Holiday Lights

Escape to Paris for the Holidays! Paris is literally blanketed with lights throughout the City, not just the large boulevards, but the narrow streets as well. It's my favorite time to visit the City of Lights.

June Rainy Days

It poured today. I mean buckets. We planned to be at the Louvre early to beat the crowds, which we did and nestled in Cafe Marly for lunch. The service was extra 'French', good looking waiters with major egos! It was all very entertaining.

For the Love of More Macs {Macarons, that is}

The French love their Parisian Macarons. There are literally lines out the door to purchase these little pleasures. Rumor has it that instead of bringing a bottle of wine for dinner, Parisians bring Macarons {with pleasure}.

Cire Trudon

I purchase one of their candles that has a perfect scent of French Laundry - so clean, so simple. We the opportunity to visit their boutique and discovered a variety of their scents. Ciure Trudon, a true master of the candle making craft has been operating in Paris since 1643, providing candles to the court of louis XIV and churches of Paris. They were also made a comeback in the movie Marie Antoinette.

Chapeau

Plus de Boutique

Karen Money

Look closely - the silk scarf hanging from the mannaquin is a Karen Money scarf. You don't have to fly to Paris to purchase yours - Le Petit Paris has been carrying these beauties since 2005.

Sacre Cour

Perfect Picnic Location

Mon Petit Chou

He just knew we were talking about him, and am sure he wanted to follow us home. I love how dog-friendly they are. Of all the dogs, and dog owners, I've never seen an untrained dog.

Inspiration

Saturday Market

For the Love of Paris

I enjoy photographing the clock at the various seasons. The sky was so blue today and those billowy clouds.

June 2009

This June, I believe, is going to be the best tour ever! We have reservations as some of the best restaurants in Paris, with sweeping views of the City of Lights. We plan to see and experience the must sees of Paris, shop, eat and create life-long memories!


Bon voyage

Deyrolle

Considered one of the most famous, and strangest, boutiques in Paris, Deyrolle is fascinating. Once, while roaming upstairs, Bella and I discovered a huge beetle drying out on the windowsill - we jumped at least three feet back and then laughed uncontrollably. Just be careful of what you might run into.

Serge Gainsbourg

We often walk past Serge Gainsbourg's house on the the rue de Verneuil in Paris, on our way to the Musee D'orsay. There is rumor that his daughter will open a museum in his honor at this location. Many followers have covered this the bare entrance with graffiti and poems. Since his his death in 1991, his music has reached legendary stature in France.

Paris Flea Market

You'll never know what you might discover at the Paris Flea Markets. I love to walk the aisles and look for creative inspiration for interior design.

Luxembourg Jardin

On any given sunny day, you can find all Parisians at the Jardins soaking up the sun, perhaps enjoying a baguette, picnic or a cigarette. I enjoy just the people watching.

Within Reach

With every trip, I strive to find a better view, a better macaron, a better experience, which in turn creates an even better memory. one of the many rewards of showing, and sharing, Paris with travelers each year is that we uncover their individual interests that lead us to these new views, streets, and therefore experiences. This April trip was no exception. A desire from one our guests was to visit a famous place that Audrey frequented. We discovered this little place and were welcomed to explore the rooftop terrace. We had it to ourselves...the view was all ours.

Colors in Full Shades

Once again, the California gals brought the California sunshine to Paris. The week was pretty close to perfect without rain, a few clouds here and there. The flowering buds were in full bloom and the gardens and tree-lined streets were refreshing.

The Grand Arc

At our first hello to Paris, the group climbed to the top of the Grand Arc. I, on the other hand, had one to many cigarettes and clung to my lungs the entire way up. It is a grand view from the top, a must when in Paris!

April in Paris

This April in Paris will be even more special since we'll visiting during Easter break. We have plans to attend mass at Notre Dame on Easter Sunday, and St. Chapelle. We will also explore a famous Perfume Museum, the George Centre, shop in the Marais, and the Left Bank boutiques. And of course, we will taste every Parisian Macaron during our stay (hopefully not in one day...).

We'll dine under the Eiffel Tower and on the banks of the Seine and sip espresso where Hemingway once sat. All in the love of Paris.

Encore

Bored with the idea of sitting at home like a stuffed turkey this Christmas? In Paris, twinkling lights and gourmet pleasures await, December 24-January 1, 2009!

