Five Women to Watch in Ouachita Parish
Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the advancement of women, their contributions, and the inspiring examples they set in place for young girls to uphold in the future. From women’s fashion to artistry, wellness, and top cuisine, five women in Ouachita Parish are creating their own paths, allowing for the local community and travelers through the Twin Cities to experience what they can take back home with them.
Michelle Wilson
Lola Jane Boutique
One of the go-to spots in downtown West Monroe for affordable women's fashion - Lola Jane Boutique has the casual style you're looking for to get you ready for festival season in the Twin Cities! Michelle Wilson founded Lola Jane Boutique in 2016. This women’s clothing store grew from relationship-driven pop-ups into a brick-and-mortar presence on Trenton Street in West Monroe in 2023. Michelle opened a store for shoppers looking for timeless, classic styles to make women of all ages feel confident and polished!
Garnett Robinson
Artist
Utilizing her gifts in painting and daily practice in certified art therapy life coaching (non-clinical therapy), Garnett Robinson will bring your favorite room in the house to life with painted prints and acrylic frame displays. Garnett can probably relate to other artists who decided to bring out their creative side after the 2026 ice storm hit Ouachita Parish – making her homebound. During this time with her daughters, she created a painting called Firefly Season. She offers commission work including portraits, pet portraits, custom pieces, and Louisiana landscapes. Her original works are available at Revival Design in downtown Monroe and painted prints are available at Pure Drip Wellness in West Monroe.
Dr. Shonice Maxey
Stretch & Vibe
Dr. Shonice Maxey is the owner of Stretch & Vibe, a holistic wellness brand that integrates yoga, Pilates, breathwork, mindfulness and functional movement to support physical health, mental wellness, and emotional balance within the community. Many of her students and clients know her as Shonice Jeanay within her teaching and wellness spaces. She’s a certified and licensed fitness professional with over six years of experience in yoga, Pilates, and wellness instruction. Stretch & Vibe currently operates inside Pure Drip Wellness Lounge, located on N. 7th Street in West Monroe.
Chef Pat Nolan
Nolan's Pop-Up Bistro
For your ultimate culinary pop up in downtown Monroe, head over to Nolan's Pop-Up Bistro for some cuisine at Castle Hall. Her small bistro serves a variety of interesting dishes from across the USA and international foods. Chef Pat was chosen by Google for Best Caterer and Chef for 2025. Lunch is typically only $12, and is served on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. For orders of five or more, delivery is free!
Kylie Austin
Cara's Boutique
When you walk into this boutique in West Monroe, you're instantly hit with the theme that matches the season! Cara’s Boutique in West Monroe will celebrate 20 years of being open in November 2026. Loyal customers from the beginning and new customers are what makes the current owner Kylie Austin’s job so much fun. Kylie prioritizes a Christ-centered and encouraging atmosphere to build confidence of shoppers and make them feel like a masterpiece. While being a wife and a mom of two, she makes sure the boutique offers bright, fun, and bold prints with new arrivals the boutique receives daily!
These five women to watch are part of a full community of women in Ouachita Parish that help make the Twin Cities a place where visitors and locals feel celebrated, seen and filled with enthusiasm.
