ladurée with kids – nyc edition

laduree-soho-winter-garden

 

As I’ve said many times, I never miss an opportunity to go to Ladurée when in NYC. I most often find myself at the Soho location since it’s one of my favorite neighborhoods, and they have such ample, beautiful dining spaces. I couldn’t wait to give the kids another experience – having been fortunate enough to experience the flagship in Paris, they knew they were in for a treat. As soon as Henry + Marie heard the words Ladurée + macarons, they were giddy with anticipation (as was I, bien sur). I was equally thrilled to dine in the (recently) winterized outdoor garden, flooded with natural light….the kind that photographers dream of and seek out, especially in this often dreary season. I got a bit snap happy, it was so dreamy!

 

laduree-with-kids

laduree-crayons

marie-coloring

 

I’m such a sucker for anything with a Ladurée logo on it, and we were all pretty excited about these exclusive little coloring books + crayons. It really helped keep the kids entertained while waiting for our tea + treats, which in turn makes for a more enjoyable time for mommy + daddy! We ordered tea for us (marie antoinette pour moi, melange for my mr. fleurishing), hot chocolate for the kids, and of course, macarons. We were pleasantly surprised when we also received their latest pastry creation, the honey tart. It’s a limited edition treat that certainly gets you in the mood for spring.

 

laduree-tablescape

laduree-honey-tart

 

I must admit that even though Marie was born an old soul, she still shocks us at times with her maturity and grace. She was very excited to use a big girl teacup, and while we were a bit apprehensive about it (hello potential hot chocolate disaster), she handled it like a pro. Henry was more interested in the macarons of course, especially his precious green pistachio ones (as evidenced below and in this video). Many thanks to Ladurée for having us, we had such a lovely time!

 

marie-with-hot-chocolate

marie-drinking

henry-with-macaron

 

this post is sponsored by ladurée…as always, all words + opinions are my own.

breakfast at parc

espresso

parc-restaurant-breakfast-menu

 

I always seek out bits and pieces of Paris, no matter where I am. Locally in Philadelphia, I get my Francophile fix at Parc. Overlooking the iconic Rittenhouse Square, you’re quickly transported the moment you step foot inside the door. Whether you’re seated inside on a cozy red leather banquette or among their numerous quaint bistro tables, you’re in for a treat. Offering an authentic French bistro experience, the atmosphere is just as French as the food. As you can imagine, when they reached out and invited me for breakfast, my answer was a swift and resounding “yes please”. In fact, Mr. Fleurishing and I decided to make it a belated Valentine’s day date in the city…click through to see our delicious déjeuner!

 

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mes petits valentins

henry-et-marie

 

These two melt my heart on any given day, but this particular moment from Paris just about kills me. I’ve never shared it before, but it is one of our absolute favorites. We were going for a stroll after our lovely brunch at Ladurée and stopped to plan our route. This moment is completely candid, believe it or not. Thank goodness Ashley Ludaescher is such an amazing photographer – not only did she see it coming, but she captured it beautifully as well. Henry and Marie are my forever valentines, but it warms my heart to know that they are also each other’s. Forever and always, a beautiful love.

bonne saint-valentin | happy valentine’s day

bon weekend

parchment-stars-caramels

 

I’m looking forward to quality time with family this weekend – after a week of both my husband and I traveling + the kids and I coming down with a killer cold, it’s much needed. Not to mention, it’s Valentine’s Day weekend! Not that we ever need an excuse to smother our loved ones with hugs and kisses, but this holiday makes it all sweeter, don’t you think? I photographed the treats you see above yesterday, after receiving the sweetest (pun intended) surprise package from my lovely friend Jill. She makes the most amazing caramels I’ve ever had in my life, no joke…and I may or may not be eating these caramels with my coffee this morning. As my Mom (and many others) always say…”life is short, eat dessert first”. After finishing this book this week, that sentiment couldn’t be felt any more heavily right now (and it’s a best seller for good reason). Hug your loved ones tightly, savor every day, and make someone feel extra special this weekend.

BON WEEKEND!

coup de foudre

a heart day playlist

the worst valentine’s day

last-minute valentines for kids

life lessons: what’s your love language?