How it all started.

The journey of the Wild Cat Brothers began in college when David and Tait bonded through the realms of fraternity survival and, I'm sure, debauchery David was chapter president of Theta Chi when Tait pledged, initiating the impactful relationship. The pair have stayed in close contact over the years after their fraternity days, and when the lightbulb turned on, they came together to make some magic happen. Who knew this “Recovering Lawyer and Professor” were about to begin an adventure in the world of flavor invention and elevated intentions

In 2011 David Meaux developed the recipe for the award winning Suite Crewe and “LuLu” his homemade still, was the mastermind that brought all the clean and local ingredients together, beginning the journey we are all so thankful for David decided to test the waters outside of Louisiana and get a true idea if they were on to something unique.

The Washington Cup Awards in 2013 gave them the news they were hoping for- winning one of five Washington Cups. This platform is a place where all liquors compete against each other and Tait says, “It's the only true way to know where they stand After all, friends love free booze and it's become quite challenging to get honest opinions ” Award in hand and sharing the title with the great Buffalo Trace’s Pappy Van Winkle and top vodkas on the market, they knew they were onto something and continued on the path of excellence to see what was next

French style rum is a drastic departure from English rum, as it is made from sugar cane juice - not the god awful molasses we all seem to think Rum is made with.

They consider themselves a cocktail distillery and their business is taking off in New York, Los Angeles and Nashville- to name a few. Lafayette is quite the “drinking town” he says and they are working hard to help expand the flavor pallet here. Many of the top mixology bars downtown are carrying a variety of Wild Cat Distillery Rum The bread and butter here in 337 is the classic daiquiri and not the drive through kind.

“Agriculture- Water and Yeast” - Tait

Tait’s Tip for smelling and deciphering what is a good liquor with clean ingredients, is the tequila-like smell you pick up. If you are not getting that “scent” chemicals have been added to alter the quality.. Lesson learned!

Tait says this is a traditional 2-1-1 Daiquiri. 2 Parts “good rum”- 1 part fresh squeezed lime juice- 1 part clean sugar cane simple syrup.

My personal favorite and Wildcat’s best seller is Noire- known as Bourbon’s Cajun Cousin in their booming Kentucky market. Noire is also one of the stars of this issue’s behind the scenes shoot of the cover as well as the Cajun Hatter’s sip of choice in his shop downtown. I learned quite quickly why so many people favor Noire as their Bourbon of choice, knowing darn well this is a Louisiana Rum

I am sure the Buffalo Trace barrels they use to make this scene stealer adds the perfect smoked flavor

Tait took me on a renegade tour of the Grounds of Gator Cove as most of the area is in its renovation phase The front building that sits at the edge of the entrance area is nearly ready to host the official distillery that will relocate here. They plan on inviting guests for a unique experience through the process of creating their Cajun Rum. The Brother’s are already hosting Thursday night Happy Hour events that bring talented musicians to the distillery to play live for guests while they enjoy custom cocktails and food truck snacks

You may get the chance to see Major Handy play here from time to time. If you are really lucky, sit on the patio for storytelling time with Tait and listen to a downpour hit the tin roof. I think that was one of the most southern moments I have ever encountered. Great conversation among new friends and southern energy

What I find so special about this tour and getting to know Tait is his exuberant energy and genuine passion for what this space will really bring to the area. As Gator Cove- Wild Cat Brothers Distillery sits quite centrally for most of the parish, this cove along the water is the ideal space for any adventure to be had.

He has this vision that his home away from home will be the place to be before your evening out on the town However, what Tait has planned for this elusive location, would easily sway me to stay long past sunset. The property is quite endless and has the potential of so much more than just a libation. Of course, Rum is the star, but the venue will become a space for creatives, movie lovers, art experiences and a true haven for open minded and happy individuals. The potential is endless but I can say- think Tiki Bar- think speakeasy- the mystery has been laid out for guests on a silver platter and the twinkle in the eyes of the team of Wild Cat is fueling the process to come

He has a unique pulse on our blossoming area here in the south, and with that understanding comes a plethora of ideas of awesomeness for growth. We started diving in on our world travels, and what seems to work beautifully in these other places The constant thought process being, how do we bring that here?

Tait takes me on a tasting rollercoaster of their eclectic snake oil experiments from last year This is what separates the greats from the moderates, stepping way out of the box and reaching for the stars of flavor and adventure. Tait believes why not? Why not infuse King Cake with Rum? Why not let the creative team go crazy and come up with a new infusion for every month of the year He does admit that when December came around, they were ready for the chaos to “ C'est fini.”

I can honestly say that in my few encounters with this magical soul, I feel so truly lucky to have earned his respect and most importantly, his valued time. The creative genius that lives in these walls is only elevated by the brain that is “Tait Martin ” With David separating from the company and Tait stepping down as CEO, the men have both focused much of their attention elsewhere now that the business is established However I feel- the show will go on and we are only in the beginning of greatness here with the Wild Cat Brothers

The relaxed atmosphere in The Cut House makes guests feel comfortable and welcomed instantaneously, whether they’re wearing pearls or still in their workout clothes Even though they are a larger salon, this does not mean that they feature an elaborate price tag, as clients will find that they are very flexible with services and want to give as many guests a chance to feel amazing This lovely group of stylists and estheticians are passionate about helping you while giving their knowledge in their industry to those

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Hair and Master IBE hand tied extensions

Maddison Ardoin Aesthetician, brows and lash

Jamie Istre

Hair IBE Handtied Extentions and NBR extensions

Ali Fontenot Hair

Lindsey Leger Hair

Kaylan Patin Hair and IBE hanndtied extensions

Lainey Eastin Hair and Babe extensions

Miss Reba’s Greenhouse refreshes Lafayette with a new outlook on natural wellness drinks.

Immaculate lighting only the natural sun can create graces the store, giving life to the various plants hanging around Cozy seating placed just so offers a high-end coffee shop feel One wall is decorated with various art pieces, many modern and a few abstract. The other holds shelves lined with natural creams, tinctures and gummies A goldendoodle greets each customer at her shop, letting everyone know her name is Reba.

Gracing Lafayette with Reba Water, Miss Reba’s Greenhouse focuses on providing natural, quality products to customers. Owner of the store, Joe Louque, expressed that natural wellness is the future. His drink offers a calming effect on the body, relaxing each joint With the mango and tangerine flavor being perfect for summer, the drink can be used as an alcohol alternative