: Brina B’s Cakery Get Ready House: Lacroix Loft and Landings Rentals: Element Rentals: Southern Hospitality Event Rentals DJ: Rock It Productions Transportation: Royal Coach Limousine

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985.875.7576 2033 N Hwy 190 | Covington office@greigehome.com

GreigeHome.com

G

O

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G to

THE CHAPEL

With the progress of time, the quaint, charming chapels of the Old South have given way to more modern buildings that often seem stark and cold. The sense of heritage is lost, the stories of generations replaced by newness. While it may be in the interest of an advancing society to move forward, there’s still something captivating and romantic about those old chapels.

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BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

I

t was that vision that inspired the building project for The Chapel at First Baptist Church, a new event venue located on Murphy Road. Financed by the generosity of the Camps, one of First Baptist Church of Covington’s active families, the plan consisted of The Chapel as well as a small fellowship hall/meeting area named the Garden Room, comprising a total of 9,000 square feet. Approved in September of 2019, the project was taken on by Kent Design Build and Waldon Studio Architects and completed in December of 2020.

“The Chapel is designed to be open to the community at large as a venue for weddings, funerals, and celebrations,” explains Jackie Clark, assistant to Pastor Waylon Bailey. “Having it separate from the church makes it appear more accessible to those outside of the church, while still being part of the church proper. The Chapel is available to both FBC Covington members as well as nonmembers who respect the deeply held religious beliefs of First Baptist Church.”

Paying homage to the traditional “little white chapel,” The Chapel offers a comfortable wedding atmosphere with the perfect touch of modern elegance. The entrance opens into a 50-foot bell tower that features three programmable cast bronze bells, leading into a foyer that is separated from the chapel itself by a pair of beautiful 11-foot walnut doors—creating the perfect entrance for the bride.

With seating for up to 300 guests in its traditional wooden pews, The Chapel also features a large center aisle and soaring 30-foot vaulted ceilings with exposed architectural trusses, boasting two stunning chandeliers that provide the perfect ambiance. A 10-foot antique wooden cross claims pride of place behind the altar, with gold and crystal sconces on each side, while a custom-designed garden-themed stained-glass window adorns the back wall.

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Working with Greige Interiors, the furnishings were chosen to reflect the timeless sophistication that the Camps envisioned for The Chapel when they presented the project for approval. Glass double doors line both walls, looking out over a tranquil garden space on the east side of the Chapel. Called the Prayer Garden, the small courtyard boasts trickling water fountains and walking paths that wind through the landscaping, with a grand Live Oak tree as a focal point. “This outdoor area makes a breathtaking backdrop for bridal photos,” says Clark.

Just across the Prayer Garden is the Garden Room, whose décor and elegance echoes that of The Chapel. The room accommodates up to 75 standing guests or 48 seated at six tables, opening to the Prayer Garden and allowing access for receptions. A back room provides space for setting up, with all the modern conveniences needed for caterers including refrigerators, microwaves and warming drawers.

Rental cost is based on usage/hours, church membership, and the areas required. Due to the openness of the venue, only a single event will take place at any given time. Sound techs, security detail, and venue coordinators are available; and the Garden Room supplies six tables with 48 chairs. Separate rooms for the bride and groom are fully furnished with comfortable seating and areas for pre-wedding preparation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (985) 892-2149 OR VISIT WWW.FBCCOV.ORG. EMAIL QUERIES TO JCLARK@FBCCOV.ORG. FEBRUARY 2021

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Engaging

TRADITIONS

By Liesel Schmidt

F

rom proposals on bended knee to champagne toasts and honeymoons, weddings are filled with traditions that, over the years, have somehow lost their meanings and are done simply because— well, they’ve always been done. And while some of the original reasons that these traditions were put into practice might no longer be relevant or even necessary, they have a symbolism that remains true: That marriage is a sacred covenant that should be given ceremony and respect. And that, at the end of the day, true love is worth laying your life down for.

We’ll start at the very start of it all: The Proposal. One of the most commonly believed—though not fully proven—reasons that men traditionally take a knee for said proposal is that, in the Middle Ages when couples courted and noblemen felt that the time had come to express their eternal love and servitude to the noblewoman whom they were courting, they kneeled. In times such as those, kneeling was a sign of honor respect—as knights often did before their feudal lords—so it stands to reason that this action would also be one used in show of courtly love.

There are, of course, a few religious reasons that might be behind this long-standing tradition of not standing to pop the

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question. Many faiths including Christianity and Islam call for worshippers to kneel in prayer as an expression of their faithful service and eternal respect for their God. In essence, then, taking a knee to ask those small—yet still so very big—words is very much a way of showing that you, as the one they love, are someone worthy of giving their honor, respect, devotion, and a love that will last for a lifetime.