Shopaholic’s Christmas in Paris
While it might be something to dread at home, le shopping for Christmas in Paris is a chic, chilled-out affair that doesn’t set the tills ringing until November. Dramatic window displays at the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps on the Boulevard Haussmann will leave you wide-eyed and open-mouthed. This being Christmas in Paris, you can count on the giant Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette being decorated by a couturier. Stock up on gifts or just warm up with vin chaud at Christmas Markets dotted around Paris.

Foodie Christmas in Paris
The French celebrate with their blow-out meal the day before Christmas. In Paris, fresh oysters and creamy foie gras are on the festive menu, with delicate smoked salmon and hearty chapon (roast chicken), turkey or goose. Leave room for some chocolatey Bûche de Noël (Yule log) washed down with champagne.

Romantic Christmas in Paris
A thousand sparkling fir trees provide the backdrop for your amour at Christmas in Paris. Stroll Champs-Elysées which twinkles with Christmas lights, we'll weave along the rue de Rivoli in the medieval Marais, drop by leafy Montmartre, or strut your stuff along smart boulevard Saint Germain. Kiss in the light of the Eiffel Tower or illuminated bridges over the Seine.

Family fun at Christmas in Paris
Merry-go-rounds appear in every arrondissement over Christmas in Paris. Take a twirl on a colourful manèges de Noël of wooden horses in Place de l'Hôtel de Ville or Place Saint-Sulpice. Or take the kids to an early ‘midnight’ mass – 6pm at Notre-Dame-de-Paris and 7pm at Montmartre’s Sacré-Coeur.

Traditional Christmas in Paris
In need of a spiritual uplift after all that shopping over Christmas? In Paris, a midnight mass must is the Eglise de la Madeleine. Or see the Christmas crèche at the oldest church in Paris, the pretty Eglise St-Germain-des-Prés, dating from the 6th to the 11th century.

Skating at Christmas in Paris
Take your partner by the hand and glide across the large ice-rink that is frozen every Christmas in Paris over the cobbled courtyard of the Hôtel de Ville.

Ringing in 2009
There's nothing more memorable than celebrating 2009 in Paris!


Don't wait, spaces are filling fast! Give yourself Christmas this season!

Le Louvre

Strolling through the Tuileries just before dusk it felt like we had the garden to ourselves.

PH - Pierre Herme

He's been called the Picasso of Pastry, and magician with tastes, and since his Rue Bonaparte boutique was just down the street, we had to stand in line just before closing and sample his silver, gold, and bronze dusted Macarons. For me, and perhaps I don't have a sophisticated pallet as some, but I couldn't finish even one of his masterpieces. One flavor was a taste of burnt caramel, and another was infused with saffron...perhaps as I mature, I will grow to love his creations, but for now, no merci.

One of Many

There are over 30 bridges in Paris all representing different points of time in Paris' history. Almost every day, we have the pleasure of crossing at least one bridge, if not more. Each bridge provides a different perspective on Paris and the river Seine. On this day, I fill myself with mental snapshots that will carry me until the next visit.

J'adore Paris

Paris is such an easy beauty to capture - she is elegant, spirited, romantic, artistic, stylish, and mysterious all in one.

For the Love of Laduree!

It's no secret that I adore (okay, obsessed would be more appropriate) Laduree's Macarons! I love the pistachio, rose, anise, lavender, violet, and the fleur de sel. With every bit, the flavor and texture is simply perfect, but the colors are the pretties bouquet of boxed treats. I can't get enough of these little simple pleasures. I can honestly say I've tasted every possible Parisian Macarons flavor in Paris - and my dress size shows for the effort!

Beauty Runs Deep

From around every corner, one can draw inspiration from Paris. If it's not the food, art, fashion, then it's the beauty every day brings - beauty runs deep in the hearts and veins of Parisians.

C'est Magnifique!

We spent our overcast morning at the Rodin Museum wondering if our afternoon plans of a picnic would actually happen. But of course, the California Girls brought the sunshine to Paris, just when needed. We shopped on Rue Cler for wine, cheese, bread, fruit, chocolate, and roasted chicken - and viola, a perfect afternoon in Paris. A Parisian day wouldn't be complete without a bit of shopping - handbags and shoes, please!!

Sacre Cour

.....The weather during the trip was a bit overcast, but the blue sky would occasionally shine whenever we needed a perfect picture. It happened this day for sure. Sacre cour offers a wonderful view of Paris, and if you meander around the hill, and remind yourself to look up, you may find a few surprises.

Mariage Freres

Tucked away on a side street in the Marias, is wonderful little tea salon where you can select a beautiful tin and uniquely blended tea. Around every corner in the Marias is something unique to be found.

