I ♥ brooklyn

brooklyn-bridge-black-and-white

 

I recently escaped to NYC (solo) for a few meetings, and spent an inspiring 48 hours in Brooklyn. I was lucky enough to stay at a good friend’s place while she was in Paris (le sigh), and got to know a new (and lovely) neighborhood. Believe it or not, of all the times I’ve been to New York in my life, I’d never walked the Brooklyn Bridge – I can check that off my list! I’m quite proud of myself, considering I could see through the planks and fought my fear of heights big time. (I was the crazy person talking and humming to myself along the way to stay calm). I wandered around Prospect Heights, Williamsburg, Cobble Hill, + Dumbo…stopping at almost every coffee shop and consuming copious amounts of espresso. Brooklyn is rich with inspiration–I would live there in a heartbeat. I’m excited to return with the family sometime soon! If you’re planning a visit,  you can see my adventures + day trip suggestions over on steller!

a day in brooklyn

abbaye de fleury

fleury-abbey-france

saint-benoit-france

 

Abbaye de Fleury is a very special place for me. I’m not religious, but I find myself at this historic church every time I visit France. My brother introduced me to it upon my first visit to his town, Sully Sur Loire, as it is minutes away. It had me at Fleury. Founded in 640 (yes you read that correctly), this Benedictine monastery is incredibly peaceful and humbling…it captivates me. I’m sharing excerpts of my experiences there, via my travel journal…the full story is on steller.

alsace france

colmar-france

 

It’s been a few years since I’ve visited the Alsace-Lorraine region of France, but it is always with me. My maternal great-grandparents were born in Strasbourg, so the area has always felt comfortable and familiar. With only the Rhine River separating it from Germany, it looks (and sounds) German, but is, at it’s core, passionately French. The architecture, culture, food and people inspire me – it’s an amazing place. I recently revisited my time there on Steller…take a look!

merci paris

merci-paris

merci-shop-fiat

For a memorable shopping experience in Paris, you simply must visit Merci in the Haut-Marais. From the moment you enter the courtyard, their trademark red fiat creates a cheery + modern atmosphere. The concept store opened in 2009, brought to you by the founders of my favorite French children’s label, Bonpoint. Merging design, fashion, dining, and incredible art installations under one roof is no easy feat, but they pull it off effortlessly. The best part–their net income is donated to socially disadvantaged children in Madagascar. A design mecca with a philanthropic vocation? Yes please!

merci-paris-decor

The lofty home furnishings section of the store makes my heart go pitter patter. I could have spent days devouring every item. From design classics to avant-garde conversation pieces, there is something for everyone. I wanted to buy sheets in every color of their delicious linen. While most of it is beyond the reach of my wallet, I didn’t leave without a few affordable souvenirs (I recommend the postcards, illustrated maps, and stationary items).  Of course, their online store (launched in 2013), ships to the states! Don’t miss grabbing a bite at one of the three cafés in their space…my personal favorite is the used book café, with a cozy + comfortable vibe. I still think about the dippy egg dish and rose lemonade I had, along with the delightful company of my friend Amy. My mouth is watering just looking at this photo.

oeuffs-en-cocotte

merci-cafe

Each visit is unique, thanks to their frequent floor moves and artist installations. The red fiat changes seasonally as well, and is always a fun surprise. You never know what you’ll see, from holiday decor, to boats, to a giant wig! If you’d like to see more photos, head over to steller for my latest story, and be sure to add Merci to your next Paris itinerary!

 

Merci | 111 boulevard Beaumarchais 75003 Paris