Gambit's CUE August 2019

CUE MAGAZINE A M O N T H LY

LIFE + STYLE + DESIGN

GUIDE TO NEW ORLEANS

AUGUST 2019

FOLLOWING

Twinning with Fletcher and Travers Mackel HOME

Psychology of rugs

The

IDENTITYISSUE SHOPPING

Wearing your identity with monograms FA S H I O N

What your handbag says about you

2

C UE M AG A Z I N E • A u g u s t 2 01 9

[ FROM THE EDITOR ]

CONTENTS 5

HOME The psychology

7

SHOPPING Personalizing the

AUGUST 2019

RED DRESS RUN READY!

of selecting a rug

P H OTO BY K A R L A P H OTO G R A P H Y

ICYMI ...

things you love

8

FASHION What does your

FOLLOW US! 517 METAIRIE RD. OLD METAIRIE 504-510-4655 | shopnolaboo.com

handbag say about you?

10 #FOLLOWING Fletcher and Travers Mackel, journalists and twin brothers

ON

CUE

Publisher JEANNE EXNICIOS FOSTER

ADVERTISING Advertising Inquiries (504) 483-3150

Editor KATHERINE M. JOHNSON

Advertising Director

Creative Services Director DORA SISON

[sandys@gambitweekly.com]

SANDY STEIN BRONDUM (504) 483-3150

Sales Coordinator | MICHELE SLONSKI Sales Assistant | KAYLA FLETCHER Senior Sales Representatives JILL GIEGER

EDITORIAL

(504) 483-3131 [ jillg@gambitweekly.com]

Managing Editor KANDACE POWER GRAVES

Sales Representatives

Contributing Writers SARAH RAVITS, SUZANNE PFEFFERLE TAFUR

PRODUCTION Pre-Press Coordinator JASON WHITTAKER

PEAPOD NECKLACE

SAMANTHA FLEMING (504) 483-3141

[samanthaf@gambitweekly.com] ABBY SCORSONE (504) 483-3145

[abigails@gambitweekly.com]

WINNFIELD JEANSONNE, MARIA BOUÉ, SHERIE DELACROIX-ALFARO

KELLY SONNIER (504) 483-3143 [kellys@gambitweekly.com]

823 C A M P S T R E E T | N E W O R L E A N S, L A 70130 504.486. 5900 | cue@gambitweekly.com

A u g u s t 2 01 9

Graphic Designers

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

I HAD A SMUDGE STICK PARTY for my birthday last month. It was a beautiful (and hot) Saturday, and some friends and I met up to learn about the tradition and the meaning behind making and burning a smudge stick. The lore behind it is enticing and shrouded in mystery, like the haze of incense that accompanies the ringing of the bells during the eucharistic rites of the Catholic Mass.

There’s something very comforting in the art of smudging — the idea that by rolling together herbs, flowers and other plants (each with their own meaning), securing the various stalks with twine and setting the ends of the dried vegetation ablaze and allowing them to smolder, we can use that smoke to cast out the negative energy in our homes and souls. But smudging isn’t just about getting rid of things, as I learned a few weeks ago. It’s also about allowing something new and positive in, in place of the things you’ve expunged.

I’m a bit of a type-A personality (OK, a lot), and I love the idea that I can harness control over not only expelling bad things and experiences, but also manually opening myself to good ones.

So, with this letter, I take my leave of Gambit as I move on to another career opportunity. This is the last time I will address our readers as an editor, but hopefully not the last you’ll ever hear from me. With the glowing ends of my smudge stick, made of basil for good wishes, cedar for healing, mint for travel and protection and rosemary for remembrance, I rid myself of fear and doubt and invite in hope for the next chapter of my career, while offering thanks (gratitude is key to the success of smudging) to all of you who have been my companions these last years. I won’t forget you (I’ve got rosemary for that).

3

Home Works

A SPECIAL REAL ESTATE SECTION PROMOTE YOUR PROPERTIES WITH COLOR ADS BEGINNING AT $150 CALL SANDY AT (504) 483-3150

Photo: Cassagne Photography

OPEN HOUSE

1-4 PM

Saturday, August 10th

Client-Driven Real Estate with Collective Results!

904 DUNBAR AVE. Bay St Louis, MS. Over 6,000 SQ FT 5BR/3.5BA

Please vote for us as Best Real Estate Office in this year’s Best of New Orleans poll!

$599,000

Witry Collective

900 Camp Street, Suite 301, New Orleans, LA 70130 504.291.2022 • wcnola.com

228-216-2628

Licensed in Louisiana, USA

HOME WORKS

4224 Walmsley • $345,000

Raised basement double in Broadmore. Inviting front porch leads into this open living & dining area. Hardwood floors throughout the 2nd floor. Owner unit has 3 spacious bedrooms and 1 bath. Lower unit 2 bedroom apartment is a possible candidate for short term rental with owner occupying top unit. Convenient location to Napoleon Ave., new library and restaurants.

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

A u g u s t 2 01 9

1026-28 Louisa St. • $470,000

4

Your piece of history in the Bywater! Craftsman style double with front porch built for relaxing! Renovated with original wood floors, fireplaces and updated kitchen & baths.

Owner unit boasts 2 bedrooms & 2 full baths. Master bath has a separate shower and claw foot tub. Lot is 33 x 150 for private outside entertaining! Rental unit is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath. Smart income producing property in the HIP Bywater neighborhood.

Steps to transportation, restaurants, shopping, etc.

504.462.0734

2321 MEHLE ST.

6100 N. RAMPART ST. ING ND PE E L SA

High quality new construction in ultra convenient Arabi Park location. Easy downtown commute. Open floor plan, high ceilings, master suite with walk in closet. Priced to sell $289,000.