Rodin

One of the many things that draws me to love Paris is their design of museums. The Rodin is one of my favorites, not only because of the subject, but because the Museum fills a variety of needs and pleasures. For me, it's the best to sit in a well groomed garden, sip a little cafe and enjoy the surrounding beauty. Life here is surely to be enjoyed!

10 Year Anniversary of the EEU

A new shade of blue lights up the Tour Eiffel in celebration of the 10 year anniversary of the European Economic Union, which France is currently leading. I love how this once hated structure has become the symbol of Paris and is used to make a visit to Paris memorable.

Chocolate Couture

As we window-shopped to our Martini destination, we couldn't help but admire the Couture Chocolate and make note to stop by during the week. It became our daily ritual to stop at one Chocolatier a day, sometimes twice a day.

Another Famous Sighting

I can't help it, but I see famous people in Paris every trip - Sophia Ford Coppola and Nelson Mondela. This trip the Pope was visiting and I find that remarkable, although we personally didn't see him. Although on our last stay, strolling down Rue de Buci, I saw a familiar female face and thought to myself - who is she? And as I looked to the person next to her it was Ted Danson! And not two minutes later, I swear I saw Lenny Kravitz walking by - IPod in hand, green military jacket, big sun glasses! You just have to be keep looking, they're there. {Look for the grey-hair gentleman, that's the backside of Mr. Danson.

The Eyes Have It

Strolling through the Paris Flea Market you'll never know what you'll discover. I love the unusual, and the inspiration it brings. Just recently I was 'leche vitrine' around the Vendome area admiring the fine jewelry displays and came to a beautifully displayed window with a hint of unusual - a gilded box of baby doll eye balls!

When I meet with designers, I've come to understand that they often browse the flea markets to find inspiration from the past, to help create beauty for the future.

Saint Chapelle

Saint Chapelle was build by King Louis to hold Christ's Relics. The Relics have moved to Notre Dame, but the Chapelle remains to be one of the most beautiful Churches in Paris. Each stain glass window tells a biblical story and on a sunny day, the Chapel bursts with color!

Le Seine

I've always enjoyed a quite walk along the banks of the Seine, enjoying the view and the sounds of Paris. This evening we were on our ways to enjoy a sunset picnic on the banks, just across from Notre Dame.

The tip of Paris

When the sun shines, the crowds of Parisians pack the banks of the Seine to enjoy the view, the conversation, and sometimes the wine. We enjoyed all those lovely treasures of Paris on this evening.

Giverny

Monet's charming home, garden and pond are a true delight! Not only is the garden and pond full of color, but his home is so inspiring to folks used to white walls. Every room was painted in a pastel with bright trim - yellows and blues. Even the kitchen was tiled in terrific blues and yellows. He literally had a garden of color in each room.

Le baiser

It's true what's said about the French and their passion, and their open display of affection. It simply is everywhere, especially in Spring!

Eyes on Paris

I'm embarrassed to say that this was my first time to climb to the top of the Arch de Triomphe. I don't know why it's taken me so long to reach the top of this historic and beautiful spot, but I highly recommend it.

Paris is beautiful from all levels and floors of the city. From the street level it's beautiful and fun people watching, from the top floor it's breathtaking and awe-inspiring, and all the levels in between that's filled with art, fashion and great stories.

La Tour D'Argent

This legendary restaurant has been around since 1582 and is known for it's pressed duck dishes. It has served duck to thousands of royalty and dignitaries like King Edward VII, Theodore Roosevelt, JF Kennedy, just to name a few. This was our wine that was selected from a 6-inch, leather-bound book. I can only imagine the conversations that have taken place in our seats.

Notre Dame est Tres Jolie

We arrived in Paris on the perfect day at the perfect time. Just the week before there were reports of snow, rain and clouds - not so typical for April. But when the California girls arrived we must have brought the sun. All the bulbs were in perfect bloom.

Oh la la

Shopping along the grand boulevards with the eye-catching windows.

The Perfect Shade of Red

As we walked the bridge Pont St Louis over to Ile St Louis to meet up with Meredith Mullens and Billy Haynes, my eye was drawn to the single red shade that graced the building. As Meredith writes in her book "In a Paris Moment", it truly was a Paris moment.

