St. Charles Avenue Magazine June 2022 by Renaissance Publishing

ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAGAZINE

JUNE 2022

THE NEW ORLEANS WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE

WEDDING MUSIC TIPS AND TRICKS

QUICK ESCAPES

C o n te n t s

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 1

On the Cover New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE) Board President Mike Morgan, Executive Director Aimee Brown, and board members Chef Kevin Belton, Geordie Brower, Operations Manager for Dickie Brennan & Co.; and Ti Martin, Co-Proprietor of Commander’s Palace and Co-Founder and Board Chair of the New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) at The New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute (NOCHI), host to NOWFE’s 30th Birthday Bash and its half a dozen wine and food labs.

Features The Sounds of Wedding Season Sage advice from local experts for selecting the perfect music for your special day 32 Making a Quick Escape Short-drive destinations for the ultimate getaway 39

In Every Issue Andy's Note A letter from Editor Andy Myer 7

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience is a premier event, showcasing what the city does best… eating and drinking for a good cause. In its 30th Anniversary year, the festival has become one of the most celebrated culinary events in the nation, attracting gourmands and connoisseurs to its wine dinners, Vinola, labs and experiences, Grand Tastings, Tournament of Rosés, Burlesque, Bubbly & Brunch, and the Ella Brennan Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality Award Gala. This June 7 – 12, wineries from around the world and New Orleans' best restaurants will participate at the many events throughout the city. Menus feature local flavor and innovative new creations inspired by diverse cuisines. Top chefs from around New Orleans create culinary experiences like no other. NOWFE is listed as a USA Today’s 10Best for Best General Food Festival and Best Wine Festival. To purchase tickets, visit nowfe.com.

Arts Calendar 8 What's New on the Web 9

Photo by Jeffery Johnston

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

C o n te n t s

Celebration How to Host Vintage in Vogue 46 Looking Back Russell's Ice Cream 48

Finishing Touches Orange Crush: BENE Handbags 64

Style

Society

What's Hot Hostess Gifts 10

Philanthropic Faces Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes, Ashé Cultural Arts Center, Chief Equity Officer 18

Design Grace Kaynor, Owner and Designer Grace Kaynor Designs/Sotre 12 Fashion Laid Back Father's Day with Robert LeBlanc and sons 14 Changemakers Simone Maloz, Campaign Director, Restore the Mississippi River Delta 16

Philanthropic Events You Night New Orleans Class of 2021 "Dreamgirls - You've Got the Best of Our Love" benefiting You Night 20 Philanthropic Events O What a Night! Gala benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art 22 Philanthropic Events 13th Annual Good Apple Gala benefiting Louisiana Appleseed 24 Philanthropic Events 20th Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon benefiting Cancer Crusaders 26 Philanthropic Events Prospect.5 Gala benefiting Prospect New Orleans 28 Snapshots Quick looks at nonprofit events around town 30

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STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

Associate Publisher Kate Henry EDITORIAL

Editor Andy Myer Art Director Ali Sullivan Food & Dining Columnist Jyl Benson Web Editor Kelly Massicot Event Photo Coordinator Jeff Strout ADVERTISING

Vice President of Sales & Marketing Kate Henry Kate@myneworleans.com or 504-830-7216 Account Director Meggie Schmidt Senior Account Executive Rachel Webber Senior Account Executive Brooke Genusa Account Executive Erin Chiartano Advertising Consultant Penn Iarocci

MARKETING

Coordinator Abbie Whatley PRODUCTION

Manager Rosa Balaguer Arostegui Designer Meghan Rooney CIRCULATION

Subscriptions Jessica Armand Distribution John Holzer ADMINISTRATION

Office Manager Mallary Wolfe Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne For subscription information call (504) 828-1380

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 MyNewOrleans.com St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005, (504) 828-1380. Subscription rate: one year $17.95, no foreign subscriptions. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to St. Charles Avenue, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright © 2022 by Renaissance Publishing, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark St, Charles Avenue is registered. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in St. Charles Avenue are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

Let te r f ro m t he Ed i to r

A Note from Andy Ah, June in New Orleans – often a citronella candle laden love/hate relationship. For many, the promise of a summer slow-down and perhaps a few family getaways are welcome thoughts, but the lack of a consistent childcare routine and the impending warm-up is enough to send chills down the spine – even on heat record-breaking days. Have no fear, we have you covered with suggestions for how to enjoy this time in our fair city, even as the temperatures continue to climb. Not everyone is able to jet off for a respite in Europe, the mountains or a tropical beach locale (for one reason or another), so we’ve included a feature on “Making a Quick Escape” that highlights destinations in locations a short car trip away but with much to enjoy on their own grounds as well as nearby. In “The Sounds of Wedding Season” we share excellent tips from local party planning experts on what is most important to keep in mind as you’re selecting the musical entertainment for your big day, or any party for that matter. From DJs to brass bands and everything in between, you won’t want to miss what these industry gurus suggest when it comes to keeping guests, the happy couple, and the entertainers themselves quite content. June’s Philanthropic Face is Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes, Chief Equity Officer for Ashé Cultural Arts Center, the esteemed organization creating programming designed to utilize culture in fostering human development and civic engagement. Producing over 350 music, theater, dance, spoken word, drum circles and multi-disciplinary events a year, Ashé believes in art as a call to action. Be sure to check out their website, ashenola.org, for details on Juneteenth events and celebrations (not finalized as of press time). We’ve just come off a triumphant Jazz Fest return and extremely busy nonprofit event schedule in May. New Orleanians are thrilled and ready for more time spent together joyfully entertaining. This month’s “How to Host” and “What’s Hot” offer an array of ideas for at-home fetes and gifts to bring along when you’re attending a gathering at someone else’s home. We hope you find these pages insightful and enjoyable.

Cheers,

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

A r t s C a l e n da r

June 2-5

2-8

13-17

13-27

Operation Home Front, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org D-Day - The Invasion of Normandy & Liberation of France, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org Easy Company Tour: England to the Eagle's Nest, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org

6-10

Spy Camp Week #1, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org

9-12

New Orleans Pride, French Quarter, neworleans.com

10-12

Waitress, Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com

Magnolia Ball, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 504-5399650, ogdenmuseum.org Summer Camp Session 1: Sensing Is Knowing (Ages 5–7), New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org Fine Arts Fundamentals Camp, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 504-539-9650, ogdenmuseum.org

Artful Palate with Café NOMA, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org

20-24

Summer Camp Session 2: Remember When? (Ages 8–10), New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-6584100, noma.org

Don’t miss your shot to see Hamilton live on stage at the Saenger Theatre starting June 21. After you see it once, you’ll be back! Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com

Virtual Book Club Discussion: Optic Nerve, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org Lecture with Kara Cooney: Women and Power in Ancient Egypt, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org

Kevin Hart: Reality Check Tour, Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Dr, 504-587-3663, smoothiekingcenter.com -July 4, Essence Festival of Culture 2022, Caesars Superdome, 1500 Sugar Bowl Dr, 800-756-7074, caesarssuperdome.com

-July 1 Summer Camp Session 3: Think Beyond (Ages 5–7), New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-6584100, noma.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAENGER THEATER

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O n T he We b

NEW

On the Web Shop Talk Blog

“

There is a sense of freedom in June. We let go of the restrictions and commitments of the school year and settle into a more leisurely pace. Our annual family vacations are on the horizon, bedtimes become a blur and balmy afternoons roll into nights accompanied by fresh, fragrant cocktails. The kids start summer camp both near and far, and we all gather together with family for Father’s Day. These are just a few of the highlights of this often-underrated month. And in June’s Shop Talk, we will cover all of the things you should look for at local retailers. For example, summer barware, packing for camp, breathable hats and more! Even as the temperatures are rising, we promise to help keep you excited and informed about all the little joys to shop for this month.

To discover more local shopping ideas, sign up for the Shop Talk newsletter and follow us @stcharlesavenuemag on Instagram. What local finds should we feature next? Email shoptalk@myneworleans.com.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

St y l e W hat ’s H ot

Hostess Gifts Perish the thought of showing up to a dinner party or brunch empty-handed. With invitations back in full swing, make the most of your manners and arrive with a stylish gift that’s sure to please the most discerning of hosts.

By Amy Gabriel

10 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

SELECT PHOTOS BY CHERYL GERBER

9. Create a cozy moment with an ecologically woven blanket depicting the curves of the Mississippi River, an exclusive THNOC design in collaboration with In2Green. THE SHOP AT THE COLLECTION, 520 Royal St., 504-598-7147, shophnoc.com. Photo credit: Adam Newman.

1. For the exotic party planner, a white and gold lustre crocodile skin style vase with a petite croc climbing the vessel. Eclectic Home, 8211 Oak St., 504-8666654, eclectichome.net. 2. A boxed set of multi-colored pastel jeweled napkin rings promise to pretty up a place setting. Maisonette Shop, 2727 Prytania St., Ste. 13, 504-4371850, maisonetteshop.com.

3. Coffee or cocktail service is captivatingly cool atop a Laura Park Designs x Tart by Taylor Giverny acrylic tray with gold handles. Hazelnut, 5525 Magazine St., 504-891-2424, hazelnutneworleans.com. 4. A ceramic platter with divided spots for oysters and accoutrements is a pearl of a pantry present. Available through The Parish Line, theparishline.com.

5. Offer seasonings greetings with glass Eiffel Tower shaped shakers filled with Himalayan pink salt, herb salt or black pepper. Relish, 600 Metairie Rd., 504-3093336, relishneworleans.com.

7. Your favorite hostess will see the world through rose colored martini glasses with a handblown set of 6. Hilltop Shoppe, 3714 Magazine St., 504533-9670, hilltopshoppe.com.

6. For occasions that call for putting pen to paper, encourage a personalized moment with custom correspondence cards letter-pressed with lined envelopes. Scriptura, 5423 Magazine St., 504-897-1555, scriptura.com.

