BayouLife Magazine

02/19/2025

Bayou Fashion | Mardi Pardi: Ready to let the good times roll? These Mardi Gras looks from area boutiques are sure to make you a bead magnet.

DUSTY & COMPANY
This ribbed, crew neck Mardi Gras sweater from Dusty & Company features a casual drop shoulder and oversized fit. Pair it with Judy Blue wide leg jeans and a modern white boot to kick off this festive season. Add gold and rhinestone bracelets and hoop earrings to complete the look.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MEKA BENNETT
MODEL EMARIE ADAMS
SPECIAL THANKS TO KREWE OF JANUS

02/17/2025

Heart of the Community: BayouLife Magazine recently invited our readers to share stories of the people in our community who brighten their days—whether it’s the friendly postman delivering letters with a cheerful wave or the grocery clerk whose warm smile never fails to lift spirits.

From the countless heartfelt submissions we received, we’ve selected four outstanding nominees to highlight.

While they represent only a fraction of the incredible individuals mentioned, their dedication and kindness remind us why our community is so special. Here’s to celebrating those who make life a little brighter for us all!

JAMIE HEMRICK
Bagging Up Kindness

If you’ve stopped at Brookshire’s on 18th St. in Monroe, you’ve probably been greeted with a smile and salutation from Jamie Hemrick. He originally worked at Brookshire’s in the late 90s, though his current tenure has lasted 18 years. Jamie prioritizes people, as he loves interacting with and helping others. He remembers his customers’ faces and particularly their dogs. He loves petting the creatures as he loads groceries into the back of vehicles. As people tend to shop for groceries in the same place, Jamie invests in knowing people’s names and preferences, helping out when he can to make everyone’s shopping experience pleasant. He thwarted shoplifting attempts (which garnered recognition from the Brookshire’s corporate office) and made sure people made it safely to their vehicles. He thrives on hugs and friendly exchanges because for Jamie, people make life worthwhile.

For the full article visit our website www.bayoulifemag.com

photography by

02/16/2025

Bayou Fashion | Mardi Pardi: Ready to let the good times roll? These Mardi Gras looks from area boutiques are sure to make you a bead magnet.

MATERIAL THINGS
Accessorize for Mardi Gras or dress up for date nights, this midi dress is crafted from gauze cotton, so it is comfortable and breathable enough for everyday wear. The stretchy waist detail and flowing skirt combination create the perfect hourglass silhouette. Pair it with a floral scarf, purple and gold beaded handbag and green tortoiseshell readers.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MEKA BENNETT
MODEL EMARIE ADAMS AND RIVER GATES
SPECIAL THANKS TO KREWE OF JANUS

02/14/2025

Beef Bolognese: Have your own Lady and the Tramp moment by sharing a delicious homemade Bolognese. There’s nothing sweeter than twirling pasta together and savoring a meal made with love.

WHAT YOU NEED:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 diced onion
3 diced celery stikcs
2 diced carrot sticks
1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup whole milk
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

DIRECTIONS
Heat olive oil in pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, garlic and celery and sauté until softened. Add the beef (season with salt and pepper). Once the beef is cooked, add milk and allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally until most is evaporated. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf and oregano. Mix and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1-2 hours. When ready to serve, cook pasta. Add pasta to a bowl and spoon over Bolgnese sauce. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

styled by Kate Ashley
photography by

02/13/2025

Valentine's Craft: We adore a homemade Valentine’s Day surprise, and these paper lava lamps will be the hit of the class. Have your child help make them for a personalized touch that their friends will love. It’s a creative way to celebrate the holiday and let their imagination shine!

WHAT YOU NEED:
Scissors
Glue Stick
Construction Paper
String
Markers

WHAT YOU NEED:
First, cut the pieces of the lava lamp: the base and top piece should be the same color. Next, cut the center piece in white. Next, cut out the “lava” shapes - wavy blobs or floating hearts. Once you have all the pieces, assemble your lava lamp and glue in place. Lastly, decorate with cut-out hearts or stickers and then personalize with a Valentine’s message.

styled by Kate Ashley
photography by

02/12/2025

Bayou Icon | Dr. Liz White: Whether finding ways to make life a little better for nursing home residents, helping children learn the joy of reading, or promoting economic development and assisting organizations in creating jobs – Dr. White has always been counted on to help.

When Dr. Liz White taught her first class (as a student-teacher) at Webster High School in Minden, Louisiana, she admits that she was uneasy and somewhat insecure. Even so, she was well-prepared and went on to have an outstanding 34-year career in education. That career was marked by a number of milestones, including her becoming the first African American to join the faculty at Louisiana Tech University. While there, Dr. White developed and taught the first course in African American literature and became the first African American to be promoted to full professor there. She also found time to be an active volunteer for a wide variety of groups encompassing every age group. Because of her remarkable ability to teach others the value of education and volunteerism both inside and outside of the classroom, Dr. Liz White is our February 2025 Bayou Icon.

For the full article visit our website www.bayoulifemag.com

photography by

02/11/2025

Bayou Fashion | Mardi Pardi: Ready to let the good times roll? These Mardi Gras looks from area boutiques are sure to make you a bead magnet.

