StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Taking Technology Support to Another Level with Rent-A-Nerd, Inc.

Rent-A-Nerd, Inc. founded in 1997, provides efficient, proactive, and honest IT services to businesses in the Greater New Orleans area. With a highly skilled and certified team of technicians, they are able to perform services both in-store, onsite, and even remotely. They are your IT staff without the overhead! Shopkeeper: Darrin and Charlotte Piotrowski
Shop: Rent-A-Nerd, Inc.
Since: 1997

What ignited the spark in you to start your business? Darrin: In the mid-90’s I was working for PC Warehouse, which sold custom built computers.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Dat Dog: Serving Hot Dogs, the New Orleans Community, and Tons of Fun

Something just pulls you into Dat Dog. Maybe it’s the bright colors and catchy signs, or the delicious food and craft beers, or the cheery staff and welcoming atmosphere. There is no mistaking that this local business captures, in its essence, all that is great about New Orleans. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: All are welcome at Dance Quarter

Dance Quarter was founded by 3-time World Swing Dance Champion Nathalie Gomes. The multi-use space, which is also available for events, is nestled within a historic firehouse located just off Louisiana Avenue. Their mission is to provide recreational dance opportunities for everyone, regardless of age, size, or experience. They offer classes from Swing & Lindy Hop to Argentine Tango & Hip-Hop. If you’re looking for an energetic environment to learn a few new dance moves or host a fun event, Dance Quarter has much to offer.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Miss Claudia’s – Crafting Costumes and Preserving Characters Through Clothes

Carnival has arrived! For many of us, costume planning is an enthralling project that lasts the entire season, and sometimes even the entire year. Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing and Costumes is a beacon in the costuming cosmos and offers a medley of vintage and contemporary items for all of your dress-up endeavors. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Treat yourself with Spa Savoir-Faire

With over 20 years of experience, the staff at Spa Savoir Faire is dedicated to providing every guest with the utmost quality of service. This cozy, uptown spa will remind you just how wonderful a little pampering can be. They offer a range of services, from massages to waxing, and the experts at Spa Savoir Faire promise you’ll leave with a sense of restoration and empowerment. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: The Perfect Stocking (and Heart) Stuffer with Goods That Matter

What is there not to love about Goods That Matter? The shop offers an incredible selection of philanthropic and environmentally conscious products that will have you feeling all of the good-feels knowing your dollar is not only supporting local talent, but also going to support local humanitarian endeavors. They’re conveniently located above Church Alley Coffee, so grab your favorite cup of grinds and make your way up to the shop. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Put a little Heart and Sole in that holiday shopping

Recently celebrating its one year anniversary, Heart and Sole is gaining popularity in the boutique scene. The shop, located on Prytania Street, is just a stone’s throw from the great eateries and entertainment in the area. You’ll find the perfect opportunity to knock out some early holiday shopping, and make sure to shop their local goods section! Name Donna Wilhelm
Store Heart and Sole
Since Summer 2015

What ignited the spark in you to start your business? I’ve been in retail since I was a teenager and I’ve always just loved it.

Prytania Theatre: A Century of First Dates and Fond Memories

Nestled on scenic tree-lined Prytania Street, you will find the oldest movie theatre in New Orleans. For over a century, it has inspired many unforgettable movie experiences. Make it a date and enjoy the latest movie in a wonderfully vintage setting. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners.

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Maggie Covert of WalkingMan Studios

The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. While drainage system improvements and road construction make “shopping local” a bit more challenging in the short term, the critical improvements mean our city will be safer and stronger for generations to come. We hope you are inspired and continue to shop small and shop local—even if it takes a little extra time! Shopkeeper: Maggie Covert
Shop: WalkingMan Studios
Since 2013

What ignited the spark in you to start your business?

StayLocal presents Shopkeeper Stories: Belinda Wharton of Zen Pet Retail & Grooming

The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners. Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. While drainage system improvements and road construction make “shopping local” a bit more challenging in the short term, the critical improvements mean our city will be safer and stronger for generations to come. We hope you are inspired and continue to shop small and shop local—even if it takes a little extra time! Shopkeeper: Belinda Wharton
Zen Pet Retail & Grooming
Since 2013

What ignited the spark in you to start your business?