8. Carnivores will delight in a set of Claude Dozorme Languiole steak knives, made in France, and gifted in a chic carrying case. Sotre, 3909 Magazine St., 504304-9475, sotrecollection.com.

10. For the coffee lover who appreciates a touch of glam, an emerald, ruby or gold gem adorned porcelain mug. Phina, 3717 Veterans Blvd., 504-8884141; 2561 Metairie Rd., 504-8271605; 425 Harrison Ave., 504-571516, phinashop.com. 11. Beautify a bar cart with a duo of handcrafted spicy cocktail syrups made with fresh herbs and packaged in a glossy black box with a recipe card. Gris Gris Cocktail Magic, grisgriscocktailmagic.com.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

St y l e D e si g n

Grace Kaynor Owner and Designer, Grace Kaynor Designs/Sotre By Stephen Maloney

Grace Kaynor has had a colorful career as an interior designer, but she says her success would not have been possible without early encouragement from a well-known local artist. “My biggest source of inspiration was my high school art teacher, Tim Trapolin,” Kaynor said. “He always said he raised us, and I was in awe of his talent. He encouraged us and supported us and believed in us, and it really brought out our creativity, whether we were going to be artists or something else.” Kaynor ended up earning a law degree and moving to New York, where she also earned her master’s in the history of decorative art after deciding to switch careers. Eventually, Kaynor moved back home to New Orleans, where she began a career as an interior decorator. She found a town lacking in the colors she had immersed herself in. “Fourteen years ago, everybody was still beige and gold in this town,” she said. “People really liked my sense of color, and I had kind of a New York style.”

Kaynor said she also made a pledge to use environmentally friendly materials whenever possible, something that has become more and more important as the effects of climate change worsen by the year. “Ninety percent of everything in our store is eco-friendly, sustainable, responsible, or organic,” she said. “When you come in here, you don’t think that because it’s all colorful and looks like everything else, but we select things with care.” Kaynor said she employed all of her favorite materials and techniques when working on a modern, Lee Ledbetter designed house, a project she ranks among her favorites. “It was the perfect project for me,” she said. “They called me because they knew I understood antiques, but they wanted a modern look that was very eclectic. I was able to meld the two together really well. The result is something that feels modern but that also respects the past.” Kaynor said that experience allowed her to bring all of her passions together into one project. ✦

Kaynor credits her focus on the environment to the Oscar-winning documentary An Inconvenient Truth. “I started reading more and more about it, and I got certified in design wellness,” she said. “Last year, the National Builders Association awarded me the Healthiest House in America award. Our store is actually the first brand ambassador certified in wellness.” Sotre/Grace Kaynor Designs, 3909 Magazine St., 504-814-9356, gracekaynordesigns.com, sotrecollection.com.

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St y l e Fa shio n

Laid Back Father’s Day Buying for Dad can be tough. How do you show thanks to the man who raised you? We love a day well spent sharing memories and time, but if you want to bring a little something along, here are a few suggestions he is sure to adore. Styled by Melissa Coleman Photographed by Theresa Cassagne

All buttoned up Jump from brunch to an intense game of backgammon (or lie in the shade) in a crisp button down shirt from Eton. Available at Perlis New Orleans, perlis.com.

Robert LeBlanc, entrepreneur and owner of the highly-acclaimed Chloe Hotel on St. Charles Ave. kicks back with his two sons, 12 and 10 year-old Bear and Will LeBlanc, to celebrate all things Dad in style. ➺

Have a nip Locally-owned Exclave Bourbon is a great gift for fathers. We suggest serving poured neat or in your favorite Old Fashioned. Available at Enclave Spirits, exclavespirits.com. Time for Dad! He’ll never miss a moment because time is perfectly executed by Swedish watch brand Nomos. Available exclusively at Adlers, adlersjewelry.com.

Robert is wearing David Donahue from Perlis New Orleans (perlis.com) and Vapor Sunglasses by Krewe (krewe.com). On Bear (seated): Ragazzo blue button down shirt, tie by Hanauer, Brown Bowen seersucker pants, all from Perlis New Orleans (perlis.com). On Will: Brown Bowen seesucker suit and Vineyard Vines polo from Perlis New Orleans (perlis.com).

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STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

St y l e C ha n g e maker s

Simone Maloz

GET INVOLVED

Campaign Director, Restore the Mississippi River Delta By Lindsay Mack

Restore the Mississippi River Delta is a coalition of five organizations dedicated to conservation: the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, the Environmental Defense Fund, the National Audubon Society, the National Wildlife Federation and the Pontchartrain Conservancy. Campaign Director Simone Maloz talked to Avenue about why rebuilding and protecting the vital Mississippi River Delta region is a common goal for so many people. Like many native to the area, Maloz grew up near a bayou, and enjoying the state’s coast was part of daily life. By choosing a career in the coastal world, Maloz hopes to protect coastal Louisiana for her

children and generations to come, creating a space for both people and the coast itself to thrive. “The river is what built us here in coastal Louisiana, and our future lies there as well,” said Maloz. With the state investing over $1 billion for the protection and restoration of coastal Louisiana, this is a big year for Restore the Mississippi River Delta. Crucial to both the environment and the economy, the investment will fund many projects, including the West Shore Lake Pontchartrain risk reduction project and the River Reintroduction into Maurepas Swamp. Some of the projects affect change right away. Marsh

creation projects build land immediately and restore acres of land, for instance. Restore the Mississippi River Delta’s long-term projects may span decades, and they include plans to protect Louisiana well into the future. Additional long-term solutions include sediment diversion projects. As Maloz explains, protecting this part of the world requires help from many sectors. “This isn’t just science, it’s all things: communities, a little bit of politics, navigation and levy protection,” said Maloz. Restore the Mississippi River Delta needs support from a variety of different stakeholder groups.

Contact: mississippiriverdelta.org To volunteer: mississippiriverdelta.org/getinvolved/volunteer

Individuals and groups can support Restore the Mississippi River Delta’s efforts as well. Several volunteer activities benefit the organization and its partners, including tree planting in the swamps around the Maurepas area, Beach Sweeps and much more. (Check the volunteer section of their website for more information.) Voting for candidates who support the coast helps tremendously as well. Even though restoration efforts are a complicated issue, as Maloz explains, it’s important for more people in Louisiana to get involved. “It will take all of us here in coastal Louisiana to change our future for the better,” said Maloz. ✦

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

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S o cie t y P hila n t hro p ic Faces

Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes Ashé Cultural Arts Center, Chief Equity Officer By Sue Strachan

Education: Bachelor of Science in secondary education and English literature, minored in biology and African-Diaspora studies, Vanderbilt University Age: 47

When Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes became chief equity officer at Ashé Cultural Arts Center two years ago, she was bringing a wealth of creative talent and experience to this esteemed establishment. “Ashé is a very beloved and relied upon institution in the community, and I wanted to make sure that I could still show up in the way they needed me to,” said Ecclesiastes. It was a natural fit for this native New Orleanian — Ecclesiastes is a graduate of McMain Magnet High School — who looks at written and spoken word and her community as sources of inspiration and a platform for societal change. Before leading Ashé, her previous positions include director of strategic neighborhood development for New Orleans Business Alliance, Claiborne Program manager for the City of New Orleans’ Mayor’s Office, Congo Square coordinator for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, as well as other roles for Essence Music Festival, Tremé 200 Festival, New Orleans Juneteenth Festival, Tremé/7th Ward Arts & Culture Festival and the Akoben Words-In-Action Festival. She was the author of two TED talks and chosen by JPMorgan Chase as one of the 300 most influential citizens for the New Orleans’ Tricentennial and 2019 Tulane University Mellon Fellow, and also received President Barack Obama 2012 Drum Major for Service Award, New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Council 2013 Queen’s Scribe Award and Essence Magazine 2018 Excellence in Service Award. Ecclesiastes has toured nationally with the critically acclaimed, Swimming Upstream, a play that she co-wrote that explored life in New Orleans post-Katrina flood and produced by Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues. Ecclesiastes participated a virtual version for 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and is considering a revival over the next few years. For Juneteenth, Ashé Cultural Arts Center is participating in the National Civil Rights Conference, June 20 to 21 in Baton Rouge. Ashé will also be involved with other events surrounding Juneteenth, which is June 19. Details have not been finalized as of press time, but for updates check Ashé’s website, ashenola.org. Ashé Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 504-569-9070, ashenola.org.

How many years have you been with this organization? Two years, both in the position and as an employee, but 25 years as a constituent. Tell us what your organization does. Ashé Cultural Art Center’s innovative programming is designed to utilize culture in fostering human development and civic engagement. We maintain 10,000 square feet of gallery space and 20,000 square feet of performance space to create and preserve opportunities for the curation, exhibition and commission of fine, folk and fine-folk art. Producing over 350 music, theater, dance, spoken word, drum circles and multi-disciplinary events a year, Ashé believes in art as a paradigm-shifting call to action. As ecosystem builders, we deliver programming and direct services that support, leverage and celebrate the people, places and philosophies of the African Diaspora. What has been the biggest — or most important — accomplishment (s) that have happened while you have been at the organization? The biggest accomplishment that my team and I have created during my brief and whirlwind time at Ashé Cultural Arts Center is institutional stabilization and growth while significantly expanding services to our stakeholders during the triple pandemic of health, economic and social justice crises. What has been the most memorable moment (s) at the organization? We are blessed to have truly memorable moments on a regular basis, but one that stands out as extraordinary was last November when were able to travel as

a team to Puerto Rico, connect with the communities there and share cultural, advocacy and service activities together. Is there a book, movie and/or moment (s) that changed your life? The book Two Thousand Seasons by Ayi Kwei Armah, a composition of perfectly poetic prose, full of historical rigor and insight, expanded my idea of myself in a global context. What are you reading now? Toni Morrison’s The Source of Self-Regard and Isabel Wilkerson’s Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents — both of which I’ve been dissecting for a year, phew! What is your perfect night out in New Orleans? An early performance at Ashé or the Jazz Market, followed by dinner at Café Sbisa, Compère Lapin, Pêche or Vyonne’s … then dance it off at Kermit’s or Bertha’s till the wee hours and breakfast at Ruby Slipper or Stanley’s. What is your idea of New Orleans bliss? Wake up early Sunday morning and play something I grew up on — Rebirth, PNC, Germaine Bazzle, Professor Longhair — loud while I clean up ... go to the Buttermilk Drop and bring home drops and glazeds for the fam, while I get my grits, eggs and hot sausage ... after breakfast, make a good sturdy cocktail and walk on out to the second-line … the rest is bliss in the making! Secret ambition? To be a double agent ... and I mean the jumping off of buildings type ... if my book writing doesn’t work out, lol! ✦

Photographed by Eric Waters

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S o cie t y

You Night New Orleans Class of 2021: "Dreamgirls - You've Got the Best of Our Love" benefiting You Night 24 cancer survivors were honored and celebrated in You Night’s festive fashion show event.

