After a long, hot summer, several beloved shops on Magazine Street have permanently shut their doors. We can opine over the reasons (maybe the economy or the dominance of Amazon), but let this reality serve as a reminder to prioritize shopping locally. New Orleans has always maintained its unapologetic, distinct identity and it’s this commitment that intoxicates (both literally and figuratively) millions of tourists every year. If we don’t support the shops owned and run by locals, we no longer deliver a true expression of who we are as a city. We are our most valuable asset. I do get it – all of us are bogged down with countless responsibilities, and often, ordering online feels like the only way to keep up. But if we want to survive as a unique city, worth visiting (and living in), then quick-fix online ordering cannot be our regular go-to.
For example, Halloween is a holiday easily deferred to the internet. I’m guilty of checking Lowe’s, Amazon or Walmart for the latest and greatest. However, there are plenty of local vendors dishing out giant spiders and life-size skeletons that deserve our attention too. Garden centers like the Plant Gallery and Perino’s have decor both big and small. Boutiques like Sparkle and Swag, Hazelnut and Lucy Rose have special little treasures to jazz up your living room. I specifically love this headband by Crowned By Ellie, these inflatable pumpkins for the front yard or pool at Judy, this festive doormat or these witch’s hats at Phina and this cute pumpkin door hanger at Lucy Rose. If you are really ambitious, create your own Halloween house float with Stronghold Studios or let the Judy Garlands fashion you a spooky floral installation. The local possibilities are endless, so go haunt a shop near you!
Image 1: Clockwise from Left
Life Size Skeleton Pillow, Phina
Headband, Lucy Rose
Black & White Flocked Skeleton, Sparkle & Swag
Witch Finger Candle, Lucy Rose
Colorful Skeletons, Perinos
Image 2: Clockwise from Left
Door Hanger, MJ’s
Skeleton Headband, Miette
Door Hanger, Home Malone
Newly Dead Taper Candle, Judy at the Rink
Mosaic Pumpkin, The Plant Gallery
Sales & Events:
9/18 (5-9 p.m.): Val’s Clothing Carnival, Val’s
9/18-9/19 (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.): Little Miss Muffin Warehouse Sale (#1520 Kuebel St)
Sept. 20-21: Cindy Ensor Jewelry Pop Up, So Susu
9/20-9/23: Lisette Event, Ballin’s (Dante St)
9/21: (11am-6pm): Vintage Day Sale, Freda
Ongoing: Additional 60% off sale, Febe
