I recently spent 10 days in Europe over the holidays, including Christmas in Paris. I’ve been to Paris many times, but never during the holiday season, and I was overwhelmed  at how beautiful and festive the city was.  A simple walk in the evening rain on the Champs-Élysées was beyond breathtaking and magical, especially as the red tree lights reflected on the wet pavement. There was a peaceful stillness in the air, despite the random yellow vest protesters that we saw. People were happy to be out in the streets enjoying the beauty of the city.

The Marche de Noël in the Tuilerie Gardens was a complete and utter surprise. I’d heard about the Christmas markets in Paris, but this far exceeded my expectations. An outdoor carnival… at Christmas? Genius. It was around 8:00 in the evening and completely packed. This event alone would be worth a trip to Paris again next year. It had something for everyone: great food, fun rides, hand painted Christmas ornaments and laughter and smiles by the truckload.

Notre-Dame has always been a favorite place no matter what time of year. But the tall purple blue Christmas tree gave it a little something extra. And when the bells began to ring, everyone grabbed for their phones to take a little video and or selfie. I was struck by the kindness of everyone  willing to help each other out, as they offered to take photos of others so that everyone could share in that special holiday photo. It truly embodied the Christmas  spirit.

Opposite the courtyard of Notre Dame is the Prefecture de Police, beautifully lit in Frances red white & blue color theme. My partner and I took a great photo in front of the building and posted  to or social media accounts on New Years eve… but you’ll need to go to my Instagram account @romicortier to see that version.

The Art nouveau dome at  Galeries Lafayette is stunning in its own right. Add in lights strings hanging from the ceiling  that twinkle  to the music as they  float above a massive Christmas tree, and it’s truly enchanting.  I will admit that I didn’t have the courage to step out on that plexiglass plank for a paid photo, so I opted for one taken by the banister.

I’ll be rolling out a lot more photos and stories during the coming weeks,  including time spent  in Venice, and Florence.

I hope 2019 is a banner year for everyone, and I thank you so much  for following my Design Diary. Happy New Year!