➺ By Shelby Simon

You Night, which offers yearround programs to women seeking sisterhood following a cancer diagnosis, hosted the “Dreamgirls - You’ve Got The Best of Our Love” event to honor the You Night New Orleans Class of 2021. The 24 lady Honorees were: Amy Ferguson, Arnelle Williams, Dawn Hebert, Janeen Weston-Bell, Kate Leggio, Lori Bentley, Mandy Boudwin, Quishana Irvin, Amy Storms, Ashley O'Bryan, Elaine Kimbrell, Janis Ducote, LaQuinta Washington, Lori Dean, Maria Cordero, Shanta Burns, Angenetta Sharpe, Camey Grau, Genelle PerezSandi, Karen Mackey, Laura Jackson, Louise Pennison, Nneka Cerf and Sherry Heller. The night began with Red Carpet interviews with sponsors. The Fashion Show Program included models strutting the runway to the Magic of Motown music, and a two-act Playbill program beginning with You

Night “Alums” presentations from several sponsors. The 2021 Class modeled three clothing collections: Formal Wear from Town and Country, Bliss Boutique and Bridal and Maiya Boutique; Contemporary Wear from Dolce Boutique, Chico's and Maiya Boutique; and Jeans by Jean Therapy. Faith Becnel, an American Idol Top 20 Finalist, was the musical guest of the evening and led the event blessing. Following the show, Diagnostic Imaging Services sponsored the VIP Lounge and The Modern, Dr. Jules Walters Plastic Surgery sponsored the After Party. An Album Pull table hosted prizes, as well as an auction featuring fabulous trips and artwork. Walker and Shannon Dupre served as Co-Chairs. Title Sponsors were Sadeghi Center for Plastic Surgery and West Jefferson General Hospital/West Jefferson Foundation. ✦

Follow You Night on social media @younightevents

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P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT You Night New Orleans

WHEN January 14, 2022

Class of 2021: "Dreamgirls You've Got the Best of Our Love" benefiting You Night

Arts Center

Photographed by Jeff Strout

WHERE Jefferson Performing

1. Tracy Duhon, Lisa Mckenzie, Peyton Trist 2. Jeff Beach, Jill Jansa, Tiffany Parks, Alexis Comeaux, Michael Holmes 3. LaQuinta Washington, Lori Dean, Elaine Kimbrell, Amy Storms 4. Sandy Hicks, Ruth Avila, Angela Becnel, Holley Haag 5. Sherry Heller, Louise Pennison, Lori Bentley, Karen Mackey 6. Janeen Bell, Nelly Aoun, Arnelle Williams

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

S o cie t y

O What a Night! Gala benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art The Ogden Museum of Southern Art hosted a gala filled with art, music and fine dining.

➺ By Shelby Simon

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art returned with their annual O What a Night! Gala honoring internationally recognized photographer and author Sally Mann, with the OPUS Award. In appreciation of Mann’s photography, this year’s theme and colorscape featured gray and black hues. The tent had black turf and a white dance floor, and the stage featured a plethora of string lights illuminating lush green ferns at the front. Gray shimmer tablecloths and floral centerpieces decorated the tables. More than 300 patrons enjoyed catering selections from Beth Biundo Sweets, Sylvain, McHardy’s Chicken, The Elysian Bar and champagne provided by Total Wine & More, Dale A. Mott and Kenneth P. Hyle. A photo booth that created gif images was on-site for attendees to snap and share photos. Live entertainment included performances by The New Orleans Swinging Gypsies, One Shot Brass Band, Jeremy Davenport and Dplay Band.

A silent auction presented by Neal Auction Company featured more than 100 works of art by regional artists. The live auction featured 16 lots, led by Nicholas “Nicho” Lowry from Antique Roadshow and Swann Auction Galleries. Prior to the event, on January 13, Jason Waguespack and Jeffery Morgan hosted the Patron Party at their Uptown home. The Delachaise provided cuisine, including their famous duck fat French fries. Cocktails crafted by one of Saba’s mixologists were served in glassware provided by Baccarat. Champagne was provided by Total Wine & More, Dale A. Mott and Kenneth P. Hyle. Patrons enjoyed previewing the Live Auction artwork while mingling with the artists and auctioneer. Major sponsors included Sazerac Rye, The Advocate and NOLA.com, Element, Dale A. Mott & Kenneth P. Hyle Jr., Total Wine & More, Beverly Dale, Goldring Family Foundation, Neal Auction Company, Sylvain, Baccarat, The Delachaise and Beth Biundo Sweets. ✦

Follow Ogden Museum of Southern Art on social media @ogdenmuseum

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P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT O What a Night! Gala

WHEN January 15, 2022

benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art

of Southern Art

Photographed by Jeff Strout

WHERE Ogden Museum

1. Nicholas Lowry, Ariel Gordon 2. Jordan Hess, Danielle Fauth, Shabez Jamal 3. Melwani Manta, Eugene Priestley 4. Dawn Wheelaham, Monroe Kelly 5. Sherrie Saunders, Gregory Saunders, Kenneth H. Jordan II, Suzie Schroeder 6. Jeremy Davenport and band

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

S o cie t y

13th Annual Good Apple Gala benefiting Louisiana Appleseed Louisiana Appleseed congratulated volunteers doing good work in the community.

➺ By Shelby Simon

Louisiana Appleseed’s 13th annual Good Apple Gala celebrated the good work of volunteers who have risen above the typical pro bono commitment and pillars within our communities whose daily lives align with the organization’s mission to increase access to justice, opportunity and education. The 2022 Community Honorees were Mr. Edgar “Dooky” Chase III of Dooky Chase Restaurant, Ms. Cashauna Hill of Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center and Mr. Warner Thomas of Ochsner Health Systems. The 2022 Pro Bono Honorees were Ms. Courtney Nicholson, Ms. Sarah Faris, Ms. Alicia Hall and Ms. Courtney Dennis of Entergy, Mr. Charles King of Herman Herman & Katz

and Mr. Thomas Mitchell, Texas A&M Law/2020 MacArthur Fellow. Kimberly Silas and Kenn Barnes served as the 2022 Good Apple Gala Co-Chairs. The program took place at Sazerac House. Hand-blown glass apple awards were created by Rosetree Glass Studio. Brennan’s Catering provided catering, which featured passed crab meat spring rolls, roasted eggplant crostini and a roasted pork loin station. Martin Wine Cellar provided lollipop lamb chops, baked ziti, grilled vegetables and bread pudding. The “Everyone is a Winner” raffle was a huge success, with wine and bourbon tickets sold to match a featured bottle of the chosen libation. ✦

Follow Louisiana Appleseed on Facebook @louisianaappleseed, Instagram @laappleseed and Twitter @la_appleseed

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P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT 13th Annual Good Apple Gala

WHEN January 20, 2022

benefiting Louisiana Appleseed

Photographed by Jeff Strout

WHERE Sazerac House

1. Christina Sautter, Hope Spencer, Micah Fincher 2. Christy Kane, Edgar Dooky Chase II, Kimberly Silas 3. Cashauna Jill, Ebony Morris, Warner Thomas, Rene Doucet 4. Michael Harowski, Adrienne Wheeler 5. Sharonda Williams, Courtney Nicholson, Brittany Dennis, Camille Whitworth 6. Charles King, Bill Shea, Kenn Barnes, Thomas Mitchell

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S o cie t y

20th Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon benefiting Cancer Crusaders Cancer Crusaders honors 12 cancer survivors and hosts a luncheon to donate funds to cancer research.

