The season of Mardi Gras is in full swing in Pensacola
and in this issue, you will find we have highlighted
some Mardi Gras events, photos, and stories to share
with you.
I was raised in the rural West Virginia mountains.
Mardi Gras was something that we heard of and saw
on television but really only associated with New
Orleans. As I grew up and began traveling, especially
in the South, I realized that Mardi Gras was something
that was celebrated more broadly than just in NOLA.
However, until moving to Pensacola a few years ago,
I had no idea of the extent in which the Mardi Gras
season was such a celebrated spectacle. Other cities
have celebrations and use Mardi Gras as an excuse to
have a party. Some cities even throw together a parade.
I had no idea that my future would take me in such
a direction to lead me to this wonderful place called
Pensacola where I would see what Mardi Gras was
really all about.
Pensacola has educated me very quickly on the history
of Mardi Gras and the importance of celebrating
this exciting season. The wonder of the krewes has
especially been a real eye-opener for me. For the
last couple of years, I have attended a few krewe parties to cover events for the magazine. I
thought, what fun parties and what great people with bright and fancy costumes. This year I
was humbly accepted into the Krewe of Les Harlequins. It was so exciting to have my dress
created and attend my first ball as a krewe member.
In this issue you can learn about a new biodegradable bead being developed to help with the
clean up after Mardi Gras Parades. In Style we have broken down the dress codes for what to
wear to the cocktail parties and balls. You will also find a great story of how Louisiana loves
gumbo, leaving you with a nice gumbo recipe. Speaking of recipe’s, February is the month of
love and Swizzle on page 42 features some Love Elixir recipes for you.
I hope your February begins with the fun of Mardi Gras and ends with you finding your
Valentine!
letter from the associate publisher
10 | VIPPensacola.com
Verla Price
Associate Publisher
10 - AP LETTER.indd 1
1/28/19 8:59 AM