It’s often been argued that October is the loveliest month of the year in New Orleans. The weather is finally giving us a much-needed break, it’s dry, but rains just enough, and is a welcome break between the hectic return to school schedules and holiday mania. With this seasonal change there tends to be a renewed focus on home – clearing and updating spaces for work, getting organized and preparing for holiday gatherings and guests.
Our feature on page 28 showcases a lovely space designed for a young family Uptown by talented local interior designer Whitney Wilkinson. It’s got all the right touches – a gorgeous, soothing color palatte, cozy family friendly spots for lounging, plenty of eye candy, storage options galore and a space envisioned for adults to escape (even if it has since been commandeered by the kids). This project will provide tons of inspiration as you’re rethinking your own havens.
Because fall is so nice in our fair city, it’s also packed with events, meetings and get-togethers. These elements are exciting but can also pile up quickly and feel overwhelming. Our self-care guru, Dr. Alisha Reed, provides a step-by-step guide with advice from local experts on how to effectively set aside time to unwind and plan ahead for less anxiety. Because, as we’ve heard time and time again, a mind that has time to rest (even if just for a few minutes each day) and recuperate is most productive.
It’s also spooky season, and Amy Gabriel has curated a festive bunch of accessories for us to celebrate in style. From pumpkin-hued sunnies to perhaps the most fabulous amber and diamond ring you’ve ever seen, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out our Arts Calendar and Around Town for all of the fun happenings this month.
Nothing says fall quite like cider and mead, and Jyl Benson shares the interesting history of both in this month’s Eat + Drink. Snuggle up in your favorite spot, grab a great book, magazine or turn on your favorite show and welcome the new season.
For more than 25 years, Avenue has honored local activists and their immense impact on the community with our annual activist awards. If you know someone who would be a good fit and would like to submit a nomination, please visit myneworleans.com/submit and fill out our form.
Andy Myer, Editor
On the Cover
The Louisiana Museum Foundation will present Founders Ball V at the historic Cabildo, which serves as the opening gala for the highly anticipated Hunt Slonem: A Retrospective, an exhibition of the Louisiana State Museum (LSM). This prolific and adored artist exhibition will showcase Slonem’s profound connection to New Orleans and Louisiana, and the impact of our city and state on his expansive body of work. The exhibit debuts with two fundraising events that serve to benefit the collections, exhibitions and educational programming of the LSM: Founders Ball V on Friday, November 17, and a Luncheon with Hunt Slonem on Sunday, November 19, 2023. For more info call 504-558-0493 or visit thelmf.org.
Hunt Slonem shot in his New York studio by photographer Andre Baranowski.