Adore October 2023

EAT, LovePLAY,

6 UNIQUE DINNER PARTIES

PHOTO BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

While I can’t predict the future, I can guess that by the time this issue arrives in your hands or inbox, it will still feel like summer in New Orleans. As I write this letter, I’m enjoying much cooler temperatures in New York and happily getting a jumpstart on wearing some fall outfits during my visit. Speaking of New York, T Magazine (the magazine published by The New York Times) influenced our team in last year’s feature “It’s 9 p.m. In…” that highlighted dinner parties around the globe. Adore took it to the local level and worked with photographers Sara Essex Bradley and David Grunfeld to capture beautiful gatherings across the city. We’re sure that these creative meals, themes, and décor will inspire you as you plan your next dinner party or upcoming Friendsgiving celebration.

Adores Things Michaela

This edition includes local Halloween merch for all ages that can be enjoyed during this spooky season and beyond! With school very much back in session, we also focused on fun finds for littles. Clothing, toys, games, and books by local authors and illustrators made the cut. A gorgeous home by Zangara + Partners and Kelly Sutton Design, a beautiful wedding, and our very first Shop Cat (a win for cat lovers everywhere!) can also be found in these pages.

I hope everyone has a great fall, Halloween, and Thanksgiving! We’ll see you back in print on Friday, 11/24 with our big holiday issue. In the meantime, you can stay in the loop digitally through our newsletter, website, and social media accounts where our team covers cool events, shopping opportunities, and more!

Must Visit

In the spirit of election season, be sure to check out “Yet She Is Advancing”: New Orleans Women and the Right to Vote, 1878–1970 at The Historic New Orleans Collection. It is on view through November 5th and admission is free! hnoc.org

Photo courtesy of The Historic New Orleans Collection

Currently Reading

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver which was the corecipient of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. It’s a comingof-age story told by a scrappy boy growing up in the mountains of southern Appalachia — it’s heavy, but I’m flying through it!

NY Dispatch

I just had to snap a selfie with the beautiful tiled “M” while waiting for the train in NY, and with Shop Cat on my mind, I had to document these cozy felines at Waverly Inn. I was also able to squeeze in a visit to the Brooklyn Museum to see Africa Fashion which we recommended visiting in this year’s summer issue. It also made me extra appreciative of Fashioning America: Grit to Glamour at the New Orleans Museum of Art. It is on view through November 26th and offers New Orleanians the chance to experience a large-scale fashion exhibition without leaving town.

Out on the Town

Our team loved attending New Orleans Fashion Week! The week included runway shows from talented local and regional designers alongside events benefiting Dress for Success New Orleans and plenty of parties. Check out our coverage online and on Instagram.

— MICHAELA BECHLER

Photo courtesy of HarperCollins

Photo courtesy of Lauren Cunningham

EAT, Love PLAY,

BY MICHAELA BECHLER AND MARIGNY LANAUX

PHOTOS BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

Last year, T Magazine released a series called “It’s 9 p.m. In…” featuring dinner parties across the globe (including a fête hosted by New Orleans’ very own Big Freedia). Our team was inspired to bring the concept down to the local level and photograph real gatherings across the city. Each of the six parties, while distinctly unique from the rest, captures a glimpse of New Orleanians doing what we do best: joining together over a great meal with family and friends in beautiful spaces. No reservations required.

Rebecca Friedman & Dr. Aran

While gathering over a meal on a Friday evening is traditional in many Jewish homes, the triple digit heat that New Orleanians experienced for weeks on end was not. Rebecca Friedman, a local writer and dinner party host extraordinaire, decided to make the most of the occasion and hosted “Hot Shabbat” where she debuted new-to-her dishes as well as her recently redone dining room by Sally Grace Design and Sun Custom Restoration. “It was our first time hosting a dinner that didn’t involve a lot of kids running around asking for pizza. I wanted to keep the décor low and easy so there was plenty of room to serve dishes family-style.”

Due to the heatwave, Rebecca focused on lighter, seasonal dishes from three cookbooks: Shaya: An Odyssey of Food, My Journey Back to Israel by Alon Shaya (“Because the recipes are great and easy to follow at home,” she said); Sababa by Adeena Sussman; and Israeli Soul by Michael Solomonov. Guests

Toshav “Hot Shabbat”

The guest list: I pulled from the hospitality and design communities — some friends, some folks I’ve met through my writing work — and made sure everyone already knew at least one other guest so people would feel comfortable.

The conversation: There was a lot of conversation around personal and professional transitions and an animated discussion about “Neuty” the Nutria.

were invited via Paperless Post and asked to arrive at 7 p.m. for pre-dinner cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before sitting around the table for dinner. Sean Josephs, the co-founder and master blender of Pinhook, made Nola Sours (Neal Bodenheimer’s riff on a New York Sour), and homemade pomegranate mint syrup was also on hand for mocktails. In order to make the day-of less hectic, Rebecca set the table a few days in advance and made some dishes ahead of time. And while she makes it look easy (a gift from growing up in a hosting household), she shares, “Usually, I’m hair-on-fire until the minute people walk in.”