April in Paris

With the next Paris Tour quickly approaching, I'm very excited to mention that we will be dining at the legendary La Tour d'Argent, with the best view of Paris and Notre Dame that's just across the Seine. This will be a new experience for me, as well as the group. We've also added something new to this trip - a day trip to Giverny. It's been about 6 years since I've last visited Monet's home and gardens. I'm sure it will be absolutely breathtaking in late April. I'll be sure to post some photos.

Le Petit Paris Barista Bar

As many of you know, the Le Petit Paris experience will soon expand to include french pastries, an assortment of Parisian Macaroons, baguette sandwiches, beer, wine and Champagne. We are making the final touches on the space just next door at our existing location: 1221-19th Street. Just this weekend, the wall between the spaces came down and we recognize that we are one step closer to serving Sacramento high-quality coffee and french teas, and little pleasures of Paris.

Within the next couple of weeks, you'll begin to see the building start to make a new transformation.

Bon, Bon

This happens on almost every trip. Typically there will be a french phrase that we hear throughout the trip that we begin to use ourselves. On this particular trip, Chris heard the French saying "Bon, Bon" throughout the week. So eventually, we all started to respond with, Bon, Bon. The food was great - Bon, Bon. The service was great - Bon, Bon. The new purchase was terrific - Bon, Bon.

On our last night, the view, food and company was, well, Bon, Bon!
                                                       

Arch de Triomphe

One must experience the Champs Elysees by speeding car, just once in your life. This was our last night in Paris and we cabbed it to our dinner reservation. We were all tired from a full week of shopping, eating, cocktails, museums, walking and more cocktails. It really was a memorable time in Paris and many new french phrases we discovered.

Bon, Bon...

Place du Terte

Montmartre is really my all-time favorite areas. Perhaps because on my first visit to Paris, Montmartre was my first introduction to Paris. I enjoy the artists strolling the area, Sacre Cour in the shadow. On this particular day we shopped for fabric and we all found some incredible pieces. It was the first day of typical January weather - rain and wind. After we shopped most of the morning, we nestled into a cafe at Place du Terte and waited for the weather to clear, and much enjoyed the people watching. {The waiters were debating if Pigeon should be a legitimate menu item}

We hoped to cab it back to the Hotel because our fabric was just way too heavy to carry on the Metro. We discovered that the cabbies were on strike - you may know that the French strike for most any reason. It took a bit of a walk down the hill to find a cabbie that was sympathetic to our needs, but we found one.

Baccarat

From the first time I visited Paris, I learned of Baccarat. I first fell in love with their elegant {and large} crystal rings. They honestly haven't changed in nearly 20 years. Since then, I've evolved into also loving their chandeliers {more eye candy}. Did you know that on every Baccarat chandelier there is one tiny red crystal - look for it next time.

Well, when I heard the Baccarat had a cafe, I had to experience it for myself. The food was delicious; the design impeccable! Oh, how I want to live here! There was a small private room in the back that had a tufted ceiling with a grand, black chandelier hanging from the center. I highly recommend the experience.

J'adore Paris

Another blue ski day! It's was a perfect day to climb the 200+ stairs to the main platform of Notre Dame. We arrived pretty early so we didn't wait long. But the climb up convinced me that I need to get back to the gym, or perhaps it was the number of cigarettes I consumed the night before...{I only smoke when in Paris, but even that is becoming even more difficult}. Now, if the French stop drinking at lunch, I'll definitely have to find a new place.

Medieval Style!

We were all a bit tired from not only shopping at the flea markets all day, but from a late night before. However, we couldn't miss the medieval dining experience on Ile St. Louis. Don't be afraid to pull a hanging sausage from the ceiling and enjoy. Did I mention they offer all-you-can-drink wine from the barrel?

marché aux puces

Again, the weather was incredible as we strolled through the marche aux puces to uncover some interesting finds. If you're looking for large architectural finds or silver, or artwork, you must browse the puces. You never know what you'll find next.

St. Trinite

Saint Trinite, as I learned, as a connection to Sacramento. Among the first of thousands to seek his fortune in the Sacramento region during the California Gold Rush, Patrick Manogue had aspirations that differed from many of his fellow fortune seekers. His goal was to earn enough money to finance a trip to Paris, where he planned to enroll in seminary college and become a Roman Catholic priest.

While studying in Paris in 1860, Manogue became enchanted by the cathedrals and their role in a city’s community life. In 1886, Manogue was appointed as Sacramento’s first bishop. Much like the ones he’d seen in European plazas, Manogue worked to secure property just one block away from the capitol building, with a dream of building a cathedral in Sacramento. Manogue modeled the cathedral after L'Eglise de la Sainte-Trinite (The Church of the Holy Trinity) in Paris. Once completed, there was no cathedral equal in size west of the Mississippi River. The building is a modified basilica form approximately 200 feet long and 100 feet wide, and it seats 1400 people. The central bell tower rises 217 feet. was mare interested in ambiance, view or the of the history of the establishment.

