Marielle Songy

Marielle was born and raised in New Orleans. She thinks it's hard to grow up there and not let the culture and history of the city become part of you.

Whether it be the jazz, food, of fabulous architecture, she thinks most would agree that things are a little spicer down here. You can reach her via email at [email protected].

Faulkner House Books

What building has the most stories? The Faulkner House Books, of course.

By Marielle Songy / April 30, 2021

Down an alley, just off Jackson Square, is a book lover’s sanctuary, where one can find a curated selection of Southern literature and classics. Located at 624 Pirates Alley, Faulkner House Books is in a townhouse that was built in 1837 that in the 1920s was home to famed writer, William Faulkner.

popsicle doorbell

Popsicle Doorbell is the secret cool treat of the Bywater

By Marielle Songy / April 14, 2021

Blackberry and cream, rosemary lemonade, mango — one dad’s quest to spend more time with his kids as turned into a refreshing treat in the Bywater.

Sweet Thangs update: Stricen Carter’s ‘designer snoballs’ are now in Mid-City

By Marielle Songy / April 1, 2021

Stricen Carter is the force behind Sweet Thangs NOLA, a stand that serves decadent snowballs to long lines of eager customers. Her stand brings snowballs to the next level, by packing them with cheesecake, candy and cookies, and these photo-worthy designer deserts have been taking Instagram by storm. She taken her stand from Gentilly to Mid-City and is working on expanding.

She Comes in Peace: A colorful salon and costume shop in the Bywater

By Marielle Songy / March 31, 2021

She Comes in Peace, located in the Bywater, is part salon and part costume shop that really pops. Unique colors and designs take the typical hairstyle to the next level.

NOLA PopUp Picnic

Let NOLA PopUp Picnic make your next picnic picture perfect

By Marielle Songy / March 17, 2021

Ana Suarez has always loved planning parties and events for coworkers and friends. Because the pandemic put a stop to typical parties, she wanted to create a way for people to get together and enjoy special occasions, safely. She thought picnics were the perfect fit. Armed with a degree in finance from the University of New Orleans, and her love for party planning, Suarez started NOLA PopUp Picnic in January.

At Lionheart Prints you can find fun cards & unique gifts for every occasion

By Marielle Songy / February 26, 2021

Lionheart Prints is a creative dream come true. When you walk in, you’re wrapped in a world of beautiful design — from the 20-foot wall of pens in every color of the rainbow to the cards, wrapping paper and fun gifts.

Lucille armstrong

What a wonderful world: The love story of Louis and Lucille Armstrong

By Marielle Songy / February 10, 2021

While many know of Louis’ accomplishments on stage, little is known about his personal life. Louis was married four times, his first marriage occurring when he was only 17 years old. However, it was his fourth and final marriage, to Lucille Wilson Armstrong, that was his longest. This was the relationship that would define Louis’ life.

Mardi Gras Cocktails-to-go

The best Mardi Gras cocktails-to-go by neighborhood

By Marielle Songy / February 9, 2021

They might have canceled parades this year, but cocktails aren’t canceled! Whether you’re working on your house float or chowing down on king cake, these festive concoctions are sure to get you in the spirit. Here’s a list of some bars and restaurants that are offering Mardi Gras cocktails-to-go, so that you can stay socially distant and safely get your drink on! 

King Cake Delivery

Here’s your guide to all the king cakes you can get delivered in New Orleans

By Marielle Songy / February 5, 2021

To save the hassle of fighting the crowds and standing in lines, your best bet will be to order your favorite king cake and have it delivered right to your door. Here are some local bakeries that are shipping cakes, so you can easily satisfy your sweet tooth, whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras locally, or from afar!

zulu krewe

From coconuts to COVID-19: a history of the Krewe of Zulu

By Marielle Songy / January 28, 2021

The Zulu parade that rolls through the streets of New Orleans, on Mardi Gras morning, has long been a yearly routine for thousands of New Orleanians. The krewe itself has a rich history dating back to the early 20th Century.