LAPLACE — Old Skool Bar is opening Friday at 701 W. Airline Highway, Ste. 4, offering a soothing atmosphere where mature adults can unwind with a quality drink after a long day’s work.

Erica White has lived in LaPlace for 10 years and frequented bars for much longer. Seeing a need for a local venue aimed at a 30-and-up crowd, White made it her mission to open a business set apart by elegant ambience, soft tone music and a retro touch.

Located inside the new Victoria Plaza in LaPlace, Old Skool Bar’s grand opening kicks off at 5 p.m. Friday and Nov. 3 with free food, raffle prizes and music from DJ Red Alert.

Business hours will be from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day, except for Wednesday.

The non-smoking bar comes with a 30-and-up age restriction, according to White.

Safety is top priority at the bar, according to White, who said the surrounding outdoor areas are well lit with 24-hour surveillance.

After next week’s final fire inspection, White will be on the verge of achieving the dream she has worked diligently on for months.

“I want to give praise and thanks to God for fulfilling another goal,” White said. “His provisions, strength and patience allowed me to overcome many obstacles. I thank my pastor, Steve O. Allen, for his teaching and motivational slogan, ‘Never Quit.’”

This week, White said she was putting up finishing touches on “Old Skool” decorations, which include retro photos pinned to the walls.

Thursday will be ladies night with specialty Caribbean inspired Naked Blue and Panty Drop drinks consisting of rum, vodka and a fruit punch mix.

White said she plans to host more themed nights and spearhead community events after the grand opening.

Next month, she hopes to partner with the Council on Aging in Reserve to create fully stocked Thanksgiving baskets for at least 10 elderly St. John the Baptist residents in need.

Above all, she wants to serve the community with a friendly attitude.

“The most important thing is having the right personality to make customers feel welcome,” White said. “I think Old Skool Bar will be unique with me as the owner and with its laidback atmosphere. I’m open to expansion in the future, but I want to start here first and get a feel for all the patrons.”

Brian Steib has watched White chase her dream, and he is confident she has the people skills to see Old Skool Bar become a success.

“I think she’s been very patient with it,” Steib said. “It’s a vision she’s had since early in her career to be a young business lady. I think it’s important to know a lot of people and being surrounded by positivity to pursue your career.”

Community sponsorship and employment opportunities are available. White said she is looking for employees with patience and experience in a bar setting.

For more information, contact White at 504-270-7530.