with love,
Jillian Blair
Explore my samples of community narratives, food and restaurant insights and lifestyle features published in local publications and through class projects at LSU. Through these opportunities, I've discovered my voice and crafted my creatively concise storytelling style while learning from seasoned editors, collaborating with photographers and expanding my own photography skills.
Writing Portfolio
MONTHS OF MENU PLANNING AND 3 A.M. WAKE-UP CALLS: HOW TAILGATING LOOKS FOR LOCAL CATERERS - 225 Magazine
Photo by Collin RIchie
Oyster shooters before kickoff? Cochon de lait nachos with crawfish queso? Game days in Baton Rouge are synonymous with showcasing unique takes on Louisiana cuisine. And long before the fans are Callin’ Baton Rouge, caterers are hard at work preparing. Read more
LOCAL FEMALE ATHLETES ARE NAILING THEIR GAME-DAY GLAM - 225 Magazine
Photo from The Associated Press
Championship rings belong on perfectly polished nails, according to LSU women’s basketball star Angel Reese. Remember her famous ring gesture photo taken during the 2023 national championship game? Look closer, and you’ll find a French manicure with black tips. Read more
'WE'RE NOT DONE YET': BUSINESSES KEY IN PRESERVING CAJUN CULTURE - Published in over a dozen of Louisiana newspapers
When Alex Cook stumbled on a flyer for a local juke joint, he was confused about how he, a member of the Baton Rouge music scene, was unfamiliar with a spot just minutes away in Zachary. Read more of my team's story written in our in-depth reporting class
HOW PARISH PETS’S TWO LOCAL SHOP DOGS LIGHTEN THE DAILY LOAD - 225 Magazine
Photo by Collin Richie
It’s hard to find good help these days. Take a look at Parish Pets: Employees are sleeping on the job, licking customers and even chasing their tails instead of working. But, owner Nikki Kipps says they won’t be called into HR anytime soon. Read more
BATON ROUGE’S LIST OF NOT-SO-SECRET SPEAKEASIES IS GROWING - 225 Magazine
Photo by Collin Richie
Baton Rouge’s growing number of modern speakeasies are crafting curious cocktails behind closed doors. But their doors are unlocked—no password required. Read more
THE JOURNEY OF A RED STICK FARMERS MARKET CROP, FROM GREENHOUSE TO
TABLE - 225 Magazine
Photo by Jillian Elliott
The Red Stick Farmers Market has no shortage of variety. On a Saturday morning, visitors strolling down North Fifth Street encounter products and people from around south Louisiana, each with their own story. Read more
THROUGH THE NEAT METHOD BATON ROUGE, MALLORY MYERS HELPS LOCALS GET ORGANIZED - 225 Magazine
Photo by Collin Richie
Mallory Myers is a business owner, a barre instructor, a mother of three and the wife of a fellow business owner. She says all of her titles—and more—fit in her life comfortably because everything has a place. Read more
NO BACKYARD? NO PROBLEM: URBAN GARDENING OFFERS SOLUTIONS FOR ANY LIVING SITUATION - The Advocate
Photo by Travis Spradling
Growing fresh produce may seem impossible for many who live in a city, but the rising popularity of urban gardening could change that sentiment.