Excellent 3 bdrm, 2 ba home steps to St. Claude in the Holy Cross area. Affordabley priced at $129,000 and ready for move in.

Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission for more than 35 years with offices in New Orleans, LA 70130

Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Comission

Two (2) separate renovated cottages on a large 48 x 127 Lot in an excellent Marigny location. Main house is a 2 bedroom camelback and 2nd cottage is a 2 bedroom rental. Off street parking for several cars and room for a pool in the rear. $829,900

Michael L. Baker, ABR/M, CRB, HHS President Realty Resources, Inc. 504-523-5555 • cell 504-606-6226

6818 LOUISVILLE ST., LAKEVIEW

1924 ESTEBAN, ARABI

4713 CHATEAU DR., METAIRIE

4610-12 ORLEANS AVE., NOLA

3540 sq ft, 5 beds, 3.5 baths. First floor master bed. Butlers pantry.

Fireplace. Wood ceiling beams. Double carport w/ garage door. $949,900 4 bed/2.5 bth, 3427 sq ft. Master w/ sitting area/fireplace. Living rm fireplace/wet bar. Pool/ Double garage. $499,900

3 bed/2 bth. 1665 sq ft.

Frig, microwave, oven, dishwasher, farm sink, quartz counters. Oversized lot w/ rear yard access. $289,900

kimkcatalano@gmail.com 3197 Richland Ave. Metairie, LA 70002 504.455.0100

2460 BURGUNDY ST.

TRACI BIRD KESTLER BROKER/OWNER CELL 504-975-5971

STEPHANIE CAMPANI OWNER/AGENT 504-908-9350

dwellnola.com

Duplex. 3BD/1.5BA per side; 3363 ttl sq ft. $3,150/ mo rental income! Shed can be converted to parking. High ceilings, original wood floors.

Indoor laundry. $549,000 3500 N. HULLEN ST. METAIRIE, LA 70002 OFFICE 504-301-2400 LICENSED IN LOUISIANA

THE

psychology OF

SELECTING A RUG

Your floor covering may say more about you than you think

BY SAR AH R AVITS

PHOTO BY BRIT T SMITH PHOTOGR APHY

Whitney Jones says reserved personality types would appreciate a rug with a familiar pattern, like this asymmetrical checkerboard grid, because it’s not too plain, but not so busy that it calls attention to itself.

like,” Jones says. Part of the magic of her job is to help them discover their tastes, and in a larger sense, figure out who they are.

AVERAGE

FOR THE AVERAGE PERSONALITY TYPE — defined as fairly agreeable and conscientious, extroverted and neurotic but not terribly open — Jones says she recommends a simple shag rug “in any color that goes with the decor” of the house.

Someone who fits this description probably doesn’t want to shake things up too much and may be a bit of a crowd-pleaser, but also could have an open mind when it comes to new things.

“An average personality type could also be open to color — [but] I think they would probably want to use colors that are already featured in the home,” Jones says.

She says a striped or black-and-white pattern also would work.

SELF-CENTERED

INDIVIDUALS IN THE SELF-CENTERED personality category score high in extroversion but below average in openness, agreeability and conscientiousness. But self-confidence, especially when it comes to flaunting personal style, isn’t a bad thing.

Jones says these folks might make bolder,

A u g u s t 2 01 9

line from the Coen brothers’ 1998 crime comedy, “The Big Lebowski”: “It really tied the room together,” says The Dude, as he laments his beloved rug’s mysterious disappearance.

“It’s cliche, but it’s true,” says Whitney Jones, an interior decorator and owner of Whitney J Decor (504-300-9698; www. whitneyjdecor.com). She says she’s a “strong advocate” for putting rugs in every room of the home.

“A room is incomplete without a rug,” she says. “It’s one of the things I always try to include in my clients’ budget. It’s a necessity to me.”

Rugs add depth, dimension, color and texture to a room, and they “break up the monotony of flooring,” and present an opportunity to bring some personality to it, she says.

While Jones doesn’t categorize her clients into four personality types like the academic researchers at Northwestern, she does infuse her home decorating work with a bit of psychology.

She sends a questionnaire to prospective clients to find out what colors, patterns and textures they might like. She doesn’t ask people directly what their favorite colors are — she prefers to guide them through it by presenting new options.

“A lot of times they don’t know what they

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

HAVE YOU EVER TAKEN A PERSONALITY TEST? I have, and the combination of traits and acronyms seemed endless and confusing, making it difficult to extract any real insight from the results. According to my latest personality test, I should have pursued a career in engineering or public transportation (specifically: cab driver).

Last year, researchers at Northwestern University in Illinois narrowed things down to four main personality types, defined by varying levels of neuroticism (a propensity to experience negative emotions), extroversion (garrulousness and sociability), openness (the ability to appreciate new experiences and ideas), agreeability (a go-with-the-flow attitude) and conscientiousness (the tendency to follow rules and work hard). Scientists sifted through data from more than 1.5 million questionnaire respondents before arriving at these categories, and the research was published in Nature Human Behaviour.

Fitting neatly into one of the four categories — average, self-centered, role model or reserved — might seem a little dubious. The names of the categories can seem reductive (and even harsh — we’re looking at you, “self-centered”). But it’s clear that personality affects personal style, down to choice of home furnishings and accents such as rugs.

Cinephiles may be familiar with the famous

5

Give

[ HOME ]

NEW LIFE to your Outdoor Furniture

PHOTO BY BRIT T SMITH PHOTOGR APHY

For the average personality type, Jones suggests a rug in an understated pattern that pulls in colors already in the rest of the room’s decor.

lla Sunbre ics & Fabr Spring estuffing R Cushion rvices Se

We’ll make your fu furniture feel like N E W again.

