From keeping it cute in the NOLA streets to kicking things off with welcome drinks hosted by Trend Managemet and Blue Book Barkeeps, the weekend started on the perfect note. Breakfast at Café Fleur De Lis turned into a fun Miami vs. NOLA debate, followed by some tourist moments on Canal Street and a spoiled morning at the Trend House with a catered spread that set the bar high.

Of course, food was a highlight—Evangeline’s gumbo easily stole the show, while the alligator bites left me curious but not quite convinced. Between a much-needed Love Island break, Chef’s Remix with McDonald’s, beauty touch-ups at the Essence Fest Convention Center, and an inspiring conversation at the Suede Essence Fest panel, the first two days felt like the perfect balance of culture, connection, and fun. Essence Fest is already delivering everything I hoped for and more.