FRESH FALL FASHION
INTRODUCING LAPEYRE
EDITOR Michaela Bechler
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dora Sison
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Sandy Stein
SALES Lauren Cunningham, Olivia Rigol, Alyssa Hauptmann, Abigail Bordelon, Stephanie Clark, Kelly Sonnier, Michelle Tuggle
CONTENT PRODUCER Marigny Lanaux
CONTRIBUTORS Cynthea Corfah, Misty Milioto
ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Tiana Watts
CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Scott Forsythe, Emma Veith, Jasmyne White, Gavin Donaldson
Designer Martha Lapeyre (right) wearing the “Ophelia” dress ($385) from Lapeyre and model Carole (left) at Anita Model Management wearing the “Helen” dress ($525) from Lapeyre. Styling, Ali McNally at SEE Management. Hair & Makeup, Wendy Karcher.
PHOTO BY CHRIS SCHEURICH
PHOTO BY CHRIS SCHEURICH
EDITOR'S LETTER
It’s finally fall! While this summer wasn’t as brutal as last year’s, I think the entire city has been craving some colder weather. I’m excited to pull out my sweaters and boots, decorate for Halloween, and reintroduce hot tea back into my routine. Events are also back in full force including The Pitot House’s Fête du Jardin on Sunday, October 27. The annual party is Louisiana Landmarks Society’s major fundraiser of the year, and this year’s event will celebrate the house’s 225th birthday.
While it’s impossible to choose a favorite issue, there was something extra special about working on this edition of Adore! Our team loved collaborating with Martha Lapeyre and her stylish support system (including Chris Scheurich, Ali McNally, and Wendy Karcher) on a beautiful cover introducing her new namesake brand. Learn more about the debut collection and other local talents in “Fashion’s Finest.” You’ll find plenty of fall style inspiration in our shopping stories tackling the current denim and academia trends.
This issue also includes fabulous Halloween and fall décor all from nearby shops. Whether you’re heading to The Eras Tour or not, we’ve rounded up Taylor-themed products and events happening around town. A gorgeous wedding at Latrobe’s, a stunning home designed by Nomita Joshi-Gupta, and the most adorable shop cat from Art & Eyes round out this issue. Thanks for reading and supporting Adore! - MICHAELA BECHLER
Enjoying Fête du Jardin last year with my husband and friends!
Adores MichaelaThings
While I don’t mind reading a beach read in the winter or thoughtprovoking lit fic on vacation, there is something extra fun about matching your book with the season. This fall, I’m leaning into thrillers and mysteries! I’m currently flying through The God of the Woods by Liz Moore which is a suspenseful family saga set at a summer camp in the Adirondacks. After, I plan to read Middle of the Night by Riley Sager, one of my favorite thriller/horror authors. Funny enough, both deal with the disappearance of a child under strange circumstances.
Some of my favorite books to recommend during spooky season are The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix which is a supernatural thriller set in the 90s. It also makes a great book club read! Last year, I loved The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna. It’s an adorable story and perfect for anyone that prefers the cute parts of Halloween over the scary stuff.
COURTESY OF RIVERHEAD BOOKS
COURTESY OF DUTTON
COURTESY OF QUIRK BOOKS
COURTESY OF BERKLEY
denim DIGEST
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 Lil Bits Cloths Small Pouch
$42, Ogden Museum of Southern Art shop.ogdenmuseum.org
2 Lafayette 148 Wyckoff Wide Leg Jeans $598, Ballin’s ballinsltd.com
3
Bolto Denim Jacket $350, Peony peonynola.com
4 Sirus Jacket
$109, Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com
5 Alemais
Jackpot Denim Skirt $507, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
6 By Together
Thrill Ride Denim Skirt $84, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
7 Denim Belted Dress $198, Indigo Boutique shopindigoboutique.com
Fashion's
FINEST
Introducing Lapeyre
BY MICHAELA BECHLER
PHOTOS BY CHRIS SCHEURICH
When Martha Lapeyre began to dream up her first collection, she reflected on her own wardrobe and the pieces she favored wearing. Drawn to a blend of classic and modern elements (and most likely to wear something comfortable), Martha brings those personal preferences to Lapeyre, her namesake contemporary women’s clothing brand. The Fall/Winter collection debuted in September and includes seven effortlessly elevated styles.
