February 2026 · TEG Connections
Treasures that Stand the Test of Time
At The Estopinal Group, we value every connection like a treasure. And just like these connections, during Mardi Gras every throw is a treasure – at least for the day. But some throws stand the test of time.
Vintage glass beads make annual appearances, whether it is in parade attire, in a decorative centerpiece, or as an accent to a formal ball gown. Each string is a unique combination of individual pieces of different sizes and colors, connected to make something rare and beautiful. New Orleanians bring them out every year to appreciate their quality, style, and uniqueness.
We are proud of the wide variety of clients, friends, and experiences that we have strung together over the last 25 years. Together, they form connections that are rare indeed.
Renee Bertrand Gusman
Realizing a dream with the Yellow Pocahontas Indian Tribe
On all other Tuesdays of the year, Renee Bertrand Gusman is a clinical social worker, daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, golfer, drapery designer, modiste and cherished member of the "Happy Hour Girls." She realized a lifelong dream on Mardi Gras Day 2025, masking with the Yellow Pocahontas Indian Tribe and connecting with Big Chief Darrell Montana and Big Queen Dianne Honre'.
The New Orleans indigenous Black Indian movement of "masking Indian" on Carnival Day began in the Montana family in the late 1800's. The late Chief Allison "Tootie" Montana was a New Orleans cultural icon and Mardi Gras Indian "Chief of Chiefs" for over 50 years. The history of the Mardi Gras Indians can be traced to the time of slavery. The art of masking in Indian suits pays respect to the indigenous people of America who looked after escaped slaves.
Dottie Belletto + Betsy Barnes
Connecting events and the law with all things New Orleans
Dottie Belletto, NOCCI CEO and a leader in the meetings and event industry, and Betsy Barnes, a distinguished trial and appellate lawyer, are esteemed in their respective fields. Among their most admired qualities: imparting wise advice to colleagues, mentoring young professionals, and hands-on client care and service. These women are professional relationship connectors.
Both lovers and supporters of all things New Orleans, Betsy, a charter member of the Krewe of Muses and a long-time member of the Krewe of Thoth, reigned as its Queen in 2005. This Fat Tuesday, expect to find Betsy with friends, hailing Rex from the front porch of The Columns. Dottie's past accolades include organizational consultant for the annual Mystick Krewe of Louisianans' Washington Mardi Gras party in Washington D.C. This season, Dottie will take to the Avenue with her daughter Veronica and the Krewe of Iris!
Krewe of Muses
Connecting teamwork with success
It is well known that the all-female Krewe of Muses has transformed Mardi Gras tradition and is among the most popular carnival parades. Every Thursday before Mardi Gras, accomplished, inspiring, culturally diverse role models ride the Avenue. Year-round, the Muses give back to police and city government, and donate to organizations supporting education, women, children, families, and the less fortunate.
To what do they owe their sustained success? Simply put, their connections through mutual purpose. Big-picture thinking from attorney and krewe founder Staci Rosenberg leads the way. Marketing consultant and charter member Virginia Saussy dreams up fresh and brilliant themes. Appreciation goes to agricultural compliance officer Dionne Randolph, for booking unique marching groups and bands, as well as managing parade logistics.
Elevating the profile of Muses activities was Denise Estopinal's privilege for 20+ years. Now, public relations specialist Jasmine Haralson performs that key role. The Estopinal Group was thrilled to be among the city's first small businesses to support the efforts of the creative and committed Muses women.
Krewe of Iris
Young newcomers with New Orleans roots embrace Carnival
The connection of three Mardi Gras-loving gals began – where else – in the neighborhood! Kathleen Brady grew up in New Jersey and moved to New Orleans from NYC five years ago. Bonding with Denise as Irish Channel neighbors, Kathleen is vice president of Delivery Excellence and Service Operations at Origami Risk. She is the go-to consultant for ALL neighborhood festivities – especially St. Patrick's Day.
Abby Boyd, originally from Baton Rouge, moved to New Orleans 12 years ago. An LSU graduate, Abby is an Ernst & Young (EY) CPA, risk management associate director, and head of financial crimes for the U.S. Her roots are deep – mom Andree Zamarlik is from St. Bernard Parish and attended Dominican High School. Abby carries New Orleans and Baton Rouge girl bonafides – respect and love for family and place.
The indomitable Kate Kelly, a Foxboro, MA native, calls New Orleans her emotional support city! A University of Delaware graduate, Kate most recently served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. Her business, Malbay Consulting, supports her ability to spend serious time in the city that has her heart.
Connect with The Estopinal Group
The Estopinal Group is one of the most experienced communications firms in Louisiana, drawing on decades of public communications and community engagement experience. The firm specializes in creating and executing effective public communications strategies to market and manage brand, frame and advance issues, develop community awareness and support, and provide proactive consistent public communications as well as crisis communications response and management.