➺ By Shelby Simon

The 20th Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon, run by the local, all-volunteer nonprofit Cancer Crusaders, raised $89,000 for cancer research at LSU Health Sciences Center and Tulane Cancer Center. A Patron Party at the Elms Mansion preceded the luncheon, which introduced the cancer survivor honorees at a cocktail reception. Co-Chairs Dawn Miller and Charleen Boos welcomed more than 400 guests to the New Orleans Marriott ballroom for the luncheon program, which began with a champagne reception and music performed by Loyola School of Music’s Gordon Towell and Don Vappe. Gregory Ricks served as emcee and spoke of the 12 honorees as “those indomitable spirits who are cancer survivors.” Honoree Liaison Kathy Pastorek introduced the dozen honorees: Antoinette Bradstreet, Leonora Dowell,

Marion Edwards, Inez Reyes Fernandez, Kelly FernonShaw, Mercedes Hodge, Judy Darby Hoffmeister, Cindy Christenberry Moll, Carol Osborne, Hector Pineda, Judith Russell and Ava Marie Scaglione. During the luncheon, guests enjoyed entertainment by the Kenneth Kerth Jazz Band. Centerpieces by Fancy Faces Decor featured jazz silhouettes, a lighted cube topped with feathers and musical instruments. Guests bid on 100 Parade of Prizes, 200 auction items and a raffle featuring Lee Michaels diamond hoop earrings. Major sponsors were Angel Wings Foundation and Larry and Marla Garvey. Additional top sponsors included The Elms Mansion, Jane Goldring, Harbor Towing and Fleeting LLC, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Gregory Ricks and Associates, LSUHSC/Cancer Center and Tulane Cancer Center. ✦

Follow Cancer Crusaders on social media @cancercrusadersla

26 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT 20th Annual Celebration

WHEN January 28, 2022

of Life Luncheon benefiting Cancer Crusaders

Marriott

Photographed by Jeff Strout

WHERE New Orleans

1. Antoinette Bradstreet, Kelly Fernon-Shaw, Leonora Dowell 2. Cindy Paulin, Kevin Colomb, Stacy Ricks 3. Ava Marie Scaglione, Ines Reyes Fernandez, Judy Hoffmeister 4. Hector Pineda, Cindy Moll 5. Judge Marion Edwards, Mercedes Hodge, Judith Russell 6. Haynes Academy students

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S o cie t y

Prospect.5 Gala benefiting Prospect New Orleans The P.5 gala supports future Prospect New Orleans iterations, exhibitions, programming and artists.

➺ By Shelby Simon

Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow featured 51 artists across 17 venues in the city, including cultural institutions and museums, parks, restaurants and more. Artists’ works ranged from sculptures and paintings to video installations and interactive performances. The Prospect.5 Gala served as the sole fundraising event for Prospect New Orleans during the threeyear exhibition cycle. Funds raised support future iterations of Prospect New Orleans, as well as year-round programming with past and present Prospect artists in our community. The 2022 gala took place at Studio Be, the famed creative hub of Brandan “Bmike” Odums that is home to a variety of visual art depicting stories of revolutionaries, heroes and everyday New Orleanians. Waysides provided floral decor. The Patron cocktail hour featured the Prospect Artadia Award Ceremony, presented to New Orleans artist Monique Verdin, as well as a soundscape by Felice Gee, who performed throughout the event. The gala opened with Masters of Ceremonies Christopher J. Alfieri, President and Board Chair Nick Stillman, Executive

Director Susan Brennan as well as remarks from Co-Artistic Directors of Prospect.5, Diana Nawi and Naima J. Keith. Gala honorees included Dr. Kellie Jones, Arthur Lewis, Keith Calhoun, Chandra McCormick, Antenna, The Front, Good Children, Level Artist Collective and Staple Goods. Patrons enjoyed an array of catering options provided by featured chefs: Edgar “Dook” Chase of Dooky Chase’s Restaurant and Chase Concessions LLC, Maggie Scales of Link Restaurant group and Ralph Brennan of The Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group. Five-time Grammy-nominated trumpeter and composer Chief Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah headlined the event. Additional performances were provided by Cassie Watson Francilon, both independently and featuring Guardians of the Flame Maroon Society. The Original Pinettes Brass Band led all attendees in a culminating second line. The Helis Foundation and Toby Devan Lewis served as presenting sponsors. Event chairs were Ivy and Shawn Barney, Janine and Lyndon Barrois, Martine Chaisson and Dan Desmond. The gala hosted 350 patrons and raised $250,000 for the organization. ✦

Follow Prosepect New Orleans on social media @prospect_nola

28 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT Prospect.5 Gala

benefiting Prospect New Orleans

WHEN January 22, 2022

Photographed by Jeff Strout

WHERE Studio Be

1. Beth Lambert, Shawn Barney, Ivy Barney 2. Ted Bloch, David Kerstein, Jessie Haynes, William Andrews 3. Diana Nawi, Naima J. Keith 4. Keith Calhoun, Susan Brennan, David Workman 5. Christopher J. Alfieri, Arthur Lewis, Nick Stillman 6. Scott James, Judith Oudt, Gregory Morey, Walter Isaacson

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S o cie t y

SNAPSHOTS

1. Jeffery Hopper, Torie Kranze, and Dr. Fred Teran stand up for kidney and urinary tract disease education and prevention at the 20th Annual New Orleans Kidney Walk in November. 2. Kidney donor Laurel Valentino, Dr. Anil S. Paramesh, Michelle Boudreaux, and Craig Harris participate in the 20th Annual New Orleans Kidney Walk, held in November at Lafreniere Park to benefit the National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana in their mission to educate about and prevent kidney and urinary tract disease, and raise awareness for the need for organ donation. 3. Andrew Gregorian, Oksana Nimkevych, Allan Couvillion, Jr., and Dr. Mihran Naljayan help raise money for the National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana at the organization’s annual two-mile walk to raise money for research and educational efforts. The New Orleans Kidney Walk also

30 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

provides an opportunity for dialysis patients, organ transplant recipients, donor families, living donors, the medical and business communities, and the public to celebrate life and create lasting community and longterm support for the National Kidney Foundation’s mission. 4. Titos Sompa, Sidiki Conde, Derrick Moss, Dr. Michael White and Monique Moss enjoy art and nature at FORESTival, a fundraising event to benefit Studio in the Woods in November. (Photo by Fernando Lopez) 5. Andy Horowitz, Ama Rogan, and Derborah Ross celebrate Studio in the Woods 20th anniversary at FORESTival in November. Set in more than seven acres of lush bottomland hardwood forest in Lower Algiers Coast, A Studio in the Woods has supported over 200 artists and scholars through its residency programs, forest restoration and research and community outreach. (Photo by Gary Michael Smith) 6. Joe Butler, Alexandra “Sascha” Mora, and Denise and Deliam Frazier enjoy an evening of live music, local cuisine, art activities, walks in the woods lead by Tulane University students, a silent auction, and more at FORESTival, a fundraiser for A Studio in the Woods held on their grounds in November. (Photo by Fernando Lopez)

S na p sh ot s

7. Julia Fluellen, Gregory Romig, Anne Raymond, Else Pedersen, Jeff Haigler, and Karen and Steve Tipton attend March for Recovery at Marsalis Harmony Park in November. Presented by Bridge House / Grace House, this fundraising event is held to celebrate those recovering from addiction while remembering the lives that have been lost. 8. Gregory Romig, Roberto Espinoza, Mary Meeker at Bridge House / Grace House’s March for Recovery in November. Participants were invited to march once around Marsalis Harmony Park while carrying handkerchiefs of different colors honoring a loved one’s struggle with addiction – blue – their own journey through recovery – purple – or a loved one whose life has been lost to the disease – white. 9. Felicia Kleinpeter enjoys a fall day in Marsalis Harmony Park during the 2021 March for Recovery, presented by Bridge House / Grace House. The march around the park was followed by refreshments and music to honor the lifelong journey of recovery. 10. Jessica

Huneycutt, John Bukaty and Dana Reed enjoy a night of food and fun at Upturn Arts’ 8th Annual Appetite for Art dinner, presented by the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust at Costera in November to raise more than $62,000 for the organization’s educational programs. 11. Danielle Sutton, Anne Morris, Maureen Long, and James Pirtle attend the 2021 Appetite for Art Dinner at Costera to benefit Upturn Arts’ creative educational programming. Guests raised a total of $62,176 while enjoying performances by Upturn Funk, featuring special guest Effie Inglefield, a live and silent auction, delicious food and wine, prizes and more. 12. Mark Rachel, Danielle Lomanico, Jeremy Gulledge and Rachael Jaffe share a smile at Costera during the Appetite for Art dinner in November. The annual event benefits Upturn Arts, a fun and creative program that teaches children in the New Orleans community to explore and build confidence in themselves as artists.

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The Sounds of Wedding Season As wedding season kicks into high gear, couples are choosing those perfect finishing touches for their big day—the flowers, the cake flavors, and of course, the music. From traditional church hymns to second lines to bands to DJs, the music at a wedding signals important moments and sets the mood for the evening. Getting that music just right is sometimes more complicated than it seems at first glance. By Megan Holt

32 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

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Nathalie Jordi, co-owner and general manager of Hotel and John feel like Mrs. Ernst was a part of the ceremony. Peter & Paul, advises couples to choose ceremony music Like Marigny and John, Clare Colton and Walker LaSOUL Brass Band that they will be happy to grow old with, because “those will siter wanted ceremony music that reflected who they be ‘your songs’ forever.” Often, the location of the ceremowere as a couple when they were married in March 2020. led the second line ny and the music go hand in hand, as many churches offer Their first date included a concert at Wednesdays at the at the Colton-Lasiter (or even require) musicians trained in the church’s religious Square, so music had been part of their relationship wedding. Photo by traditions. Such was the case when Marigny Ernst married since the very beginning! “For the ceremony, we wantJames Shaw John Dildy in November 2019 at Holy Name of Jesus Church. ed to do something a little different, but that would still While the church does provide their musicians and cantor, sound appropriate for a church wedding. All of the procouples are able to choose others if they wish. However, the cessional songs, which included songs from the Beatles church’s music coordinator must give final approval on the and Fleetwood Mac, were played instrumental with violin choice of both musicians and songs. and piano by Harry Hardin,” she says. After Marigny and John decided to use the church’s musicians, it was time to Clare and Walker exited the church as newlyweds to their cousin Lauren Hémard select the songs. “I recall realizing how many choices there were to be made, singing “A New Life” by Jim James as their recessional song. Like Walker and Clare, that somehow escaped me prior to planning my own wedding. I always knew Marigny and John were thrilled to have talented members of their family make I wanted to walk down the aisle to Cannon in D with my father, but until it was their day extra special. For their reception, Marigny’s cousins offered to be the mutime to plan, I had not put thought into all the other moments where music sicians. “I was overjoyed as every visit with them ended up with beautiful music,” plays a role in the ceremony,” says Marigny. She and John spent hours choossays Marigny. “My cousin Beverly playing the piano, my cousin Neil on the clarinet, ing music that was both appropriate for a church liturgy and meaningful for and Linda with her amazing voice made the reception perfect.” them personally. John, wanting Marigny to have a grand entrance, planned a Whether played by family or professionals, music plays a huge role in a trumpet to “announce” his bride as the doors opened. Marigny, whose mothday that will hold a special place in a couple’s hearts for a lifetime. Therefore, er had passed away before the wedding, decided to include “Liebestraum” by Amanda Fritscher, Director of Membership and Member Events at Chateau Franz Liszt in the ceremony. Her mother had chosen it for own bridal procesGolf and Country Club, believes that couples should simply think about their sional and incorporating the same music that her parents used made Marigny relationship when choosing their wedding music. “It doesn’t matter if it is a