“The brand's aesthetic marries traditional sophistication with a contemporary twist,” Martha shares. “The result is a collection that feels familiar and fresh, catering to individuals who want an element of ease while maintaining an air of refined elegance.”
Martha has always had a deep love and appreciation for fashion but says her journey
“Especially in today's fastmoving fashion climate, I want to make small-batch collections that are timeless and staple pieces in the wardrobe.” - MARTHA LAPEYRE
Martha Lapeyre wearing the “Ophelia” dress ($385).
Carole in the “Josephine” dress ($285) which was Martha’s inspiration for the Fall/ Winter collection.
has evolved. “From an early age, I was enchanted by the art of self-expression through design, captivated by how fashion can tell a story or evoke a feeling. From examining my mother's fabulous vintage collections to costuming for Mardi Gras as a child, this initial fascination blossomed into a profound passion as I delved deeper into the design world.”
After her mother opened a boutique on Magazine Street in 2015, Martha said she soaked up everything she could about the world of womenswear. Her own career began when she majored in fashion design at the Savannah College of Art and Design, then moved to Florence, Italy for her master’s degree in creative direction. “Observing and learning from different perspectives allowed me to develop a more nuanced understanding of the field. The accumulation of experiences and insights motivated me to launch my brand.”
Lapeyre was officially founded in October 2023, and Martha dove into her first collection, inspired by the Josephine Dress which is the cornerstone of the collection. With its design philosophy revolving around movement and volume, the designer says that the combination of the meticulously crafted box pleats and the soft fabric lining makes the dress not only visually striking but a joy to wear. The Fall/Winter collection features a range of prints exclusive to Lapeyre. On the “Ophelia” dress, Lapeyre’s logo is
Page in the “Grace” dress ($325).
camouflaged within the intricate tree branches and vines of the print. Each fabric, from crinkle chiffons to cotton poplin, is sourced and sewn in India by two different teams of master craftsmen. The styles are carefully matched to the team that specializes in the relevant techniques. “I’ve worked closely with my consultant Audrey Marquez, whose extensive experience in development and collaboration with our teams in India has been invaluable in bringing these designs to life.”
To celebrate the initial launch, Martha will embark on a trunk show tour across the country. Lapeyre will be introduced in California, Texas, New Jersey, and beyond via boutiques and private home events. “One highlight will be an event in New Jersey, where I’ll reunite with a classmate from Italy who has recently opened a beautifully curated boutique and concept store. I’m excited to reconnect and meet more incredible people, as that’s truly at the heart of what Lapeyre represents.”
Another highlight of launching Lapeyre is working with the New Orleans fashion community. “Though it’s a smaller scene, the photographers, stylists, and creatives here are truly a delight to work with. I’ve quickly found a supportive and welcoming family within the New Orleans fashion world, and it’s heartening to see such
Carole wearing the “Vivienne” dress ($325) in Ecru/Cabernet.
Page in the “Helen” dress ($525) in Eden.
Page wearing the “Laurel” dress ($345) in Black.
Carole in the “Audrey” dress ($525) in Cabernet.
warmth and acceptance in an industry often criticized for its lack of kindness. It’s inspiring to experience such innovation and high creativity in our city.”
Next up is Lapeyre’s holiday and resort collections which will continue to provide timeless meets modern pieces. “Lapeyre is just getting started, and I’m excited to grow and evolve with it as I continue to refine my creative practices. My hope is that the brand inspires consumers to shop more mindfully and invest in pieces that truly have heart.”
SHOPLAPEYRE.COM
BRANDING & ART DIRECTION | Hey Ganza
HAIR & MAKEUP | Wendy Karcher
STYLING | Ali McNally at SEE Management
STYLING ASSISTANT | Everett Evans
MODELS | Carole and Page at Anita Model Management
PERFECT Fit
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
Co-owners and engaged couple James Collier and Kristen Engelsen started Kilby Suiting Atelier to bring something truly unique to the New Orleans fashion community: bespoke menswear. Named in honor of James’ grandfather — James Kilby Collier — who was known for his impeccable taste, Kilby offers customdesigned suits that are meticulously tailored to one’s specific style and needs.
