Second Saturday Artwalk Hotspots - April 2024

4/1/2024

Rags to Riches

200 S Beach Blvd.

Located at the bustling corner of South Beach Boulevard and Court Street, a unique venue called Rags to Riches promises to redefine your weekend hangouts. This dual-concept bar combines the relaxed atmosphere of a sports bar with the elegance of an upscale lounge, offering something for everyone.

Founded by the visionary trio, Shane and Amy Bernard and Craig Bordelon, Rags to Riches emerged from a shared dream to fill a void in the local scene. "We wanted to create a place that felt missing from the Bay," Shane Bernard explains. The concept evolved from Bordelon's previous venture in Alexandria, bringing with it a legacy of community and camaraderie, now reinvented in a stunning two-story establishment that captures the essence of coastal leisure.

Step into the Rags area downstairs, and you're immediately welcomed into a sports enthusiast's paradise. With rolled-up doors that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors, the space is airy, vibrant, and full of energy. Here, every game feels like a home game, thanks to the multiple screens showcasing matches from various leagues. The menu boasts an elevated bar food experience, with standout items like their famous tacos, barbacoa fries, and a selection of boiled crawfish that adds a Cajun twist to the sports bar staples.

Ascend to the second floor, and the ambiance shifts to a more refined setting. The upstairs lounge offers a fireplace, a balcony overlooking the beach, and a selection of the finest wines, spirits, and craft cocktails. This space is designed for those looking to dress up, enjoy live music, or simply watch the sunset in a more intimate environment.

This April 13th, Rags to Riches is set to amplify the Second Saturday experience in Bay St. Louis. While the venue is known for its regular weekly events, including Trivia Tuesdays, Karaoke Wednesdays, and live music from Thursday to Sunday, this Second Saturday will be special. Visitors can enjoy the venue's signature offerings, like the Shark Punch and Beachy Peachy drinks, alongside a giveaway open to anyone who purchases a meal or a specialty drink from 11 am to 5 pm.

As part of the Second Saturday celebrations, the venue also plans to feature local artists, adding a cultural twist to the lively atmosphere. Shane hints at a potential showcase by Joel, a friend and artist responsible for the venue's striking artwork, ensuring the day is as visually engaging as it is entertaining.

Rags to Riches isn't just about good times; it's a testament to the power of community and a shared vision for enhancing the local scene. "Our main goal is customer service," Craig asserts. This ethos is evident in everything from the carefully curated menu to the inclusive vibe that welcomes families, sports fans, and date-night couples alike.

As Bay St. Louis prepares for another vibrant Second Saturday, Rags to Riches stands ready to offer a memorable experience that blends the thrill of the game with the allure of a night out. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back afternoon watching sports or an elegant evening under the stars, Rags to Riches promises an experience that transcends the ordinary, making it a cornerstone of Bay St. Louis's bustling social scene.

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The Porch

112 S. Second St.

Located within the historic walls of Century Hall lies The Porch, a treasure trove of whimsy, creativity, and gourmet delights that has become a staple in the vibrant community of Old Town Bay St. Louis. Having made the journey from Magazine Street in New Orleans to the breezy shores of the Gulf Coast, The Porch, under the loving stewardship of JoAnn Saucier, has flourished into a haven for those seeking something truly unique.

This Second Saturday, on April 13th, The Porch invites you to step into its welcoming embrace, where the familiar comfort of a porch swing meets the excitement of discovery. From the moment you enter, you're enveloped in an eclectic mix that JoAnn has masterfully curated. It's a place where every item, from the hand-selected home decor and artisan jewelry to the gourmet foodstuffs lining the shelves, tells a story.

JoAnn, with a spark of excitement in her voice, shares her journey and vision for The Porch. "It's a creative and exciting place to be! I have grown here and am very happy to be a part of the people that are here; it's such a creative bunch." This spirit of creativity and community is palpable throughout The Porch, making it more than just a shopping destination—it's a place where souls are nourished and smiles are shared freely.

This Second Saturday, The Porch is set to offer a unique experience that combines the joy of shopping with the love for our furry friends. In a heartfelt effort to support local animal shelters, The Porch plans to host pet photography sessions, turning moments with your beloved pets into cherished memories, all while contributing to a noble cause.

Moreover, as the clock strikes noon, the atmosphere will be further enriched by the soulful tunes of DJ Doug Funnie from Good Earth Records, playing until 3pm. His eclectic mix is sure to add an audible layer to the already visually stimulating environment, ensuring that your visit to The Porch is both memorable and melodious.

For the gourmands and culinary adventurers, The Porch is a must-visit. Whether you're looking to elevate your next charcuterie board or seeking the perfect gift for a foodie friend, The Porch has something to astonish and delight.

In addition to the day's festivities, visitors can anticipate the warm hospitality JoAnn is known for, coupled with refreshments that promise to cool and sweeten your Second Saturday experience.

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Gulf Coast Home

317 Ulman Ave.

Nestled along the charming Ulman Avenue in Old Town Bay St. Louis, Gulf Coast Home stands as a beacon of coastal elegance and sophisticated living. This April 13th, Gulf Coast Home is poised to celebrate Second Saturday in grand style, promising an evening where luxury meets local flair.

Founded in the fall of 2020 by sisters and Bay Saint Louis natives, Wendy DeBen and Theresa Lacy, Gulf Coast Home is the fruit of a dream to bring high-quality, stylish home decor and furniture to their beloved hometown. Transitioning from their careers in New Orleans, Wendy and Theresa infused Gulf Coast Home with their exquisite taste and a keen eye for design, creating a space that is at once welcoming and awe-inspiring.

Step into the store, and you'll be greeted by an array of carefully selected pieces that tell a story of luxury, comfort, and coastal living. From high-end furniture and statement pieces to unique home decor and local artwork, every item in the store has been chosen with the utmost care and consideration. The layout, reminiscent of a well-appointed home, invites you to envision how these pieces could enhance your own living spaces.

This Second Saturday, Gulf Coast Home is thrilled to offer an exclusive promotion: 25% off in-stock and special order items from the coveted Matouk bedding line, renowned for its beautiful designs and ranging from the heights of luxury to more affordable delights. Complementing this offer, the store will feature stunning beach towels, perfect for welcoming the upcoming summer season.

But that's not all. The evening will be elevated by the sounds of DJ Shimmer, who will be performing from 4 to 7 pm, adding an auditory backdrop to the visual feast within the store.
For those drawn to the allure of outdoor living, Gulf Coast Home has something special in store. "By Second Saturday, we'll have a wide selection of outdoor furniture ready to transform any outdoor space into a haven of style and comfort," Theresa promised, hinting at the extensive preparations underway to ensure the showroom is a testament to their commitment to offering something truly exceptional.

As Second Saturday approaches, Gulf Coast Home invites locals and visitors alike to explore their exquisite collection, take advantage of the unique promotions, and enjoy an evening of music, design, and coastal charm. Whether you're looking for that perfect piece to complete your home or simply wish to bask in the beauty of well-crafted furnishings, Gulf Coast Home is a destination not to be missed.