The apps: Hummus (plain as an appetizer, topped with spiced meat as an entree); a pecan-lime muhamarra dip made with roasted red peppers and pomegranate molasses; seeded za’atar crackers for dipping; orange blossom candied nuts; plus a colorful crudité platter and olives to round things out.

The décor: Lots of votive candles and small vases with an array of delphinium, spray roses, thistles, eucalyptus, and other varieties in shades of white, green, and yellow.

The meal: For dinner, I made Alon’s pickled shrimp (with fresh shrimp from the Westwego Shrimp Lot) which I love because you make them ahead and serve them cold; a corn salad with cucumbers, heirloom tomatoes, herbs, and chickpeas; a radish and zucchini salad with mint and nigella seeds; and freekeh (a grain with a yummy smoky flavor) with roasted grapes.

“Our floor plan is fairly open, so guests always congregate in the kitchen/ living room, which makes it easy for me to dip in and out of conversation while I’m cooking. With the new dining room, comfy chairs were a must for lingering at the table.”

Dinner staple: Every Friday, I buy a challah from Levee Baking Co. because it’s tastier and more beautiful than anything I can make!

The dessert: Dessert steered French with a cherry clafoutis because I found end-ofseason cherries, along with some fresh figs and halvah. And because I like sending people home with something, I made favor bags with tahini olive oil granola (then over breakfast the next morning, people can think back to a fun evening).

Last guest standing: Most left around 10:30 p.m., but one sweet friend stayed to recap and dry dishes.

“There is something special about connecting with people over the table at home that is hard to replicate in a restaurant. And nobody notices the mismatched glasses or pile of mail in the corner except you — people are just happy to be invited.”

– REBECCA FRIEDMAN

– REBECCA FRIEDMAN

Scott Tilton & Rudy Bazenet

In the world of non-profits, fall is game time when it comes to events and cultural activities.

Scott Tilton and Rudy Bazenet, co-founders of the Nous Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to promoting the French and Creole languages and cultures, decided to savor the last slow moments of summer among friends at their Royal Street apartment. It was only fitting that Rudy, who is French, and Scott, who lived in France for six years, would cook a French dinner in the Provençal style. “We wanted to host a dinner that would remind our guests of the summer dinners that we would enjoy with our family in France — when people are on vacation and have more time off,” Scott shared. “We aimed to bring the same warmth and family-style dinner that we would enjoy when visiting Rudy’s family in France and adding summer vibes to it!”

Guests arrived at 6:30 p.m. for spritzes and plum old fashioneds created by Scott, served with a spread of sundried tomatoes on a baguette. Contemporary French tunes played in the background as everyone

The guest list: We decided to invite some of our partners and team members, who also happen to be good friends of ours! They included Autumn Palen, our Film + Media Director, who was visiting from Los Angeles; Annie Irvin, the Executive Director of the BK House and a board member of Nous; Davon Barbour, the Executive Director of The New Orleans Development District and a board member of Nous; and Anwar Nasir, the Executive Director of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

10 ADORE • October 2023

gathered around the dining room table to tuck into the feast Rudy prepared. The night drew to a close with post-dinner drinks on the gallery overlooking the neighborhood. “Everyone put on their favorite songs, and different conversations broke out. It was nice to end with the experience that makes living in the French Quarter so special. I always say New Orleans is as much a lifestyle as it is a place, and the way the dinner concluded spoke to that.”

The décor: We decided to go for an elegant and timeless landscape, featuring white china with gold trimming, silverware, crystal wine glasses, and a bouquet Rudy created from flowers purchased at Flora Savage.

The prep: After picking our theme, we looked up a few recipes online as we wanted to experience cooking something new. Autumn and I were actually filming our cooking show that day (funny enough), so Rudy went grocery shopping at Whole Foods and Ayu Bakehouse to buy fresh produce and everything we needed for dinner. He then started cooking around 10:00 a.m., making the dessert first, then proceeded with the other dishes. He cooked until about 4:00 p.m. Autumn, Rudy, and I all set up the table together and had a glass of wine while doing so. Overall, it was a fun process, and we were excited to greet our guests!

The meal: Concombres à la ricotta (cucumber slices topped with ricotta cheese, pistachio shavings, and basil leaves); tarte à la tomate d’Alain Passard (heirloom tomatoes of different colors cut and arranged on a big slice of bread); boulettes de viande à la Provençale (meatballs served in a tomato/basil sauce); asperges grillées au parmesan et vinaigre balsamique (grilled asparagus with parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar); and salade rafraîchissante (arugula, melon, watermelon, feta cheese, mint, and olive oil).

The conversation: The initial conversation focused on Autumn Palen and her experience working in film. After that, each guest shared more about their lives and what paths brought them to New Orleans. Rudy shared some about his time as a diplomat with the French Foreign Service and the countries he had previously lived in. The common thread of the conversation was how everyone shared experiences working in nonprofits in New Orleans.

“As it had been a hot week in New Orleans (over 100 degrees!), we wanted to pay homage to those long summer nights in Provence by serving different dishes at the same time — all of them cold and including lots of Mediterranean herbs/vegetables — as a way to pay homage to the Mediterranean culture of l’apéritif (and repurposing it into a dinner).”

