Wanda Lauve Candies will serve as this year’s Krewe of Lul Grand Marshal.
Candies was born and raised in Luling. She was married to Michael Candies for 45 years before his death a couple of years ago.
“Michael loved the parade … his favorite part was the party after,” she said laughing.
Candies said the parade has always been a family affair.
“We rode for many, many years together,” she said of she and Michael. “We sat out one year, and it was just as much fun being on the ground as it was riding.”
Candies has been a captain of the Krewe of Lul for years – a role in which she helps to organize the parade as well as the ball. She said her children Barret and Blake rode in parades with her and Michael, and that this year her grandchildren will enjoy their first parade ride.
“My son Blake rode with my first cousin Russell’s parents in 1988 when they were king and queen,” she said. “I have many aunts and uncles who were in the parade and lots of family who have rode.”
Candies’ cousin Russell, along with his wife Dianna, will serve as king and queen of this year’s parade.
“Knowing my first cousin was the king … it made it extra special,” she said of finding out she would be given the opportunity to serve as grand marshal. “This has always been a family affair … a family tradition.”
Candies said that she is known for her after-party on parade day, one where she always serves a homemade spaghetti. Her signature throw this year will pay homage to her profession.
“I have been doing hair for 51 years and I’m still doing it,” she said. “On parade day I’m most looking forward to … well we better have good weather … but just riding and seeing everybody. It’s a family thing … just a fun thing. but that’s what the parade is all about – family.”
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