Yesterday you bought Emily and Elliot and at the moment you’re getting a giant ole dose of Les and Jess (aka my dad and me). He’s also referred to as DIY Dad for many who have been right here for some time 🙂 For years my dad has talked about dwelling in Paris (his and my late mother’s favourite metropolis). Then lastly final 12 months he determined to go for it for a couple of months. He booked an Airbnb in Montmartre and on January tenth, 2023 he was off. I had my worries (as a result of I’m a perpetual worrier, particularly in the case of him) however greater than something I used to be wildly happy with him. Anytime I informed a buddy what he was doing their response could be one thing alongside the strains of, “Your dad is the best.” My response would all the time be, “he actually is.” Annoyingly, he simply continues to be my hero and position mannequin:) How many people, 12 months after 12 months, say that we wish to do one thing, transfer someplace, or simply make a change, and right here is my dad at 73 saying, “f$#! it, I’m shifting to Paris.” A privilege clearly, however scary nonetheless. His girlfriend was solely going to have the ability to keep a couple of month so he had virtually an entire month on his personal, exploring this metropolis he had cherished for years. One thing that little punk from Chicago would have by no means dreamed of.

And since we’re greatest buds, I clearly wasn’t going to overlook the possibility to hang around with my dad in Paris…with a free place to remain, ha. FYI it was his concept first (or he at the very least mentioned it out loud first)! I additionally don’t take with no consideration what a particular and uncommon reward it’s to get to have this type of journey with him. It’s simple to overlook how fleeting life is. I stored reminding myself of that as I made him sit in cafes for longer than he needed, strolled by means of streets dodging canine poop, and treasure searching by means of seemingly countless flea markets and decor retailers in very chilly temperatures.

UPDATE! So after studying some feedback this morning I spotted that I wasn’t clear about my dad’s “transfer”. It was his and my mother’s dream to maneuver there earlier than she bought sick. He needed to meet that dream by getting an actual style of what life could be like in Paris. Sadly, shifting there completely is extra sophisticated than simply deciding to. Legally and in line with my dad, US residents are in a position to be in Paris for as much as three months with minimal paperwork in order that’s what he determined to do. He cherished and nonetheless loves Paris but in addition got here to understand on a deeper stage whereas he was there the significance and pleasure of being near his family members and the group he has created within the states. I used to be there with him for his final week as a Parisian:) He already misses the baguettes.  

Okay, sufficient sentimental nonsense as a result of it is a design weblog and I don’t know if you happen to’ve heard however Paris is kinda recognized for its design. To say I used to be on an endorphin excessive 75% of the time would possible be an understatement.

NOTE: Keep in mind this was my first actual time in Paris (exterior of a 24hr layover in 2019 the place my greatest buddy and I largely simply bought day drunk on the garden of the Eiffel Tower. 10/10 would suggest). So for many who have been there or reside there, I’m certain that reality can be manifestly apparent:) NOOB ALERT.

So Many Totally different Varieties Of Bistro Chairs

So earlier than we get into the classic procuring (and what I introduced again house with me!) let’s focus on how stupidly cute each. single. cafe’s. bistro. chairs. are. How are all of them totally different? Is there a secret french bistro chair manufacturing facility? Can we go?

And these had been simply the one ones I took awkward footage of! I used to be mainly a bistro chair paparazzi. I actually love these mild blue ones with that additional loop of rattan on the backrest.

Additionally these inexperienced ones? Or that loopy lengthy bench?? Or that candy plaid??? I would really like some sources, thanks.

Random Design Particulars

I imply it’s no shock that the doorways are lovely with equally lovely {hardware}. However take a look at that unbelievable bistro desk at a random cafe. I might LOVE to have that in my kitchen. I even thought the general public trash cans had been fairly and thoughtfully designed. As my dad stored saying, “the French know easy methods to do cute.”

This brings me to the procuring portion of this submit.