– SCOTT TILTON

The dessert: Charlotte aux fraises, a French classic though not necessarily from Provence, is refreshing and was perfectly on theme. It is a recipe that Rudy learned how to make with his mom as a child.

Nomita Joshi-Gupta & Dr. Shaminder Gupta

PHOTOS BY DAVID GRUNFELD

Each year, Nomita Joshi-Gupta , the founder of SPRUCE, and her family gather for Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu festival celebrating brothers and sisters. It was the interior designer’s turn to host the Rakhi ceremony (the tying of the bracelet) and dinner at her Uptown home. “Sisters tie a decorative bracelet on their brother's hand and in return receive gifts,” Nomita explains. “The event signifies the bond between the two: the sister's love and affection for her brother and her brother's love and protection of his sister.”

Nomita and her husband Shaminder hosted their son and daughter, cousins, and Shaminder's parents for the feast. The family donned traditional Indian attire and talked about their summers and time away from New Orleans to the sounds of traditional Indian Ghazals

The décor: My mother gave me a traditional silver dining set which is a silver plate, bowl, and water cup. I dressed our table with natural table mats and napkins, and silverware was arranged on the plate with ginger leaves. The table had a centerpiece candelabra from Fornasetti and marigold flower garlands encircling the dishes which are traditional flowers in Indian worship. I also had rose petals on the table.

(a poetic form of music from North India). Food was brought in from Masala Kitchen in Lafayette and included both meat and vegetarian options. “My in-laws have run this restaurant for 15 years, and in my opinion, it is the best Indian food outside of my mother's kitchen.” There was also a shrine set up for their gods — specifically Lord Krishna, the god of love and friendship — with offerings.

A natural host, Nomita’s events span from large gatherings like Diwali with an Indian spread to Mardi Gras Day with gumbo to more intimate dinners with friends. “I also love hosting cooking parties where I send out an exotic menu, and everyone gathers to cook in my kitchen!” No matter the occasion, she has her preparations down to a schedule: the day before she sets up the bar and table and arranges the flowers; the morning of is dedicated to preparing food, then reheating it before guests arrive; ice, fixings, candles, and music are handled two hours before; and lastly, “Get ready, wear your smile, and enjoy your guests!”

The meal: Lettuce papad cups (freshly ground chicken with aromatic spices and peas; served with a crisp lettuce wedge, lentil chips, and sweet chili sauce); saag panner (pureed spinach cooked with onions, tomatoes, spices, and a touch of cream); navratan korma (nine assorted vegetables and paneer cooked in a creamy tomato and cashew-almond sauce); butter chicken (boneless pieces of tandoori chicken in a rich and creamy tomato sauce); vegetable biriyani (aromatic basmati rice cooked in a delicate blend of exotic spices, with mixed vegetables); lentils (yellow lentils simmered and tempered with tomatoes, onions, and flavored with mild spices); naan (Indian flatbread baked in a tandoor oven); and raita (yogurt with mint, cucumber, onions, and roasted cumin).

The layout: We have several sitting rooms so groups of people can have different conversations and visit. There are lots of comfy places to sit and tables to eat.

“I grew up in India with many traditional family events. Continuing these traditions, passing them along by hosting them regularly to the next generation brings our family pride and joy.”

– NOMITA JOSHI-GUPTA

The drinks: We served champagne, white wines from the Alsatian region, and reds from Bordeaux.

Hosting tips: Host with abandon, and don’t fret over details — you cannot control everything. If you’re hosting more than 20 guests, consider hiring a bartender. Game changer!

“My style is decorative, unexpected, and I want everyone to have fun with it. I love collecting glassware and dinnerware and using mismatched pieces.”

– NOMITA JOSHI-GUPTA

IRISH CHANNEL

Recently changing her address, Karen Phan wanted to unveil her home in a fabulous way. With the excitement surrounding football season, gathering her friends during a New Orleans Saints pre-season game seemed like a no-brainer, and she was excited to test her hosting skills in a new space.

“I would host every night if I could! While I don't host that many people all the time, I will have a smaller dinner party almost every week,” Karen shared. “From fancy plated four-course meals to to-go box family-style, I love having people over! It makes the home feel loved.” Speaking of “fancy” or more like “phancy,” Karen isn’t a stranger to seeking out delicious ventures — her popular social media page @aintthatphancy is a go-to source for where to dine in the city. Plus, with friends in the food world, hosting a gathering is a piece of cake! Karen invited her best friends including Lauren Pigéon of Pigéon Caterers who graciously offered the menu signage, an assortment of beverages, and chicken and beef satays decorated with football skewers.

Attendees were asked to arrive at 6:30 p.m. for the 7 p.m. kickoff. Keeping the football game in mind, this was not a typical sit-around-the-table dinner party. Karen and her friends spread out throughout the living room as Benni Basquiat of New Orleans Sushi Club prepared the stunning sushi spread that was easily accessible for sampling different rolls. Even though the television was the main entertainment, guests also geared their attention toward Benni preparing the meal — a fire torch and liquid nitrogen are just a few of the elements he utilizes to create an in-home show! Despite the Saints’ loss, the energy remained upbeat as everyone participated in Benni’s signature tradition: ending the meal with a sake bomb.