34 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

hit song that has been heard 1000 times or a one of a kind. As long as it means something to you both, it will forever feel special,” she says. Sometimes, a couple’s vision for their music influences their decision about where to hold their celebrations, as was the case with Clare and Walker. “We knew we wanted to second line from the ceremony to the reception which is why we chose a church and venue walking distance from each other,” says Clare. Like any good musicians, though, they needed to improvise when the beginning wave of the pandemic made it impossible to get a permit for a traditional second line. When leaving the church, guests received tambourines and kazoos, and they all became impromptu wedding musicians as the party made its way to the reception. There, SOUL Brass Band was waiting to play a socially distanced set. For many couples, a second line led by a brass band is a way to show out-oftown guests what makes New Orleans unlike anywhere else in the world. As Derrick Freeman of SOUL Brass Band cautions, there is a certain second line protocol to follow. First and foremost, research which permits are required and secure them well in advance. Second and almost as important, know the appropriate walking order for the second line. The newlyweds should lead the second line, walking in front of the band. The band—and the band alone—should be next, followed by the newlyweds’ family and friends. Not only is it a potential safety hazard for guests to surround the musicians, it also ruins the chance for the photographer to capture those wonderful shots of the couple with the band. Everyone who has experienced a wedding second line knows that the hanky is a must, and the need for the perfect accessory to go with the music inspired Michele Wilssens to create an entire business, Laginappe-Life. “Lagniappe-Life was

started when I was planning my own wedding and wanted a high-quality custom designed second line handkerchief. When I could not find what I was looking for I started making my own. I decided that other couples should be able to create a one-of-a-kind handkerchief for their wedding as well,” says Michele. Today, Lagniappe-Life specializes in second line handkerchiefs, and Michele loves knowing that she is creating something so meaningful to a couple. Elizabeth Lyons seconds the idea that personal touches are the key to making memories: “The unique personal moments are what make the wedding special.” As a singer-songwriter herself, she played double duty at her wedding to Will Reily in September 2018. Not only was she the bride, she also took the stage with her band at the reception! They performed a song that she wrote for her new husband called “I’ve Never.” To make sure that everyone there could cherish that moment for years to come, guests also received Elizabeth’s album called “I’ve Never” in their keepsake bags. Of course, not every couple includes a double-duty-playing musician. Most couples enlist a band or a DJ for the reception. Susan Zackin, owner of Z Event Company, stresses how helpful a planner can be when making the choice between a band or DJ. “Just because you saw a band or a DJ at a friend’s wedding or someone referred one to you does not mean it is always the best choice for your wedding reception,” she advises. “There are many factors to consider before making that decision and a professional planner can help you weigh your options best. If you solely rely on the booking agent, they cannot direct you based on the space and other information they are not familiar with.” Maggie Bondi, the Director of Events at LeBLANC + SMITH, whose properties include The Chloe, notes “Couples should

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Second line handkerchiefs from Lagniappe-Life add a festive touch and make a wonderful keepsake for guests.

consider how they want their guests to feel at their wedding. Jazz trios are great for buzzy conversations, while a live band sets the tone for a rowdy dance party. In New Orleans, the only thing more important than food is the music, so confirm your talent early as the best bands and DJs book out far in advance.” One of the most popular bands for New Orleans weddings is The Essentials, who played at Walker and Clare’s reception. “We knew we wanted 60s and 70s classic soul and R&B that young and old alike could dance to,” says Clare. “Many may stress over which band to hire, but it was the first decision we made when starting to plan our wedding.” As Essentials vocalist Micah McKee notes, weddings provide the opportunity for musicians to hone their skills: “Besides the honor of providing the sonic backdrop for a couple’s special day, playing weddings is also a great way to stay tight as a band. In the Essentials, we play mostly classic soul

36 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

music. These compositions are no walk in the park, and to lean on the experts when making these choices: “Have vocally they are a heck of a workout. Exercising this muyour band or DJ assist with creating a well-rounded list. sical muscle is challenging in the best possible way and Remember you are hiring a professional for a reason!” As The Essentials gives me tools that I will use moving forward in my career.” Elizabeth and Will learned, giving others input on the muperforming at While bands enjoy exercising their musical muscles, sic selection helps ensure everyone is happy. Elizabeth’s the Colton-Lasiter Derrick of SOUL Brass Band stresses that some songs may sister helped them curate the list of music, and they asked wedding. Photo by simply be beyond a band’s scope. If a couple loves a certheir parents what songs they’d like to hear so that they tain song for their first dance but the band knows they had different generations’ opinions. James Shaw cannot play it successfully, he advises couples to simply Derrick of SOUL Brass Band, who also works as a DJ, play the recorded track they fell in love with. The newlyencourages couples to get everyone’s opinions early, so weds will be sure to get a moment they treasure, and the that couples have time to curate the perfect wedding band will be able to focus on the music they play best. Miplaylist. “Pick your 100 favorite songs, narrow that list cah of the Essentials echoes this sentiment: “It’s always my hope that couples down to 30, and get that list of 30 songs to the band or DJ at least one full who are hiring a band do a little bit of research into what the band’s forte is, month in advance,” he advises. This gives the musicians time to decide which what their strengths are. If a couple has a special request, it’s best that the song order the songs should be played to keep the dance floor full all night! is in that band’s “wheelhouse”--something that is on-brand for the band, or at That being said, some couples choose not to select the songs. If they’re fans of least something that is in the same vein of the band’s repertoire.” the band or DJ, they may simply communicate a few special songs, such as the Obviously, those special requests are only a few of the many, many songs first dance, and then let the musicians take control. This allows musicians the throughout the night. Nathalie of Hotel Peter & Paul notes that thinking about freedom to shine, doing what they do best and bringing the party to life. Micah the timing of the songs is crucial—”what music would work best while people of the Essentials is always thrilled when he has the opportunity to play “Ain’t No are talking at cocktail hour or eating, and what music is better for when peoMountain High Enough.” “Marvin Gaye is my hero, and his work with Tammi Terrell ple are dancing?” Amanda of Chateau Golf and Country Club advises couples is the stuff of legend,” he enthuses. “Larger than life, but so down to earth. And

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Hotel Peter & Paul 2317 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70117 504-356-5200 hotelpeterandpaul.com SOUL Brass Band soulbrassband.com The Essentials meettheessentials.com

Bride sings "I've Never" to groom at the Lyons-Reily reception. Photo by Larry Radloff

this song really sums that up.” Derrick of SOUL Brass Band has one song sure to get every guest onto the dance floor—“Back That [Thang] Up.” “That song goes hard at every wedding,” he laughs. “Young, old, black, white, it doesn’t matter. Everyone comes out.” While many couples can party until the wee hours of the morning, they should check both venue and city regulations concerning amplified sound. The Hotel Peter & Paul, for example, has a decibel limit to protect their ancient stained-glass windows—though it’s high enough to keep the party flowing! Maggie of LeBLANC + SMITH takes care to ensure that the neighbors in the residential neighborhoods where their properties are located can live peacefully with the venues: “Amplified music cannot exceed 70 decibels, and excessive bass/subs are not allowed, and in outdoor spaces specifically at The Chloe, amplified Live Music (band or DJ) must end by 10:00 PM.” Susan of Z Event Company notes that different venues, as well as different parts of the city, may have different have rules about noise levels or timing that music can happen outside. Knowing these rules before booking can help a couple ensure that the venue and the entertainment fit into their vision.

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Lagniappe-Life LLC lagniappe-life.com 504-554-6487

However, rather than seeing these regulations as a hinderance, many couples use them as an opportunity to get creative, as Elizabeth and Will did. When amplified music was no longer permitted outdoors, they shifted gears to a silent disco. Guests put on headphones and listened to a DJ play different songs on their choice of channels! It’s important to note that keeping a party going for hours is physically demanding. Couples should remember to designate someone to keep the band or DJ supplied with bottles of water throughout the night. For longer events, be sure to provide at least light snacks, if not a full plate at the reception. Happy musicians make for happy guests! Even though the music might not be as meaningful for the guests as it is for the newlyweds, Nathalie of Hotel Peter & Paul points out that it can create a lasting impression: “People may not remember the specific songs that were played at your wedding, but they’ll certainly remember how they felt at different points during the event.” Whether reverent, sentimental, or just plain joyous, we look forward to all these different feelings that the sounds of wedding season create!

