Louisiana SBDC at LSU

Nothing makes us happier than watching our clients WIN! 🎉

A huge shoutout to these incredible entrepreneurs working with Michelle Talbert at the LSBDC at Xavier University of Louisiana.

Happy — we are so proud of each and every one of you! 💙✨

✨ Celebrating with Small Business Success! ✨

Meet Heather Degeyter — Owner of Bonne Vie Macarons and one of Lafayette's most beloved dessert destinations! 🍬💜

What started with a wobbly batch of birthday macarons in 2017 has grown into something truly special. Heather built a loyal following through word-of-mouth and social media before opening her first storefront in 2018 — a feminine, whimsical space filled with natural light, fresh flowers, and beautifully displayed desserts.

Along the way, Heather turned to the LSBDC at UL Lafayette for support — attending marketing workshops and working one-on-one with consultants on strategic planning, marketing, and loan package development. With LSBDC guidance, she secured financing, developed a strategic growth plan, and successfully transitioned into a new downtown Lafayette location in 2025. 📈🎉

Heather's story is a reminder that with the right support, a small idea can blossom into something extraordinary. 🌸

📍 Check out Bonne Vie Macarons here: https://shopbonneviemacarons.com/

🎉 Happy from the LSBDC at UL Lafayette! Tomorrow, March 18th, we celebrate entrepreneurs like Heather who pour their heart into everything they do.

In recognition of Women’s History Month, the 6th Annual 101 Women in Business Conference will take place March 17–19, 2026, at L’Auberge Casino & Hotel in Baton Rouge.

This event brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders from across Louisiana to learn, connect, and explore strategies for building strong, sustainable businesses.

This year’s theme, “Built to Last: Leading with Integrity, Positioning for Growth,” focuses on leadership, financial resilience, and positioning businesses for long-term success.

Over the past five years, the conference has connected hundreds of participants with training, mentorship, contracting opportunities, and valuable business resources.

While the conference highlights the achievements and leadership of women in business, everyone is welcome to attend and participate in the conversation.

Register here: https://www2.lsbdc.org/reg.aspx?mode=event&event=7460003

Turn AI search into real business growth. 🚀

Join us for this practical session and learn how to measure what actually matters, strengthen your local visibility, and build a clear 90-day plan for AI-era success.

📅 Thursday, Feb. 26
⏰ 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
💻 Virtual

Secure your spot today, register now! https://www2.lsbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=2460023