“Sushi & Saints”

| 8.27.23 |

The décor: Sparkle and Swag created the festive gold, white, and silver balloon garland.

The prep: It was so easy... Benni Basquiat prepares everything right in front of you. He usually needs 1-2 hours of prep time and will clean up the designated sushi area which is displayed on a kitchen island or large counter.

DINNER PARTIES

The meal: Benni Basquiat of New Orleans Sushi Club created a variety of sushi rolls. He chooses the menu but is also very considerate of people's food allergies. I love anything Benni torches — it gives the roll a smokey flavor that goes well with the fish. I also love when he uses salmon belly in a roll with crunchy chili oil.

The drinks: Lychee martinis, sake, white wine — things that compliment seafood! I did have red wine and beer, also.

New recipe: The lychee martinis are somewhat new to me. I thought it would be harder than expected, but it’s just lychee syrup and vodka. If you want to spice it up, you can!

The attire: Everyone wore black and gold to cheer on the Saints.

Hosting style: I want everyone to have a good time and feel at home. I have been hosting parties with my mom for the longest time. I remember when I was a child and we had my cousin's rehearsal dinner at my house — tons of glassware, tablecloths, and just having everything out for our guests to enjoy.

“Sushi is amazing and such an easy eat, especially while watching football. With the space I have, it isn't ideal to have a seated dinner for 15 of us. I have a large friend group and did not want to exclude anyone.” – KAREN PHAN

“Ladies Le Salon”

Running her own practice, Dr. Kate Holcomb of Pure Dermatology loved the idea of gathering like-minded, local women who pursue their passions. This was the starting point for her luncheon taking place at noon for the perfect midday pick-me-up. “I invited women who influence me, who I have worked with, who I often ask for advice, or who I have been meaning to invite to a party,” Kate shares.

When prepping for the event, Kate didn’t stick to her typical habit of texting or calling the invitees only a few days in advance, describing her hosting style as “relaxed and sometimes slightly disorganized – just like my house.” Instead, she sent out a detailed email and leaned on her friend Phillips Wood to help with the setup. “He has impeccable taste and knows all the rules of hosting. He knew I wanted pink accents to reflect

The guest list: Some of the guests included Dr. Andrea O’Leary; Emily Madero, President and CEO of French Quarter Festival; Lindsey Snodgrass of Golden Key Designs; Becky Angle of Angled Marketing; Avery Grundmeyer of Just Eat Me Sweets; Olivia Moran Flynn of TailgateNola; Dr. Mara Haseltine of Pure Dermatology

The prep: This was one of the easiest parties I have ever thrown. Because we were showcasing women businesses for the luncheon, I asked people to bring things representative of their business. For those attendees who do not directly have a business, they brought their dynamic personalities, great conversation, and charm.

Dr. Kate Holcomb MID-CITY

“I got married during medical school and did not register for all the typical household items because I did not want to move them around the country — so I borrow them from my mother whenever I have a big party. Fortunately, I ended up making a life in New Orleans, and she lives close by.” – DR. KATE HOLCOMB

DINNER PARTIES

Pure Dermatology, and we incorporated our signature powder sunscreen as a small party favor for the guests.”

The day started with drinks, crawfish cheesecake, and introductions in the sitting room before moving into Kate’s recently revamped dining room. A homemade apricot punch paired nicely with the light salad and magnificent charcuterie board crafted by one of the attendees, Olivia Moran Flynn of TailgateNola. “The salad and charcuterie board were centerpieces on their own — delicious and pleasing to look at.” Besides laying out the gorgeous spread, Kate sourced tabletop accessories and décor from PHINA, The Basketry, and borrowed a few things from her mother. After a few hours of mingling, guests trickled out the door to pick up kids from school dismissal or to relax after a hectic work week.

The drinks: Besides the punch, we were all bubbly: sparkling water, champagne, and a pink sparkling wine from the Loire Valley.

The dessert: Avery of Just Eat Me Sweets (@justeatmesweets) brought a magnificent cake and delicious, eye-catching cookies, so I had desserts covered with her expertise.

Hosting tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I work in beauty every day of the week, but the relationships I have with all the people I take care of are incredibly uplifting. Women are caregivers, and as much as we sometimes have trouble asking for assistance, most of us get recharged by being together and supporting each other.

The conversation: The topics were varied and farreaching: music, social equality, the expense of DoorDash and that most of us are too frugal to use it, cookie printers, artificial intelligence, and French bulldogs.

The music: I tend to listen to 80s music at parties because it is upbeat and makes me happy. I let my husband’s playlists lead the way — he generally has a good sense of what I like. I don’t even remember what was playing. We talked so much that the music got drowned out.

“I have two boys, and our house has always been set up to use every room and be comfortable. This new house has a very good flow from room to room. It is easy to find a spot to settle in and be comfortable, as well as find a nook and have an intimate conversation.”

– DR. KATE HOLCOMB

Memorable moments: Of course, as is common in New Orleans, two women had a connection going back decades. And my cat sneaked in to jump on the table.

