Slow Southern Style…

Christy from Slow Southern Style

1) What inspired you to start your own blog?

I started Slow Southern Style in 2009 when I was looking for not only New Orleans based fashion blogs but Southern ones as well. While there were plenty of mommy bloggers and personal blogs popping up they weren’t quite what I was interested in reading so I decided to create my own and feature what I’m interested in which is Southern based fashion designers, boutiques, events, etc…

2) Do you have a favorite post on your blog?

It’s funny because my favorite posts are never the ones that get the most traffic! I actually like my personal outfit posts the least but they garner the most hits for whatever reason.

My most recent favorite post is probably the one I did with Blink, just because it was fun styling items from a store and working with Blink’s staff.

3) What is your favorite hobby besides blogging? Why?

I love hiking and taking a break from the city. After Hurricane Katrina my husband and I relocated to Scottsdale, AZ and we did a lot of hiking out there with most of our miles logged in the Grand Canyon. Since moving back to New Orleans three years ago we get out of town every once in a while and have been exploring places to explore in Mississippi and Louisiana. Since I spend a fair amount of time on the internet I love a good digital detox once every few months.

4) If you could narrow it down to one answer, what do you love the most about New Orleans? Why?

The people really make this place, no doubt. There is such a richness and diversity here that you won’t find anywhere else. I’ve always joked that you can make best friends with someone just standing in line at the grocery store here but it is true! I don’t want to generalize but it is true that people are just nicer in the South. When I was in Phoenix I had a difficult time making friends but here I’m constantly meeting new people and rekindling old friendships with people from all walks of life and I love that.

5) What does “being local,” mean to you?

Being local means having a genuine, vested interest in making positive contributions to the surrounding community. It’s really about celebrating the culture, history, and individuals that make this area so great.  I think it is also important to maintain the feeling of where you are at (or “where y’at” as we’d say in New Orleans) but not do it in a caricature like, touristy sort of way.

6) What are some of your favorite local independent establishments?

Nightlife

Cure - consistently ranked one of the best bars in the country. It’s a sleek, cool place where the drinks are handcrafted vs. sloshed into a big go cup.

Meals

Breakfast -

Riccobono Panola St. Café - Love that they serve so many eggs benedict options! I always end up getting the Pontchartrain with crawfish. It’s nothing fancy but a good brunch for under $30 for two people is always a good deal.

Lunch -

Freret Street Po-boy and Donut Shop – Small place born out of lots of love. Owners will treat you like family and while their namesake items certainly live up to their name. Don’t skip out on the crab cake sandwich either.

Shopping

Armoire – Great women’s boutique where nothing retails for over $100. Always a good selection of dresses and jewelry

Abeille NOLA – New shop that carries a great list of brands, from local favorite Jolie & Elizabeth to well known denim lines. Sign up for their e-mail list and enjoy discount coupons!