The moments we miss when we’re rushing ✨

Every time I go to Paris, I tell myself I’m going to spend most of my time in the flea markets. And I do! You know I could dig through old papers and vintage treasures for days on end. 

But the funny thing is… Paris always has other plans 😂🙈

I’ll be walking toward a market, and suddenly a little storefront will catch my eye. Maybe it’s the linens stacked in the window, or the way the light hits a row of books, or someone arranging French beauty products like little pieces of art. 

And just like that, I’m inside. Wandering, taking it in, letting myself be surprised.

These little corners of the city I found simply because I was curious always end up being some of my favorite memories! And they’re the places I literally dream about when I get back home and can’t wait to get back and shop more at! 

For example…have you ever heard of Monoprix? It’s basically the Target of Paris, and juuuust like going to Target here in the US, I end up wandering the aisles, swooning over things I absolutely did not plan on buying. 

I was starting to dream up the itinerary for my 2026 Paris retreat, and jotting down this list made me realize something I forget all the time in regular life too: inspiration usually shows up when I let go of “the plan” a little and allow space to notice what’s right in front of me. 

Seriously, I’ll be grocery shopping and suddenly stop because the citrus display looks like a whole color palette 😍 Or I’ll walk past a little boutique and get pulled in by a pretty window, even though I wasn’t planning to go inside. Inspiration has the tendency to sneak up on us like that, but only if we let it! And I know it’s hard to do when we’re chasing a long to-do list or running on a schedule. 

I’m wondering, does this happen to you, too? If it does, what are you noticing and getting inspired by? And if this sounds next-level crazy, I’m curious what would happen if you decided to create a little more space next time you run out to the store or go on a trip…

The point is, I think we have to leave room for more of these moments. Otherwise, we get scooped up in a tight agenda and miss something wonderful sitting right in front of us…like the amazing stores I’ve stumbled upon in Paris! 

And speaking of those stores, you knoooow I’m not going to leave you hanging without sharing the list. 

I put together a blog post today with some of my favorite non–antique shops. The ones that surprised me, delighted me, and made my Parisian adventures even more memorable! Go ahead and grab the list if you’re planning to go to Paris (or just want to see where I love shopping!)

✨ Grab the list on the blog here.

And if Paris has been tugging at your heart, Ashley and I are heading back this spring for another Paris Curated + Creative Shopping Retreat. Consider this your open invitation if it feels like your yes 🤗

PS: On our last retreat, we had a couple of women who didn’t even like antique shopping. Truly! They told us upfront, “I’m not sure this is my thing…” and you know what? They ended up having the best time.

We weave these kinds of everyday Paris shops, beautiful cafés, creative moments, and little adventures into the itinerary no matter what, because everyone loves it. There’s plenty of room for inspiration, no matter what kind of shopper you are.