Jennifer Gardner & Nathalie Simon

Down in the Bywater, creativity was sparked at a dinner party hosted by friends Jennifer Gardner and Nathalie Simon. Not only was the venue, an apartment in the Rice Mill Lofts, a piece of art all on its own, but each invitee had their own unique relation to the art world. “It was a toast to the creative ones! And it’s the one party where literally everyone we invited came — no one declined, no one forgot to show up — which is out of character for New Orleans,” Nathalie shares.

Maximalism was the theme to follow as far as décor and attire, which wasn’t a problem for this group of art aficionados. The table was topped with gorgeous, ceramic vessels made by Nathalie that were packed with flowers. Mini vases by Babette Rittenberg, plates sourced from California, a vintage tablecloth from the Sunday Shop, and cocktail napkins by Adriane Butler of Lasalle & Jackson completed the display. The grazing table was then accessorized

The guest list: Among the guests were Keli Reule, Jay Mckay, Mark Bercier, Devin “Cypher” Dennis, Bessie Daschbach, Gamil Nassar, Ryan Strok, Bradley Bowers, Suzy Rivera, Margarita Rivera, Adriane Butler, Chuck Perkins, Dominique Ranieri, John Boutté, Michael Wilkinson, Sean Cummings, Fabienne Barrau Dugas, Anthony Irpino, and John Ross.

“Artists & Art Aficionados” | 9.7.23 |

The invite: A playful email asking guests to arrive at 6:30 p.m.

“There was so much curiosity and creativity in the group. Several people who did not know each other met and made great connections. I think Mark Bercier is going to do a portrait of John Boutté. It was a very inspiring group.”

– JENNIFER GARDNER

Nathalie (left) and Jennifer (right)

The tablescape: “We both love a beautiful table setting. Our charcuterie board was a work of art, so we spent an inordinate amount of time figuring out the best way to display the crackers. Jen’s placement of all the candles and votives really kicked up the vibe later.” – Nathalie

with colorful, healthy food options featuring an assortment of crudité, charcuterie, and additional snacks from 1000 Figs — a restaurant staple for both Jennifer and Nathalie.

The creative juices weren’t the only things flowing — so were the drinks and conversation. Guests discussed everything from art and punk rock music to the excessive heat dome. The atmosphere was rounded out by a playlist crafted by Jennifer, featuring music by one of the attendees, John Boutté. After hours of mingling, guests didn’t want the night to end, prompting some to keep the party going around the corner at Bywater American Bistro.

The drinks: We had a fridge and sink full of wine, and by 8:30 p.m., nothing was left.

– Jennifer

Fancy FRIGHT&

5

1 BVLGARI Alien Snake Ring Price Upon Request, HGM Fine Jewelry hgmjewelry.com

2 Glitter Skeleton Earrings $24, Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com

3 Flash Orange Shoes $785, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com

4 Bandeau Lamp $248, Estella's Home estellashome.com

5 Halloween Buckets Door Hanger $48, Home Malone homemalonenola.com

6 Bat Divided Tray $28, Estella’s Home estellashome.com

7 Bat Plush Toy $46, Peony peonynola.com

8 Boos Paper Napkins $5, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

9 Fly Shades by Factory 900 $1,450, Art & Eyes artandeyesneworleansla.com

1 Gingham Bucket Totes $17 Each, Mignon mignonnola.com

2 Spooky Paper Napkins $6.50, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com

3 Amber Martini Glass $15, Hilltop Shoppe hilltopshoppe.com

4 Hill House Votive $10, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

1 INZI Woven Tote $140, Chateau Drugs & Gifts @chateaudrugsandgifts

2 18k White Gold Diamond Earrings $3,500, HGM Fine Jewelry hgmjewelry.com

3 Country French Chandelier $1,650, Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights bevolo.com

4 Doctor Costume $42, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

5 Crow Platter $175, The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection shophnoc.com

6 Ghost Lantern $32, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

7 Flocked Skull $24, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

8 Plum Pillow $235, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net

9 “Reborn” by Duyen Nguyen $300, Ogden Museum of Southern Art shop.ogdenmuseum.org

10 Yasmin Sequin Dress $89, Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com

1 Mario Luca Giusti Tumbler $25, Hilltop Shoppe hilltopshoppe.com

2 Bonfolk Trick or Treat Socks $19.99, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

3 Boy’s Pumpkin Bubble $59, Mignon mignonnola.com

4 Charlotte Spider Headband $30, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

5 Go To Sneakers $95, Pronto shopitpronto.com

1 Tiny Dancer Skirt $395, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com

2 Deluxe Bum Bag $98, Pronto shopitpronto.com

3 Swirling Glitter Lantern $52, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

4 Jean Phillipe Joly Glasses $530, Art & Eyes artandeyesneworleansla.com

5 Twist Candlesticks $40/Set of 2, Hilltop Shoppe hilltopshoppe.com

6 Vintage Syrian Moorish Royal Throne $2,500, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net

7 GlassTats Halloween Drink Markers $14/Set of 12, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

1 Snake Ring

$9,750, HGM Fine Jewelry hgmjewelry.com

2 Kids Harlequin Top ($98), Shorts ($142), and Leggings ($98) Peony peonynola.com

3 Black Cat Finial $87, Estella’s Home estellashome.com

4 Voluspa Moso

Bamboo Candle $34, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net

5

That Witch Candle $24, Home Malone homemalonenola.com

6

7

Vintage Beetle Earrings $68, The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection shophnoc.com