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

A u g u s t 2 01 9

3044 GALLERIA DRIVE • METAIRIE, LA 70001 • 504.831.5244 • BENSONSUPHOLSTERY@GMAIL.COM

6

louder choices when it comes to decor. “They might want something more extravagant,” she says.

“I could see this type going for something very glam.”

Cowhide rugs might fit the bill, or other unique patterns — perhaps with gold foil detailing, she says.

RESERVED

RESERVED IS THE LABEL FOR PEOPLE who are fairly stable in all domains except for openness and neuroticism, in which they score relatively low.

Jones says these individuals might prefer “safe” patterns — ones that don’t involve risk-taking and are familiar, such as the popular and timeless trellis pattern.

“It’s something that’s not too plain, but it’s something that most people are comfortable with,” she says. “It’s something that we’ve seen so many times that it won’t stand out.”

For reserved individuals, a lowpile rug in a solid color also might be a good option.

ROLE MODEL

THE ROLE MODEL is an extroverted, agreeable, conscientious person with low levels of neuroticism. They’re self-assured and tend to elevate others around them, and Jones believes this would manifest in their design aesthetic.

“I think they’d be confident in general, so they’d be confident in taking a chance to put a bold rug on the floor,” she says. “Maybe something with a geometric pattern, [or] something that’s bold in pattern, color and style.”

For these types, she says, “We can also do something artsy — almost like something that imitates art pieces you could also find on the wall,” she says. “I think these people would use the boldest rugs.”

[ SHOPPING ]

Personalize it Leaving your mark on the things you love

BY K AT H ER IN E M . J O H N S O N

Tag it

Get it on paper Make Southern-inspired notecard designs like this magnolia your own by personalizing them with your name, $41 for eight (includes return address on envelope) at Scriptura (Lakeside Shopping Center Annex, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-219-1113; 5423 Magazine St., 504-897-1555; www.scriptura.com).

Offer a glimpse into your pet’s personality with collar tags in special shapes like this “Star Trek” Starfleet Delta symbol (others include a chili pepper, boudin, a clover leaf, squirrel, bow tie and bone), $25 at Adorn & Conquer (The Rink, 2727 Prytania St., 504-702-8036; www.adornandconquer.com).

Bottoms up Show your style — or your humor — with a hand-blown whiskey glass personalized with a stamp on the bottom that can be a date, design, saying or something custom, starts at $60 per glass at Glassblower Ben (by appointment, 504-6037080; www.glassblowerben.com).

Popular among brides for their pre-ceremony makeup and hair sessions, this soft and comfy monogrammed kimono robe has elegant satin lapels, $99 for robe, $16 for monogramming at Yvonne LaFleur (8131 Hampson St., 504-866-9666; www.yvonnelafleur.com).

A u g u s t 2 01 9

It’s got your name on it

Monogram jewelry is about as personal as it gets and can be made using a name or initials in sterling silver or 10-karat, 14-karat or 18-karat rose, white or yellow gold. Necklaces start at $95 for sterling silver and cuff bracelets are available in sizes infant to adult and start at $195 for sterling silver at Fisher & Sons Jewelers (5101 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite 1, Metairie, 504-885-4956; www.fishersonsjewelers.com). The shop also makes monogram rings, earrings, anklets, tie tacks and cufflinks.

Scent memory is a powerful thing — that whiff you encounter in a crowd that brings to mind a loved one, a third-grade teacher or that guy in college you never had the nerve to approach. Make your scent your own with a custom blend based on your body chemistry, personality and scent preferences, $60 for him (includes a 4-ounce bottle of cologne) and $90 for her (includes a 1-ounce perfume).

The formula is kept on record and reorders start at $6 and can be ordered in perfume, cologne, eau de toilette, body powder, lotion and bath wash and gel at Bourbon French Parfums (805 Royal St., 504522-4480; www.neworleansperfume.com).

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

Grin and wear it

Scent-sational

7

[ FASHION ]

Purses

[ FASHION ]

WITH

The extra-large python-print bag is a bold, confident statement for the woman on the go. “It’s for someone who’s not going to shy away from fashion statements,” says NOLA Boo sales associate Alexis Doubleday. “But it works for the everyday woman who needs to fit everything in there,” whether it’s for a busy work day, running errands, after-work meetups or anything in between. Extra-large tote, $98 at NOLA Boo (517 Metairie Road, Suite 200, Metairie, 504-510-4655; www.shopnolaboo.com).

2. A high school photo of her dad from 1975 — “He has hair down to his waist and there is a note written on the back to his high school crush.

I guess he was too afraid to give it to her.”

BY SAR AH R AVITS

MM Bderi OMO OR OOO R+ G GG R +RG Bride + OM e+de id rri B B 19 RING 20 2019 | SP A GUIDE TO N I O UN NS I O N+ NS | SPRING +EGU E SRILN OD NNDG IE DWW E SD W A G U I D E T LOEON E ONR LE A S W EA DSN DS I NW G SE D+D U 2019 I NN GI O SE A S N+S U| NSI P NW O RN ISN G | SPRING 201 W NOERW AR L EO D EN T 9 A G UTI O A GUIDE

Dazzling, edgy and independent, the woman who rocks this beaded clutch embraces the spotlight like Mick Jagger, has a knack for staying out late and makes cool, confident fashion statements that pay tribute to the rock ’n’ roll greats.

Beaded bag with Rolling Stones logo (optional cross-body strap included), $212 at Hemline Metairie (605 Metairie Road, Suite B, Metairie, 504-309-8778; www. facebook.com/hemline.metairie).