The modern yet elegant showroom officially opened its doors this September. Delivering a personalized shopping experience, guests can feel confident that their collaborative visits will result in a one-of-a-kind suit. “We take precise measurements and analyze body posture to ensure a perfect fit…clients then choose from our curated collection of the world’s finest fabrics, and we offer custom-designed linings and personalized details like monograms,” the coowners shared. “Multiple fittings ensure that every detail is just right before the final garment is delivered.”
These locally designed pieces don’t have to be plain. Reflect who you are through unexpected colors, beautiful linings, and bold buttons. James and Kristen also keep one’s patterns and preferences on file, making reordering a custom-crafted garment easy.
As they begin this new journey, the pair is excited to build relationships with their clients through each consultation. “Kilby is more than just a business to us — it’s a reflection of our love for this city and its people. We’re committed to creating clothing that not only looks incredible but also feels personal and meaningful.” Stay tuned for an expansion in fabric selection, local artist collaborations, in-store events, and eventually, women’s suits.
REFINED Rubber
BY CYNTHEA CORFAH
We’ve all heard the expression “one person’s trash is another person’s treasure.” Local fashion designer Gurleen Rai has taken that phrase to the next level. Originally from Toronto, Canada, the New Orleans-based fashion designer, animator, and owner of slow fashion brand Zim + Teemo makes bags and purses out of discarded bicycle tires from local bike shops.
“There's something inherently true to New Orleans about this piece, because people here are resourceful,” Gurleen shared about her tire purse. “People here are able to work with the most unconventional things and turn them into something special. I feel like this had to have come out of this place.”
The juxtaposition of the rugged and sporty tires manipulated into the shape of a posh handbag is a refreshing example of upcycled fashion. Named after her childhood nickname Mousey, the Maouse minis and crossbody bags are one-of-one creations with texture and edge.
Each bag takes roughly five hours to make. Gurleen cuts, soaks, scrubs and boils the tires before punching holes into the rubber strips and using paracord to weave them together. The bags come with a removable handle also made with braided paracord. Some purse handles have the added flair of rosary and vintage beads braided into them. The Maouse bags come in a variety of colors, depending on the color of Gurleen’s tire findings (and luck).
ZIMTEEMO.WORLD
PHOTO COURTESY OF KILBY SUITING ATELIER
PHOTO BY FRANK ROBERTSON | COURTESY OF ZIM + TEEMO
A CUT Above
BY MISTY MILIOTO
Imagine a fine-jewelry brand that not only creates collections of wearable art, but also pieces that evoke a sense of wonder and personal connection. Ashley Porter has done exactly that with her popular local jewelry brand Porter Lyons. Celebrated not only for its distinctive designs — think bold, edgy, and infused with meaning — Porter Lyons also embraces storytelling in every piece.
“The atmosphere we create, both in our physical spaces and online, is warm, inviting, and rooted in a deep appreciation for artistry and craftsmanship,” said Ashley, who serves as CEO and creative director of the company. “This blend of originality, emotional resonance, and inclusivity is what sets Porter Lyons apart and makes it a beloved brand among our clients.”
In addition to having a fervent local following, Porter Lyons touts a diverse range of celebrities who appreciate the jewelry’s aesthetic. “Both Taylor Swift and Jessica Alba have been spotted wearing our Mississippi Snake Ring, a piece that embodies elegance with a hint of rebellious spirit. Also, Cameron Diaz and Cara Delevingne have both favored our dagger earrings — a design that has become somewhat iconic in its own right. These earrings will be making a comeback in January, responding to popular demand and our desire to reintroduce a design that resonates with many of our fans.”
Porter Lyons will also launch a new collection in January, dubbed Egyptomania, that draws inspiration from the mysticism and grandeur of ancient Egyptian culture. The collection incorporates elements like hieroglyphs, scarabs, pyramids, and other iconic motifs that have been reimagined through the designer’s modern lens.