Elina Stripe Top ($99) and Waverly Pants ($99) Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com

1 Knitted Bodysuit $57, Pronto shopitpronto.com

2 Spider Earrings $21.50, Chateau Drugs & Gifts @chateaudrugsandgifts

3 Jack O’ Lantern Stir Sticks $15/Set of 4, Hilltop Shoppe hilltopshoppe.com

4 Trick or Treat Pajama Set $56, Mignon mignonnola.com

5 Black Cat Earrings $32, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com

1

2

Spider Web Doormat $58, Chateau Drugs & Gifts @chateaudrugsandgifts

Glitter Hand $10, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

3 Spider Web Necklace

$4,850, HGM Fine Jewelry hgmjewelry.com

4 Crow Tea Towel $24, The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection shophnoc.com

5 Medieval Witches and Wizards Garland $20, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

6 Killin’ It Hand Towel $12.50, Estella’s Home estellashome.com

7 Tulle Sequin Dress $699, Peony peonynola.com

8 Stripe Vase $340, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net

Victorian QUEEN ANNE UPTOWN

BY MISTY MILIOTO // PHOTOS BY LAURA STEFFAN

WELCOMING COMMITTEE

When previous clients called wanting help in finding a home Uptown, Daniel Zangara, founder and President of architectural firm Zangara + Partners, was happy to help. “I walked several houses with them until we found the right one,” he says. "I acted as lead architect during design and construction.”

The home, which was built between 1910 and 1920, required a full renovation plus a small rear addition. Daniel also modified the front porch, added new

fenestration, built out the third floor, and redesigned the kitchen, butler's pantry, powder room under the stairs, and all the bedrooms and bathrooms. The nearly 4,000-square-foot home now features four bedrooms, four and one-half baths, a dedicated office space, and a third-floor playroom.

To begin, Daniel first identified the original characteristics of the home in order to then carry those elements throughout the entire house. “Many times, we enter a home that has been renovated

The entryway, painted in White Dove by Benjamin Moore, features paneling under the stairway that conceals a series of storage areas and the powder room. The runner is from Loloi Rugs.

STIR THE POT

Daniel and Kelly collaborated extensively on the overall kitchen design. Custom cabinet panels conceal the kitchen appliances (all Wolf/Sub-Zero), and the hutches with glass fronts and interior white oak wrap became a featured element in the space where Kelly could further accessorize. The team hand-selected Honed Imperial Danby marble slabs for the backsplash, countertop, and the fully clad stone hood shroud. A rolling ladder makes it easy to access storage areas. The entire kitchen — including the cabinets, walls, crown molding, paneling, and ceilings — are all painted in Feather Down by Benjamin Moore, thereby giving the space a clean and classic look. Locally based Doorman Designs fabricated the kitchen counter chairs in a white oak finish with a Perennials indoor/outdoor fabric. The Rohl unlacquered plumbing fixtures are from Ferguson Plumbing Supply.

GATHER AROUND

The breakfast area plays nicely off of the kitchen with the same paint color (Feather Down by Benjamin Moore) and a white plaster chandelier from Visual Comfort that acts as the focal point.

FULL BLOOM

multiple times over different decades,” he says. “Our ethos is to create harmony between the old and the new and to focus on a high level of detail.” A sense of cohesiveness was achieved by featuring custom millwork and casework throughout the home. “We matched the original door and window casings as well as baseboards. A plaster crown molding was used on the first floor, and a five-piece custom crown was introduced on the second floor.”

Daniel also worked closely with Kelly Sutton, President of Kelly Sutton Design to enhance the architecturally redesigned spaces. “It’s always more than just selections,” Kelly says. “I do a lot of drawings to make sure materials are presented in a way for the client to easily visualize. I also want to make sure everything is the correct scale and aesthetic and that it’s all working with the planned architectural details.” For example, the designer worked with fabricators on light and plumbing fixtures, tile and slab materials, cabinet detailing, paint colors, and more.

While the clients (who have three small children) wanted luxurious materials, they also had to consider durability. “Her style is more traditional, and his style is more modern, so it came down to mixing the styles and finding balance for them,” Kelly says. “I really wanted to create some juxtaposition from the traditional architectural details so that there were modern touches and the spaces all felt fresh.”

For the daughter’s bathroom, Kelly opted for light finishes and tile (from Palatial Stone & Tile) so that the colorful wallpaper from House of Hackney could steal the show.

FLUFF & FOLD

In the laundry room, Kelly painted the cabinets in Classic Sand by SherwinWilliams and added a backsplash by Ann Sacks.

FRESHEN UP

TRUE BLUE

The guest bathroom features a Signature Hardware vanity and penny tile flooring with a floating border detail.

“The color palette complements the architecture rather than grabbing the spotlight. There were a few areas, like in the powder room and butler's pantry, where the homeowner wanted a specific feel and Kelly provided those moments.”