While we’re on the topic of proposals, let’s wrap our fingers around the whole ring thing, shall we? Engagement rings are actually a tradition that dates back to ancient Egypt, when wedded couples exchanged rings made from braided reeds.

In Egyptian culture, circles were symbols of eternity, and the rings were worn on the ring finger of the left hand because this was the particular finger believed to have a vein running directly to the heart. Consequently, this very vein was later designated to be vena amoris.

Later on in second-century Rome, betrothal rings were given to the bride in lieu of giving her money or valuable objects.

Unfortunately, the ring wasn’t something to be considered a romantic gesture, but as a show of ownership. The groom gave the bride a ring made of gold that would be worn during the betrothal ceremony and for

special events, but an iron ring symbolizing the fact that she was legally bound to him as his property was worn at home. Not exactly a tradition to be looked on with fondness, but it’s an interesting fact nonetheless, and a reason to rejoice that modern marriages have so greatly evolved.

Hundreds of years later, rings got blingedout for the very first time when Austria’s Archduke Maximilian proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a ring set with thin, flat pieces of cut diamonds forming the shape of the letter “M.” From then on, European nobility began to add more sparkle by incorporating precious gemstones into their jewelry.

When diamonds were discovered in South Africa and mining them became lucrative, Cecil Rhodes founded the DeBeers Mining Company in 1880, turning diamond engagement rings into marketing ingenuity; and from then on these indestructible gems became the centerpiece of the very symbol of everlasting, eternal love.

From rings to vows and everything thereafter, the traditions of weddings are a reminder of one very important thing—that the union of two people should join their lives and their hearts. And that that bond is meant to be shared forever.

101 ST. ANN ST | MADISONVILLE, LA 70447 | 985-792-7256 | GRAYANDGRAHAMSALON.COM

O

nce upon a time, in a land far, far away…

Well maybe this isn’t the beginning of a fairytale story, but it is the beginning of an explanation of the history of some of the wedding traditions we all know and love so much. And some that we don’t.

Either way, most wedding traditions are things that we observe by rote, going through the motions simply because they are time-honored as the standard way of doing things on that fairy-tale day…But why do we do them in the first place? We’ve got a few answers that may surprise you more than finding out one of your bridesmaids dated your husbandto-be back in high school….

BRIDESMAIDS Speaking of bridesmaids, the practice of dressing all your lovely ladies in waiting in matching gowns wasn’t always just to make the bride stand out in all her glory while her friends collectively blushed in shame at the horrendousness of their dresses. Historically speaking, bridesmaids actually used to wear dresses closely resembling that of the bride, because it was believed that doing so would confuse her ex-suitors and outwit evil spirits as to which woman in the group was actually the one getting married.

I Do...

But Why?

By Liesel Schmidt

THE BEST MAN Not to worry, ladies, best men haven’t always had things quite so easy as they do now. Once upon a time, they were charged with making sure that the bride didn’t try any escape maneuvers during the ceremony; and sometimes they were also ordered to kidnap her. In situations that the bride’s parents didn’t approve of the impending marriage, the best man’s duty was also to ensure that the groom was able to take her away—with or without Daddy’s blessing.

Best man-duty wasn’t always given because Back in the days of ancient Rome, the duties of of close bonds to the groom, either. The word bridesmaids went even further than just causing “best” was actually indicative of the fact that the aforementioned bit of confusion. They the chosen man was the strongest and most actually lined up to form a protective shield for capable of carrying out his duties and would the bride as she walked to the groom’s village, be able to show some skill with a sword or and these ladies were expected to show some weapon in the event that enemies or rivals muscle if any vengeful ex-lovers attempted to tried any funny business during the ceremony. harm the bride or steal her dowry.

THE FIRST LOOK The ceremony itself is fraught with superstitions, as well. One of which is the first look, which springs forth from the days when arranged marriages were a common practice. Back then, people believed that if the engaged couple saw each other before the day of their wedding, they would have sufficient time to call the whole thing to a halt. Presumably because one party had objections to what their future spouse might look like…

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THE VEIL Which leads us, in due course, to the origin of the veil. For arranged marriages, veils were meant to hide the bride’s identity until her face was revealed to her groom at the ceremony. Especially in the days of ancient Rome and Greece, veils were employed for trickery—most especially for tricking evil spirits. Interestingly enough, in some cultures, a veil was also a bridal accessory favored by fathers who wanted tricks to be played not on evil spirits, but on the groom himself.

