I was born in New Orleans, but following Hurricane Katrina, my family was forced to relocate. We first moved to Kentucky but then moved back to Louisiana a few years following the storm to be close to my aging grandparents. Since coming home to Louisiana, we have called the Baton Rouge area home and have lived here since.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently a wedding planner and really love my job. I also love the floral business and hope one day to make that a part of my wedding planning. Wedding planning brings me so much joy and satisfaction because I get to be a part of many bride’s special days.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Oh I Curbside on Government St. Their burgers are the best. I also love Boba ParTea which serves herbal teas and sweets. The Strawberry Boba and cream cheese-filled bread are the best!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
On and off for the last 10 years.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
South Korea. Their food is amazing and I love the way the food is prepared. It is so appealing and delicious. I dream sometimes of being an English teacher there. I am also fascinated with the language and the culture.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Napoleon Dynamite, is my mom’s favorite too. I love the dry comedy and the satire of the movie. I love the fact that the main character is nerdy and uncool, but confident at the same time.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
People should see Jesus. He is the only one that is an absolute in the world and will not change. Trust in Him and He will solve anxiety and help you through all of the challenges you will face.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Going to South Korea is definitely on my bucket list. A little closer to home, to also have a cabbage patch at my home. I love cabbage. If I could mix weddings, a florist, and a tea room…that would be perfect!
Q: What is your go-to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
I grew up listening to CeCe Winans, gospel hymns, and worship music. I find gospel music very uplifting.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
America’s Thrift. I remember growing up we would go there. My mom grew up very frugal and took her time as she looked for clothing. Another place would be Burning Sands uniform store off of Plank Rd.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
My 9th-grade algebra teacher Mr. Peters from Baker High School. He was a hard teacher, but you knew he really cared about you. He believed in his students and always encouraged us to give our best attempts. He was former military and took his time to help us understand the material. I would love to take him to Curbside and hang out for a while.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The favorite thing I love about our city is how diverse the culture is. The food in Baton Rouge…obviously you can’t forget to mention that. I love the fact that Baton Rouge has a homey feel and is full of southern hospitality. We have a great city!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I would love to be married with some kids. I want a family, it is a dream of mine to have several kids.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I have a terrible fear of driving. I am terrified of heights, stairs, elevators, and escalators. I’ll do it, but I really don’t like it. I love to sing, but I feel like I’m shy. Not my area of comfort, but I do things that need to be done.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been? Why did it make such an impression on you?
The Cohn Memorial Arboretum is one of the most beautiful places in our city that is not known by many people I guess because it is located in Baker. It’s off of Comite Dr. near Blackwater Rd. I love that place. When I go there, it always reminds me of how great of an artist God is. The Lord took his time to design every plant, flower, blade, petal, etc. to make it just the way He wanted it and so we could enjoy it.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and the best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is June because it is my momma’s birthday month. She is my best friend and I love her dearly. My favorite holiday is Valentine’s Day. I love love. We should not wait for one day of the year to love, but I love we have one day dedicated to love.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
When someone knows how to communicate and respect the people around them. All of the problems we face in our world start from a lack of communication and selfishness. If we can communicate better, we can solve problems.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
The Lord. I’m no better than anyone else, but reading His Word and knowing right from wrong is something that I always am striving to do.
Q: If you stop at the corner gas station, what is the one food item that is begging you to purchase?
I love jumbo honey buns. I really love bread!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safe, memories, honesty – I always know I”s be told the truth if I want to hear it or not.