Village Suisse

Now, I can’t keep in mind if my dad deliberate to take me to Village Suisse that day or if we stumbled upon it, however regardless it was a enjoyable place to go searching. We had been there on a Thursday and I’d say solely 20% of the retailers (little storefronts) had been open. We did discover out later that final week was a vacation break for faculties so possibly that had one thing to do with it. However actually, enterprise hours in Paris are um, unfastened or uh, unpredictable so your guess is pretty much as good as mine. I’m certain the weekends are higher:)

I did fall for that little inexperienced pillow however because the store wasn’t open and it didn’t actually work with my lounge design, I took it as an indication to cross.

Nonetheless, this classic Murano glass striped lamp was one other story. I believe I mentioned this within the submit however in my workplace reveal, that actually gorgeous ceramic desk lamp was solely borrowed for the shoot. I used to be beneath a time crunch because it was sponsored and hadn’t discovered one but. Ceramicah doesn’t usually lend out their lamps for shoots however since they knew me they had been sort sufficient to make an exception. Additionally, have you ever seen all of the awards and press they’re getting!!? I’m so completely satisfied for them and it’s so deserved!

The draw back although has been making an attempt to exchange such a particular lamp (since that one was too far out of my price range). It has felt close to not possible. My predominant procuring aim of this journey was to discover a classic desk lamp for my desk and this was a giant contender…nevertheless it was our first day procuring and we hadn’t gone to Saint Ouen but…

Right here’s simply one other cute store and a cool design second within the village.

Versailles Particulars I Need To Steal

Naturally, we needed to go to Versailles since it will have been my first time and my dad hadn’t been contained in the palace in 25 years. I wouldn’t say February is the very best time to take a look at the gardens however clearly, I used to be extra within the interiors and getting some inspiration.

And man, do I’ve a newfound appreciation for parquet flooring! I believe I’ve simply solely seen dangerous variations in San Francisco faculty residences however these flooring have made me a believer. I would like them in my future house.

Additionally, all the ornamental ceiling trim and mouldings had been actually to die for (they had been throughout Paris however very particular right here, duh). I wish to work out easy methods to add it to my bed room ceiling. In case you have any sources please let me know within the feedback!

I even cherished the stylish simplicity of the guard rails and stair railings. Clearly, these are usually not authentic to the palace (ha) however had been achieved in a means that they quietly add to the general romantic aesthetic.

I needed to take an image of those superior topiaries for Caitlin:)

This was not at Versailles however on the restaurant on the Louvre. Whereas a bit overpriced and a complete vacationer lure, we actually cherished getting to absorb the view after we had been achieved all of the artwork. Plus we had been averaging 8 miles of strolling a day so a close-by place to eat and relaxation was extraordinarily appreciated. Additionally, this was in all probability the nicest picture we took collectively on the complete journey.

Saint Ouen

Oooooo child, lots of you informed me I needed to go right here for classic procuring/inspiration and also you had been proper. This space is a design lover’s dream and is crammed with probably the most unbelievable classic. Earlier than I left for my journey an especially sort reader and designer who lives in Paris, Allison Crawford, messaged me on Instagram and supplied to take me round. I used to be so grateful and PUMPED. Sadly, the one week I used to be there was the one week she was going to be out of city however she since she’s so candy she despatched me an inventory of issues to see within the space. Go observe her as a result of her account is gorgeous and he or she is so proficient!

From Allison:

For those who do every thing right here, anticipate to spend 2-3 hours looking the flea.

In case you are taking a cab, give them the deal with of L’Atelier 55 in St. Ouen. Put within the actual deal with. In case you are taking the metro, take the 13 to Garibaldi and stroll about 10-Quarter-hour to L’Atelier 55. You can too take the metro to St. Ouen through one other route, nevertheless, I don’t suggest that route.

Begin at L’Atelier 55 on Rue de Rosier, and peek in Maison Dumas (similar homeowners as 55 however totally different vibe). For very high-end inspiration, stroll throughout the road to Glustin. It’s inspiration gold and really costly. Excellent place to look.

After hitting these retailers on Rue de Rosier, go subsequent door to Vernison to wander round for an hour or so. This can be a typical flea market expertise with inexpensive choices than different components of the flea. Keep in mind to barter.