Daughters being presented in marriage who were less…attractive?...were given the leg up by having their faces concealed by their veil until the vows were exchanged and the noreturn policy was in place.

THE WHITE DRESS While not every bride these days want to wear a veil, most still opt to wear white. But white hasn’t always been the color de rigueur

of the bride. In fact, before Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in the mid-19th century, brides wore red. When the cross-over to white happened, the color was chosen not so much for its association with purity, but because it signified wealth.

SOMETHING OLD… If you’ve always wondered how “something old, new, borrowed, and blue,” got tossed into the traditional mix, it’s a practice that dates back to Victorian times, when these four special items were thought to bring good luck to the bride—most especially if they were worn during the wedding ceremony. “Something old” was intended to represent the bride’s connection to her past and to her family. “Something new” served as a reminder that she would now have a new future and begin a new family. The “borrowed” item was given on loan from a happily married couple to pass on that good luck to the newly married couple, and the “blue” item was representational of fidelity and devotion in the couple’s marriage.

WEDDING RINGS Wedding rings are another tradition not to be overlooked. Long ago, a bride’s wedding

ring signified ownership; and in the cultures of ancient Rome, Greece, and even Judaism, rings were used as a method of payment to the father of the bride in exchange for his daughter. As the women’s rights movement took shape, grooms got in on the exchange, as well; but the whole “payment” thing has fallen by the wayside—as has the representation of ownership. Their placement on the fourth finger of the left hand is tied to the ancient belief that this particular finger connected to a specific vein that is now called the vena amoris, which was once thought to supply blood directly to the heart.

THE FIRST KISS Once you’ve said your I do’s and exchanged your shiny new bands, you’re probably planning to share your very first smoochiesmooch as a married couple. In early times, that first kiss was actually a whole chain of events, as it was in fact the priest who planted the first kiss—on the groom. This holy “kiss of peace” was forthwith passed on to the bride, all of which was supposed to bestow the church’s blessing on the marriage.

THE RICE TOSS Kissing commenced, couples turned to take their recessional walk down the aisle— generally amidst a showering of rice. Rice was used as a representation of good fortune, prosperity, and fertility…And when you’re a happy new couple in the first days of your new life together, you definitely want to be able to look forward to the years ahead being full of all three.

Whether you stand on tradition or choose to forge your own path, a wedding is full of interesting practices to consider. But one tradition that needs never be questioned is the tradition to love, honor, and respect.

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Here Comes theTrend

By Liesel Schmidt Let’s face it…2020 was a lot to deal with, on many fronts. Still, the most major of all the ordeals we were all coping with was COVID-19 and its stranglehold on life. We quarantined, we obeyed stay-at-home orders, and we reworked all aspects of our regular existence to stay safe and healthy. Businesses across all industries felt the effects, not the least of which was the wedding industry.

While some engagements were extended, countless weddings were put on hold or even cancelled due to COVID, causing a serious downturn in the national averages that we’ve all come to know and love. All those big, fancy weddings that spare no expense and have half the city on the guest list? Not in 2020, unless you were some of the lucky ones who made it in under the margin in the first few months of the year.

The fallout, or maybe the upside, is that weddings have experienced a great many new trends; and we’ve got the best of them shared here, ready for the 2021 wedding season…

www.maemebridal.com | 3331 Severn Avenue, Metairie, Louisiana 70002 | 504.266.2771 | hello@maemebridal.com 62

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Virtual Vows

Guest Favors

Travel restrictions and social distancing have necessitated that we embrace technology so that everyone can be included on the big day.

Livestreaming the ceremony has caught on in a major way, and even couples who have smaller in-person weddings are going virtual.

Wedding favors have been trending for a long time now, but COVID has inspired something new in the goodie bags: hand sanitizer and face masks, which guests can use at the wedding and keep for later.

Faux Florals

As out of vogue as they might have fallen in recent years, artificial flowers have found their time in the sun, as pandemic-related delays have spiked the price of flowers and caused them to be harder to obtain.

Fortunately, florals of the artificial variety have gotten more authentic looking, not to mention much more attractive.

Mini Do’s

Weddings have been pared down to include only the most important guests, clocking in at fewer than 50 on the invite list.

Special Invitations

With all the health precautions, invitations have been reworked to offer details about everything from venue descriptions to requests for masks and even social distancing info.

Practicality Rules

Small and Sweet

Are you one of those people who secretly goes to a wedding just for the cake? The whole cake thing has gotten a COVID makeover, as well, and many couples are opting for mini personal wedding cakes for each guest.

