Three times a year I pay this beautiful French city a visit. It is usually a flying visit and there is never much time for sight seeing the wonderful historical sights, and barely time to enjoy the many amazing restaurants.

Since I began my business in 1994 I have travelled to the Paris fairs and city to visit our different suppliers who do not attend the trade fairs. I make it my business to visit the antique markets and fabric houses to see the latest collections. Each and every-one so inspiring, I always come back from my sourcing trips charged up and raring to go!

This year I saw a huge change at the Paris fairs. Sadly a lot of the companies I used to deal with have fallen victim to the recession years as they were often small bespoke companies and could not compete with the larger manufacturers. Other companies have been bought out by investors and have been forced to focus on the commercial side of design, and I am afraid a lot of them have lost their magic.

On a positive note some new craftspeople have made contact with us to introduce themselves and what they design. Bespoke companies with great talent and ideas. They cannot afford to be involved in the big fairs so instead many of them take over and dress amazing apartments in the center of Paris to show off their beautiful creations. This gives me a great excuse to spend even more time in the city.

I love to potter around the antique markets for inspiration, a lot of the beautiful antiques get snapped up quickly. Luckily I have good relationships with many antique dealers in France which allows me to see their collections before they reach the markets.

Overall it was a great trip, I collected lots of ideas for our current projects which are all so varied in style. We sourced stunning furniture, bedding, lighting, mirrors, and lots of quirky accessories to dress some of our soon to be completed projects.

FYI;  Our first image is an original over door mantel plaque – it would have originally been incorporated into a French panelled room.

Until we visit again…. Au Revoir Paris !

Miriam (aka Minnie)