Chateau Golf and Country Club 3600 Chateau Blvd, Kenner, LA 70065 504-467-1351 chateaugcc.com Z Event Company 508 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70005 504-510-5838 zeventco.com The Chloe 4125 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 504-541-5500 thechloenola.com

Sometimes the urge to get away comes on so fast there is barely time to toss a toothbrush and a change of clothes in a tote bag, jump in the car and just drive. If either the time or the resources are not at hand for an extended vacation abroad or to an island paradise, but you feel you had better get away lest you lose your health and/or your sanity, this one is for you. What follows are three distinct destinations, each between one and two hours from the city. By Jyl Benson

MAKING A QUICK ESCAPE

THE POND AT LITTLE RIVER BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE & RETREAT IN FOLSOM

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T’FRERE’S HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST LAFAYETTE

If gracious hospitality and warm conviviality are the restorative balms you seek, they await you here. Upon assuming the role of innkeeper last year, Katherine Cobb brought with her decades of experience in hospitality management and an expertise in curating home environments for high-powered executives to foster creativity and relaxation. The first move she made was to mothball the sterling silver napkin rings she found on the formal dining room table. She then opened the kitchen to guests, who are now welcome to hang out, talk, sip wine, or even lend a hand if they are so inclined. The kitchen table has become a popular place. “Formality is off-putting,” Cobb said. “It creates a barrier to creativity and limits the free flow of ideas. It stops people from getting to know one another,” Cobb said. “Every tribe, tongue, and nation, they are drawn by the warmth of the Cajun culture, and they all bring their unique stories here with them. How are people going to relax and get to know one another if they are worried about getting a dirty look for using the wrong fork?” Cobb descends from a large family and a line of accomplished Southern home cooks, so gracious hospitality and sharp culinary skills are second nature to her. Breakfast is a lavish affair with rich coffee, fresh breads and fruit, and entrees that may include Glazed Banana Pain Perdu, Fresh Avocado Toast topped with a griddled farm egg, Fried Catfish with sauteed shrimp over grits,

40 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

a Brisket Slider with Pepper Jack cheese, or

tranquil glass-enclosed rear porch affords a

some other amazing thing that puts your

view of the verdant gardens.

usual smoothie to shame. While dinner is

Behind the main home is the Garconniere,

not among the actual offerings at T’Frere’s,

historically where young men of the family

Cobb lives upstairs with her two children,

would have lived and entertained. The

ages 12 and 14, and she cooks their evening

space has two newly renovated guest rooms.

meals in the downstairs kitchen—things

The home, guest rooms, and Garconniere

like Crawfish Etouffee; traditional Prairie

are furnished in a combination of period

Cajun-style gumbo made with a dark roux;

antiques and contemporary décor and the

entrée salads with fresh fruit, vegetables, and

walls are hung with the works of local artists

poultry or seafood; or just really, really good

and artisans that tell the story of Lafayette’s

burgers and fries. She leaves the kitchen open

singular history and culture.

to guests. “I just can’t help myself,” she said. “Most

Amenities include Wi-Fi, luxury bedding with allergy-free options, in-room coffee

people go out to dinner, but I make extra just in

service, cable programming, in-room guest

case. There are always at least a couple of people

refrigerators with drinks and snacks and

who would rather sit around the table with us.”

luxury private baths. Communal spaces

The two-story home was built in the 1880s on 70 acres and in the Acadian colonial

Nearby: Mercy Kitchen (1312 Verot School Rd., Lafayette, 337-3451123, mercy-kitchen.com) is a six-block walk away and aims to impart that feeling you get when you retreat to your cultured friend’s kitchen to enjoy their hand-muddled cocktails, curated wines and modern American food sourced from locally grown ingredients.

including the gardens, courtyards and porches are open for guest use.

style of Louisiana red cypress as part of the

Accommodations range from $135-185

Comeaux Plantation. The Main House (La

T’Frere’s House Bed & Breakfast, 1905

Grande Maison) has six guest bedrooms,

Verot School Rd, Lafayette, 337-984-9347,

a parlor, dining room and a gazebo. The

tfrereshouse.com.

Avery Island (Hwy 329, Avery Island, 337-373-6139, tabasco.com/ visit-avery-island/tabasco-tour) is found about 30 minutes away. TABASCO® sauce has been made on this island by the McIlhenny family for five generations. Built on a salt dome, it’s a mysteriously beautiful place where the red peppers grow, the factory hums and abundant wildlife can be seen in Jungle Gardens. Restaurant 1868, found on site, is quite good. Jungle garden pictured below.

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THE SOUTHERN HOTEL COVINGTON It was an era of opulent hotels, cozy

of the 1937 Covington Post Office

garden. Chef Steve Marsella executes

inns, and rollicking dance halls when

artist Grahame Menage depicted

and situated on the site of the

a menu that is French inspired

The Southern Hotel first opened

Covington’s history upon the walls

original hotel’s tennis courts and rose

with Louisiana flavors. Standouts

its doors on East Boston Street in

in the Cypress Bar, which was crafted

gardens. Each luxuriously appointed

include Crawfish Tagliatelle, a rustic

downtown Covington in 1907.

of century-old native wood that was

suite has a different theme. The reno-

Portuguese-style dish of pork and

hauled up from a swamp bottom.

vation preserved the original New

Clams and a fillet of Gulf Flounder

until the 1960s, then devolved

The dreamy, heavily detailed murals

Deal-era mural depicting the Tung oil

with crabmeat and Grenobloise butter.

into less stately incarnations that

depict the area’s early history as

industry painted by celebrated artist

included that of a drug store and a

a resort. The bar opens on to an

Xavier Gonzalez, which is featured

for a king room during the off season

post office before falling vacant.

outdoor patio with a wood-burning

in the suite named for the artist.

to $600 for the Xavier Gonzales suite

fireplace that has become something

The space was once the lobby of the

at the height of the season.

and attorney Lisa Condrey Ward

of an upscale living room for the

Covington Post Office and features a

rescued the nearly block-long

Covington community.

private garden patio.

The hotel remained in business

In 2011, a group led by developer

building for $1.75 million at auction.

Internationally celebrated mural

Upstairs, both the Walker Percy

In the main hotel, the downstairs

Three years and $8 million later it

Suite and the Thomas Sully Suite are

restaurant, The Gloriette, opened in

reopened as an approachable luxury

outfitted with Creole cypress pencil

March, replacing OxLot 9, the hotel’s

hotel with sumptuous, custom

post beds, crafted by Covington

original restaurant. Picture windows

embroidered Garnier Theibaut linens,

furniture maker Greg Arceneaux.

overlook the oaks outside while

a collection of fine, contemporary

At the rear of the patio is The

flooding the space with light and

works from local artists and artisans,

Garden House, a collection of five

highlighting the stunning Grahame

and glittering Venetian glass fixtures.

suites forged from the renovation

Menage mural that evokes a formal

In 2018 The Garden House opened next to the property, bringing the total number of rooms and suites to 48. The full-service hotel makes it entirely possible to buzz across the Causeway, ditch your wheels in the parking lot, and spend a blissful weekend at ease loafing about in the pool, lounge, or library, drinking and dining in comfortable splendor, and shopping the nearby boutiques and interesting shops. Covington’s history as both an art and resort community inspired Ward’s redevelopment of the property with the goal to create something with a distinct sense of place. She personally selected every item in both the hotel’s communal and private spaces with an eye toward style and luxury. The eclectic mix includes bold as well as subdued colors, local art and photography, French and American antiques, custom woodwork and wallpaper, and an artisan fountain.

42 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

Accommodations range from $169

The Southern Hotel, 428 E. Boston St., 844-866-1907, southernhotel.com.

THE STUNNING CYPRESS BAR AT THE SOUTHERN HOTEL

Nearby: H.J. Smith & Sons General Store & Museum (308 N. Columbia St., Covington, 985-892-0460), is a fascinating place of interest to all ages. Family-owned and operated since 1876, the museum houses hundreds of items from 1870 through the early 1900s, including a 20-foot-long cypress dugout boat, cast iron casket, old farming tools, a 1920s gas pump, a hand-operated wooden washing machine and much more. Admission is free; it’s a working hardware store with some very unusual items.

Del Porto Ristorante (501 E. Boston St., Covington, 985-875-1006, delportoristorante.com) is right across the street from the hotel and serves amazing Tuscan cuisine and inventive cocktails.

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LITTLE RIVER BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE & RETREAT FOLSOM

Nondescript wooden gates at the back

inspired to build an open-sided gazebo

in spring. Abundant creatures make this

a paddleboat, and a small fishing boat are

of an unremarkable neighborhood

in order to cook while it was raining.

splendor their home including beavers,

available for guest use.

mark the entrance to Little River Bluffs

He ultimately built a series of cabins

river otters, both red and gray foxes,

Nature Preserve & Retreat, a thirty-acre

and a lodge on the property. In 2015,

minks, armadillos, raccoons, deer, opos-

crescent, The River Chalet offers the most

paradise in Folsom on the pristine,

he sold the business and the property

sums, coyotes, skunks, shrews, moles,

extensive views of the Little Tchefuncte

artisan-fed Little Tchefuncte River.

to Blaine and Loretta DuBose, a couple

rabbits, squirrels and a rainbow of birds

River and the woods to be enjoyed

Once through the gates the land-

of engineers who had honeymooned

from owls to giant blue herons.

through the floor-to-ceiling windows

scape changes, a tranquil waterfall

there 15 years before and who share

A stroll around the stocked pond

of cascading ceramic vessels glows

his dedication to the preservation of

will reveal a collection of impressive

A freezing day would be a welcome

by both day and dark at the side of

nature. They now live in the lodge that

sculptures including “The Visual Ohm” by

one with a warming blaze going in

a densely wooded path that winds

was once David’s private home and he

Michael Heck featuring undulating 8-foot

the stunning soapstone fireplace. The

through the wooded property to each

now lives in a garden home next to the

tentacles fashioned from tubular welded

Meadow Cabin, located at the center of

of the four free-standing cabins and

entry gates at the front of the property

steel; a swiveling chair in the form of a

piney woods, a bamboo forest near the

lodges which are crafted to blend

where he works an author.

large, splayed-open hand entitled “Let

stocked pond and a wildflower meadow,

me Take You on a Ride” by Eric Sarbach;

has an interior crafted entirely of native

hand-cleared through the woods to

and “Global Directions’ by Trey Bryant

Louisiana cypress. There is a private

and certified yoga teacher, fell in love

preserve the native plants. Depending

featuring three figures of concrete plaster

screened porch and a Jacuzzi tub.