After Vernison, go to Serpette to stroll round inside. That is the very best inspiration and it’s la creme de l creme of Parisian classic and antiques. There’s every thing from De Sede sofas to classic Chanel jewellery to LV trunks. It’s my completely satisfied place!

After you stroll round Serpette, go exterior to Paul Bert to stroll all of the out of doors stalls. This may take you 30 minutes to an hour.

After that, go to Mob Resort or Paul Bart cafe for drinks and a meal if hungry.

This was the primary place we stopped at 80 Rue de Rosier. I can’t work out the identify and don’t wish to get it fallacious in order that’s the deal with. It was extra of an architectural salvage spot with INCREDIBLE items. I didn’t discover till about 10 minutes in that pictures weren’t allowed in a lot of the areas so that is all I bought.

Have a look at that rattan pendant and all these gorgeous mirrors alongside the wall! I additionally cherished that little sconce and virtually requested how a lot that small mirror was however rapidly realized I didn’t even have a spot in my home for it. It jogged my memory of Em’s classic mirror:)

Paul Bert

Paul Bert is now my completely satisfied place too and I could by no means be the identical. It’s simply stall after stall of probably the most lovely issues. My dad was sooooo affected person with my painfully sluggish tempo. I used to be simply making an attempt to take all of it in!

Sorry for the horrible and never tremendous inspiring pics. I bought nervous about taking pics after that first spot and didn’t wish to make anybody mad. I actually hate entering into bother and generally make up guidelines for myself that aren’t all the time even actual. SMH. I promise this place is precise magic. However understandably not cheap. I’m manifesting having at the very least $10k to spend subsequent time I’m going so I can actually indulge. How I’ll get that cash I have no idea. Miracles occur proper??

I did, nevertheless, make one teeny tiny buy and that was a studio drawing by Lebanese artist, Joseph Terdjian for two euros. Since I didn’t have something however a big tote to hold it in, it bought actually crinkled. To ease my unhappiness and disgrace, I’m telling myself it offers it character…

The Flea Half

This was the standard feal market space Allison was speaking about. Once more, don’t rent me as your photographer. We had been fairly beat by this level within the day nevertheless it was enjoyable to stroll round for a bit. Had I had extra power I might have achieved some actual digging.

Le BHV / Marais

Okay, so those that reside in Paris would possibly chuckle at my love for this retailer however I don’t care. My god, I want it existed right here. It has every thing. You will get there straight from the 1 or 11 metro line off of the Hôtel-de-Ville cease the place you may be welcomed by a house enchancment part. Please see under.

Now, it’s not that we will’t get issues like this within the US, however right here it’s multi functional place, the place you’ll be able to see and contact with your individual eyes and fingers!

Have a look at how fairly this {hardware} is! This isn’t a reduction retailer by any means however the choice is so good for brand spanking new items. These pictures are absolutely the tip of the iceberg.

You then go up a couple of flooring and head to the decor part the place you’re greeted with all of the lights you’ve drooled over on the web however possibly haven’t seen in individual, or at the very least not altogether in a single place like this. I used to be very tempted by these lamps above for my desk however had my coronary heart set on one thing classic.

Even my dad was overwhelmed with design pleasure! JK he was prepared for me to be achieved. Sorry, dad. I virtually purchased a bit triangle pillow for I believe 30 euros however stopped myself as a result of I knew I used to be in an adrenaline overload. I stored repeating to myself, “simply since you prefer it and it’s from Paris doesn’t imply you want it.” I really mentioned that to myself most in every single place we went.

Y’all this division retailer even had a great classic part. DEAD.

I additionally thought-about that black and white desk lamp for 320 euros but in addition determined it wasn’t proper. Did I textual content Julie and Caitlin each time I noticed a lamp? Principally. They helped me off the adrenaline design ledge a couple of occasions. Whereas my dad has an incredible eye he’s of the “if you happen to like, purchase it” college of thought. Dad, I like EVERYTHING, I must be additional discerning!

And listed here are another pictures of fairly issues as a result of this retailer had countless fairly issues.

You wanna know what else this retailer had?? A gallery exhibit of unbelievable Ukranian artists – L’artwork de la resilience. Right here is an article about it. I cherished every thing however these ceramic items had been undoubtedly a favourite.

