By james art Make way for Baton Rouge’s Greenest New Gift Shop. Emerald Layne officially opens on November 6 in the Southdowns Village space that previously housed LD Linens & Decor. It has been in soft opening phase since the beginning of this month, festively decorated with a sparkling white Christmas tree and golden nutcrackers.
At the Perkins Road store, the shelves are stocked with charming knick-knacks, decor, clothing and other home goods. Owner Paula O’Neill and store manager Abby Bayham have carefully curated a collection of locally made goods and unique finds. The boutique is said to cater to a variety of price groups and interests. They’ve got goodies for kids, mums and teachers, and there’s also a range of great gifts for men, as “there’s only so many flasks you can buy”, jokes O’Neill.
O’Neill, who is also director of operations at Phil’s Oyster Bar & Seafood, says she always wanted her own store. When a seat opened up just a few feet away from Phil’s, she knew it was the perfect opportunity. Her grandmother raised her in a formal home with antiques, rich colors and rich textures. She wanted to bring the feel of this home to Emerald Lane. “I love, love, love emerald. I love the color green,” says O’Neill.
O’Neal worked with brand Xdesign and marketing agency Ritter Maher Architects on the store’s design. To the left of the door is a piano bought by O’Neill’s grandmother, loaded with merchandise.
Most of the walls are splashed with pale pink paint, while the back of the store is dressed in a darker green. There, a green striped wall mimics the design of the store’s shopping cards and tags. The Midas touch is everywhere, with gold and brass accents throughout.
The elegant sconces lining the walls originally belonged to O’Neill’s grandmother, and she says they are her favorite design detail. The checkered black-and-white tile flooring was inspired by O’Neill’s grandmother’s sewing room.
O’Neill turned to Bayham, who was too online store owner Lovely Jane, regarding daily operations a few months ago.
Bayham felt there were so many “God-winks” during the creation of Emerald Layne that she knew the store was on the right track.
“It was definitely an answer to a prayer for me,” Bayham says.
When looking to the future, Bayham envisions Emerald Layne becoming more than just a gift shop. She envisions the brand developing a close relationship with the community.
“I hope we become like a family. That’s what Phil has become for my family,” says Bayham. “I want people to come here because we have amazing products, but also because we want to build a relationship with them.”
Emerald Lane is at 4347 Perkins Road. There will be a grand opening event on November 6, including activities and pop-ups such as permanent jewelery sessions. Stay tuned for event updates or find more information on Instagram or shopemeraldlayne.com.