AND DDING SUM ING MER AN G WED SPR RIN FOR S R SP FO SUMMER WEDDINGS S NGS DDI ING WE DD SUM ER WE MMMER SU A A

A

ENTS S ERGARM UND RGAR MENT UNDE UPS S UNDERGARMENTS COV ERR-UP AND UNDE AND COVE RGAR MENTS OLE WH AND COVER-UPS THE LE WHO FOR THEAND FOR COVE R-UPS TY PAR DAL FOR AL THE WHOLE Y BRIBRID PART FOR THE WHOLE BRIDAL PARTY BRIDA OSING AN ANL PARTY CHO CHOOSING NT FOR CHOOSING AN ICIA T FOR OFF CIAN CHOO OFFI SING AN NG FOR DDI WEWED OFFICIANT THE DING OFFIC THE NYIANT EMO CER THE WEDDING Y FOR MON CERE THE WEDD CEREMONY ING CEREM S DPIECE HEA ES ONY PIEC HEADTYP E RY Y TYPE EVEHEADPIECES FOR FOR EVER HEAD PIECES DE BRI OF FOR EVERY TYPE E BRID OFEVERY FOR TYPE OF BRIDE OF BRIDE

O N LBI LC I AC TAI T I O N P UPPBU UP B UL B I CL A I O I CT A T N I O N

4. Medicine Mama’s Sweet Bee Magic organic lip balm

Brandi Charlot

OWNER OF BLUCID FLORAL (5113 St. Claude Ave., 504-957-6357; www.blucidfloral.com)

1. Oasis floral bunch cutters — “I don’t do the cutest scissors. They don’t get the work done.”

CUTTING-EDGE FASHIONISTA

2. Jimmy Choo blinged-out frames

A black leather Christian Louboutin fanny pack (with detachable belt and strap), suits a low-maintenance yet high-fashion woman, says Jessica Doyle, store manager at Joseph. Convertible fanny pack, $950 at Joseph (5500 Magazine St., 504-900-1422; www.josephstores.com).

BRIDE + GROOM

A G U I D E TO N E W O R L E A N S WEDDINGS & UNIONS I S S U E DAT E :

SEPTEMBER 17

A D S PAC E R E S E RVAT I O N :

SEPTEMBER 6

CALL SANDY STEIN TO RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE TODAY

504.483.3150

5. “Although I somehow manage to forget my cellphone at the house at least once a week, I try to make sure to have that little guy on me — it’s pretty crucial for freelance work.”

3. Bracelets from UglyBettyBoyCrush thrown all over — “I have plenty of those and get mad if they’re misplaced.”

4. A journal from Home Goods 5. “My son’s video game controller when he’s punished.”

5 4 2 2 M A G A Z I N E S T. 504.835.4702 W W W.N E S T N O L A . N E T

A u g u s t 2 01 9

What's What's t's'sding haat W h Tr W en Trending gg in din FOR dING SPR en n AND e r TTr FOR SPRING AND A

3. “I know this sounds insane, but I always have a 40-ounce Klean Kanteen jug of water in my bag. It’s super crucial for me to stay hydrated, especially when I’m on set, and I hate wasting plastic bottles.”

THE ROCK STAR

This dainty 1920s vintage handbag is suitable for the romantic idealist as she gallivants around old-fashioned cocktail bars for a night of flirtatious fun. Vintage snap-top purse, $125 at Century Girl Vintage (2023 Magazine St., 504-8753105; www.centurygirlvintage.com).

1. “Frankincense essential oil keeps me grounded because I am usually running around like a crazy person.”

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

A u g u s t 2 01 9

Akasha Rabut

Seven bags to suit your style

THE HOPEFUL ROMANTIC

P O C H E

We asked two local badass women about the items that are always in their handbags.

PHOTOGRAPHER

This sturdy rattan purse that incorporates festive gold tinsel is perfect for the woman making the most out of her summer, whether she’s lounging at a pool in the Faubourg Marigny or sipping pina coladas on the beach. Handbag, $72, at gae-tana’s (7732 Maple St., 504-865-9625; www. gaetanas.com).

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

K AY L E E

(www.akasahrabut.com)

VACATION VIBES

8

B Y

The leather “Marcie” handbag by Chloe (pictured in medium; optional strap included) always is in style and available in multiple colors and sizes. It works for the woman who wants a classic, comfortable purse that that can accessorize a gamut of outfits. “Marcie” bag, $1,990 at Joseph (5500 Magazine St., 504-900-1422; www.josephstores.com).

PERSONALITY BUSY & BOLD

What’s in her bag?

TIMELESS BUT TRENDY

9

[ FASHION ]

Purses

[ FASHION ]

WITH

The extra-large python-print bag is a bold, confident statement for the woman on the go. “It’s for someone who’s not going to shy away from fashion statements,” says NOLA Boo sales associate Alexis Doubleday. “But it works for the everyday woman who needs to fit everything in there,” whether it’s for a busy work day, running errands, after-work meetups or anything in between. Extra-large tote, $98 at NOLA Boo (517 Metairie Road, Suite 200, Metairie, 504-510-4655; www.shopnolaboo.com).

2. A high school photo of her dad from 1975 — “He has hair down to his waist and there is a note written on the back to his high school crush.

I guess he was too afraid to give it to her.”

BY SAR AH R AVITS

MM Bderi OMO OR OOO R+ G GG R +RG Bride + OM e+de id rri B B 19 RING 20 2019 | SP A GUIDE TO N I O UN NS I O N+ NS | SPRING +EGU E SRILN OD NNDG IE DWW E SD W A G U I D E T LOEON E ONR LE A S W EA DSN DS I NW G SE D+D U 2019 I NN GI O SE A S N+S U| NSI P NW O RN ISN G | SPRING 201 W NOERW AR L EO D EN T 9 A G UTI O A GUIDE

Dazzling, edgy and independent, the woman who rocks this beaded clutch embraces the spotlight like Mick Jagger, has a knack for staying out late and makes cool, confident fashion statements that pay tribute to the rock ’n’ roll greats.