PHOTO BY JASON KRUPPA
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PORTER LYONS
1
By Malene Birger
Dreele Top $350, Pied Nu piednunola.com
2
Mayoral Tween Plaid Skirt
$40, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
3
L’Agence Flora Poplin Cuff Sweater $395, FEBE febeclothing.com
4 Lee Allison Retro Baseball Tie
$99.50, Ted and George tedandgeorgenola.com
5
Misha and Puff Pillow Clogs $320, FREDA shop-freda.com
6
Elia Cardigan $207, Peony peonynola.com
Swiftie HAPPENINGS
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
No hidden Easter eggs here! With Taylor Swift’s three-night stop in New Orleans swiftly approaching, we have the scoop on how and where to celebrate.
If you didn’t luck out with a pre-sale ticket code, you don’t have to miss out on the Eras excitement! Each night of the local Eras Tour shows, Nolé will host The Ultimate Swiftie Experience equipped with a bejeweled glitter bar, a photo station by Sparkle and Swag, specialty cocktails named after iconic songs, an upbeat DJ, and more.
2001 ST. CHARLES AVENUE | NOLEEVENTS.COM
As the pre-concert anticipation kicks in, head to Dat Dog for a karaoke night with an exclusive prize on Thursday, October 24! From 6-8 p.m., sing your heart out, savor premium hot dogs, and sip on specialty cocktails like the “Mirrorball Breeze.” And don’t forget to enter the raffle — the winner will receive one ticket to night one of The Eras Tour on Friday, October 25 and must be present to claim the prize.
5030 FRERET STREET | DATDOG.COM
PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER
Commons Club inside Virgin Hotels New Orleans is hosting an Eras-inspired drag and burlesque brunch each morning before the concerts at Caesars Superdome. Tickets include a delicious 2-course brunch and dazzling performances by Trixie Minx Productions! Mimosa packages and additional beverages — such as the “Blank Space” and “Cruel Summer” cocktails — will also be available for purchase. To add to the excitement, Elektra Cosmetics will be on-site in the hotel’s coffee shop before and after brunch with a glamorous glitter station! And if you have an Era preference, reserve your table on Friday, October 25 for "Midnights"; Saturday, October 26 for "Reputation"; and Sunday, October 27 for "The Tortured Poets Department."
550 BARONNE STREET | VIRGINHOTELS.COM/NEW-ORLEANS
Come prepared with your favorite lyrics, song titles, or Swiftie-related sayings to create custom friendship bracelets at Beatrix Bell! The handcrafted jewelry boutique is hosting a bracelet making party with colorful beads and charms the entire week leading up to Taylor’s three-night visit, from Sunday, October 20 through Friday, October 25. This event is open to all ages and includes light refreshments.
831 CHARTRES STREET | BEATRIXBELL.COM
An enchanted evening awaits! Visit The Northshore has partnered with surrounding businesses to design special Swiftie events prior to The Eras Tour. Harmonize your mind and body (and voice!) during a Taylor Swift yoga session at Love More Yoga Studio on Friday, October 18. The (Warm) Eras Flow will begin at 6 p.m. and last 75 minutes.
234 LEE LANE, COVINGTON | VISITTHENORTHSHORE.COM
Get ready for the concerts in style during Style and Starlight: Eras Tour Pre-Parties at the Hyatt Centric FQ! Co-hosted by Raising Hell Events, attendees will enjoy a glitter bar, friendship bracelets, a live DJ (blasting Taylor, of course), and more! The preparties will take place Friday, October 25 through Sunday, October 27 from 12-5 p.m.
800 IBERVILLE | @RAISINGHELLEVENTS
From 3-7 p.m. before each night of the shows, enjoy a rooftop pregame just steps away from Caesars Superdome! Hosted by Brechtel Hospitality, attendees of all ages can customize their clear bag, listen to music from Vintage Rock Club, make last-minute friendship bracelets, and more. Tickets also include a buffet spread by Copper Vine, featuring festive dishes like Taylor’s Tenders & “Seemingly Ranch.”