In case you are in Paris the exhibit is on for a pair extra days! You’ve got till March fifth.

We ended up having to return later as a result of a safety tag was left on a shirt my dad purchased and sadly for him, the place we entered was a ferm LIVING show and I wanted to test it out.

I’ve been a ferm LIVING fan for years (my navy velvet pouf and one in all my candelabras are from them) and to get to see all of this product really in individual was superior. I LOVED that striped chair and cupboard. Completely chunky:)

What I Purchased

On our first journey there, I really hadn’t purchased something up thus far (sorry this submit will not be in complete chronological order) and I used to be very drawn to this brass cleaning soap dispenser. Look, I actually adore it however was it well worth the 98 euros?? Nicely, I suppose it doesn’t matter now. Ha. The standard is nice and it’s actually fairly. Not an enormous remorse.

These candlesticks had been from our journey again and as you’ll be able to see they’re ferm LIVING. I cherished the colours and contemplating I personal WAY TOO MANY candlestick holders and candelabras, I believed why not?! For 15 euros it was a great name since they’re more durable to search out on-line.

The Flea Market We Had Been Wanting For

To nobody’s shock, I wasn’t achieved looking for flea markets. I figured because it was Sunday there needed to be a great one. So I made a decision to verify TikTok (don’t decide me) for assist and boy did it lead me to a gold mine. Now, the account I noticed mentioned to get there when it begins at 7… I say don’t get there at 7. We bought there at 8ish and just some distributors had been organising. Certain you would possibly cease a gem, however 9/ 9:30 is a lot early, at the very least within the winter. Possibly in the summertime when it’s not freezing, distributors are keen to open up earlier. I’m certain my dad would now like credit score for telling me there was “no means” a Paris flea market would begin at 7. Superb dad, you had been proper. So to not catch frostbite, we went to a restaurant close by for a restaurant au lait and a croissant for about an hour. He was such a champ as a result of we weren’t correctly dressed and he hung in there as I as soon as once more slowly scoured every sales space. I used to be in heaven. I needs to be clear that he additionally loves these items A LOT. Nonetheless, he likes to blow by means of and I prefer to rigorously absorb every thing.

This was the deal with I put in my cellphone and it was off the 13 metro, Porte de Vanves cease: 16-18 Av. Georges Lafenestre, 75014 Paris, France.

Nice sconce, even higher mirror. Sadly didn’t want both.

Two superior lights that I handed on.

My father plotting my dying however too chilly to give attention to any follow-through.

A mirror I WISH I may have introduced again with me and two cute candlesticks. Don’t fear I didn’t purchase them. I do know I’ve sufficient.

Bizarre however superior pendants I needed and sconces that jogged my memory of Birdie’s room (that I could have by accident texted Em about at 3 am her time. WHOOPS!)

Plates I might have purchased in a second if I may have simply introduced them again with me and a cupboard with cute toes.

Wanna see what I really purchased???

What I Purchased

A sconce for my hallway for less than 20 euros! Have a look at that candy pull string. It technically wants shades so yow will discover me scrolling by means of Etsy for the foreseeable future. I did additionally purchase the correct lightbulbs that price about one other 20 euros.

I bought each of those artwork items for 10 euros complete. I believe that black and white drawing is so fairly and whereas that wine bottle nonetheless life may simply learn “dangerous generic artwork,” it’s an actual portray on a sturdy board that I believe will look actually cute float framed in my kitchen.

Clearly, I needed to come house with a design e book and this sq., impartial cutie caught my eye. I ought to have negotiated down however I paid 15 euros for it. No regrets:)

Now I’m nonetheless a bit on the fence with this one and I’ll inform you why. First off, if you happen to don’t know what it’s it’s a foot hotter that I bought for 20 euros (down from 30). My plan is to chop out the again and canopy my lounge’s nonfunctional change and functioning thermostat with it. They’re complete eyesores. Functionally that is nice as a result of I can open the entrance after I wish to use my thermostat which isn’t tremendous typically, after which hold it closed and fake it’s not there after I’m not utilizing it. I’m simply unsure if the brass is correct and suppose it is likely to be stylistically not what I really need. I’m not going to chop it till I’m certain and if I’m going a special course my dad needs it. Win-win.