Home Weddings

Exchanging vows has gone from a budget-friendly option to one that makes weddings doable in the midst of COVID. It’s simplified, for sure, but the newly popularized alternative has put backyard weddings in a fresh light.

Weekday Ceremonies

Hashtag This

Hashtagging has been a trend for a while now, but they’ve become an even bigger part of the wedding scene in 2021. Masks and sanitizers have been personalized with the couple’s hashtag as guest accessories, putting a creative spin on the situation.

Techno Planning

With all the changes that communication has experienced of late, wedding planning has also become more high tech. Meetings are conducted via Zoom, and WhatsApp has been keeping vendors, clients, and planners connected at every stage.

2021 is already bursting at the seams with weddings on the books, so venues have a very limited availability.

Enter the weekday wedding, which allows the greater possibility that your dream location is available. There’s also the added bonus of lower costs and the fact that you’re supporting local businesses during a time of economic hardship. Go you.

Gifts of the more extravagant variety have been eschewed for those of the practical kind—most likely because people are spending more time at home.

Think cookware, small appliances, décor, and even subscription boxes of goodies like wine.

Photo Shoots

Wedding photos are always an important part of the day, but couples have gotten even more elaborate with the photo ops so that they can share their special day with friends and family who can’t attend.

Elopements

While running off to get married without the whole to do is hardly new, it’s definitely become more popular; and hotels are getting in on the trend by offering elopement packages that help keep the guests and the planning to a minimum.

Sequel, Anyone?

For those who still want a big do, the sequel has become a well-loved idea. Smaller weddings this year will be followed up sometime post-pandemic by a celebration with an extended (read: MASSIVE) guest list.

Going Domestic

Honeymoons and destination weddings have gone from far-flung and exotic to something closer to home…Think a train ride or a short car trip away, which makes ease of travel and health a priority.

www.maemebridal.com | 3331 Severn Avenue, Metairie, Louisiana 70002 | 504.266.2771 | hello@maemebridal.com FEBRUARY 2021

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The Best of the Northshore at Your Fingertips

SLOCIAL A I C O S FEBRUARY

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THIS TIME OF YEAR, THE ACTION IS OFF-ROAD! Hunting, Fishing, trail-riding, sport, utility, etc. If you need to hit the ground running, we’ll take you there.

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MADISONVILLE | SANTA’S FRONT PORCH

Arielle Smith, Riley Smith, Glenda Bradley

Rachel Brumfield, Victoria Carmon Brumfield

Janell, Eddie, Diana, Maddie, and Tommy Magenheimer

A Merry

Madisonville Christmas & Santa’s Front Porch

Jeanne Bergeron, Stella Lorenzo (child)

Photos by Casey Varnado

In the town of Madisonville the sound of Christmas filled the air, with families playing and laughing while waiting on the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Clause. The Madisonville park was adorned with lights and Christmas decorations to bring a bit of the North Pole down home. The excitement brewed as the sounds of sirens echoed down the streets as if to say, “Santa is here, Santa is here”. The children held their breath with excitement as Santa and Mrs. Clause paraded past them.

Smiles were everywhere as the children posed with Santa and Mrs. Clause for their pictures and lasting memories.

Alexis Baker with Dozer

Maddox Hall, Hillary McGing, Camille McGing

152 HOLIDAY SQUARE BLVD COVINGTON, LA | 985.892.9730 66

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

Graham Alls, Nikki Alls

Lillian, Harrison, Sims, Andre Savoie

Samantha Goodwin, Maggy Hopper, Shana Roig

Abby, Audrey, Andrew, Bradley Bigger

Nyxie Huther, Krew Poche, Brittany Poche

Kylynn, Paige, Brynn and Jax Braquet

Rachell Gladden, Scarlet Bonnecarrere, Bruce Bonnecarrere

Michael White, Amanda Keyes, Tiffany Morin, Sondra McGee, Montrell White

David Schneider, Calvin, Franklin, Edward, Jenny

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COMING IN MAY

REAL ESTATE KEY PLAYERS & PERSONALITIES IN THE NORTHSHORE’S REAL ESTATE MARKET

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HEALTHY NORTHSHORE

QUICK FACTS

ABOUT COVID-19 & YOUR HEART

It’s widely recognized that SARS-CoV-2, better known as COVID-19, impacts most with respiratory illness resulting in conditions that range from very mild to lifethreatening. It has also become apparent that JHERIE DUCOMBS, MD, FACC adverse cardiovascular Cardiologist impact is common North Oaks Health System among patients with severe COVID-19 disease and is associated with worse outcomes.