If you'll notice, the slightly smaller chairs are actually the kneeler pews.

Souffle

I'll be the first to admit that I'm no foodie, but that is all beginning to change. Over the years of visiting Paris the food was never a driver for the experience.  I was mare interested in ambiance, view or the of the history of the establishment. But my new challenge is to find unique places that not only have great experiences, but also notable cuisine. So, souffles are now my new obsession. 

P.S. If this looks huge, it's because it was! 

Claude

Monet is one of my favorite artists.  If you've ever visited Giverny, just outside of Paris, you can better understand Monet's need to capture nature's beauty.  It's difficult to image that these beauties were perfected at the end of his life when Monet was nearly blind.    

Warm Sunsets

It was another great day in Paris, which made some memorable & wonderful sunsets. We just had lunch at Cafe Marly with a great view of the Louvre, and strolled through the Tuileries Jardin, followed by visiting the Musee l'Orangerie.  

It was a great ending to a perfect day in Paris.

Unbelievable!

The first three days were incredible! It certainly didn't feel like January, more like April or May. Of course the Parisians loved it and occupied every available sun-warmed bistro chair. It was a fabulous treat to have such wonderful weather in January.

You may notice that I usually include window displays whenever I visit Paris, so one can get a sense of the current fashion trends.  However, because of the sales, every window in Paris was covered with "Soldes" signs.  They weren't very inspiring or interesting.  So you may ask yourself, "Did they Shop?"  Of course we shopped, and we experienced all of Paris, as well. 

Some ladies are returning home today, while others are extending their stay. We shared breakfast together and talked about our favorite moments, then said our goodbyes and promised to have a reunion in Sacramento.

Across town I met with Estelle, the designer & creator of Its Anitsa, and Anitsa Paris. She has a very typical French showroom. Estelle is a very typical French lady - petite, stylish, and great accent. It wasn't uncommon a couple months ago to enjoy a cigarette while viewing the collection. Now days, it's forbidden to smoke in public places, with the exception of cafe and bars.

I later head to the wholesale district and pick up some jewelry, scarves, and of course an order of Eiffel towers. I still have time to make it to the Paris Home Show, and meet with some the creators/designers of some of the brands we carry.

During this trip, I woke up early to take a quick jog around the city, and more importantly, take black and whites of the city when it's most quiet.

Bonne Nuit, Paris

Great Finds!

It's Sunday and our day begins at the Port de Vanves flea market and later to the largest flea market in Paris, Porte de clignancourt. We stop by to see a friend of Meredith Mullens, Erol, who has a stall in the Paul Bert. We had a terrific lunch at the cafe in Paul Bert, and were entertained by an Edith Piaf impersonator. The mussel in white wine sauce was terrific, and the escargot was the best! I'm beginning to think this should be a food tour instead of a shopping tour.

We later head to Montmartre and roam the streets where Van Gogh, Renoir and Picasso once lived. We enjoyed a break at the cafe at Place de Tertre and watched the artists work the crowd. I looked for the 'storm of love' poet, but couldn't recreate memories from our April trip. I guess some things just can't be repeated.

I love Montmartre, and all it's charm. It's our last full day in Paris, and everyone (including myself) is soaking up every last ounce of Paris and taking it home. We've created new life-long friends – and will always have memories of Paris.

Au revoir Paris.

Saturday

It's a beautiful Saturday in Paris, blue skys and people everywheree. We started out by touring the small Chapel on Ile Cite, Saint Chapelle. The amazing stain glass window that each depict a biblical story. We later stroll over to Notre Dame and through Ile Saint Louis. We stop for a quick break for a typical French hotdog. I know, it sounds so American, but believe me, you must try one!

We later have lunch at the Luxembourg Jardin Cafe in the Latin Quarters. We made our way over to rue Mouffetard for our food for our sunset dinner along the bank of the Seine - wine, cheese, roasted chicken, bread, more wine...

It was a true Parisians evening with our picnic, the view of Notre Dame in the sunset, a group of musicians behind us and great company. After sunset we walk 'just two more' bridges until we reached the outdoor tango & dance scene.