442 SOUTH RAMPART STREET | BRECHTELHOSPITALITY.COM/ THE-ROOFTOP
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VIRGIN HOTELS NEW ORLEANS
1 Melamine Pumpkin Platter $38, Little Miss Muff i n shoplittlemissmuffin.com
2 Cowboy Up Ghost Clay Earrings $22, Home Malone homemalonenola.com
3 Faboolous Mega Mug $45, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
4 Cauldron Balloon Set $12, Sparkle and Swag sparkleandswag.com
5 El Guapo Love Potion Bitters $20, Bargeboard bargeboardnola.com
6 Black Cat Pumpkins Small $45, Large $60, Phina phinashop.com
7 LED Pink Ghosts $22.50 Each, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
8 Fairytale Cape $52, Peony peonynola.com
1 3 4 5 2
1 Tarot & Tequila Book
$19.99, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
2 Rifle Paper Co.
Halloween Parade Platter $30, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
3 Sugar Skull
Stemless Wine Cup
$29, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
4
Jack Mate Double-Sided Hand Towel
$20, Estella’s Home estellasmetairie.com
5
Limited Edition Anna-Karin Karlssons $1,465, Art & Eyes artandeyesneworleansla.com
6
Moroseta Vase $145, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
7 Witching Hour Cups
$30 / Set of 10, Sparkle and Swag sparkleandswag.com
8
Jack Skeleton Couture Charm $100, Cristy Cali cristycali.com
9 Skeleton Poncho $36.95, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com 3 4 1 9 2 8 5 7 6
TABLE TALK
The dining room features rich patterned wallpaper, pigmented paint, silver sideboards, textured drapes, a smooth cherry-wood table, and textured window shades.
COUNTRY CLUB
Gardens
C ALIFORNIA M ODERN
BY MISTY MILIOTO // PHOTOS BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY
When a local family realized they needed a larger home in a kid-friendly neighborhood, they jumped at the chance to purchase a two-story home in the Country Club Gardens neighborhood. “This house had been on the market for a while, and while it was not their style, it was the right square footage — not too big and not too small,” says Nomita Joshi-Gupta, principal at Nomita Joshi Interior Design Studio & Gallery. “The guest house was a bonus. When they walked in the backyard, which was quiet and spacious, they knew they wanted to live there.”
Nomita, who was referred to the homeowners by a previous client, began phase one of the redesign — including the kitchen, breakfast room, laundry, dining, foyer, and powder room areas — in the spring of 2022. Phase two focused on the guest house and living room and was completed this past spring. As the interior architect and interior designer of record, Nomita worked with Reyes Remodeling as the general contractor.
The homeowners wanted a complete overhaul of the cramped and dated main house kitchen, laundry, and living
PRIVACY PLEASE
When designing the sliding doors, Nomita drew inspiration from Japanese shoji screens. They feature staggered squares filled with stained glass colors pulled from the wallpaper.
areas and the adjoining two-story guest house. They also desired an open floor plan that connected the inside to the outside. The wife, who is a yoga instructor, wanted the home to feel serene inside and out (where she teaches in the garden).
Nomita began by moving walls and plumbing in the kitchen and reducing the existing powder room size to relocate the laundry room to that space. “This allowed the kitchen footprint to become larger and more open, thereby connecting the dining room to the kitchen and breakfast room. The dining room had a small closet that was converted to a dry bar.”
She also reworked the foyer to rearrange the coat closets. Meanwhile, the laundry room was redesigned with largeformat porcelain tile flooring, new cabinets, and a backsplash, and the powder room has new wallpaper and a custom sink vanity to accommodate the smaller footprint. Both homeowners love to cook but were interested in a separate beverage station. This request informed the final kitchen design — now a large, open space with dark blue modern Shaker cabinets that run along both the cooking and the beverage sides of the space. The marble-topped walnut island houses more cabinets and seats along one side.
BREWED AWAKENING
The coffee bar in the kitchen has a backsplash by Legend Interiors and open walnut shelves for cups and cookbooks.
WHISKED AWAY
Nomita chose large-format porcelain tile for the kitchen, a room that also features marble, walnut, wood, Ferguson appliances, and brass hardware and lighting. Legend Interiors installed the slim Shaker-style cabinets in dark blue, and Crescent City Countertops fabricated the counters.
