In conjunction with Southern Style Now, I hosted a TSG EXPERIENCE featuring an intimate chat and some shopping with India Hicks, a guided tour of LONGUE VUE’S secret gardens, and a fabulous breakfast spread provided by Patti Constantin.  The setting was simply idyllic and India added her own sparkle to a perfect New Orleans spring morning. 

Our morning began with laughs and chatter over iced coffee in LONGUE VUE’S pigeonnier.  From there, we had story time with India, who shared anecdotes from her journey as the goddaughter of the Prince of Wales and daughter of famous designer, David Hicks.  It was an intimate experience, and such fun to learn about which products she loves (yes, we got to shop too).   

The tour of LONGUE VUE’S three secret gardens, overflowing with lush greenery and blooms in all their May glory, was a rare opportunity to discover a space in New Orleans that felt cherished, hidden and saved only for those in the know.   

From there we had a little book signing and a fabulous breakfast catered by the brilliant Patti Constantin. The coconut rosemary cookies were a huge hit as well as my very own concoction, the Almond Milk Punch, a healthy spin on the New Orleans classic (recipe to follow). 

While this was a rare opportunity provided by TSG Experiences, the secret gardens at Longue Vue are there for anyone to access. And if you’d like to learn more about the insider’s guide to NOLA provided by TSG Experiences, stay tuned to hear about more gems like this one or get in touch to plan your own.

TELL THEM SCOUT SENT YOU!

—TAYLOR

TSG NEW ORLEANS EXPERIENCES are limited, one-of-a-kind “scouted” experiences to provide participants with an entertaining, authentic, and informative journey into a unique aspect of local culture. Designed by Taylor Morgan, New Orleans Editor of The Scout Guide, you are invited to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and experience the finest New Orleans has to offer with the city’s best in entertaining, design, style and food serving as your hosts. Combining The Scout Guide New Orleans network of experts with the city’s laissez les bons temps rouler flair, you’re guaranteed to experience New Orleans in a way that would make even a native envious. Natives are invited to join in the fun too! A portion of the proceeds benefit TSG COMMUNITY PARTNERS. For more information, contact Taylor at [email protected]

The details: Venue: LONGUE VUE’ House and Gardens, Catering: Patti Constantin, Photography: CASSIE CONDREY PHOTOGRAPHY. 

This article was originally published June 9th, 2016.