KATIE KENNEDY

New Orleans Date Night

New Orleans Date Night
đź“Ť French Quarter, NOLA

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Top || Jeans || Heels || Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

On our recent trip to New Orleans, my parents generously offered to watch Brennan for the night. While we take her out with us several times a week, this was our first official date night since she was born. It felt so nostalgic—and a little thrilling—to wander the French Quarter, bar hopping and enjoying the city like we did pre-baby. Here’s how our perfect evening unfolded.

Happy Hour at Peychaud’s

We started the night at Peychaud’s, a gorgeous bar tucked inside The Celestine Hotel. Their drinks were next-level—elegant, flavorful, and just the right way to kick off the night. While sipping our cocktails, I couldn’t help but admire the hotel itself. I already can’t wait to come back and stay here in the future.

While chatting with the hotel manager, I also learned about Hazeltine Candles, a New Orleans-based candle company. Naturally, I placed an order the moment I got back to our hotel, and let me tell you—every candle smells incredible. The Tree, in particular, has been the ultimate hit this holiday seasonA little piece of New Orleans to bring home with me.

Dinner at Hermes Bar

For dinner, we headed to Hermes Bar, a longtime favorite of ours. Sitting bar-side with David, we struck up easy conversation with the bartenders while sharing plates of Oysters Rockefeller—one of my personal must-haves whenever we’re in New Orleans. I ordered a few Hemingway Daiquiris, and with every sip, I was reminded why this spot remains at the top of our list. Classic, unfussy, and quintessentially New Orleans.

Another Round at Fives Bar

After dinner, we wandered over to Fives Bar, a new-to-us spot located right next to St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square. Walking in felt like stepping back in time, with the glow of candlelight and the hum of conversation filling the moody space. We ordered classic New Orleans cocktails (naturally) and soaked in the vibe. It’s always such a treat to stumble upon a spot that feels like a hidden gem—this one’s going on our “must return” list.

Dessert from Cafe du Monde

No night in New Orleans is complete without a visit to Café du Monde for a sweet nightcap. Years ago, David and I would find ourselves here at 3 a.m., splitting an order of beignets and sipping hot chocolate. These days, a 10 p.m. stop hits just right. And while I know better than to wear all black when dealing with beignets piled high with powdered sugar, I did it anyway. A little powdered sugar never hurt anyone, right?

For this special night, I kept it fun and festive with an off-the-shoulder black top from LOFT, paired with black jeans and my black Manolo Blahnik kitten heels. To finish off the look, I carried my feathered J.Crew handbag—a piece that’s quickly become my go-to for the holiday season.

This date night felt like the perfect blend of new discoveries and old favorites. New Orleans has always been a city that celebrates connection, and even after so many visits, we’re still finding little moments of magic. Stealing away for a few hours reminded me how important it is to carve out time with your partner, even when life feels full to the brim.

Love from New Orleans,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England. 

New Orleans with Baby

New Orleans with Baby
đź“Ť French Quarter, NOLA

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Me: Dress || Heels || Earrings
David: Button-Down || Pants || Shoes || Similar Belt
Brennan: Onesie || Bow || Sock Set

New Orleans is a city rich in history, culture, and charm—and it’s not just for adults. On our recent trip to the Big Easy, we brought along our baby girl, Brennan, and discovered just how family-friendly the city can be. Traveling with a baby can feel daunting, but New Orleans’ warm hospitality and unique experiences made it an unforgettable adventure for our little family.

Staying at the Hotel Peter and Paul

Stay at the Hotel Peter and Paul

Our home base was the stunning Hotel Peter and Paul in the Marigny neighborhood. This boutique hotel is perfect for families looking for a quiet retreat. The property’s large rooms gave us plenty of space to spread out, and the serene atmosphere made it easy to relax after a day of exploring. Its location just outside the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter meant we could enjoy the city’s energy without sacrificing peace and quiet. You can see my full right up about the hotel, here.

Travel with KreweCar

One of the biggest challenges of traveling with a baby is figuring out transportation, especially when car seats are involved. We booked our rides to and from the airport with KreweCar, a local car service that provides car seats, saving us the hassle of bringing our own. Once you’re in New Orleans, you’ll find that you likely won’t need a car—most of the city’s highlights are easily walkable or accessible by streetcar.

Pack the UPPAbaby MINU Stroller

Navigating New Orleans with our UPPAbaby MINU stroller was a breeze. Its compact size and lightweight design made it easy to maneuver through the city’s narrow streets and crowded areas. Whether we were strolling along the picturesque Marigny streets or weaving through the French Quarter, the stroller was a lifesaver for keeping Brennan comfortable and giving us a break from carrying her.

