The key to New Orleans just got a redesign as one of local jeweler Adler’s final projects before closing.
Why it matters: LaToya Cantrell frequently gave out ceremonial keys when she was mayor. This is how Helena Moreno is putting her stamp on the tradition.
The big picture: Moreno’s campaign used private funds to pay $13,875 for the gold-plated pewter keys, according to city press secretary Jonah Gilmore.
- The campaign bought 250 keys, plus matching organza bags and history cards.
- Moreno has given out more than 70 keys already to Mardi Gras krewe royalty earlier this year, Gilmore said.
Zoom in: The idea came from two Moreno supporters and longtime Adler’s customers, Adler’s vice president Tiffany Adler told Axios in an email.
- “Their request was for a new, more contemporary key to the City of New Orleans that would represent the beginning of the next chapter of our city,” she said.
- Adler’s has made ceremonial keys for other Louisiana cities. For this one, Tiffany Adler said she was inspired by Mardi Gras krewe pins and the chain fob from a pocket watch.
- The key has a fleur de lis surrounded by a crescent moon, plus the city’s skyline and an outline of the Mississippi River. The back is engraved with Moreno’s signature.
- Madeleine Moise designed the packaging, which also features Moreno’s signature.
Zoom out: Adler’s Metairie store closed Jan. 31, but the retirement sale continues at its flagship store on Canal Street…