LAST CALL
COZY QUARTERS
The living room comes to life with a tonal jungle mural, large textured sofa, rust carpet, travertine coffee table, and calm color palette inspired by the ocean, shells, rocks, and the sky.
Nomita fashioned a dry bar out of a closet space.
FIRESIDE COMFORT
STEP INSIDE
The foyer features refreshed paint, a marble console, a large French art piece, and a hand-blocked rug.
PETITE RETREAT
A classic, large-scale Farrow & Ball wallpaper pattern (Lotus) lends a quiet airiness to the powder room, which also has polished chrome fixtures and a marble vanity.
For family gatherings, the owners also wanted a slightly formal mood in the dining area. The space now flaunts Japanese-inspired wallpaper (Lush from Makelike, sourced through Nomita’s company Spruce Wallpaper and Fabric Showroom), repurposed drapes, mid-century chairs to complement the family heirloom table, and a dramatic chandelier. The dining room also now opens to the kitchen, and it can be closed off thanks to a set of custom sliding doors designed by Nomita. “When closed, the light in the stained glass gives a lantern-like feel and makes the dining room an even more intimate space."
Finally, the designer focused on the spacious living room in the main house. She added a jungle-inspired mural along the largest wall and a custom fireplace mantle. Custom cabinetry, a large coffee table, a club chair, and a new sectional sofa also made the cut.
Overall, the home features play on color, texture, and pattern. “The goal was: wherever you look, there is a visual element that excites the eye.”
The living room also has a geometric fireplace and custom cabinetry that now accommodates the homeowners’ records.
1
Autumn Wreath Guest Towel Napkins
$9 / Pack of 15, Estella’s Home estellasmetairie.com 2
Autumn Terracotta Scallop Placemat
$37.50, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com
3 Pumpkin Coir Doormat
$26.50, Phina phinashop.com
4 Hemstitched Dinner Napkins
$32 / Set of 4, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
5 Thymes Pumpkin Laurel Candle
$56, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
6 Graffito Lumbar Pillow $410, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 Autumn Wreath Placemats $37 / Pack of 12, Estella’s Home estellasmetairie.com
2 The Great Big Pumpkin Cookbook $17.99, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
3 Vintage Leaf Dish $20, Bargeboard bargeboardnola.com
4 Juliska Forest Walk Serving Bowl $150, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
5 Pumpkin Souffle Candle $38, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
6 Juliska Harvest Napkin $19, Tablecloth $250, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
7 Fish Bone Weave Baskets $95-$145 Each, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
8 Bella Dining Chair $985, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Caroline & Will LET'S Celebrate
6.22.24
BY MICHAELA BECHLER | PHOTOS BY MISTY RANAE PHOTOGRAPHY
Caroline Giepert and Will Ainsworth first met while they were students at Ben Franklin High School and Metairie Park Country Day School. Despite Will finishing school in Florida, the couple reconnected in college and began dating long distance. They were together for eight years before becoming engaged in September 2022 while traveling through Andalusia, Spain.
As New Orleans natives who have no plans of leaving, the couple knew they wanted a classic wedding filled with great food, tons of dancing, and all their family and friends together (and a flowing bar, of course).
“I knew we would have a big wedding even before we were engaged, simply because of how big and close my family is,” Caroline shares. “Thankfully, even
aunt, some bridesmaids, and her maid of honor who surprised her at the fitting.
The couple was drawn to the beauty and history of Latrobe’s. “I think myself, Will, and my mom knew as soon as we left [the tour] that Latrobe’s was the place.”
though a big wedding may not have always been his vision, Will understood how important this was to me, to have all our loved ones there, and happily obliged. We agreed we wanted an elegant and short ceremony that would lead seamlessly into one big, great party.”
Latrobe’s proved to be the perfect location for Caroline’s vision and provided the couple with ample vendor recommendations including their photographer Misty Ranae, who concluded her wedding career with Caroline and Will’s wedding. Although planning a wedding was stressful on top of work and other obligations, the events leading up to the big day were especially joyful for the couple. “We both kept saying how loved and grateful we felt that our family and friends really wanted to celebrate us and put in so much work.”
