At Royal Design House we relish the long and storied history of Carnival in New Orleans and across the globe. It's important to us that our designs reflect the deep traditions of Mardi Gras while also embracing classic styles and the latest trends. Most importantly we love working closely with each client to design something that is beautiful and meaningful to them.

Our Story

Owners, Katie Johnson and Ashley Sehorn, met in New Orleans in 2011 when they were both working for Ilaine Hartman as all-around pattern-makers, stitchers, and beaders. They worked closely with her for a combined ten years making Queens' gowns and costumes for Mardi Gras royalty, learning all of the secrets particular to making Carnival revelries happen year after year. When Mrs. Hartman retired after the 2014 season, Johnson and Sehorn stepped up to continue the tradition of beautiful, well-made gowns and costumes made in New Orleans by starting their own company, Royal Design House.

With various degrees in both Fashion, and Costume Design and Construction, Katie and Ashley have the perfect combination of backgrounds to design and create the elaborate gowns and costumes of the Carnival social season. Their custom gowns have been seen on the ballroom floors and thrones of Rex, Achaeans, Athenians, and Mithras, to name a few. They have designed and created fantastic pieces for the men's royalty and courts of Proteus, Rex, Hermes, Mystic, and others. After their first season they were honored to be named one of The Gambit's "Top 40 Under 40" for their contribution to New Orleans and Mardi Gras history. They have built a fantastic team and hope to continue to celebrate every year by keeping the grand traditions of Mardi Gras alive through their artistry and craft.