Second Saturday Artwalk Hot Spots- November 2022: Bay Books, The French Potager, and Mockingbird Cafe

11/1/2022

Bay Books

131 Main Street

In the heart of Old Town Bay St. Louis, just half a block up from the beach, you will find the quintessential small-town bookstore, Bay Books.

As the only local independent bookstore in Bay Saint Louis, Bay Books has a talent for catering to the specific needs and local interests of its customers and community. With a large selection of new and used books, as well as Melissa & Doug children's toys, stationery, and local art, Bay Books truly has something for everyone.

“I firmly believe that our community is what makes Bay Books so special!” exclaimed Grace Breisacher, Bay Books manager. “From our regulars who come in weekly, to those visiting from out of town, it is always awesome to see people supporting our small business.”

Bay Books presents a true sense of community and personalization that you won’t find at large chains or online booksellers. Whether you come to shop, chat, or get a book recommendation, you will always be greeted by the store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff who’s happy to help you find what you need.

In celebration of their Hotspot status, Bay Books will have live music performed by Elton Barrett from 4:00 to 6:00 pm on Second Saturday, November 12. Be sure to stop by Bay Books this Second Saturday to check out their latest selection of great reads and gifts and see why they are an asset to our community and Bay St Louis’s favorite bookstore.

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The French Potager

213 Main Street

When strolling down Main Street in Old Town Bay St. Louis, many are intrigued by the adorable turquoise cottage with the bright yellow door. Across the front of the building, FLOWERS is written in large pink lettering, letting visitors and locals alike know that this adorable cottage has the flowers, and boy do they!

The French Potager started its roots in November of 2012 as a small antique mall, later blossoming to offer full-service floral design. Today, The French Potager delivers across the Gulf Coast, creating floral designs for weddings, corporate events, and a variety of other functions. Owner and floral designer Martha Whitney Butler creates one-of-a-kind, eye-catching arrangements and designs. Martha’s work has been featured in Flower Magazine, Southern Living Magazine, and Mississippi Magazine, in which she’s been voted best floral designer for multiple years. In 2023, the talented artist will also be inducted into the American Institute of Floral Design.

Upon approaching The French Potager, many are drawn to the unique palm-hand chairs and vibrant potagers that line the shop’s walkway. Through the shop’s bright yellow door, visitors find themselves surrounded by an abundance of gorgeous blooms and an exquisite collection of gifts, curiosities, home and garden decor, and many other fun items.

This Second Saturday, November 12, The French Potager will be celebrating its 10th birthday! From 4:00 to 7:00 pm they will be hosting live music by Hadley Hill and serving refreshments. Be sure to swing by to wish The French Potager and its team a very happy birthday and see exactly what all the floral fuss is about.

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Mockingbird Cafe

110 S. Second Street

Comfort and camaraderie, just two of the reasons Mockingbird Cafe has become known as the Living Room of Bay St. Louis. Opening in 2006, the Mockingbird Cafe grew out of a need for a place for community healing in the aftermath of Katrina. In the midst of the carnage left by the storm, locals and volunteers alike found the Mockingbird to be a welcoming and comforting spot to meet for coffee and conversation during those difficult times.

Today, the coffee shop maintains its homey feel but has evolved into so much more. As a family-friendly coffee shop, restaurant, live music venue, art gallery, and community hub, it’s no wonder the Mockingbird Cafe is a favorite go-to destination for visitors and locals alike. Made daily from fresh ingredients, their menu sports a variety of local, drool-worthy favorites including pulled pork & grits, chicken & waffles, their signature Mockingburger, homemade granola, and so much more.

In celebration of its hotspot status, Mockingbird Cafe will be hosting live music by Fred Gee and the Hard Stuff out on their covered stage starting at sunset. If you’re searching for great food, good times, and wonderful memories, look no further than the one and only Mockingbird Cafe.