Group of women smiling indoors at a celebration, some wearing colorful dresses and hats, in front of large windows with sunlight.
les dames nola

About Us

We are the New Orleans chapter of an international philanthropic organization of women leaders in the fields of food, fine beverage and hospitality. Our membership is highly diversified and reflects the fields of contemporary gastronomy and hospitality. We support our communities through grants and mentorship.

Les Dames d’Escoffier International started with one chapter in New York City in 1976, founded by Dame Carol Brock. Stephanie Jane Carter, Beth D’Addono, and Caroline Rosen founded the New Orleans chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International in 2018.

Today, LDEI is composed of 44 chapters in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France and Italy, totaling more than 2,600 members.

Les Dames d'Escoffier International brand mark

Our Mission

To inspire, advance and support women in food, beverage and hospitality to achieve excellence in leadership and philanthropy.

Three women at a social gathering, smiling for the camera, with one holding a plate of food and another holding a glass of sparkling wine, in a warmly lit room with chandeliers and framed artwork on the walls.
Two women smiling and hugging at an evening event with a brick fireplace in the background. One woman is wearing a red hat and a black jacket, while the other has curly hair and is wearing a black jacket.
Assorted mini pizzas and stuffed bread on a wooden board.
Two women standing outdoors, holding Leading From the Heart Awards, in front of a brick building with large windows. One woman is wearing a black and white patterned top and the other woman is smiling, wearing a blue and white striped dress.

Guiding Principles

PHILANTHROPY

We are committed to creating lasting change in our communities through focused philanthropy.

DIVERSITY

We celebrate the value of differences among people and cultures throughout the world, in our communities and in our chapters.

LEADERSHIP & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

We are committed to life-long learning, mentoring, career advancement and professional development for our members.

PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE

We subscribe to the highest standards of professional conduct, ethics and integrity.

INNOVATION

We are committed to assuring continuing relevance and influence in an ever-changing environment through adaptation, innovation and openness and responsiveness to change.

Want to learn more?

Current Members

Board of Directors

Chapter Blog

The Dames Collection