5 Important Things to Know About Your Heart and COVID-19 What do we know so far?

First, people with pre-existing heart and vascular disease are more likely to have severe illness. This does not mean people with heart issues are more likely to contract COVID-19, just more likely to have complications and statistically worse recovery rates. People with the following conditions appear to be particularly at risk: • High blood pressure • High cholesterol • Coronary artery disease • Previous stroke history The inflammation that accompanies the COVID19 infection destabilizes existing plaque and worsens vascular (blood vessel) function, making these diseases worse. This fact is not surprising, as it has been observed with similar illnesses that

cause inflammation (e.g., the flu). The increased risk is just one of the many reasons it’s essential to actively work to prevent heart disease in your daily life.

Second, emerging data shows that COVID-19 affects not only the lungs, but also the heart.

The most common mechanism appears to be the body’s response to overwhelming illness, called a systemic inflammatory response. This exaggerated immune response results in the release of chemicals, including cytokines, which not only defend against the virus but can cause collateral damage to the host (that means you!).

It can also affect the smallest blood vessels, leading to thrombosis (blood clotting) or ischemia (lack of oxygen). COVID-19 related heart disease can show up in the following ways: • Heart attacks caused by blockage in a heart artery • Infection or inflammation of the heart muscle, which can lead to weakness, failure or abnormal rhythms of the heart • Stress-related heart failure • Severe chest pain – heart attack without blockage • Other heart muscle injury without a heart attack Blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs) and echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart) are often used to detect heart muscle injury and evidence of heart failure. Outcomes of patients

who contract COVID-19 are typically worse when these tests are abnormal prior to or during diagnosis of the virus.

Third, COVID-19 increases the risk of other vascular diseases like stroke and blood clots.

Stroke severity and risk of stroke-related death are worse in individuals infected with the virus.

Fourth, the number of people seeking treatment for everyday emergencies, including heart attacks and strokes, has significantly decreased.

The decrease has been reported both here in the United States and abroad. We’re not sure if there’s been an actual reduction in those emergencies. It would seem unlikely since those emergencies typically increase during epidemics of similar illnesses like the flu. There are also reports of people presenting to the hospital late and increased numbers of people found dead in their homes. Some may be reluctant to seek care for fear of contracting COVID-19 or not sure where they can get medical attention. Most ER’s remain open for these everyday emergencies. If you aren’t sure, call ahead. It’s important to seek attention early because early treatment leads to better outcomes and reduces the chance of permanent heart and brain damage.

And fifth, the most important things you can do to stay well at this time include preventing or managing chronic diseases and avoiding virus transmission. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

For more information on how to keep your heart well, visit heartwell.me.

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NORTHLAKEVETERINARYHOSPITAL.COM

GEAUX LOCAL

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

The cobbled streets, the wrought iron balconies, the intricate architecture… and, of course, the flickering flames of the iconic copper gaslamps. These are some of the sights famous to New Orleans and the French Quarter, the very hallmarks of its landscape. And while times may have changed, bringing progress and innovation to supersede some of the very processes that created the beauty for which the city is known, it is those gaslamps that have kept their light burning strong.

Light It Up The story of the city’s most iconic gaslamps begins with a metalsmith by the name of Andrew Bevolo, Sr., a man who had honed his skills while working for Ford, Sikorsky Aircraft, and Higgins Industries during World War II but only truly began to use his creativity when he opened his own metal repair business on Royal Street in New Orleans. Naturally, his work included fixing old streetlights; and it was during one evening spent hard at work that the sounds coming from his shop caught the attention of renowned architect A. Hays Town.

Needing a custom light, Town approached Bevolo—and the rest, as they say, is history.

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he light that the two men designed together became the very thing that put Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights on the map, utilizing a hand riveting technique rather than the soldered joints that had always been used before. More than 70 years later, the Original French Quarter Lamp is one that has made Bevolo both a national and international brand.

Despite such success, Bevolo has hardly forgotten its roots. In fact, it continues to be Bevolo—not just in branding, but by blood.

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The company boasts four generations of Bevolos and is now in the capable hands of Drew Bevolo, the third-generation owner who believes that “classic design and quality products never go out of style.�

Clearly, their dedication to classic design and exceptional quality have been the secret that has led to their exponential growth; and today, Bevolo produces more than 500 styles of lighting for large-scale commercial projects as well as custom residential pieces based on their signature hand riveted technique and use of

copper. Using an oxidation process to imbue the fixtures with a sense of history and age, the lamps have a natural patina that allows them to complement any style or design, yet shine on their own merits.

