I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
Hello friends…I’m making a change in my life and Mother’s Day seems an appropriate time to share it. I am returning to my roots and will be using my French family surname Zehnacker (pronounced: ZEN-ah-kerr) from now on. This honors my matriline: my mother, grandmother, great grandmother etc…as well as my Alsatian heritage. This is something I’ve been considering for many years, and it finally feels like the right time. The reasoning behind it is a bit complex and I’ll save that conversation for another time, but I am proud to connect to my ancestry in this way and continue their legacy.
We made a special trip to New York City specifically for the Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure exhibit. Henry has admired Jean-Michel’s art since he was a toddler (thanks to this book) and I knew we couldn’t miss it. Organized and curated by his family (mainly, his sisters) – it is a rare and intimate look into his life and work. Featuring over 200 rare and never-before-seen paintings, drawings, ephemera and artifacts, it is unlike any previous exhibit of his art. We purchased our tickets online a month in advance, and I’m so glad we did – it has been selling out daily. It was such a treat to see these works up close, as well as get a glimpse into his childhood, personal interests, and famous studio.
Today is La Féte du Muguet, a French holiday which dates back to the Renaissance. The tradition is to give bouquets of lily of the valley as a porte-bonheur (good luck charm) and to welcome spring. The day is also a public holiday to campaign for and celebrate workers rights (à la Labor Day). These beauties were found in our own backyard (at our new home), a discovery that brought me to tears. They happen to be one of my favorite flowers, representing my French heritage and having such a bold, enveloping scent while looking so delicate. Bon 1er mai, as they say…”may” this season bring you joy!
As a devout Francophile and mother, I can honestly say that I would be thrilled to receive any of the items on this list! I always enjoy curating French-inspired gift guides, and this one is dedicated to les mamans, but of course can serve as inspiration for any special female or friend in your life. Mother’s Day is upon us in the states and fête des mères falls at the end of the month in France. This guide does contain some affiliate links which help support the work that goes on behind the scenes here and @thefrancophiles. Thank you et merci for your community love and happy shopping mes amis!
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1. this luxe candle is the scent of luck + happiness, made in the iconic Trudon wax factory!
2. meaning grandmother, this soap is made in Marseille with organic shea butter.
3. handcrafted in Paris, this keychain is a useful, daily reminder of love and affection.
4. perfect for “mom”ogramming, this coin clutch is a practical French-inspired gift!
I never miss an opportunity to visit Albertine Books when in New York City. The “best bookstore in France” is tucked away inside the historic Payne Whitney mansion, just down from the MET on Fifth Avenue. Since it’s located within Cultural Services for the French Embassy, you’re technically standing on French soil while browsing for books. Within the two-story structure you will find carefully curated English translations of French literature, French language publications, and more than 14,000 contemporary and classic titles from thirty French-speaking countries. Rare books, elegant leather chairs, busts crafted by the ateliers of the Musée du Louvre, and a mesmerizing hand-painted ceiling mural of constellations add to the myriad of reasons why it is a sanctuary and delight for any Francophile, or bibliophile!
