From Classmates to Lifelong Friends: A Parisian Reunion to Remember

One of the best things about summer in Paris—aside from rosé on café terraces and evening strolls along the Seine—is when friends come together. This summer? A total jackpot. Not only did a few familiar faces roll into town, but Christie’s Education decided to host a reunion. Cue the champagne and conviviality.

The Scene: Villa Montaverdi

Picture this: A tiny, tucked-away street near the Saint-Sulpice church, twinkling lights overhead, the smell of lemon and garlic wafting from the kitchen—la dolce vita, Paris edition.

Anne-Sophie, our fabulous former Director (and now an expert party planner, clearly), organized the evening and greeted us with the kind of warm elegance that only the French can pull off so effortlessly.

We kicked things off with cocktails in a private dining room, where hugs were exchanged like currency and the decibel level rose with every “C’est toi?” moment. Maria-Grace, Charlie, Bruno, Isabelle, Sylvia, and I quickly fell into our usual rhythm of storytelling, gossip, and laughter.

Dinner, Details, and Denial of Seating Charts

Eventually, we migrated to long banquet tables for a dreamy three-course Italian dinner: tomato and mozzarella salad, chicken scallopini with a tangy lemon-caper sauce, and a tiramisu that honestly deserved a standing ovation.

Anne-Sophie encouraged us to mix and mingle with classmates from different years. A noble idea—but we weren’t having it. Like true art school alumni, we clung to our little cliques, swapping stories, updates, and just the right amount of nostalgic teasing.

We caught up on who’s in France, who’s gone full gallerist, and who could provide updates on former classmates who were unable to attend. It was like no time had passed at all.

Worth Every Minute

By the end of the night, we were full of pasta and joy. I’m so glad I threw logic out the window and extended my stay. Because honestly, some nights are just too special to miss. And this one? This was a masterpiece.