Caroline and her nine bridesmaids prepared for the wedding nearby at Hotel Mazarin’s Fleur de Lis suite, while Will got ready in his brotherin-law’s condo in the Lower Garden District. Everyone met for pre-wedding photos, then
Caroline found her satin jacquard dress at Town & Country Bridal with the help of her mom,
Love in Bloom emphasized the landmark’s historic features with gorgeous arrangements.
HAIR: Gary Scorce MAKEUP: Brianne Jones
The Royal Cakery baked the traditional almond wedding cake that included alternating tiers of raspberry and dulce de leche filling
the group made the quick walk over to Latrobe’s for the big event.
Harpist Lauren Lewandoski set the mood with her range of songs as guests arrived and throughout the ceremony. The couple was married by Caroline’s godfather Anthony Lamonte, who reached out to family and the wedding party for firsthand stories. After the big kiss, guests moved onto the reception and enjoyed appetizers from the on-site catering team like Pepper Crusted Ahi Tuna and Mini Boudin Balls as well as Oysters Bienville and Rockefeller. The main courses included Crawfish Etouffee, Tortellini Carbonara, and Prime Rib with Crispy Garlic Potatoes and Haricots Verts.
Caroline’s dad played rugby at LSU, before playing for the Golden Eagles. One of the traditions is to “catch a wave” (someone rolls across the dance floor as a wave while someone jumps over them as a surfer). Then, you “row the boat” to Surfin’ USA.
The surprise second line was extremely special to the couple. “We had several people tell us that was their favorite part, and even a few people said it was their first second line.”
DJ Chris Stylez matched the room’s energy with each song and the couple’s requests. While Caroline and Will knew Knockaz Brass Brand would lead them out to a pedicab, one of the guests secured a permit and NOPD escort for a surprise second line down the street to their hotel.
“Say ‘yes’ every time. You’re lucky enough to marry your best friend. As the groom, make sure to put her feelings first. She deserves it.”
– WILL AINSWORTH ON WEDDING PLANNING
The guest book was Caroline’s maternal grandmother's old copy of "Lost Restaurants of New Orleans." “Will used to be a chef, and with both of our love for this city, it was the perfect way to have something specific to New Orleans and our unmatched culinary scene.”
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
Shop Dog Cat MIKA
Providing stylish spectacles for 13 years, Art & Eyes is a highend glasses store and fashion boutique filled with exquisite frames of all shapes, colors, and sizes. Giving “catwalk” a whole new meaning, you may see a fabulous feline strutting in the shop’s window when you stop by. This is Mika, a rescue from the Louisiana SPCA who loves her role as shopkeeper.
Mika is almost always stationed at the entryway or sunbathing in the front window, ready to greet eyewear enthusiasts as they arrive. She is also a great companion to those tagging along for a shopping trip, frequently hearing “I don’t usually like cats, but I really like this one!” After a full day of amusing visitors, Mika takes advantage of the quiet after hours by sleeping where she pleases, investigating empty boxes, and posing for people and pups passing by on Magazine Street.
Just as a frame surrounds a piece of artwork, glasses frame your face. The Art & Eyes team aims to help each
customer put their best face forward by finding a pair of glasses that enhances their beauty and matches their personality. Just as one owns several pairs of shoes for various occasions, why not have an assortment of glasses? After all, first impressions are important!
“Our store is very different from most optical shops because we take the time to curate a beautiful collection to show to our clients,” shares owner Starr Hagenbring.
“We have over 4,000 frames in the store at one time; each one of them is different. We don’t want you to walk down the street with a new frame on and see your best friend in the same thing. We deal with only independent makers.”
Whether you must wear prescription glasses or just like having a statement accessory, Art & Eyes is your destination for luxury lenses that complement your features. If you’re unsure what frames look best, Mika can give her opinion, but she may be biased toward the cat eye case.
Mika
Pronunciation: Mee-Kuh
Age: 2 ½ years old
Breed: Possibly Siberian
Zodiac sign: Taurus
Favorite gift: A custom water bowl made by Alex of Potsalot Pottery
Favorite person: Ryan, the store’s UPS delivery man
Name:
PHOTO BY LOVE IS RAD FOR ELYSE JENNINGS WEDDINGS