It's Beginning to Look Like... {St. Patrick's Day}

 As much as I adore the sparkle and spirit of Carnival, Mardi Gras season has officially come to a close at our home. Last week, I carefully packed away every last bit of purple, green, and gold—each ornament and bloom holding sweet memories of parades, gatherings, and festive evenings. There’s always a touch of nostalgia in the transition, but in true New Orleans fashion, we simply move on to the next celebration.

This weekend, I welcomed a fresh palette to our front porch as we prepare for St. Patrick’s Day. The rich greens and touches of white feel crisp and cheerful—like a breath of spring after the revelry of Mardi Gras. Our front door and window are once again dressed for the season, this time showcasing the colors of the Irish.

One of my favorite traditions is building my ever-growing collection of custom florals created by talented local artists right here in New Orleans. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted and full of personality—far more meaningful than anything mass-produced. Over the years, I’ve found so many treasures at beloved small businesses like Alice & Amelia and Home Malone, both located on charming Magazine Street. Supporting local makers and shop owners is something I truly value. Their creativity brings our home to life season after season.

On the front door, I layered in a preserved boxwood wreath accented with a ribbon sash inspired by St. Patrick’s Day hues from Red Onion. The rich greens paired beautifully with a striking gold clover emblem sourced from Blanc Box, adding just the right festive touch. The combination feels classic, fresh, and subtly celebratory—perfect for welcoming guests during this next season of gathering.

There’s something so special about marking each holiday with intentional decor—pieces that tell a story and reflect the heart of our region. As we trade beads for shamrocks, I’m grateful for another opportunity to celebrate, decorate, and continue supporting the small businesses that make our Louisiana communities so wonderfully unique. 

It's beginning to look like St. Partick's Day, y'all!

Mardi Gras at Acorn Cottage: Fresh Blooms

There is something about fresh flowers that instantly brings me joy. They have a way of making a home feel warm, welcoming, and alive, no matter the season. During Mardi Gras, my love for flowers becomes even more special, as I lean into the vibrant colors and festive spirit that this time of year brings.

Once again, my go-to floral designers at Mitch’s Flowers on Magazine Street created the most beautiful blooms for our guests to enjoy throughout the Mardi Gras season. Their creativity and attention to detail never disappoint. Each arrangement is thoughtfully designed with lush, fresh flowers in the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold, perfectly capturing the energy and celebration of Carnival.

What makes these arrangements even more meaningful is the stunning presentation. The blooms are displayed in Mardi Gras-inspired vessels crafted by talented pottery artist Vickie Carroll and Baton Rouge artist Carol Cassisa. Their handcrafted pieces add such a unique and artistic touch, making each arrangement feel truly special and perfectly suited for the season.

Fresh flowers have always been one of my favorite ways to celebrate holidays and gatherings. They create an atmosphere of beauty and hospitality that I love sharing with family and friends. These Mardi Gras arrangements are no exception — they bring color, tradition, and artistry together in the most delightful way.

Mardi Gras Fresh Flowers, y'all!

Mardi Gras at Acorn Cottage: The Front Door

I wanted to share a closer look at the Mardi Gras decorations surrounding our front door, especially since I’ve had so many questions about where everything came from. One of my favorite parts of decorating for Carnival is sourcing pieces from local artists and small businesses—it makes the display feel even more meaningful.

The Mardi Gras blooms (or float flowers) are from three incredibly talented local artists: Brian Bush of Carnival Sculpture, Dana Charpiro, and Lauren Jahncke Leonard (@laurenleonardart). Their work brings such color, texture, and personality to the space, and I love knowing each bloom was made with care right here in Louisiana.

The ball garland was a custom order purchased from the now-closed Hilltop Shoppe- pieces I truly treasure. The papier-mâché king cake wreath is by Gwen Markovich of Dats Awtsy and is always a conversation starter. The finishing touches, including the ribbons and crown charm, came from The Red Onion in Baton Rouge.

Completing the look is a custom doormat ordered through Old Estate in my hometown of Thibodaux, Louisiana—because it wouldn’t feel right without a little hometown love at the front door.

Supporting small businesses and local artists is always important to me, and Mardi Gras season is the perfect time to celebrate their creativity. After all, Carnival is about color, joy, tradition—and community. 

Shut the Mardi Gras door, y'all!