Unlike most lighting companies—and most manufacturers of any kind, for that matter— Bevolo still believes in the importance of handcrafting its lanterns. Sheets of copper are cut with hand and foot shears, brackets are hand-welded, rivets tapped-in one by one. The lights are also designed to burn continuously, making Bevolo’s products the most efficient gas lanterns one can buy. “As the company grew, and as I grew with it, I knew that our success would depend on continuing the high quality craftsmanship people expected from Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights. People recognize it. They know we

have the best product,” says Drew, who has passed on the torch to his son, Chris, for the running of the day-to-day operations.

Such a superior product is indeed what had made Bevolo lamps so iconic to New Orleans and the French Quarter. And even in the midst of so much change as technologies cast aside the traditions of old that built our oldest cities from the ground up, Bevolo continues its commitment to heritage—both of the family that created the company as well as the city that burns bright with its lights.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BEVOLO GAS & ELECTRIC LIGHTS, VISIT BEVOLO.COM FEBRUARY 2021

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INFLUENCER

Influencer M

ANGELLE MARIX DASHING DARLIN’

Y NAME IS ANGELLE. I’m the face behind Dashing Darlin’. I launched my lifestyle blog in January of 2015 and, it has been a wild, mind blowing adventure.

My focus has always been faith, family and fashion. I have also implemented my love for travel and home decor. When I began to blog, I was clueless. It was never about building a large platform or making money. Don’t get me wrong, I have loved working with dream brands like Target, Old Navy, Revolve, and Wayfair. BUT ultimately, I want to influence other women to love who God created them to be. Each woman has a unique style, shape, talent, and personality. I want every women to feel free to be their true, authentic self !

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COVINGTON | CHRISTMAS AT TERRA BELLA

Bryce, Sheamus, and Anna Grace Loman

Glenn and Julie Schaefer

Christmas

Kyle Nuss and Chelsea Olivier

Mark and Julie Fritscher

at Terra Bella Rob and Trish Sullivan

Photos by Shannon Serpas

The community celebrated the spirit of the season and experienced the magic of Christmas at Terra Bella on December 4, 2020. There was live holiday music from local talent, caroling, train rides, letters to Santa, a Holiday Marketplace and Santa photos! They also held a Coat and Teddy Bear Drive to benefit the youth in our area in partnership with Children’s Advocacy Center/Hope House.

TOPS in NORTHSHORE

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Doug and Linda Place

Lyndi Smith and Stephanie McCain

COMING

2021 TRUE READERS CHOICE WITH A SOCIAL SPIN

Nick Marinello, Nicole Roig, Joel Dupre

Karina, Gracie Mae, and Rob Davis

Madison Hahn, Max, and Mason Caillouet

Sharon and Mike Rock

Gwen and Tony Gole

Gustavo Brava and Antonio Vazquez

Angela Bunce, Mike Mcivor, Aimee Foret, Avery Bunce, Eva Fortenberry, Lucas Mcivor

Nathan Rocky, Ryan Brown, Anagrace Borelly, Joseph Morrow

Join the SOCIAL Team Social Northshore is looking to add excited new members to our team!

We have immediate openings for Event Photographers and Sales Representatives.

CONTACT US: E-mail Jen@socialnorthshore.com for more info!

FEBRUARY 2021

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Brandi

DALTON SUPERMOM

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

C

arrying on the legacy that her grandfather started in 1944, Brandi Dalton proudly wears the title of owner and operator of Nowak Dental Supplies. While her work may take a great deal of hard work and long hours, it’s something that leaves her feeling fulfilled. Over the years, it’s also become more than just a job. “Our employees are like part of our family; and a lot of them say I am like their mom, and my brother is like their dad,” says 42 year-old Dalton. “When they need something, they always come to ‘mom’!”

As much as she loves her work, there’s nothing that fulfills her more than her family—especially her children. “I could brag about my kids all day,” says Dalton, who has been married to her best friend from college for 17 years. “They’re polar opposites; my son is more of an introvert and loves making videos and operating his own YouTube channel, Thelectricleaf. He makes original videos and animations. He has such an artistic side to him and a quirky sense of

humor. My daughter, on the other hand, is an extreme extrovert. She is incredibly strong-willed, very athletic, and a social butterfly to boot.

She is currently working on becoming a black belt in Tae Kwon Do while doing gymnastics, tumbling, and occasionally dancing,” she says of 13 year-old Kahle and six year-old Kenzie.

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Naturally, Dalton faces that timeless struggle with which all working mothers must contend: the tug-of-war between work and family life.