HERRINGSTONES
Get ready to be the life of the party with this color block sequin cardigan. Pair it with a high rise crop jean with a distressed hem for a finished look. Accessorize with a white custom hat with Mardi Gras embellishments, purple and gold sneakers, a croc embossed handbag, a gold droplet necklace and multiple bangles.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MEKA BENNETT
MODEL EMARIE ADAMS AND RIVER GATES
SPECIAL THANKS TO KREWE OF JANUS

02/08/2025

Woohoo!!!🥳 We have a winner!!! Congratulations to Rene Castine on winning tickets to go see Pat Green at Murphy Arts District ⭐️

02/07/2025

Last day to win these fabulous Pat Green tickets ⭐️⭐️⭐️

🎶 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎶

BayouLife Magazine is thrilled to partner with Murphy Arts District to give TWO lucky fans the chance to see Pat Green live! 🎤🔥

📅 Concert Date: February 28th
📍 Venue: First Financial Music Hall, El Dorado, AR

Here’s how to enter:
✅ Follow Bayou Life Magazine & Murphy Arts District
✅ Share this post

It’s that easy! One winner will be randomly selected this Friday!

02/07/2025

Heart of the Community: BayouLife Magazine recently invited our readers to share stories of the people in our community who brighten their days—whether it’s the friendly postman delivering letters with a cheerful wave or the grocery clerk whose warm smile never fails to lift spirits.

From the countless heartfelt submissions we received, we’ve selected four outstanding nominees to highlight.

While they represent only a fraction of the incredible individuals mentioned, their dedication and kindness remind us why our community is so special. Here’s to celebrating those who make life a little brighter for us all!

JOHN TERRY
Greeting People With A Smile

If you’ve walked in the doors of Walmart on Louisville Avenue, you might recognize Mr. John Terry. For the last 20 years, Mr. Terry has served as a Walmart greeter, his second profession post-retirement from General Motors. Born in Covington, Tennessee, right outside Memphis, Mr. Terry left home in ‘67 for a job at General Motors in Detroit. Having worked with his family in the fields, he was anxious for a new environment. His brother was working at the Detroit plant and encouraged John to join him. John worked in the General Motors assembly line for 28 years, filling in at various positions, a jack of all trades. When the company offered its workers a transfer closer to home, John jumped at the chance, thus landing in Monroe, Louisiana. When the Guide plant closed in 2007, John was eligible for retirement and took it.

For the full article visit our website www.bayoulifemag.com

photography by

02/06/2025

🎶 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎶 Head over to Facebook to enter!

BayouLife Magazine is thrilled to partner with Murphy Arts District to give TWO lucky fans the chance to see Pat Green live! 🎤🔥

📅 Concert Date: February 28th
📍 Venue: First Financial Music Hall, El Dorado, AR

Here’s how to enter:
✅ Follow Bayou Life Magazine & Murphy Arts District
✅ Share this post

It’s that easy! One winner will be randomly selected this Friday!

02/06/2025

1 day left to go! Enter to win these great Pat Green tickets!

🎶 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎶

BayouLife Magazine is thrilled to partner with Murphy Arts District to give TWO lucky fans the chance to see Pat Green live! 🎤🔥

📅 Concert Date: February 28th
📍 Venue: First Financial Music Hall, El Dorado, AR

Here’s how to enter:
✅ Follow Bayou Life Magazine & Murphy Arts District
✅ Share this post

It’s that easy! One winner will be randomly selected this Friday!

02/05/2025

PAT GREEN TICKET GIVEAWAY! 🎟️🎶⭐️

🎶 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎶

BayouLife Magazine is thrilled to partner with Murphy Arts District to give TWO lucky fans the chance to see Pat Green live! 🎤🔥

📅 Concert Date: February 28th
📍 Venue: First Financial Music Hall, El Dorado, AR

Here’s how to enter:
✅ Follow Bayou Life Magazine & Murphy Arts District
✅ Share this post

It’s that easy! One winner will be randomly selected this Friday!

02/05/2025

Bayou Fashion | Mardi Pardi: Ready to let the good times roll? These Mardi Gras looks from area boutiques are sure to make you a bead magnet.

PALETTE HOUSE
Emarie is wearing a purple off-shoulder sweater with a relaxed fit. Its versatile style makes it a perfect pairing with these ultra wide leg jeans with wide, stitched cuffs. Accessorize with gold statement earrings and a low top leather sneaker in purple and yellow.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MEKA BENNETT
MODEL EMARIE ADAMS AND RIVER GATES
SPECIAL THANKS TO KREWE OF JANUS

02/04/2025

🎶 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎶

BayouLife Magazine is thrilled to partner with Murphy Arts District to give TWO lucky fans the chance to see Pat Green live! 🎤🔥

📅 Concert Date: February 28th
📍 Venue: First Financial Music Hall, El Dorado, AR

Here’s how to enter:
✅ Follow Bayou Life Magazine & Murphy Arts District
✅ Share this post

It’s that easy! One winner will be randomly selected this Friday!

02/03/2025

Soothing Soaks: This Valentine’s Day, surprise her with a personalized gift basket filled with bath-time treats. From luxurious soaps and dried lavender to cozy pajamas and lotion, it’s a thoughtful way to show you care.

FIND THESE ITEMS FROM LOCAL RETAILERS:
Bergamot Shower Gel, Bath Salts, Blood Orange + Rose Soap & Dried Lavender available at The Trove. Marina Pajama Set in Navy Breton Stripe available at Palette House. Milk Hand and Body Lotion and Loofah available at Material Things.

02/01/2025

Valentine's Day Gift Guide: A collection of perfect gifts from area retailers to show that special person in your life how much you truly care.

01/31/2025

All Purpose Cleaner: Say goodbye to toxic household cleaners.Create your own with natural ingredients like castile soap and essential oils for a safe, eco-friendly alternative.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
16 oz spray bottle
Distilled or filtered water
Unscented castile soap
Essential oils

Add 20 drops of your favorite essential oils to the spray bottle. Fill with distilled water (leaving room for soap). Add 2 tablespoons of castile soap. Screw on nozzle and shake well.

styled by Kate Ashley
photography by