Tag Archives: francophile

my little paris feature

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As a long time reader and fan of everything My Little Paris does, I was thrilled when they recently launched their latest brand addition, a weekly English newsletter delivering a delightful Francophile fix straight to your inbox. Speaking of Francophiles…today’s edition features none other than…@thefrancophiles! It’s such an honor to have the community recognized in such a big way. The piece is focused on the sexiest French pastries outside of France – you might not want to read it if you’re hungry. As an added bonus, one of my own images was included in the piece (a shout-out to my local fav, Parc). If you’re not familiar with My Little Paris, check out this fun introductory video, sign up for an edition (or two, or all) and explore their site. Fair warning: you’ll get blissfully lost for hours. Go French Yourself.

see the full feature here

francophile gift guide

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If you’re reading this blog post, you most likely have many Francophile friends to shop for – this gift guide is for you! My passion for all things French is well known (and was the inspiration for starting this blog, after all) and I stand behind each one of these selections. I either own them or covet them myself (ahem Santa), so you can feel confident about any and all of them! Also, if you’re not already, be sure to follow @thefrancophiles for the best French-inspired moments, places, and people. I may be a bit biased, but I might also be right (wink). Happy shopping mes amis! 

 

1.   explore the city of light through the eyes of bibliophiles with these literary Paris postcards by Obvious State.

2.   nobody does mustard better than Maille, and this “mustards on tap” gift set is perfect for the holidays.

3.   for the glam girl in your life, this maxi palette by French icon Sonia Rykiel for Lancôme should do the trick!

4.   what could be more perfect than a handmade, France-shaped cutting board?! hashtag hostess gift.

5.   inspired by French body care + handcrafted in Seattle, anything from French Girl Organics is a treat.

6.   coloring books are both fun and relaxing – the Paris Street Style is a great choice.

7.   exhale and escape with the Secret Paris coloring book – even better when paired with pencils!

8.   this festive candle from Diptyque is filled with the incredible scent of a lush, pine-laden forest.

9.   pour les enfants or the sweet littles in your life…look no further than this all-natural croissant shaped teether!

10. no holiday cheese board is complete without a Laguiole cheese knives – get the party started!

11.  for the older tots, the Paris pop-out set by Petit Collage is what little Francophiles dreams are made of.

desktop fleurish | la rentrée

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September means it’s time for la rentrée, or “the return”, a French expression (and time of year) which I happen to love. The French know how to do summer (and really, life in general) right – it seems the entire country is on vacation, especially in August. This time of year brings certain rituals with it: mainly, getting back to work and school full-time. This beautiful desktop wallpaper designed by Lindsey Buck of The Hive Studio will help you to embrace it. Each month we highlight a French word or phrase…check out all the designs here. Download both versions of the FREE design here:

simple desktop | calendar desktop

please note that these designs are for personal use only + not available for commercial usage.

 

hotel fauchère

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I’m forever seeking a Francophile fix wherever I am, and was thrilled to recently discover the lovely Hotel Fauchère, only two hours away from us in Pennsylvania. Situated in the historic and quaint town of Milford, the hotel is a sophisticated retreat for those seeking both relaxation and culinary delights. The bar was set high in 1852 by founder Louis Fauchère, master chef at famed Delmonico’s in New York, and his legacy lives on. The hotel is a proud member of Relais & Châteaux, a global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants. In doing my research, I discovered that they evaluate members by the “five C’s”: character, courtesy, calm, charm, and cuisine. After visiting the Fauchère, I really think they should add a sixth C: curb appeal. Allow me to give you a little tour of this beautiful place!

 

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The Fauchére has a long and fascinating history centered around cuisine, and features two restaurants. The Delmonico Room is named after Louis Fauchere’s friends and former employers, the Delmonico brothers. The brothers, who were French-speaking natives from Switzerland (as was Louis), opened their famed restaurant in New York in the 1820’s. It was the first dining establishment in America to be called by the French term, “restaurant”, and went on to become known for some of the most famous American culinary traditions. This room is an homage to them, and is beautifully appointed with vintage treasures and furnishings. Bar Louis is the place to be in the evening, where you can enjoy a cocktail and an incredible dining experience, thanks to executive chef Michael Glatz. Gracing the bar is an incredible photograph of John Lennon and Andy Warhol, and the backstory is fascinating (you’ll just have to go find out for yourself, wink).

 

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We (my husband and I) began each morning in the sunroom, where they offer a delicious complimentary breakfast. In addition to their house made yogurt, the grapefruit brulée elevates le petit dej to a new level. I highly recommend ordering the cheddar and scallion scramble as well – miam miam! Adjacent to the hotel is Patisserie Fauchere, a charming coffee house and cafe, which supplies the delicious breads and pastries for the day. After breakfast, plan your day in the conservatory overlooking the gardens…there is so much to explore in and around Milford! With a plethora of elegant boutiques and antique shops, great hiking, stunning waterfalls, and many historic sites, there is no shortage of activities. We especially enjoyed the Waterwheel Cafe (be sure to explore the grist mill), the Columns Museum, and Francophile and nature lover’s haven, Grey Towers. It’s a fine example of French architecture and the grounds are incredible.

 

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tour de france

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The countdown to Le Tour de France has begun! I started watching around 2004 (despite not even owning a bike) and my love for it has grown each year since. This is the ONLY sport I think about, look forward to, and obsess over. I’m a hardcore Francophile, so…DUH. However, there are many other reasons why this race gets me going. The lead up to it, the excitement, the preparation of all involved. The stamina and athleticism required to withstand even one day (with or without drugs) amazes me. Seeing the different regions and towns in France is a highlight for me – this year, the race begins at Mont-Saint-Michel, so I’m anticipating stunning scenery. I’ve been grooming the kids for a few years, and they’re finally old enough to watch it with me! Even if it’s for a few minutes, I’ll take what I can get. Vive le Tour!

this amazing graphic is by dave foster…you can buy the print here!