My Paper World By Shell

I had learned long ago that visiting someone without bringing a gift simply wasn’t done. Having watched The Chateau Diaries since 2019 (during COVID), I knew I couldn’t arrive empty-handed. I had also followed Cadeaux at the Chateau, where people sent gifts from around the world. The videos not only showcased these thoughtful offerings—ranging from homemade treasures to thrifted finds and personal additions to the château’s collections—but also raised money for charity, as Stephanie donated the earnings each month. I loved seeing the unique gifts they received: themed Christmas ornaments, pillows, clothing, jewelry, glassware, fine china, and beautifully sewn or crocheted pieces.

For years, I had thought about sending something myself, but life always got in the way. When I found out we’d be visiting, I immediately knew what I wanted to bring. I chose a Texas apron adorned with bluebonnets and a European cookbook I had cherished since 1986 for Marie, coasters with Texas wildflowers for Natalia and Amaury’s engagement gift, and finally, a special piece of my own family’s history—glassware that had belonged to my grandmother. The set included six highball glasses with six matching shot glasses, decorated with a stunning green design and raised gold detailing. They were a perfect match for the Winter Salon and would be ideal for their mini bar. Though I had never used them myself, I loved the thought of them finding a new home in a 15th-century château in France, where they would be appreciated and enjoyed.

I also knew that Stephanie and Philip would truly cherish them. After dinner, I presented the gifts, and it was a joy to contribute to their happiness.

How the pages came together.

I wanted to use the gold paper from Stampin’ Up!’s Nature’s Sweetness DSP to complement the rim of the China plates and tie it in with the bee motif. I had worn earrings with flowers and a bee on them, and they perfectly matched the napkin ring holders! I was absolutely delighted!

I drew inspiration for the Bloom Impressions DSP pink paper from the cloth napkins and the table itself. Using the Unbounded Beauty stamp and die set, I mirrored the roses from the tablecloth, creating layered flowers with SU Pretty in Pink, CTMH Flamingo, and Candy Apple ink. To add some extra detail, I included a pull-out menu and a pull-out story from the Grow With Love die set, creating a special envelope to hold the story. Of course, I couldn’t resist adding a touch of CTMH shimmer brushes to the flowers for that extra sparkle! For the menu and story, I used the Keeping Tabs stamp and die set to tie everything together beautifully.