Oh, I’m so enthusiastic about this little change I bought for 20 euros (down from 22:))! I’ve a giant sconce on the primary wall of my lounge that you just haven’t seen but and it’s managed by this not-as-pretty generic change. So my dad and I are going to make a cool plate to cowl the rectangle gap after which mount this change on high of that. It’s going to look a lot cooler and really particular…I hope.

Right here we’re after braving the chilly flea market, making an attempt to really feel our noses on the metro house. In complete, I spent about 85 euros (plus 20 for blubs) which I’m very happy about. What a excessive!

Different Lights I Seemed At

All through the week we hit a couple of different lighting shops. This classic store, La Calinière, was cool however arduous to actually see what was in there as a result of it was so full of little to no pathways. These lights had been on the entrance of the shop which is how I bought to them. The desk lamp was 350 euros and I didn’t ask concerning the sconce as a result of I knew I didn’t need it.

This store, Yonoil, was in my dad’s neighborhood however we stored lacking the opening hours. He was excited to point out me as a result of he and his girlfriend had purchased some lights from there. Very cute however no cube for me.

So did I get a lamp for my desk??? I certain did:)

THE LAMP I BOUGHT

It’s a narrative as outdated as time. Lady sees her first classic lamp in Paris, she’s nervous she wants to have a look at all the opposite choices, no different choice lived as much as the primary one, she will get first lamp. So this beautiful, Murano glass lamp is mine! Now it wasn’t low-cost. My dad was the literal greatest and supplied to purchase it for me. It price 650 euros. I don’t deserve him. It additionally was fairly the scene of us packing it up as a result of we couldn’t discover a field that was a carry-on dimension so I wanted to verify it. I used to be nervous my complete flight. However y’all it bought right here in a single piece and I lovingly look at it on my desk each few seconds. Caitlin needed me to purchase the lamp as quickly as I despatched it to her:)

Oh, and the store proprietor Beatrice was so fantastic. Right here is her Instagram if you’re in Paris!

Then my dad really noticed this Thirties tray as he was shopping for the lamp. I immediately fell in love. I paid for that although, clearly. It was 50 euros.

And at last, this was my dad’s cute house. Tremendous cozy, stuffed with classic, and had a ton of character. Very like my father as confirmed under.

I didn’t learn his PJ shirt until possibly our closing night time and burst out laughing. So whereas a VERY cringe shirt, the phrases aren’t fallacious. He’s in truth superb and I don’t suppose I’ve totally processed what a enjoyable and funky week we had but. We did nevertheless agree that it was the very best. For those who ever get an opportunity to fulfill Les Bunge you’re a fortunate one and if you happen to ever get the possibility to go to Paris, uh, GO.

Oh, another story that will have been probably the most unbelievable a part of the journey! On our second or third day, we had been getting off the metro to go someplace and as we had been strolling down the road a gal stopped me. I believed she was making an attempt to ask for instructions which I used to be at first actually apologetic about since I didn’t know Paris or any french for that matter. However then she requested if my identify was Jess. She acknowledged me from Instagram and needed to say hello. I used to be shocked! My dad was shocked! We couldn’t consider it! That has by no means occurred to me earlier than. Not solely did a Parisian know who I used to be however she was additionally simply the sweetest. So Marie (I’m sorry if I misunderstood your identify!) it was an absolute pleasure assembly you and thanks for making me look cool in entrance of my dad:)

I hope this was a enjoyable Friday learn and that you just would possibly even be impressed to make a journey together with your dad or mum or a member of the family. Caitlin and Brenda are huge followers too:) I do know it’s not all the time simple to make time however life is brief. Go on an journey if you happen to can and bonus factors if it entails a number of flea markets. Au revoir, from Les and me.

Love you, imply it.

The submit Jess (And Her Dad, Les) Take Paris! Get All The Classic Recs, Design Items, And See Her Haul appeared first on Emily Henderson.