I’ve always referred to my in-town apartment as a pied-à-terre. It sounded chic and cosmopolitan—the perfect city base, a “foot-on-the-ground” for someone who mainly lives elsewhere. In my mind, it was a convenient little nest for errands, short stays, or easy escapes from the suburbs.
But my ...
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How to Find the Best Brocantes and Vide-Greniers
There's something truly magical about the Parisian tradition of brocantes and vide-greniers – those enchanting second-hand markets where elegant vintage treasures await discovery. Imagine a delicate Limoges porcelain dish gracing your table, an ashtray from the legendary Ritz Paris as a ...
Maximize the Beauty of Your Cut Peonies: Tips and Tricks for Longer-Lasting Blooms
Every May, I’m gifted bouqets of joy—lush, fragrant bouquets of peonies from my mom and sister-in-law. Their gardens are bursting with blooms, but these aren’t just any peonies. These plants have history. They once grew in my grandmother’s yard, and over the past 50 years, their roots have journeyed ...
The Parisian Dream: Why I Decided Against Owning Property in Paris
As an American who’s always been enchanted by France, the thought of owning a little slice of heaven in my beloved city of Paris seemed like the ultimate dream. I imagined having a cozy retreat in the heart of the city, surrounded by charming streets, stylish cafés, public gardens, and art at every ...
The Timeless Elegance of Hydrangeas: Why France and I Love Them
Anyone who knows me, knows I love Hydrangeas. They are my favorite flower and have been since my first trip to Nantucket, where the sight of countless blooms against a backdrop of silvery-grey cedar is just magical. It’s no wonder they’re a favorite in gardens around the world.
In France, ...
The Enduring Elegance of Pale Green in French Dining Rooms
Step into a classic French dining room, and you may notice a recurring theme: the soft, serene embrace of pale green walls, commonly referred to as vert amande in French. This delicate hue, both timeless and sophisticated, has graced the interiors of historic châteaux and Parisian apartments alike ...