Le Marias

Oh, le marias, one of my many favorites. We started our morning at the Picasso Museum, which was closed for construction. So instead, we stopped at the Hotel de Carnavalet, the History Museum of Paris. We strolled throughout the marais and shopped at the trendiest shops in Paris.

For lunch, we stopped at Mariage Fieres Tea, one of the oldest tea shops in Paris. It truly feels like you've stepped back in time. I'm not a tea drinker, more of a martini and coffee drinker, but their tea is absolutely wonderful. I suggest trying the violet...

We continued shopping all afternoon and later returned to the hotel to take a break and rest up for a long evening.

Shhh, it's a surprise....we dined at a wonderful restaurant in Monmartre with a full panoramic view of Paris, and later enjoyed the can-can at the Moulin Rouge. We happened to be in Paris during the Rugby World Cup and had the privilege of seeing their 'blue angles' fly over us during our rooftop dinner. In the photo, you can see the red, white and blue smoke from the jets. It was another great surprise! Again, the food was sensational.

Left Bank

Since we were on the Left Bank this trip, we strolled from our Hotel to Musee d'Orsay for a couple hours, and later had lunch at the famous Cafe de Flore, just near our hotel. The French Onion soup was good - a must anytime in Paris.

After lunch, we shopped through the latin quarters and made our way to Bon Marche & Le Grand Epicerie, and on to some nearby boutiques.

You'll never guess who we saw on our way to the Ritz - Nelson Mandela! I later read that he was in Paris for three days to meet with new President, Nicolas Sarkozy. I couldn't get my camera out quick enough, but did manage to snap a black and white photo. This is the second time we've ran into someone famous either at the Ritz or on our way. Last time we had the pleasure of seeing Sofia Ford-Coppola in the Hemingway Bar.

After martinis, some ladies headed back near the hotel to Brasserie Lipp, but unfortunately didn't have reservations. They settled for great people watching and dinner at Le Duex Maggot. Michelle and I had one more cocktail and then had soufflés that will last us a lifetime - tomato & basil soufflé for an appetizer, ham and cheese soufflé for dinner, and chocolate soufflé for desert! Oh, it was heavenly...

Let the Shopping Begin

We arrived at Printemps at exactly 9:35, the precise moment they opened their doors. I felt like Violet in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, eager to experience ever morsel of fashion. {did you know the literal translation for 'window shopping' is window licking, leche-vitrines}.

We later had lunch at the rooftop terrace - it's all about the Terraces of Paris on this trip....just wait and see.

We later stopped at Fauchon for some canned duck, perfume at Chanel's original couture house, and an endless rue of shopping.

Much later we entered the Seine Dinner Cruise and enjoyed our two-hour cruise with entertainment, great food, and an incredible view of Paris from the Seine.

Bienvenue

We all arrived safely with much excitement, some with luggage, some without. After we settled into our hotel, we began our day with a short walk from our Hotel on Rue Jacob, near St. Germain de Pres, over to Cafe Deux Magot. After a nice lunch, we walked across Pont Neuf over to the Musee du Louvre, past the pyramide and Place du Carrousel and through the Tuileries Jardin. Anything to keep us moving.

We ended our first evening with dinner at the Tour Eiffel.

Bonne Nuit, Paris, bonne nuit

My Favorite Windows

Each and every time I return to Paris, my favorite moment is that exact second when I reach the exit of the Metro. It's my first glimpse of the City. I often pause and take a mental snapshot of that first moment. For me, it's the anticipation of seeing my old friend, Paris, for the first time all over again.

During my first day, I met with designer Rene Derhy at the showroom in the 10 arrondissement to view the fall collection, as well as next season's collection, and to place an order that should arrive to Sacramento within the next couple of weeks. One of my rituals is to purchase a new skirt from Rene's collection available at Printemps - they are so French, and not terribly expensive!

That evening I walked past the department stores to capture their amazing display windows. One particular promotion was interesting, and very provocative. You'll notice the photo of the children thrashing their room, but what you don't see is their mother just about to enter the door. Each window display had a view of a room, and someone about the enter through the door. One I remember well, but didn't photograph, was of a young gentleman with his pants unzipped standing in front of an elderly women in a rocking chair with his girlfriend entering the door with groceries. It was shocking and hilarious at the same time! Another favorite is of the ballet shoe company, Repetto, just near the Opera. Their window display was much like a stage production. Oh, I always wanted to be a ballerina!

Later, I had dinner at Cafe Marly, facing the Louvre's Pyramid, it's was amazing.

Christmas in Paris!