Beaded bag with Rolling Stones logo (optional cross-body strap included), $212 at Hemline Metairie (605 Metairie Road, Suite B, Metairie, 504-309-8778; www. facebook.com/hemline.metairie).

AND DDING SUM ING MER AN G WED SPR RIN FOR S R SP FO SUMMER WEDDINGS S NGS DDI ING WE DD SUM ER WE MMMER SU A A

A

ENTS S ERGARM UND RGAR MENT UNDE UPS S UNDERGARMENTS COV ERR-UP AND UNDE AND COVE RGAR MENTS OLE WH AND COVER-UPS THE LE WHO FOR THEAND FOR COVE R-UPS TY PAR DAL FOR AL THE WHOLE Y BRIBRID PART FOR THE WHOLE BRIDAL PARTY BRIDA OSING AN ANL PARTY CHO CHOOSING NT FOR CHOOSING AN ICIA T FOR OFF CIAN CHOO OFFI SING AN NG FOR DDI WEWED OFFICIANT THE DING OFFIC THE NYIANT EMO CER THE WEDDING Y FOR MON CERE THE WEDD CEREMONY ING CEREM S DPIECE HEA ES ONY PIEC HEADTYP E RY Y TYPE EVEHEADPIECES FOR FOR EVER HEAD PIECES DE BRI OF FOR EVERY TYPE E BRID OFEVERY FOR TYPE OF BRIDE OF BRIDE

O N LBI LC I AC TAI T I O N P UPPBU UP B UL B I CL A I O I CT A T N I O N

4. Medicine Mama’s Sweet Bee Magic organic lip balm

Brandi Charlot

OWNER OF BLUCID FLORAL (5113 St. Claude Ave., 504-957-6357; www.blucidfloral.com)

1. Oasis floral bunch cutters — “I don’t do the cutest scissors. They don’t get the work done.”

CUTTING-EDGE FASHIONISTA

2. Jimmy Choo blinged-out frames

A black leather Christian Louboutin fanny pack (with detachable belt and strap), suits a low-maintenance yet high-fashion woman, says Jessica Doyle, store manager at Joseph. Convertible fanny pack, $950 at Joseph (5500 Magazine St., 504-900-1422; www.josephstores.com).

BRIDE + GROOM

A G U I D E TO N E W O R L E A N S WEDDINGS & UNIONS I S S U E DAT E :

SEPTEMBER 17

A D S PAC E R E S E RVAT I O N :

SEPTEMBER 6

CALL SANDY STEIN TO RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE TODAY

504.483.3150

5. “Although I somehow manage to forget my cellphone at the house at least once a week, I try to make sure to have that little guy on me — it’s pretty crucial for freelance work.”

3. Bracelets from UglyBettyBoyCrush thrown all over — “I have plenty of those and get mad if they’re misplaced.”

4. A journal from Home Goods 5. “My son’s video game controller when he’s punished.”

5 4 2 2 M A G A Z I N E S T. 504.835.4702 W W W.N E S T N O L A . N E T

A u g u s t 2 01 9

What's What's t's'sding haat W h Tr W en Trending gg in din FOR dING SPR en n AND e r TTr FOR SPRING AND A

3. “I know this sounds insane, but I always have a 40-ounce Klean Kanteen jug of water in my bag. It’s super crucial for me to stay hydrated, especially when I’m on set, and I hate wasting plastic bottles.”

THE ROCK STAR

This dainty 1920s vintage handbag is suitable for the romantic idealist as she gallivants around old-fashioned cocktail bars for a night of flirtatious fun. Vintage snap-top purse, $125 at Century Girl Vintage (2023 Magazine St., 504-8753105; www.centurygirlvintage.com).

1. “Frankincense essential oil keeps me grounded because I am usually running around like a crazy person.”

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

A u g u s t 2 01 9

Akasha Rabut

Seven bags to suit your style

THE HOPEFUL ROMANTIC

P O C H E

We asked two local badass women about the items that are always in their handbags.

PHOTOGRAPHER

This sturdy rattan purse that incorporates festive gold tinsel is perfect for the woman making the most out of her summer, whether she’s lounging at a pool in the Faubourg Marigny or sipping pina coladas on the beach. Handbag, $72, at gae-tana’s (7732 Maple St., 504-865-9625; www. gaetanas.com).

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

K AY L E E

(www.akasahrabut.com)

VACATION VIBES

8

B Y

The leather “Marcie” handbag by Chloe (pictured in medium; optional strap included) always is in style and available in multiple colors and sizes. It works for the woman who wants a classic, comfortable purse that that can accessorize a gamut of outfits. “Marcie” bag, $1,990 at Joseph (5500 Magazine St., 504-900-1422; www.josephstores.com).

PERSONALITY BUSY & BOLD

What’s in her bag?

TIMELESS BUT TRENDY

9

[ ADVERTISING PROMOTION]

[ #FOLLOWING ]

FLETCHER MACKEL & TRAVERS MACKEL

S P OR T S A NC HOR NE W S A NC HOR

BY K ATHERINE M . JOHNSON

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT E ACH BUSINESS, LOOK FOR THEIR AD IN THIS ISSUE OF CUE MAGAZINE. TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS FE ATURED IN THE NE X T NE W + COOL, C ALL SANDY STEIN AT (504) 483-3150.

Sherman, one of the founders of the school’s program.

For some, so much togetherness could have sparked some contention.

Not for these two.

“We would push each other,” Fletcher says. “[I’ve] never felt like one brother outshined the other. I don’t know if it was us stunting each other or us just being … in lockstep with each other in life.”

That air of friendly competition continued into the budding stages of their careers, when Fletcher, after working for the NBC affiliate in Alexandria for

a few years, was hired by WDSU in New Orleans in 2002. Travers was working at a news station in Monroe at the time.