with the wild nature of this land in the

on the season one might find delicate

over wire net and heads and feet of iron.

late 1960s while working as an attorney

clusters of French mulberries, fragrant

Each of the four guest cottages at

with a prestigious New Orleans firm.

honeysuckle, cheerful sunflowers and

Little River Bluffs has access to the

sightings of White Tail deer and wild turkeys

He bought the land, pitched a tent, and

both golden and purple Asters among

river as well as a screened porch,

are common from the outdoor deck that

spent years leading a double life: that

the foliage. Autumn brings a riot of

swing, hammock, kitchen, barbeque

soars ten feet above the forest. The newest of

of an urban lawyer and architectural

full-on color. When the leaves fall from

grill, air conditioning, ceiling fans,

the cabins, The Guest House, features rustic

preservationist with historic property

the trees, violets, Carolina moonseed

Wi-Fi, fireplace, washer and dryer, and

wood, a Jacuzzi tub, a private screened in

interests in the city’s Warehouse District

and black cherry enliven the winter

pillows, linens, towels and bath ameni-

porch, and is a short walk to the river.

during the week, and that of a rugged,

landscape. Rare, silky, native camellias

ties including therapeutic essential oils

no frills, nature conservationist and

and azaleas are abundant around the

from Young Living. Each guest cottage

tent-dweller every weekend. After

property, supplying a dazzling display

has its own distinct vibe with compel-

Little River Bluffs, 11082 Garden Lane,

seven years in a series of tents, he was

of color when the forest is fully abloom

ling original artwork. Kayaks, bicycles,

Folsom, 985-796-5257, littleriverbluffs.org.

unobtrusively into the environment. David Campbell, an Arkansas native

44 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

Over the years, trails have been

Because of its location near a forested

or from the open, cantilevered deck.

Spacious and romantic, the Treetop Loft has a tree top view of the woodlands and

Rates range from $200-$254 with a two-night minimum.

Nearby: Gene’s Country Market (1052 Hwy 1078, Folsom, 985-796-3664) is found about two miles away. In addition to grocery staples Gene’s stocks specialty items from Poche’s Market and boucherie in Breaux Bridge. Look for shrimp or crawfish-stuffed deboned chickens to toss in the oven, andouille sausage for the grill, and cracklins to munch in the car on the way back to the retreat.

The Giddy-Up (82292 LA-25, Folsom, 985-260-5060, giddyupfolsom.com) is about two miles away. This is Folsom’s living room with coffee, sandwiches and salads by day, wine, beer and cocktails at night. Check out their website to get the calendar of events. Live music and farmers’ markets are hosted out back in The Paddock and the affiliated Far Horizons Art Gallery is next door.

If you feel inclined to do something other than simply veg out, float in the river, or fish in the pond during a stay at Little River Bluffs, the Global Wildlife Center (26389 Hwy. 40, Folsom, 985-796-3585, globalwildlife.com) is about 15 minutes away. The popular safari attraction will have giraffes, antelope, camels, and zebras literally eating from your hands.

PHOTO BY BIG EASY PHOTOGRAPHY

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

C e le b rat io n H ow to H os t

Vintage in Vogue Some of us recall being children and marveling over our grandmother’s gold cherub-adorned Hollywood Regency lamps, gilded bamboo serving pieces, flocked wallpaper and brass everything. Over-the-top Maximalism ruled the day. As the decades pass, those memorable items from bygone eras cycle themselves forth from the proverbial mothballs to find places of honor in the contemporary home. As personal adornments, furnishings and serve ware reserved for entertaining tend to carry heightened drama, incorporating these vintage items into an athome fete will add a glamorous touch. By Jyl Benson

For 40 years Chez Nous has set the stage when New Orleanians entertain in style. Luscious, classic deviled eggs with prosciutto and fresh asparagus are always in fashion. Chez Nous, 4739 Magazine St., 504-899-7303, gotocheznous.com.

This Nicolas Feuillatte Palms d’Or Vintage Brut Champagne (vintage 2008) is to Feuillatte what Dom Perignon is to Moët, with aromas of bracingly fresh white fruits, dried almonds and apricots, and a slight hint of spice. Upfront, you will note permeating flavors of redcurrant and citrus fruits with a second wave of pinot noir freshness and streak of minerality, underpinned by a distinctive chalk signature and acutely delicate smoky edge. Rouses, 4500 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-896-7910, rouses.com.

46 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

Luminous 1960s pine serving board for charcuterie or cheese. Made in France. Dop Antiques, 300 Jefferson Hwy., 504-373-5132, instagram.com/dopantiques.

This game/writing table is a 19th century Chinese export of black and gilt lacquer with overall Chinoiserie decoration. Flip the top inset to reveal a chess board or remove the inset for backgammon. Malachite Home, 3806 Magazine St., Suite 4, 504-754-0066, malachitehome.com.

Up your bar game with these collected cut crystal decanters, pitcher and lowball glasses, 1970s polished brass butler’s ashtray with handle and Red Coat soldier print from the early 1900’s. Merchant House, 1125 Camp St., merchanthouse.co.

Delight guests with these blue and green conical mosaic glasses made by Georges Briard, circa 1960s. Vintage 329, 329 Royal St., 504-525-2262, instagram.com/shopvintage329.

This stunning vintage 1950s carving set by Griffon Cutlery of Germany features three pieces with white pearlized Bakelite handles and comes in the original box with a polishing cloth. Perrier Designs, chairish.com/shop/perrierdesigns, (free delivery in New Orleans).

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

C e le b rat io n Lo o k in g B ack

Russell’s Ice Cream By Seale Paterson

Russell’s Polar Bars vending tricycles were each equipped with a refrigerator box and musical chimes. When they first debuted in 1937, an ad was placed seeking 20 young men, “preferably married (and) with fair education” to be ice cream peddlers. A few years later, the ads included additional requests of applicants – that they be clean, sober and reliable. Image by Charles L. Franck Photographers on 5/23/52. Provided courtesy of the Historic New Orleans Collection, Charles L. Franck / Franck Bertacci Photographers Collection, 1979.325.4061.

Sidney L. Russell, Sr. got into the ice cream game in New Orleans in 1933. Starting out as a small vendor for Polar Bar and Sunshine ice creams, the business grew quickly, thanks to Russell’s innovative thinking. In 1935, he ran a contest for kids where the winner was determined by how many wrappers from purchased ice cream treats were returned. The winners submitted so many they counted them by weight rather than by amount. Winners received a bicycle or a Mickey Mouse watch, and Russell saw an increase in sales.

48 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2022

In 1936, Russell took a trip to Atlantic City and saw ice cream being sold via large tricycles and ordered 30. This new style of selling debuted in New Orleans in 1937 and was an immediate hit. Vendors could be found at City Park, along Carnival parade routes and in many neighborhoods. Kids memorized routes and were ready, nickels in hand, when they heard the bells coming. Russell’s Polar Bars soon became New Orleans’ best-selling ice cream on a stick. These successes made it possible for Russell’s business to

move into wholesale distributing in 1938, while still maintaining a few storefront ice cream parlors. In 1944, the individual businesses he ran were all incorporated under one new name: Russell Ice Cream Co. During the first half of 1950s, Russell’s Ice Cream started moving from bicycle vendors to the now ubiquitous musical ice cream trucks. In 1954, they started operating a fleet of 25 Harmony Ice Cream trucks. A 1955 promotion that offered miniature musical Harmony trucks in exchange for $1 and 25 bags

from purchased stick confections was so popular that they ran out of trucks in a few short weeks. They repeated the program the following year, but it appears the toy quality suffered. Instead of calling them musical Harmony trucks, they were Mystery Musical Trucks. According to the promo, they also played a song as they were pushed… “but only sometimes – and that is the mystery.” After Sidney Russell, Sr. died in 1958, his sons Sidney Jr. and F. Emmett carried on the family business until they closed in the late 1970s. ✦

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org 49 1

Summer 2022

Contents

LAGNIAPPE STAFF Editor and Communications Council Director: Kristin Durand Assistant Editor: Ashley Millet Writers: Michelle Michler

3 Letters from the President and Editor

JLNO BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Holly Paczak President Elect: Ashley Llewellyn Secretary: Elizabeth "Lizzie" Vincent Frein Treasurer: Nancy Kirkeby Assistant Treasurer: Trish Thibodeau Business Council Director: Tara Waldron Communications Council Director: Kristin Durand Community Council Director: Kathryn McLeod Membership Council Director: Lindsey Labadie Planning & Development Council Director: Erica Washington Ways & Means Council Director: Amy Flower Nominating Committee Chair: Michelle Clarke Payne Sustaining Advisor to the Board: Jeanne Boughton

4 Meet 2022-2023 President Holly Paczak 5 Meet 2022-2023 President-Elect Llewellyn 6 2022-2023 Board of Directors 8 WE Fellowship Winner: Bomb Ass Fro

PUBLISHER STAFF Art Director: Ali Sullivan Production Manager: Rosa Balaguer Production Designer: Meghan Rooney Chief Executive Officer: Todd Matherne

Women’s Leadership Summit January 2023 Join us for a day of professional and personal development opportunities. This will be an in-person event at the Sheraton New Orleans. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Learn more at https://www.jlno.org/wls/

SAFE SITTER Weekends from late June through August Location: TBD

TOUCH A TRUCK RUN, WALK, GIVE April 2023 Location: TBD

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org

November 2022 Location: TBD

HOLLY JOLLY MARKET December GMM

Letter from the President Welcome to the 2022-2023 League Year! I am honored to serve as the 99th President of the Junior League of New Orleans. When I joined JLNO, I was hoping to make connections and volunteer in a new city. What I found was an unlimited opportunity to learn, connect, serve, and lead. Voluntarism and improving our community are at the heart of what we do. Over the past year we have: · Extended over 100 volunteer opportunities to our members · Facilitated over 50 training opportunities to our members and community · Given over 25,000 volunteer hours · Served approximately 120,000 members of our community · Distributed over one million diapers, period supplies, and adult incontinence products into our community JLNO will celebrate its Centennial year in 2024. The investment that is made today will ensure that our mission and work continue to support the Greater New Orleans area and communities beyond. This looks like distributing diapers, period supplies, and adult incontinence products from our Diaper Bank; supporting women owned businesses through our Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship; enabling non-traditional female students looking to begin post-secondary programs or needing the support to help complete the final term of their programs; or supporting women to achieve and maintain economic freedom through our Financial Literacy Program. Thank you for your support and for believing in the mission and members of JLNO. We are proud to be Women Leading for a Greater New Orleans!

