Paris Photo Diary: A 40th Birthday to Remember

{Bistrot des Tournelles}

Paris has always held a certain kind of magic for me. It is, after all, where we kicked off my mom’s 60th birthday trip years ago, plus it’s where we celebrated our first year of marriage (wherein I found out I was pregnant!). And this Paris family vacation was of no exception. Truly, it was everything I dreamed of and more, I’m still on cloud 9.

To celebrate my 40th birthday, my mom, my five-year-old, and I flew to Paris for a few unforgettable days before my husband and my mom’s partner met us for one final whirlwind together. Justin arrived on our last day bearing the sweetest gifts, and I felt spoiled beyond measure the whole way through.

From buttery croissants for breakfast, to cobblestone strolls, as well as high-tea at Le Meurice (a surprise gift arranged by my sweet girlfriends), every moment felt touched by magic. Seeing Paris through our daughter’s eyes (the Eiffel Tower twinkling at night, the carousels sprinkled throughout) made it all the more special. I even introduced her to Berthillon ice cream, which was an experience that led me to believe I was pregnant the first time around (you can read about that here, if you’d like) – such a full circle moment.

Traveling with three generations, surrounded by love and beauty, reminded me exactly why I adore this city. Here’s a peek at our trip to Paris, in photos.

A FEW THINGS I PACKED:

{The carousel in jardin des tuileries}

{We always travel carry-on only, so I opt for neutral pieces I can mix and match – here are a few things I packed}

{There’s a vintage photo booth in the Galeries Lafayette – the one on the Champs-Élysées}

{Christian Dior’s desk}

{Le Meurice}

{The *best* travel buddy}