“We were both going into the same field, and people in television start off a lot of times in smaller markets, so … it made me want to shoot better stuff for my resume tape, because my brother had got a job [in the city before I did],” he says. “It was incentive — my brother was working in New Orleans, so now I have to work in a top-tier market too. … It was sibling motivation.”

“Tales of Iceland” by Stephen Markley — “[Iceland] was one of my bucket list trips and my wife’s

Wedding ring (on Travers’ hand) — “I got married in May of last year and I’ve never taken my wedding ring off.”

His father, Frank Mackel’s, Foot-Joy golf bag — “We lost a lot in Katrina … but saved this from the attic.” [His father died in 2001.]

Trophy from his father’s 1966 New Orleans Golf Association’s Greater New Orleans Open competition

Do you like okra in your gumbo?

FLETCHER: “Yeah, I love okra. I can

PHOTO BY KARLA PHOTOGRAPHY

*1 PER CUSTOMER

Custom Marucci Sports baseball bat — a gift from Loyola University’s baseball program

Likes

Fletcher Mackel’s favorite things.

F R E E PA N T Y W I T H P U R C H A S E O F LE MYSTERE OR ON GOSSAMER BRA METAIRIE NEAR LAKESIDE | COVINGTON | BATON ROUGE

Press credentials from the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea — “As a journalist, it was one of the greatest experiences. We went to the [Demilitarized Zone]. … This is when Kim Jong-un was launching missiles into the Sea of Japan.”

Drawing of the brothers’ childhood home in Gentilly and a brick saved from its facade before its demolition

Louisiana Associated Press award — “I won Best News Reporting — Small Market in 2000 for a story I did in Alexandria. … That was the first time I felt like, ‘OK, I’ll probably be OK doing this job.’ ”

Travers Mackel’s favorite things.

Framed photo of Travers, his wife Meg and their 4-month-old daughter, Finley

Fletcher’s must-haves

Press credentials from Super Bowl XLIV — “Nothing will ever compete with being on the field in Miami when the Saints won the Super Bowl.”

Vintage wristwatch from 1971 — a gift from Fletcher

PHOTO BY K ARL A PHOTOGR APHY

BASICS

eat okra every day. Some people find it gross and slimy — I think it’s fantastic.”

too. It was a really funny book and it was such a fascinating place.”

TRAVERS: “You can put some okra in it, but maybe just in gumbo?

I’m not a huge okra fan.”

Custom baseball glove monogrammed with the initials of each school team for which he played — “When I played, you got either a black baseball glove or a brown baseball glove. Now I feel like I’m building a race car.”

What are your thoughts on out-of-season king cake?

FLETCHER: “No for me. I love king cake but I can’t remember the last time I had it when it wasn’t Carnival.”

TRAVERS: “No. Hard no. But the original McKenzie’s king cake is the only king cake in my world.”

Snowballs — stuffed with ice cream or no?

FLETCHER: “Feel free to judge me, but I am not a huge snowball fan. … I love the first few bites, but then they melt and it becomes syrup to me. I start looking for a way to dump it.”

TRAVERS: “No, just the ice with the flavor. I’d maybe do a little condensed milk, like with the Dreamsicle flavor at Pandora’s.”

gambit

BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM

Over thirty-eight years ago, the first issue of Gambit was published. Today, this locally owned multimedia company provides the Greater New Orleans area with an award-winning publication and website and sponsors and produces cultural events.

Career Opportunity

Special Sections Editor - GAMBIT

The Special Sections Editor develops features, writes, edits and produces sections on various topics, including homes, fashion, weddings, shopping and health.

Applicants should have at least three years’ experience as a writer/editor, with a strong file of published clips. The Special Sections Editor must successfully develop and direct freelance photographers and writers as well as enforce and meet deadlines. Outstanding time management, organization, budgeting and editing skills are crucial. Social media familiarity and presence is a must. SEO experience is a plus.

Compensation: base pay and benefits package (health, dental, life, disability, vision, 401k with company match, vacation, holidays and sick time).

Apply at: http://www.theadvocate.com/site/careers.html Please attach a cover letter and resume.

A u g u s t 2 01 9

10

Made from textured fabric with three-dimensional nodules, these leggings are designed to tone and massage while the compression relieves muscle strain. The result: an increase in endurance, improved circulation, and overall relief of the muscles. Perfect for travel, exercise, or lounging. $139, at Bra Genie. Locations in Metairie near Lakeside, 3054 N. Causeway Blvd Suite C, 504.644.2500, Covington and Baton Rouge.

Travers’ must-haves

type-A. … I have everything in common with my brother.”

Fletcher again concurs.

“It’s not like I’m loud and he’s quiet, or I’m hyper and he’s calm — we’re both pretty loud, pretty animated, pretty passionate and opinionated, and we always have been, so there never was separating us that way,” Fletcher says.

Co-workers and even Travers’ wife often joke that there really is only one “Mackel” — “the Mackel” — because they’re so much alike. But their bond is undeniably special, and an indelible part of their individual identities.

“I look at him and I certainly see me, but I also see a lot of him,” Fletcher says. “We can tell what’s going on with each other, even from the way he’s hitting the keys on the computer.”

“I think there’s nothing better,” Travers says. “We have a ton of shared experiences through 44 years of life. … I can’t imagine not having a twin brother. I don’t ever think about it or picture it.”

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

A u g u s t 2 01 9

Grain leather bomber jacket with metallic Italian trim $159, at Yvonne LaFleur. St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Stop #299, 8131 Hampson, 504.866.9666.

DON’T ASK FLETCHER AND TRAVERS MACKEL what it’s like to be twins.