“Being a working mom has always been a challenge for me,” she admits. “I’m constantly

questioning myself and my decisions. Am I think of our time together, I want them to doing enough at work? Do I spend enough remember all of the fun we had!” Dalton says. time with my children? Should I move a “I want them to remember going to the beach meeting so that I can attend my daughter’s every year, playing video games, and morning field trip or take off a little early to make it in snuggles. I want them to remember our times time for my son’s presentation? Some days I at Disney World and hold on to that child-like feel like I fail, but the days when I succeed are wonder! I also hope that they will remember very special to me. I try to focus my thoughts the love that I have for them and that I am and feelings on those moments.” always their biggest cheerleader. I often say to my kids, ‘As your mother, I promise to be Even so, she realizes that, by working hard one of three places: In front of you to cheer and balancing it all, she’s showing her kids you on, behind you to have your back, or what’s possible. “I feel that being a working next to you so that you aren’t alone.’ I’ve also mom enriches my kids lives by teaching been taking Tae Kwon Do with my kids. I them a strong work ethic and how to try decided that it was something that we could to balance home and work life. On math all do together; and during COVID, we were test nights, I could easy spend three hours able to do it over Zoom all together from our helping them study while I know that I still living room. We had so much fun putting on have work to do as well; but when I’m home full gear and getting to kick each other in the and they’re awake, they are my number one head. I’m not sure that kicking my kids in the priority,” she says. “It also really helps that head has made me a better mother, but it has my husband does all the cooking…If I had definitely been a bonding time. It’s also helped to cook, we would all starve! I hope that by me in business by teaching me more discipline continuing the family business, I’m creating and to calm down and focus on the problem future opportunities for my kids, if they wish in front of me while anticipating problems to continue the business.” still to come.” Decked out in gear or in her normal “mom” clothes, she’s determined to As she raises her children, there are things that be the best she can be—especially for the kids she hopes they never forget. “When my kids that make her so proud to be a mother.

(985) 900-2410 70515 LA-21 Suite D | Covington, LA FEBRUARY 2021

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NEW & noteworthy

Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group Welcomes Provider to its Slidell Clinic [BATON ROUGE, LA] – Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group welcomes Marie Delvalle-Mahoney, MD, to its Slidell clinic where she joins Jembber L. Robinson, MD, PharmD, MBA. From routine visits and preventive care, to disease management and sick visits, Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group provides comprehensive services paired with compassionate care. Providers on the Northshore are part of a health network that includes leading specialists, so patients can seamlessly receive specialized care when needed.

Our Lady of the Angels Earns 2020 Leapfrog Top Hospital Award for Outstanding Quality and Safety [BOGALUSA, LA] – Highlighting its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality, Our Lady of the Angels Hospital was named a Top Rural Hospital by The Leapfrog Group. The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive awards American hospitals can receive. The Top Hospital designation is bestowed by The Leapfrog Group, a national watchdog organization of employers and other purchasers widely acknowledged as the toughest standard-setters for health care safety and quality.

“We are so proud to earn this elite designation for delivering high quality health care to the people we are privileged to serve,” said Rene Ragas, President, Our Lady of the Angels Hospital. “Our team is committed to improving the landscape of health in this community, one person at a time.”

Over 2,200 hospitals were considered for the award. Among those, Our Lady of the Angels Hospital is the only hospital in Louisiana to receive a Top Rural distinction and one of only two Louisiana hospitals to earn one of the coveted top hospital spots. A total of 105 hospitals nationwide were selected as Top Hospitals, including: • 9 Top Children’s Hospitals • 29 Top General Hospitals • 19 Top Rural Hospitals • 48 Top Teaching Hospitals The quality of patient care across many areas of hospital performance is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates, practices for safer surgery, maternity care, and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medication errors.

The rigorous standards are defined in each year’s Top Hospital Methodology.

“Being recognized as a Top Hospital is an extraordinary feat and we are honored to recognize Our Lady of the Angels Hospital this year,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “Despite the extraordinary pressure and strain of the COVID-19 pandemic, Our Lady of the Angels has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to patients and to the Washington Parish community. We congratulate the board, staff and clinicians whose efforts made this honor possible.”

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Dr. Delvalle-Mahoney specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care of minor to complex illness in adults, the ongoing care of patients with chronic illnesses, and the care of patients at the end of life. She enjoys and has many years of experience in wound care. Having spent 25 years of caring exclusively for patients in the hospital, she is excited to return to her roots in the outpatient clinical setting where she can establish long-term relationships with her patients.

Dr. Delvalle-Mahoney is accepting new patients at Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group Slidell is located at 1810 Lindberg Drive, Suite 1100, in Slidell. To schedule an appointment, visit ololrmc.com/northshore or call (985) 646-0945.

