There are changes that take place everyday, some are minor where some are major. This natural occurrence usually plays a hand in changing life as we once knew it. Ashley was preparing to open Nola Flora, where it's original location was not where we find it today. Due to Hurricane Katrina we now find Nola Flora along with Nuance where the river bends. Somehow fate played a hand in selecting this unique combination where Ashley, a talented floral artist and Arden, a glass and metal artist would be able to combine innovative ideas and grow together!
Driving to Nola Flora for my initial visit with Ashley I did not realize that I was about to meet someone who is beautiful on the inside and out. You can see Ashley's true nature not only by speaking with her but also through her work. She incorporates her character along with your ideas to bring a vision to life. I explained to Ashley that I as an outsider can see the uniqueness in each one of her projects, but the real question was, "How does this come about, how do you create this type of perfection for your brides." Ashley said, "The key is that I work closely with my brides where the importance lies in making it special for them.
A few months passed since I had first met with Ashley, so we decided it was time to catch up. I met her where our conversation seemed to pick up right where it had left off, not missing a beat. My interest was in what projects Nola Flora and Nuance had coming up, and you could tell in Ashley's eyes that she was truly eager to tell me everything. Nuance carries a fine collection of jewelry, candles locally poured in Plaquemines Parish, one of a kind second line handkerchiefs, pottery, hand blown glass, and toasting glasses that they will specialize to the taste of the bride. These items will be great gifts for a bridal party or even a bridal registry. Brides you can find out more about these specialty gifts, as well as meet Ashley & Arden at the upcoming "Weddings of the South Bridal Show" produced by Weddings By Janie Glade, held at the Royal Sonesta on February 21st from 1:00 to 4:00.
Outside of the bridal arena Nola Flora is prepared to "Go Green" for our loved ones on Valentines Day. You all have to check these reusable gift bags out, they are actually purses that Ashley found while she was in Vietnam. She has a variety of styles and sizes. Each handbag is carefully thought out. She fills each with items such as lavender mittens & booties, chocolate flaxeed eye masks, heatable eucalyptus frogs , candles, and Fleur de Lis wines stoppers just to name a few. My favorite one was a smaller style that was created for a young girl that contained a candle and hand lotion. Please get into the shop uptown at 730 Dublin St, these exclusive pieces are going fast.
As you can probably tell, Nola Flora & Nuance have plenty of great things in store for our community. Some of their ideas are still in the midst of creation, so as of now all I can tell you is to please keep an eye out. If you get a chance stop in and visit with Ashley & Arden, you will feel at home as soon as you walk in the door. You can also find Nola Flora at www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com
