Prepping for Our French Tours

What an extraordinary year it has been for our French Country Home Tours. Together we have wandered through fragrant lavender fields, strolled the elegant streets of Paris, admired the charm of Normandy, and enjoyed the coastal beauty of Brittany. We even embarked on our very first journey across the Channel to England. Each trip has been a true delight, and with next year’s departures already filling quickly, including our first adventure in Morocco, the anticipation continues to grow.

But before we get to 2026, we still have two tours left this year and behind the scenes, our final preparations are carefully underway. Every reservation is confirmed in advance, whether for restaurants, gardens, châteaux, or ateliers. Years of experience have taught me that thoughtful communication with our trusted partners ensures that everything flows seamlessly, allowing our guests to simply relax and enjoy each moment without a care.

Our September tour will be especially enchanting, as we welcome floral designer and photographer Janne Ford. On the morning before our guests arrive, you will find me at the Paris flower market, gathering armfuls of seasonal blooms to use in our floral workshops. I also love to add dahlias clipped from my own garden, so that everyone has a beautiful assortment to create their own bouquet to enjoy during their stay.

Another cherished tradition is our welcome aperitif on the first evening. We raise a glass of champagne together, share laughter, and present each guest with a thoughtful welcome gift alongside a printed itinerary. This little booklet serves not only as a daily guide but also as a keepsake to treasure long after the trip is over.

And then there are the personal touches. I am making my own final choices about what to pack, mindful of our relaxed-chic dress code, evening dinners, and practical shoes for exploring gardens. In this way, I prepare alongside our guests, sharing in the same anticipation.

After thirteen years of leading these tours, the thrill of welcoming new friends, and reconnecting with returning ones, never diminishes. The loyalty of our guests inspires us to keep seeking out hidden treasures, new experiences, and fresh discoveries to share. Many of our travelers remain in touch with one another and plan future adventures together, which means our tours often feel less like organized journeys and more like joyful reunions among friends.