We are so excited to add a new date to our shopping tour schedule: Christmas through New Years! {December 25th - January 1, 2008}

If you can get away at Christmas, the holidays in Paris is by far the best time to truly experience City of Lights. No other tme of year, are there as many lights as there are during the holidays. If you experience the wonder of Paris at Christmas, you will truly understand why it's called the City of Lights.

Galleries Lafayette at Christmas

Place du Madeleine at Christmas

Near Rue Cler

"I honestly enjoyed everthing. I especially liked the Seine Dinner Cruise, dinner at the Eiffel Tower, and all of the other breathtaking views of Paris. Lunch at the Mariage Freres tea shop was fantastic!" Carolyn, Paris, April 2007

Mon Petit Sucre

"The food presentation is over-the-top!" "I can't believe we window shopped for FOOD - truly amazing!"

Rue Cler

Cafe de Flore

During the week in Paris, the weather was absolutely wonderful. It felt more like July, than April. With such nice weather, everyone in Paris was either in the Cafes, in the parks, or on the Seine soaking up the sun. On our last night however, there was a downpour for about an hour. At first, we sat outside at Cafe de Flore, but quickly had to relocate inside with the rest of the folks that emptied the boulevards into the cafes. It was nice to be forced to stay and enjoy just one more cafe creme.

The Storm of Love is in Your Eyes...

We giggle about this Paris Moment the rest of the trip. The story started as we were sitting outside a cafe at Place du Tertre watching the artists and tourists work the crowd. As we enjoyed the people watching, an elderly French man approached us and began to recite a poem to me in French and then translated it to English. I'll admit that is was difficult to understand his strong accent. As he moved down the row of women, he recited a different poem to each one of us. The most compelling was the poem he wrote for Donna, that lucky gal. The poem started with, "The storm of love is in your eyes..." For the life of us, we can’t recall what else he said, but we will never forget the “storm of love…”

Paris Dance, Dance

"This was a trip I will always cherish and I can't than you enough for making my dream come true." Darlene

Le Seine

After a fantastic day in the Le Marais that included viewing Picasso's masterpieces, sipping a cafe crème in the Picasso Jardin, lunch and tea at the world-famous Mariage Fieres tea shop and boutique shopping, we rested on the banks of the Seine for one of the most memorable sunset picnics on the banks of the Seine. Each one of us brought something to enjoy & share, with champagne in hand, we toasted to Paris and new life-long friends. Paris and our great memories will forever bond us.

The Ritz

As planned, we met up with Meredith Mullins, the photographer/writer living in Paris, at the Ritz's Hemingway Bar for champagne and martinis. Meredith is always a joy to see and always has great Paris stories. During our conversations, we spotted Sofia Ford Coppola entering the Bar, which felt more like a Hollywood moment, than a Paris moment.

After our aperitif, we took the metro to her apartment on Ile St. Louis, and later to her favorite restaurant, Mon Viel Ami, which happened to be just across the street. It truly was a Paris night. Bonne Nuit Paris.

Astier de Villatte

I just love this boutique! I snapped a quick picture of their stairway that looked like it hasn't changed in 150 years. Check out their website at www.astierdevillatte.com

Le Bistro des Amis

Today, we spent the morning at the Pompodou Centre and later shopped around the center and beyond. We worked our way to Rue Honore toward Place Vendome and the Ritz. Along the way, we spotted the colorful bistro set that was postcard perfect. Just down the road, we stopped at this bistro and had lunch.

Le Tour Eiffel

Night One: Our first night wouldn't be complete without a view of the Eiffel Tower. We enjoyed an aperitif and dinner in the massive structure, and the grand view of the Seine below. It was a great beginning to a memorable week in Paris.

Place de la Concord

Day One: We walked down the Champs and around near Pont d'alma, and ended at the foot of the Tuilerie Garden looking out to the Place de la Concord, and the 3200 year old Obelisk. The weather was incredible - it felt like July! We enjoyed a stroll down the garden, and a couple scoops of gelato along the way.

Windows to Paris

Our hotel wasn't too far from Galeries Lafayette and Printemp department stores. During the day with the crowds of shoppers and the street vendors, one really can't appreciate the artfully displayed windows. One evening walking back to the hotel, the window displays capture our attention.

"I had a fabulous time & would do it again in a heart beat. Plus, I found my upholstery fabric at $300, a savings of $1,500 over the price in Sacramento!"

April in Paris...

This photo is of the painted stairway in the Abbesses Metro Station.