– DANIEL ZANGARA

The moody powder room, located beneath the stairway on the first floor, is wrapped in a patterned Fayce grasscloth wallpaper. The custom floating sink features mitered marble slabs from Stone Gallery with a marble surround and wrap-up shelf detail. Kelly played off of the modern details with a Kallista unlacquered brass faucet from Ferguson Plumbing Supply and an antique mirror from Dop Antiques.

SQUEAKY CLEAN

The primary bathroom features beautiful hand selected Calacatta Gold marble from Stone Gallery used for both the chunky apron detail on the vanity and as a wrap on the tub to give it a monolithic vibe. The plumbing fixtures are California Faucets in unlacquered brass from Ferguson Plumbing Supply, and the shower features white Zellige tile from Palatial Stone & Tile with accents of the slab material. Meanwhile, the flooring is a reclaimed terra cotta tile in a herringbone pattern.

HIDDEN TREASURE

The little jewel box of a butler's pantry, which functions as a bar for entertaining, has a moody and rich feel. The entire space, including the ceiling, is wrapped in high-gloss lacquer Olympic Range paint by Sherwin-Williams. Cabinet panels conceal a large Sub-Zero wine refrigerator and ice machine, while a Waterworks Henry bar faucet in unlacquered brass and a marble slab backsplash with antique mirror detail finish the space.

“The butler's pantry is a little jewel box. We wanted this space to feel moody and rich as it was really functioning as a bar for entertaining.”

– KELLY SUTTON

Child's PLAY

1 Toddler Tiger Knit Hat $20, Home Malone homemalonenola.com

2 Stacking Cup Toy $20, Ogden Museum of Southern Art shop.ogdenmuseum.org

3 Smocked Shortall $60, Mignon mignonnola.com

4 Bomber Jacket $44, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

5 Sno-Balls Bib $18, Home Malone homemalonenola.com

6 If Monet Painted a Monster $19.95, NOMA Gift Shop shop.noma.org

7 Polka Dot Backpack $36, Chateau Drugs & Gifts @chateaudrugsandgifts

8 Make Your Own Harmonica $12, NOMA Gift Shop shop.noma.org

9 Knitted Alligator Toy $20, The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection shophnoc.com

6 7

1 Faux Fur Belted Vest $52, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

2 Boy’s Dog Bubble $58, Mignon mignonnola.com

3 Eat Dat Bib ($15) and Burp Cloth ($24) Home Malone homemalonenola.com

4 Alligator Wooden Rollers $24, Ogden Museum of Southern Art shop.ogdenmuseum.org

5 Crochetage Collections Pillow $50, Estella’s Home estellashome.com

6 And Then... Story Starters $24.95, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

7 Global Kids Activity Set $16.99, The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection shophnoc.com

8 Grand Jeté Prima Doll $50, The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection shophnoc.com

1 Jiggy Junior Baby Safari Puzzle

$44, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

2 Rainbow Tote Bag

$46, Chateau Drugs & Gifts @chateaudrugsandgifts

3

NolaGirl Twirl Cotton Dress

$48.99, Nola Papa nolapapa.com/shop

4 Keepsake Boxes

$30, Hilltop Shoppe hilltopshoppe.com

5 Sloth Sip and Snack Bottle

$24, Estella’s Home estellashome.com

6 Gel Crayons

$21, Ogden Museum of Southern Art shop.ogdenmuseum.org

7 Gabby Bonnie Dress

$78, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com

8 Design + Draw Kit

$18, NOMA Gift Shop shop.noma.org

9 Rainbow Stacking Toy

$25, Ogden Museum of Southern Art shop.ogdenmuseum.org

1 Maison Nola Hubig’s Pie Teether ($18) and Bib ($20) Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

2

Unisex Striped Sweater $65, Peony peonynola.com

3

Kid’s Glam Sunglasses $34, Peony peonynola.com

4 Jelly Luxe Charm Purse $47, Mignon mignonnola.com

5 Little Builders Game $12, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

6 Puttyworld X-Ball Putty Kit $25, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

7 Dapper Napper Swaddle Blanket $22, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

8

Jellycat Forest Fauna Frog $36, Peony peonynola.com

LocalSTORYTELLERS

2

3

4

1 Gary and the Tooth Fairy by Adam Dennis and Herb Leonhard $19.99, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

When We Are Apart by Becca Johnsey and Marizan $17.99 beccajohnseybooks.com

Where Did Benjamin Go? by Chris Clarkson and Annalise Barber $18.99, Blue Cypress Books bluecypressbooks.com

To Dream of Dancing by Z.W. Mohr and Aaron Damon Porter $25, Estella’s Home estellashome.com

Muffin Ricky &

7.15.23

BY MARIGNY LANAUX // PHOTOS BY CATHERINE GUIDRY

When Muffin Patrick first met Ricky Malone, she only knew him as her brother’s best friend. Time passed, and as they both found themselves in Austin, Texas in December 2019, they reconnected and quickly discovered they couldn’t remain just friends. The next three years of dating ended with Ricky popping the question at the Columns Hotel, cementing New Orleans as a special place for the couple.