Try New Foods

New Orleans is a foodie’s paradise, and we loved introducing Brennan to the city’s incredible flavors. Ordering small side dishes like red beans and rice gave her a taste of local cuisine in manageable portions. We made sure to keep it light—baby-sized bites and small doses to watch the sodium levels—but it was such a joy to watch her explore new tastes and textures.

Have Ear Protection Handy

New Orleans is synonymous with live music, and it’s everywhere—from street performers in the French Quarter to bands in local restaurants. While we loved sharing this part of the city’s culture with Brennan, we made sure to bring ear protection for her. Even outdoor street performances can get loud, and having baby ear muffs helped us enjoy the music without worrying about her sensitive ears.

Meet New People

One of the highlights of our trip was introducing Brennan to the people of New Orleans. From servers at restaurants to docents at museums, everyone we encountered was warm, genuine, and eager to connect. Watching Brennan smile and interact with new faces was such a heartwarming experience. New Orleans’ reputation for hospitality extends to its smallest visitors, and it made our trip even more special.

Traveling to New Orleans with a baby was an adventure filled with discovery, connection, and joy. The city’s unique blend of culture, cuisine, and kindness made it an ideal destination for our family. If you’re considering a trip to New Orleans with your little one, know that this magical city welcomes visitors of all ages—and offers memories to last a lifetime.

Love from New Orleans,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England. 

The Hotel Peter and Paul

The Hotel Peter and Paul
đź“Ť Marigny, New Orleans

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Button-Down Shirt || Similar Shorts || Sneakers || Similar Handbag || Sunglasses

New Orleans is a city like no other, where history, culture, and charm blend effortlessly. On my most recent visit, I stayed at the enchanting Hotel Peter & Paul, tucked away in the Marigny. This boutique hotel stands out not only for its unique design but also for its deep connection to the city’s storied past. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an adventurous solo trip, this hotel is a perfect base for exploring the Crescent City.

About the Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Marigny neighborhood, the Hotel Peter & Paul is a masterful blend of history and modern creativity. Originally a 19th-century Catholic church, school, rectory, and convent, the property has been thoughtfully reimagined by hotelier Nathalie Jordi and interior design firm ASH NYC. Their vision preserves the building’s storied past, with architectural details like stained glass windows and antique wooden floors coexisting alongside contemporary touches. The result is a serene, inspiring space that pays homage to its origins while offering a luxurious escape. Every detail, from the vintage-inspired furnishings to the warm, earthy color palette, creates a timeless atmosphere that feels distinctly New Orleans.

About the Rooms

The accommodations at Hotel Peter & Paul are as distinctive as the property itself. With 71 individually designed rooms spread across the church, schoolhouse, rectory, and convent buildings, no two stays are exactly alike. Each room features a harmonious blend of antique and custom furnishings, with plush beds, handcrafted tiles, and curated artwork creating a sense of understated luxury. High ceilings and large windows invite natural light to flood the space, enhancing the tranquil ambiance.

Guests can choose from a variety of room types, ranging from intimate doubles to spacious suites, making the hotel ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. Thoughtful touches, like clawfoot tubs and vintage lighting fixtures, add to the charm, while modern amenities ensure your comfort. Staying in one of these rooms feels less like booking a hotel and more like stepping into a beautifully preserved piece of history.

About the Property

The allure of Hotel Peter & Paul extends well beyond the rooms. At the heart of the property is the inviting courtyard, a lush oasis perfect for sipping coffee or unwinding after a day of exploring. The Elysian Bar, located in the former rectory, is a highlight of the hotel experience. Offering a menu of inventive small plates, craft cocktails, and fine wines, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely dinner or evening drinks. The ambiance is warm and intimate, with candlelit tables and elegant decor that echo the hotel’s overall aesthetic.

For guests eager to explore, complimentary bicycles are available to tour the Marigny neighborhood and beyond. The hotel’s location is a major advantage—just a short walk from the lively Frenchmen Street and the historic French Quarter. Whether you’re drawn to live jazz, eclectic boutiques, or local cuisine, you’ll find yourself perfectly situated to soak up the best of New Orleans.

Button-Down Shirt || Similar Shorts || Sneakers || Similar Handbag || Sunglasses

Hotel Peter & Paul is a testament to the magic of New Orleans, where history and creativity come together in perfect harmony. Its thoughtfully restored spaces, uniquely designed rooms, and top-notch amenities make it a standout destination for travelers seeking an authentic yet luxurious experience. Whether you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time or returning to relive its vibrant energy, this boutique hotel offers a stay that’s as unforgettable as the city itself.

Love from New Orleans,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.