It’s September in New Orleans and that means the days may still be warm, but the city starts to shift into a new gear, and suddenly, everyone seems ready to get dressed, get out, and get together.
That spirit of gathering is at the heart of this issue. Our feature on the art of hosting takes us inside the homes, parties, and creative worlds of some of New Orleans’ most engaging tastemakers and entertainers, including Sara Ruffin Costello, Alexa Georges, and Margaret Sche. Their perspectives remind us that the best gatherings are about so much more than a beautiful table or a perfectly planned menu. They are about making people feel welcome, creating a sense of occasion, and bringing your own personality to the experience.
Fall also brings a welcome excuse to refresh our wardrobe. For this issue’s fashion feature, James and Kristen Collier, founders of Kilby, model the season’s looks in the stylish surroundings of Hotel Perle. Their approach to fashion, and to building a creative business in New Orleans, captures a wonderful balance of individuality and ease that makes the city’s style so distinctive.
Of course, fall also means a busy social calendar. Our Registry of Charitable Events covering September through December is your guide to the season’s fundraisers, galas, luncheons, and other opportunities to come together in support of the organizations doing important work across our city.
As always, there is plenty more to discover throughout these pages. Our fashion and What’s Hot pages spotlight what has caught our eye, while Eat + Drink brings us into the kitchen with Chef Nina Compton and her Ladies Night series. We’ve also rounded up important cultural events and the people, places, and happenings that are shaping the season ahead.
September is a time to step back into the social swirl, and there is no better place to do that than New Orleans. We hope this issue inspires you to open your doors, make a reservation, buy a ticket, get dressed, gather your friends, and take part in all that our city has to offer.
