Here we are in the anticipated holiday season. Some people get stressed about the idea of hosting a party around the holidays (or in general), but we’re going to show you it doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety, and you, the host or hostess, can have as good of a time as your guests. In our Winter Entertaining feature (pg. 60), Valorie Hart teamed up with Kristen Essig of Meauxbar and Coquette’s Michael Stoltzfus to create a memorable evening at the waterfront home of Mitchell and Erica Larkin Gaudet near Arabi. In this story, you’ll find creative, crowd-pleasing recipes (including cold fried chicken and oysters!) and quick tips on how to spruce up your space so that it looks warm and welcoming for a low-key but elegant evening. Complementing this feature, Lisa Tudor found cozy-chic items for Trendwatch, pg. 29: Blankets, throws and pillows can do wonders by adding some plush textures to your home, while keeping you warm and comfortable.
On pg. 36 in “Well-Played,” Lee Cutrone explores the home of New Orleans Saints’ executive vice president /general manager Mickey Loomis and his wife, Melanie, who have a fabulous chateau-inspired house that fashionably reflects their family’s varied interests and passions, thanks to the talent of local designer Shaun Smith. We also have a story on a couple who relocated from Uptown into a French Quarter townhouse and sought the help of renowned designer Penny Francis of Eclectic Home to sort through their belongings, reupholster furniture and breathe new life into their new home.
We are also excited to show you three kitchens and three bathrooms (pg. 54) that exemplify good design in varying styles.
If you’re looking to support local artists and vendors this holiday season (and you should!) Lauren LaBorde interviewed Ingrid Butler, who has created her own lipstick company, Lipscapes, featuring all kinds of fun, bold colors in Masters of Their Craft, pg. 26. Lee Cutrone interviewed Martin L. Benson, pg. 18, who incorporates spirituality and geometry into his works of art.
We hope you enjoy the issue and find it helpful for your holiday season!
On the Cover
Designer Shaun Smith, whose shop is located on Magazine Street, worked with Mickey and Melanie Loomis to create a French-inspired home that is welcoming and elegant. The living room features panels of Lilly Pulitzer linen drapes with large furnishings for comfortable seating. p. 36
Photographed by Sara Essex Bradley
Editor’s Pick
Fluff piece
This gorgeous Hungarian goose down pillow from Beth Claybourn Interiors is the ultimate year-round luxury that makes a great holiday gift.
Information, 401 Tchoupitoulas St.,
bethclaybourninteriors.com