I am preparing for the upcoming April tour (24th-30th) and we have our itinerary planned for the week. Here's a sneak peek:

Day 1- Explore the Champs Elysees, have lunch at Laduree or a cafe in the Tuileries Jardin. Perhaps stop in at the Museee L'Orangerie where Monte's panoramic water lilies are housed. Later that evening have dinner among the twinkling lights on the Tour Eiffel.

Day 2 - Shop all morning at the Galeries Lafayette and have lunch at the rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of Paris. Later "food shop" at Fouchon, Maille, Maison du Chocolate, wine and cheese. Later that evening we will dine on the Seine during a dinner cruise.

Day 3 - Spend the morning at Rodin Museum or the Musee D'Orsey and venture over to the Les Halles area and meander our way to Place Vendome for martinis at the Hemingway Bar inside the Ritz.

Day 4- Explore Picasso’s Museum in the Le Marias. Later have a tea lunch at Mariage Fieres salon. Later we will shop along the winding streets of the Marias. Much later we will dine in Montmartre and live it up at the Moulin Rouge.

Day 5 - Wake up to explore Notre Dame, Ste. Chapelle, and Ile St. Louis. Walk the bridges of Paris to Cafe de Flore on the Left Bank and later shop in the Latin Quarters. Dinner is open and I'm sure we will find a great little bistro that traditional French cuisine.

Day 6 - All morning at the flea markets looking for lost treasures. Have a late lunch in Montartre near Place du Terte among the artists. We'll explore the boutique shopping and look for that perfect fabric. Later we will dine medieval style on Ile. St. Louis. Much later we will walk our last night all over the streets of Paris and soak up every last minute...until next time.

Don't miss a trip of a lifetime~

We still have space available for the upcoming Shopping Tour in April 24th-30th, as well as July 17-23, and September is almost full. Follow the link to "Le Petit Paris" on the right-hand side. From there, you can look un EVENTS and find tour prices, and details.

A bientot

Galeries Lafayette View

Au Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are the two major department stores near the Opera. I enjoy shopping at the department stores simply for combining receipts from the the Maison (home), perfume, shoes, toys, etc. and take advantage of the de-tax, and 10% tourist discount. Besides the shopping, you can enjoy lunch at the roof-top terrace at Galeries Lafayette. Although the roof-top cafe is closed in winter, you can still enjoy the view.

Marche aux Puces - Flea Market

The Marche Aux Puces de Vanves, is a small and convenient flea market. You can find silverware, jewelry, antique toys, and prints. This gentleman pictured brought his piano and entertained us as we strolled through the market.

Moulin Rouge

THE most famous windmill in Paris!

Le Metro

Just another day on the Metro. This morning we woke up early to explore the Les Halles, Rue St. Honore and Place Vendome. We explored A. Simons and Dehillerin for unique kitchen and pro cooking shops. We later had a great lunch at a nearby pub.

As we made our way along Rue Honore to Place Vendome. We met up with Meredith Mullins at the Hemingway Bar at the Ritz. Meredith is photographer I met back in the States who published her photos of Paris. Meredith is now a resident of Paris and lives on Ile. Saint Louis. We all enjoyed some wonderful martinis and great stories.

cheers

Moulin Radet

There are only four remaining windmills on Montmartre's hill. During the 16th century, there were thirteen windmills that were used to crush grapes and grind grain. The only remaining vineyard in Paris is located in Montmartre and still produces grapes. Each year in October there is a harvest celebration.

Montmartre

Our first full day in Paris, and set off for Monmartre to explore the "butte" of Paris. We climbed the 200+ stairs to reach Sacre Coeur Basilica (pictured). We walked the narrow streets and uncovered an array of fabric shops, and make a couple great purchases. We made our way around, down and up the hill to find Amelie's Cafe, Les Doux Moulins, and the local grocer. We also found a darling little boutique where we made a couple great purchases, while the others sat across the street and enjoyed an adult beverage.

Later that evening, we enjoyed Paris from the River on the Seine Dinner Cruise.

Laduree

It snowed this morning, such a surprise! We all arrived safely, a bit exhausted, but here. Sorry, I haven't posted any photos, but hope to soon. I still haven't figured out the euro system and keyboard. Ugh

We set out early this morning along the Champs and discovered Marni, Chanel, Gucci and Chloe. No real big purchases, but some wonderful designs. We took a break at Laduree, which was the absolute highlight of the day. We later dined at the Tour Eiffel among the lights, it sparkles every hour.

Cheers