The Story Behind Roux-Dolph the Gumbo Pot

 

The Story Behind Roux-Dolph the Gumbo Pot

"Some of you may or may not get this, but here is the art for my Christmas cards this year. It's "Roux-dolph"... Get it? Inspired by my favorite Christmas dinner...Gumbo! I'm going to add lettering later, right now I am giggling because I think it's super silly and it makes me so happy." 

(from the original post Kelly made on Facebook about Roux-Dolph the Gumbo Pot)

A Louisiana Christmas Tradition in the Making

Back in 2021, I made a little watercolor Christmas card design that still makes me smile today.

I posted it in a Facebook watercolor group where everyone was sharing gorgeous wintery landscapes for their yearly family greeting cards. And then there was me… feeling hungry and a little homesick, so I painted something different — a silly little gumbo pot with "antlers" made from a wooden spoon and a celery stick. 

I called him “Roux-Dolph” — inspired by my favorite Louisiana Christmas dinner: gumbo.

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From Watercolor Joke to Louisiana Christmas Favorite

When I first posted Roux-Dolph, I honestly thought it was just a fun one-off idea. But it was a hit! People in the group loved him, so I shared it with friends and family — and they loved him, too.

Someone suggested I put Roux-Dolph on a t-shirt, so I did… and sold about five shirts that year. Then someone messaged me on Etsy and said they’d love him on a tea towel.

So, I put Roux-Dolph on a Louisiana Christmas tea towel, and it just took off! I always say: “Never underestimate the power of a good tea towel in the South.”

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From Tea Towels to a Cajun Christmas Children’s Book

In the years since, Roux-Dolph has grown far beyond that original painting. His personality has taken shape, his world has expanded, and I’ve even written a published children’s book sharing his magical backstory — The Legend of Roux-Dolph the Gumbo Pot, published by Pelican Publishing.

This Cajun Christmas tale is full of Louisiana flavor, holiday spirit, and the kind of magic that brings families together — whether you’re from the bayou or just love a unique holiday story.

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A Holiday Tradition I Can’t Wait to Share

Roux-Dolph started as a silly little gumbo pot, but he’s become something so much bigger — a character I hope will be part of Louisiana Christmas traditions for many years to come.

Whether you’re looking for unique Southern holiday gifts, Cajun Christmas décor, or a children’s Christmas book with heart, Roux-Dolph is here to bring joy, flavor, and a little Louisiana magic to your holiday season.

📚 Find the book here: On Etsy | On Amazon
🛍 Shop Roux-Dolph holiday tea towels & gifts here: On Etsy

Thank you, as always, for your love and support.
💛 Kelly Airhart