There is never a dull moment in New Orleans. This is our attempt to keep you in the know with all things big related to small businesses.

If you haven’t been to The Rink in the last couple of years, it’s time to make a visit. While you’ll find tried and true stores like Judy’s and the Garden District Book Shop, this shopping arena now has a men’s store, a florist, a cafe, and so much more. It’s always abuzz with people. Last Friday, a tremendous crowd showed up to welcome Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Bush to the Garden District Book Shop to celebrate the launch of their children’s book, Love Comes First, and my sister and I were so happy to finally get this “sisters” photo thanks to local photographer Paul Morse.

As soon as I sign off on this note, I am prepping to attend the Son of a Saint gala this evening. Last year was my first year in attendance, and I can’t tell you how impressed I was by the sold-out show. With the Four Seasons as the backdrop, I am excited to kick off the festive holiday season with this important charitable event.

So ’tis the season to be out and about, enjoying this community we love so much. Here are a few things on our radar. We hope to see you at one of them, and be sure to check back on our events page as we add more to it as the season progresses.

Here are a few SCOUTED highlights:

• Join The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans as they unveil their elaborate holiday decorations by The Plant Gallery with a reception in their third floor lobby on November 21st at a new time of 2:00 PM. Enjoy holiday refreshments and appearances from Papa Noel and the Victory Belles.
• Ann Connelly Fine Art is hosting a pop-up for artist Demond Matsuo at B. Viz Design’s Magazine Street atelier on November 30th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.
• Jade is hosting a pop-up for jeweler Dean Davidson from November 30th to December 10th where you can preview their holiday collection and receive a special gift with purchase when spending $400, while supplies last.
• Backatown Coffee Parlour will host Santa on December 17th for pictures from 3:00 to 6:00 PM.
• Trixie Minx is hosting Santa Sleigh’s Drag & Burlesque Brunch at the Virgin Hotel on December 2nd and 16th. Fleur De Tease “Holiday” Spectacular at Toulouse Theatre will also be on December 16th with shows at 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Book here.
• The Rink will be hosting holiday Sip & Shops throughout the season on November 30th, December 7th, 14th, and 21st from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, allowing you to shop local after hours. Santa will be at The Rink December 2nd-3rd from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
• The Bower is hosting their Bah Humbug luncheons on Friday, December 15th and Friday, December 22nd. Chef Marcus has prepared a delightful three course menu to celebrate and there will be a whimsical selection of speciality cocktails offered. Book here.

We recently updated our Events section of our new website to make it easier for you to join all of the festive events this season. Bookmark this page and make sure to check back because we will be updating it with more events soon.