Photo by: Delana Lynn Photography

Holly Adkins Paczak, President, 2022-2023

Letter from the Editor When I first joined the Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) in 2014, I was clear-eyed about why I was joining this organization. I had recently become self-employed, which meant I was working from home (before it was cool). Most of us now know that it can become an isolating experience very quickly, so when my friends approached me about becoming a member of JLNO, I saw an opportunity. Not only would this introduce me to a large group of like-minded women who wanted to be of service to their community, it would also be an ideal way to start networking for my business. Little did I know, only a few months into my provisional year, a chance meeting at a General Membership Meeting would lead to me leaving my at-home job and would place me with the company I have worked for ever since. Some call it kismet. I call it the Junior League effect. Volunteering with the Junior League has introduced me to inspirational, motivated and powerful women who have chosen to impact the wellbeing of women in Greater New Orleans in thoughtful ways. From Bloomin’ Deals Thrift Store to the Freret 5k, Youth Empowerment Project to Second Harvest Food Bank, Diaper Bank to Financial Literacy – every volunteer shift or training opportunity was another chance to see just how far JLNO’s reach stretched into the community. I’ll never forget the story of the fourth grader who had never seen a strawberry until Edible Schoolyard New Orleans began showing them how to plant their own. Or the look on families faces when they were given their dream Halloween costume when JLNO partnered with The Freret Neighborhood Center for a Halloween costume drive. These partnerships help address the needs of women to provide a safe, nourishing and happy future for their families as well as themselves. My experience in the League taught me how to hone my skill as a writer during my time on the Lagniappe committee. My dedication to that placement led me to a leadership role as Assistant Editor and Editor of Lagniappe, exposing me to the exciting and fast-paced world of publishing and graphic design – an experience I would not have had otherwise. My time on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee grounded me to my belief that the League has made great strides towards representation in recent years, and there is a dedicated coterie of women driven to ensure that mission continues to become more robust in the years ahead. As we stand at the precipice of our centennial, it is important JLNO communicates our pride in the groundwork that has been laid before us by past generations. It is essential we express our goals for the immediate future. And it is imperative we convey our vision of what JLNO will stand for in the next one hundred years. These are lofty aspirations, but ones I believe that this year’s Board is fully capable of achieving. And I am up to the challenge.

Photo by: Delana Lynn Photography

Kristin W. Durand, 2022-2023 Communications Council Director

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org

Meet Holly Paczak JLNO President What drew you to join the Junior League of New Orleans, and why are you passionate about the work that we do? I joined the Junior League when I moved to New Orleans. Volunteering and service work had long been a part of who I was, and I wanted a meaningful way to give back to my new community. A friend encouraged me to join the League, and it was a perfect opportunity. From what started as—a way to give back—grew into an experience of learning and connecting. The work that we do is so important. By fostering relationships, offering training opportunities and providing direct service for our volunteers, we are advancing the wellbeing of women and, by extension, helping to elevate the entire community. What do you feel is the most important aspect of how (and why) we serve the community? When the community as a whole prospers, we all benefit. The League is a group of civic, community and professional leaders who value collective action to advance the well being of women. Together, there is no limit as to what we can accomplish for our community and beyond. Over its 99 years, the League has contributed to the New Orleans community in so many ways. Our passion is to find a need and bring together the network of our members to help build a solution.

Delana Lynn Photography

What have you learned during your experience in the League thus far, and how has that helped you with other professional or volunteer experiences? Over my years in the League, I have been extended amazing opportunities for leadership roles. Those opportunities have allowed me to grow as a leader, develop a deeper understanding of the needs of our community, a develop a voice to raise awareness of the issues that impact women and their families. The relationships, partnerships and learning that have come from my League experience are invaluable and have served me in other volunteer and professional experiences. What impact do you hope to make as it relates to your specific role on the board? I will serve as our 99th President and I hope to be a connector, bridging JLNO into its centennial year. To reach this milestone is monumental. It has been achieved through the passion and perseverance of our members past and present. The work of the League is ever-changing, and my hope is that we will continue another 100 years focusing on developing the potential of women and improving our community.

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org

Meet Ashley Llewellyn JLNO President-Elect What drew you to join the Junior League of New Orleans, and why are you passionate about the work that we do? I joined the Junior League of New Orleans to volunteer with women from around the region who were interested in being actively engaged in the regional community. All aspects of our work in the Junior League tie directly back to our focus area of advancing the wellbeing of women. It is incredible to learn, serve, create and celebrate alongside a diverse group of women who are deeply committed to living out our mission. What do you feel is the most important aspect of how (and why) we serve the community? Our core competencies are demonstrated in how we facilitate our programs, events and partnerships. Our members truly want to serve joyfully and bring their best selves to every JLNO program, event, project and meeting. This provides an opportunity for us to say, “Join us. Serve alongside us. Let’s work together to find a solution.” What have you learned during your experience in the League thus far, and how has that helped you with other professional or volunteer experiences? I am in awe of our members: their passion for serving the community, their dedication to JLNO projects and their creativity in creating new initiatives to advance the mission of JLNO. I learn something new at every JLNO engagement, event and meeting. Patience and flexibility, vision and creativity, and awareness of the organization and community are three of JLNO’s core competency areas where I have grown the most during my League experience so far. Those are areas of growth that positively impact my personal, professional and volunteer experiences.

Delana Lynn Photography

What impact do you hope to make as it relates to your specific role on the board? As President-Elect, I look forward to learning more about the operational functions of the organization and gaining a deeper understanding of the membership experiences of all of our members, from our sustainers to our newest Provisionals. As we prepare for our Centennial in 2024, I look forward to celebrating our community impact, highlighting our community partnerships, acknowledging the positive contributions our members have made in our region and discerning new opportunities for impactful community engagement.

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org

Meet the 2022-2023

Elizabeth "Lizzie" Vincent Frein Secretary

Nancy Kirkeby Treasurer

Trish Thibodeau Assistant Treasurer

Tara Waldron Business Council Director

Kristin Durand Communications Council Director

Kathryn McLeod Community Council Director Photos by Delana Lynn Photography

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org

Board of Directors

Lindsey Labadie Membership Council Director

Erica Washington Planning & Development Council Director

Amy Flower Ways & Means Council Director

Learn more about our 2022-2023 Board of Directors

Scan the code with your smartphone for exclusive online content Michelle Clarke Payne Nominating Chair

Jeanne Boughton Sustaining Advisor Photos by Delana Lynn Photography

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org

WE Fellowship Winner Bomb Ass Fro By Michelle Michler

upporting female-owned businesses has been an important aspect of the mission of JLNO for several years. The League realizes how important it is for women who have found success as entrepreneurs to share their insight and resources with other women who are just starting on their entrepreneurial journeys. JLNO brings members of these two groups of women together through its annual Woman Entrepreneur (WE) Fellowship. A call is put out through social media, advertisements in magazines, and through word of mouth for female entrepreneurs to apply for the fellowship. From these applicants, five finalists are chosen to pitch their businesses to a panel of successful female business owners, and based on these pitches, one winner is chosen to receive $5,000 and valuable mentoring and in-kind services sourced through JLNO’s membership. Excitement was in the air at the 2021-2022 Pitch Competition on April 5th, 2022. The competition was stiff this year, but after hearing pitches from each finalist, the Fellowship was ultimately awarded to Sydni Raymond, Founder and CEO of Bomb Ass Fro. The business creates hair care products specifically formulated for women of color. Sydni Raymond is a New Orleans native and, according to the Bomb Ass Fro website, is also a “curly hair enthusiast” and a “lover of all things natural hair.” After being unable to find a hair product that could give her consistent results, Sydni decided to develop a product that would give her volume and definition without leaving her coils flakey and dry. Necessity is the mother of invention, and out of Sydni’s need for a consistent wash-and-go hairstyle, Bomb Ass Fro Hair Jelly was born. Community Council Director Alyse Mouledoux attended the Pitch Competition, and when asked what made Sydni stand out and be chosen as the winner, she said: “Sydni Raymond is a JLNO member, and I’ve been honored to have her serve

on Community Council this year as a vice-chair. Her personality was infectious during her pitch. I also thought the real proof of her products was how beautiful her hair looked, and she uses her own products of course! I also think the name of her business stands out in a great way. It’s not something you’ll easily forget.” WE Fellowship Chair Taylor Morgan also attended the Pitch Competition. When asked why Bomb Ass Fro was chosen as the winner, Taylor said, “Sydni had a strong pitch and really solved a problem for women of color.” Sydni now joins a growing line of motivated, selfdriven winners of the JLNO WE Fellowship. The hope is that, with the valuable training and exposure afforded by the fellowship, the winners of today will become the successful female business owners of tomorrow, furthering the Junior League mission to “develop the potential of women” for generations to come. • Photos by Tres Bien Photos and Video

JLNO Lagniappe Summer 2022 | jlno.org