“I love answering questions about being a twin, but it’s hard for me sometimes because … all I know is being a twin,” Travers says.

“This guy didn’t just pop up when I was 14.”

Fletcher concurs.

“I don’t know what it’s like ‘to be a twin’ because I’ve never not been a twin,” he says. “I don’t know what life is like without him.”

The two have spent a lifetime fielding questions about being part of a nearly identical set (except for around age 12, when Travers experienced a growth spurt that left him 4 to 5 inches taller than Fletcher for about a year) — from their childhood, during which their mother dressed them alike, to the early 2000s, when they began their careers at WDSU-TV sporting comparable haircuts and wardrobes.

Their similar sartorial choices were more than coincidence.

“We lived on opposite sides of a double [house],” Fletcher says.

“We’re the same size, so it was like, double the wardrobe. (Travers) used to get upset because I’d show up and he’d [ask], ‘Is that my suit?’ ” Other than raiding each other’s closets, the two have never committed any of the stereotypical antics associated with twin-dom.

There were no practical jokes, switching dates or taking exams for each other.

“We get asked questions like, ‘Do you know what [your brother is] thinking?’ or ‘Can you feel his pain?’ ” Fletcher says. “I still get them. But we never did any of that stuff — I’m sorry if that ruins the image of twins for some people.”

There were plenty of opportunities for the brothers to try it out, though. They attended Christian Brothers School together, then De La Salle High School, then Delgado Community College before interning at WDSU to study broadcast journalism and finally graduating from Loyola University.

They both played golf (their dad was a golf pro) and baseball along the way, choosing to disregard the stigma often associated with attending community college so they could play baseball at Delgado under the tutelage of coach Joe

They were pleasantly surprised when the news director at WDSU decided to hire them both, with the blessing of WDSU stalwarts such as Norman Robinson and Helena Moreno, now-City Council president.

“It was an unusual move,” Fletcher says. “Who’s going to put twins on TV? It’s too gimmicky or too confusing.

But it’s not — New Orleans is a unique place, we’re from here, we both love it here, we can both coexist here.”

He and Travers successfully carved out individual niches in the local media landscape, but their (sort of) divergent career paths (Fletcher covers sports and Travers covers news) may be where their differences end. The two are a lot alike in more than skill sets and interests — even their personal identities are inextricably intertwined.

“We were together through high school and college, so I would say our personalities took on their own lives when we got away from each other,” Travers says. “But we still have similar personalities. We’re both chatty and

11

[ ADVERTISING PROMOTION]

[ #FOLLOWING ]

FLETCHER MACKEL & TRAVERS MACKEL

S P OR T S A NC HOR NE W S A NC HOR

BY K ATHERINE M . JOHNSON

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT E ACH BUSINESS, LOOK FOR THEIR AD IN THIS ISSUE OF CUE MAGAZINE. TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS FE ATURED IN THE NE X T NE W + COOL, C ALL SANDY STEIN AT (504) 483-3150.

Sherman, one of the founders of the school’s program.

For some, so much togetherness could have sparked some contention.

Not for these two.

“We would push each other,” Fletcher says. “[I’ve] never felt like one brother outshined the other. I don’t know if it was us stunting each other or us just being … in lockstep with each other in life.”

That air of friendly competition continued into the budding stages of their careers, when Fletcher, after working for the NBC affiliate in Alexandria for

a few years, was hired by WDSU in New Orleans in 2002. Travers was working at a news station in Monroe at the time.

“We were both going into the same field, and people in television start off a lot of times in smaller markets, so … it made me want to shoot better stuff for my resume tape, because my brother had got a job [in the city before I did],” he says. “It was incentive — my brother was working in New Orleans, so now I have to work in a top-tier market too. … It was sibling motivation.”

“Tales of Iceland” by Stephen Markley — “[Iceland] was one of my bucket list trips and my wife’s

Wedding ring (on Travers’ hand) — “I got married in May of last year and I’ve never taken my wedding ring off.”

His father, Frank Mackel’s, Foot-Joy golf bag — “We lost a lot in Katrina … but saved this from the attic.” [His father died in 2001.]

Trophy from his father’s 1966 New Orleans Golf Association’s Greater New Orleans Open competition

Do you like okra in your gumbo?

FLETCHER: “Yeah, I love okra. I can

PHOTO BY KARLA PHOTOGRAPHY

*1 PER CUSTOMER

Custom Marucci Sports baseball bat — a gift from Loyola University’s baseball program

Likes

Fletcher Mackel’s favorite things.

F R E E PA N T Y W I T H P U R C H A S E O F LE MYSTERE OR ON GOSSAMER BRA METAIRIE NEAR LAKESIDE | COVINGTON | BATON ROUGE

Press credentials from the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea — “As a journalist, it was one of the greatest experiences. We went to the [Demilitarized Zone]. … This is when Kim Jong-un was launching missiles into the Sea of Japan.”

Drawing of the brothers’ childhood home in Gentilly and a brick saved from its facade before its demolition

Louisiana Associated Press award — “I won Best News Reporting — Small Market in 2000 for a story I did in Alexandria. … That was the first time I felt like, ‘OK, I’ll probably be OK doing this job.’ ”

Travers Mackel’s favorite things.

Framed photo of Travers, his wife Meg and their 4-month-old daughter, Finley

Fletcher’s must-haves

Press credentials from Super Bowl XLIV — “Nothing will ever compete with being on the field in Miami when the Saints won the Super Bowl.”

Vintage wristwatch from 1971 — a gift from Fletcher

PHOTO BY K ARL A PHOTOGR APHY

BASICS

eat okra every day. Some people find it gross and slimy — I think it’s fantastic.”

too. It was a really funny book and it was such a fascinating place.”

TRAVERS: “You can put some okra in it, but maybe just in gumbo?

