From Paris, with Love.
My first trip to Paris felt like many things all at once - inspiring, energizing, and so very memorable. Equal parts work and adventure, this trip was a chance to experience Paris through both a creative and personal lens. Come along as I share a little diary of our travels, made all the more special with my favorite travel companion by my side: my sweet Mom.
Day One: Settling In & Sightseeing
We arrived in the wee hours of the morning and checked into our beautiful hotel on the Left Bank, Relais Christine.
After a quick freshening up, we were delighted to take a tour of Paris by vintage car. Our wonderful guide took us through the streets on both sides of the Seine, stopping at every landmark and sharing history with us along the way. A most idyllic way to see Paris and its beautiful architecture!
We then enjoyed a little lunch with Eiffel Tower views at Chez Francis, followed by a most inspiring stop at La Galerie Dior. The talents of Christian Dior will truly knock your socks right off.
After a quickie power nap, we enjoyed an early dinner just steps away from our hotel at Chez Ferdinand — the scallops were a delightful highlight, and ok yes, a little wine was had too!
Day Two: Versailles, Notre Dame, and Parisian Shopping
Up early for our second day in Paris. After a lovely breakfast, we were off to Versailles by way of the Metro.
The palace absolutely took our breath away — the intricate ceilings, the incredible marble seen throughout, and oh, the gardens. Truly magnificent even on the rainy day that it was.
After taking in all of the beauty at Versailles, we hopped on the Metro and headed for Notre Dame, one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks, for a closer look inside.
And then, it was time to shop! Personal favorite stops included Marin Montagut (we brought home some beautiful painted glassware, miniature watercolors, and baguette pens for the kiddos), and Buly 1803 to snatch up beautifully monogrammed lip glosses, perfumes, and more. A truly special Parisian experience it was.
After a full day, we ended with a delicious meal at Petit Lutetia — the miso salmon and rosemary spritz were favorites.
Day Three: Paris Playtime
Today was all about what we came for…Paris Playtime!
We made our way to Parc Floral to excitedly meet with our lovely brands and view the beautiful AW26 collections. In addition, we were able to meet with new brand partners that we cannot wait to share with you. The presentations were so beautiful, and finally getting to meet the faces behind our brands was the ultimate gift.
Following Playtime, we had a little time for some more Parisian shopping, including the iconic Merci store. We scooped up colorful souvenirs, and made a mini pit stop to enjoy an afternoon latte so I could register my daughter for her performance class back home (because mom life doesn’t stop, even abroad).
We finished the day with a very French, very fabulous meal at Le Bon Georges, a sweet little spot that came highly recommended as we were planning our adventure.
Day Four: Showroom Visits, the Louvre, and an Unexpected Goodbye
Sunday funday marked day four, and we began with showroom appointments around the Left Bank. What a treat to meet with our brands and view the beautiful collections in true Parisian apartments!
From there, it was on to the Louvre for an afternoon of history, where highlights of course included seeing the Mona Lisa.
Our last meal (or so we thought) was enjoyed at Le Deux Magots, an adorable corner restaurant I had read wonderful things about. We laughed with our very entertaining waiter and enjoyed a wonderful meal before bidding au revoir.
A Bonus Day in Paris!
Thanks to a snowstorm and a cancelled return flight home, luck would gift us an extra day in the city of lights.
We used our additional time to hit a few more inspiring stops, including La Veste (the most beautiful striped trousers, a personal favorite) and Antoinette Poisson for a look at archival 18th-century wallpaper patterns reimagined — a color-drenched space I will truly never forget. We wandered the luxurious Le Bon Marché for treasures, a Parisian retail experience we knew we couldn’t miss.
And for the grand finale, what is more French than steak frites for dinner? We dined at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte for this classic meal, complete with a special sauce I will absolutely dream about.
Paris, Playtime, & Perspective
Paris gave us the inspiration in all of the ways you might expect, but in many unexpected ways too.
Attending Playtime reminded me of why I love what I do: the creative process, the incredibly talented people, the constant evolution.
The perspective, well, it came quietly in between meetings and wandering, shared meals and moments with my Mom that I will always hold close. A really beautiful reminder to slow down, take it all in, and appreciate the season that I'm in, both personally and professionally.
This trip will stay with me, that is for certain.