As the planning began, Muffin relied on Caroline Broussard of Iris and Oak Events to rise to the challenge, as well as asking her mother for advice. “I am so blessed to have a mother who is incredible at all things wedding planning,” Muffin shared. “She was my leader and made the process so easy for me. I trust her taste and style so much; I was able to lean on her for a lot of the decisions. A mother is always right!”

Muffin and her bridesmaids got ready at her aunt’s house in Uptown New Orleans, wearing blue hydrangea pajamas that matched the flowers arranged by Antigua Floral. Charming fun

Bridesmaid hair and makeup: Flawless Bride

The invitation suite was created by Paperwhite Stationery Boutique in Baton Rouge.

Ricky wanted his groomsmen to stand out from the crowd, so each matched him in a white dinner coat.

Muffin’s mother and sister knew immediately that the dress was perfect for her – that sold her on it.

LUXE STYLIST: Sarah Velupillai

LUXE MAKEUP ARTIST: Jessica Carnley

Sharing Irish heritage, Muffin and Ricky had bagpipers play as Muffin walked down the aisle and outside of the church as a post-ceremony celebration.

facts about the couple’s relationship were scattered around the house, creating even more excitement for the evening to come.

Ricky and his entourage got ready at Hotel Saint Vincent and wore white Perlis dinner coats, complimenting the wedding’s blue and white color scheme. “My wedding party was a mix of family, childhood, high school, and college friends. Ricky and I agreed on including everyone, and we are so happy we did. Although big wedding parties can be pricey, it is so worth it to spread the love and happiness.”

Being a short bride, Muffin felt a trumpet silhouette suited her best and landed on a modern, sleek gown from I Do Bridal in Baton Rouge. She accessorized with an antique necklace originally given by her father to her mother, along with a simple diamond tennis bracelet she acquired on her 18th birthday, drop diamond earrings, and 2-inch bow heels – perfect for comfortably dancing the night away. Her look was completed with a stunning floral applique veil.

The ceremony took place at St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church followed by a twinkle-light reception at Il Mercato. Delicious cuisine from Joel Catering, live entertainment by The Phunky Monkeys, and having their first dance as husband and wife to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley were just a few things that made the celebration memorable. As the night ended, guests showered the newlyweds in bubbles as they second lined out of the party and into a very fitting “Just Married” pedicab.

Muffin and her father had a professional teach them a dance to perform at the wedding. After rehearsing a million times at home, Muffin couldn’t remember the dance when the moment came, prompting them to perform their own spontaneous version. This made their dance unforgettable and all the more special.

Bittersweet Confections baked the vanilla cake with almond icing. The couple also offered beignets and espresso martinis as additional sweet treat options.

“The Phunky Monkeys created a second line for us around the entire inside of Il Mercato and then continued outside with the guests. All of the guests had champagne shaped bubble containers that created a dreamy bubble exit for Ricky and I.” — Muffin Malone

BY MICHAELA BECHLER

Shop Dog Cat Miss Kitty Meow

If independent bookstores had a stereotype, it would be cozy. Blue Cypress Books has happily fit that mold since 2008 when Elizabeth Ahlquist opened the shop out of necessity. “After Katrina, with a newborn and an inability to go back to work without affordable childcare, I decided to expand my online bookselling to a brick-andmortar store,” she shared. Nestled on Oak Street, the shop has grown over the years to become an inclusive hub for readers and authors alike. The two-story building houses thousands of new and used books, journals, and gifts as well as ample space for events like book signings and readings.

Upping the coziness factor is Miss Kitty Meow, the shop’s resident cat who was adopted from the Southern Animal Foundation and named by Elizabeth’s daughter (when she was three, give her a break!), who also responds to “Bookstore Kitty.” Kitty Meow (for short) lives at the shop full time, so it’s safe to say she’s always on time to work. While she isn’t the most helpful shop mascot, she loves customers and all of their attention — when she’s awake. Beauty sleep is her favorite activity, and she does not wish to be disturbed while slumbering. When she isn’t napping, she likes to tear up finger puppets and pass judgment from the top of the stairs.

Both Kitty Meow and Elizabeth are big readers. The cat tends to stick to the Early Readers (reading isn’t her strongest suit) or looking up yoga poses to try out, while Elizabeth goes for literature, contemporary science, politics, and religion. “I read anywhere around 60-80 books a year, with more in the middle months because I can't focus on anything during Mardi Gras or the winter holidays.” Looking for some new books to add to your list? Elizabeth is especially excited about THE MANIAC by Benjamín Labatut as well as the January 2024 releases of local authors Jami Attenberg (1000 Words: A Writer’s Guide to Staying Creative, Focused, and Productive All Year Round) and Katherine Min (The Fetishist). As for Kitty Meow’s recommendations, you’ll have to ask nicely once she wakes up from her nap.

Name: Miss Kitty Meow

Age: Timeless and eternal (14 years)

Breed: Domestic House Cat

Favorite food: Very expensive fancy food from Jefferson Feed

A day in the life: Napping, eating, and getting pets from customers

Personality in three words: Kind, chill, happy

Least favorite things: Dogs and being picked up