Raphael Joins North Oaks Family Medicine [HAMMOND, La.] — Longtime North Oaks physician Howard J. Raphael, MD, is now accepting new patients at North Oaks Family Medicine in Hammond.

Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, Raphael has practiced medicine for 28 years. He is returning to North Oaks Family Medicine from North Oaks Walk-In Clinic in Walker, where he treated patients for 11 years. In total, he has practiced medicine with North Oaks clinics for a total of 21 years. His previous experience also includes three years in private practice, during which time he remained on the North Oaks medical staff, as well as service as an active duty physician in the U.S. Air Force for three years, achieving the rank of Major.

“My ‘golden rule’ is to involve each of my patients in the decision-making process,” affirms Raphael. “We work as a team to collaborate on the best course of treatment to fit his or her lifestyle to achieve the best outcomes.”

He earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University Medical Center in Shreveport. He completed his internship and residency as chief resident in Family Medicine through University Medical Center in Lafayette.

North Oaks Cardiologist to help lead American Heart Association

Positive Patient Experiences Earn North Oaks National Acclaim for Sixth Year in a Row

Dr. Jherie Ducombs, Cardiologist, to serve on regional board of directors

[HAMMOND, La.] — For the sixth consecutive year, patients’ feedback about the exceptionally consistent care they received at North Oaks has earned the health system’s network of primary care and specialty clinics national acclaim.

[NEW ORLEANS, July 30, 2020] — Dr. Jherie Ducombs, MD, FACC, was elected to the American Heart Association Southeast Board of Directors. Dr. “My provider listens, empathizes and gives honest, sound information!”

Ducombs will serve on the board during the association’s 2020-2021 fiscal year. The American Heart Association is the world’s leading voluntary organization dedicated to “The staff works well together. I'd definitely recommend this practice to anyone.” building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The American Heart “My provider is concerned about my well-being.”

Association Southeast region services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Puerto Rico.

“No delays. Always prompt.”

Dr. Ducombs is a Cardiologist at North Oaks Health System in Hammond, Louisiana, “It’s the worth the drive just to have my provider care for me.” where she serves as assistant chief medical officer and chairman of the Network Operations Council for its multi-specialty physician group.

“I wish all hospitals and clinics ran their offices with the professionalism demonstrated at North Oaks.”

“The American Heart Association’s dedication to improving the cardiovascular health of all Americans is vitally important work — even more so today as we struggle across These comments and others like them showcase the patient care that has earned North the nation with COVID-19,” said Ducombs. “I am honored to serve as a board member Oaks clinics the prestigious 2020 Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award®. The during these critical times for public health clinics also received Guardian of Excellence awards in 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015. improvement and look forward to helping the American Heart Association continue to lead According to Michele Sutton, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of North Oaks the fight to saves lives from cardiovascular Health System, the Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award® represents important diseases and stroke.” recognition from the industry’s leader in measuring, understanding and improving the delivery of care. As recipients of this award, North Oaks’ clinics are ranked among the top 5% of the nation’s health care services in sustaining the highest level of patient satisfaction during a oneyear period from May 2019 to April 2020.

Audubon Nature Institute’s 2021 Spring Holiday Hours

“The caregivers and staff of North Oaks Physician Group touch the lives of patients and their families in profound ways,” affirms Patrick T. Ryan, chairman “Audubon is committed to engaging and educating guests about the wonders of nature, and chief executive officer and we believe that each person has the power to impact the natural world for the better," of Press Ganey. “This said Audubon Nature Institute President and CEO Ron Forman. "Our hope is to make award reflects their deep 2021 better and inspire our guests to make a difference.” commitment to listening to the voices of their patients Below is the schedule for Audubon’s 2021 Spring Holiday Hours: and our shared mission to reduce suffering and AUDUBON ZOO improve the safety, quality OPEN – Monday, February 15 and experience of patient(Lundi Gras Day) centered care. I continue to CLOSED – Tuesday, February 16 be humbled and inspired by (Mardi Gras Day) their heroic efforts to care for patients in the face of the uncertainty, stress and fear brought on by the COVID-19 AUDUBON AQUARIUM pandemic. Press Ganey is proud to partner with them in this noble work, and we OF THE AMERICAS congratulate them on this tremendous achievement.”

OPEN – Monday, February 15 (Lundi Gras Day) The new year is here, and Audubon Nature Institute is excited to safely welcome guests back to the Zoo and Aquarium in 2021. Audubon attractions are strictly adhering to all City and State COVID-19 mandates regarding capacity limitations, social distancing, and proper mask wearing policies.

CLOSED – Tuesday, February 16 (Mardi Gras Day) FEBRUARY 2021

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