I’m not a huge okra fan.”

Custom baseball glove monogrammed with the initials of each school team for which he played — “When I played, you got either a black baseball glove or a brown baseball glove. Now I feel like I’m building a race car.”

What are your thoughts on out-of-season king cake?

FLETCHER: “No for me. I love king cake but I can’t remember the last time I had it when it wasn’t Carnival.”

TRAVERS: “No. Hard no. But the original McKenzie’s king cake is the only king cake in my world.”

Snowballs — stuffed with ice cream or no?

FLETCHER: “Feel free to judge me, but I am not a huge snowball fan. … I love the first few bites, but then they melt and it becomes syrup to me. I start looking for a way to dump it.”

TRAVERS: “No, just the ice with the flavor. I’d maybe do a little condensed milk, like with the Dreamsicle flavor at Pandora’s.”

gambit

BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM

Over thirty-eight years ago, the first issue of Gambit was published. Today, this locally owned multimedia company provides the Greater New Orleans area with an award-winning publication and website and sponsors and produces cultural events.

Career Opportunity

Special Sections Editor - GAMBIT

The Special Sections Editor develops features, writes, edits and produces sections on various topics, including homes, fashion, weddings, shopping and health.

Applicants should have at least three years’ experience as a writer/editor, with a strong file of published clips. The Special Sections Editor must successfully develop and direct freelance photographers and writers as well as enforce and meet deadlines. Outstanding time management, organization, budgeting and editing skills are crucial. Social media familiarity and presence is a must. SEO experience is a plus.

Compensation: base pay and benefits package (health, dental, life, disability, vision, 401k with company match, vacation, holidays and sick time).

Apply at: http://www.theadvocate.com/site/careers.html Please attach a cover letter and resume.

A u g u s t 2 01 9

10

Made from textured fabric with three-dimensional nodules, these leggings are designed to tone and massage while the compression relieves muscle strain. The result: an increase in endurance, improved circulation, and overall relief of the muscles. Perfect for travel, exercise, or lounging. $139, at Bra Genie. Locations in Metairie near Lakeside, 3054 N. Causeway Blvd Suite C, 504.644.2500, Covington and Baton Rouge.

Travers’ must-haves

type-A. … I have everything in common with my brother.”

Fletcher again concurs.

“It’s not like I’m loud and he’s quiet, or I’m hyper and he’s calm — we’re both pretty loud, pretty animated, pretty passionate and opinionated, and we always have been, so there never was separating us that way,” Fletcher says.

Co-workers and even Travers’ wife often joke that there really is only one “Mackel” — “the Mackel” — because they’re so much alike. But their bond is undeniably special, and an indelible part of their individual identities.

“I look at him and I certainly see me, but I also see a lot of him,” Fletcher says. “We can tell what’s going on with each other, even from the way he’s hitting the keys on the computer.”

“I think there’s nothing better,” Travers says. “We have a ton of shared experiences through 44 years of life. … I can’t imagine not having a twin brother. I don’t ever think about it or picture it.”

C UE M AG A Z I N E •

A u g u s t 2 01 9

Grain leather bomber jacket with metallic Italian trim $159, at Yvonne LaFleur. St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Stop #299, 8131 Hampson, 504.866.9666.

DON’T ASK FLETCHER AND TRAVERS MACKEL what it’s like to be twins.

“I love answering questions about being a twin, but it’s hard for me sometimes because … all I know is being a twin,” Travers says.

“This guy didn’t just pop up when I was 14.”

Fletcher concurs.

“I don’t know what it’s like ‘to be a twin’ because I’ve never not been a twin,” he says. “I don’t know what life is like without him.”

The two have spent a lifetime fielding questions about being part of a nearly identical set (except for around age 12, when Travers experienced a growth spurt that left him 4 to 5 inches taller than Fletcher for about a year) — from their childhood, during which their mother dressed them alike, to the early 2000s, when they began their careers at WDSU-TV sporting comparable haircuts and wardrobes.

Their similar sartorial choices were more than coincidence.

“We lived on opposite sides of a double [house],” Fletcher says.

“We’re the same size, so it was like, double the wardrobe. (Travers) used to get upset because I’d show up and he’d [ask], ‘Is that my suit?’ ” Other than raiding each other’s closets, the two have never committed any of the stereotypical antics associated with twin-dom.

There were no practical jokes, switching dates or taking exams for each other.

“We get asked questions like, ‘Do you know what [your brother is] thinking?’ or ‘Can you feel his pain?’ ” Fletcher says. “I still get them. But we never did any of that stuff — I’m sorry if that ruins the image of twins for some people.”

There were plenty of opportunities for the brothers to try it out, though. They attended Christian Brothers School together, then De La Salle High School, then Delgado Community College before interning at WDSU to study broadcast journalism and finally graduating from Loyola University.

They both played golf (their dad was a golf pro) and baseball along the way, choosing to disregard the stigma often associated with attending community college so they could play baseball at Delgado under the tutelage of coach Joe

They were pleasantly surprised when the news director at WDSU decided to hire them both, with the blessing of WDSU stalwarts such as Norman Robinson and Helena Moreno, now-City Council president.

“It was an unusual move,” Fletcher says. “Who’s going to put twins on TV? It’s too gimmicky or too confusing.

But it’s not — New Orleans is a unique place, we’re from here, we both love it here, we can both coexist here.”

He and Travers successfully carved out individual niches in the local media landscape, but their (sort of) divergent career paths (Fletcher covers sports and Travers covers news) may be where their differences end. The two are a lot alike in more than skill sets and interests — even their personal identities are inextricably intertwined.

“We were together through high school and college, so I would say our personalities took on their own lives when we got away from each other,” Travers says. “But we still have similar personalities. We’re both chatty and

11