Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Mon Nouvel Ami Francis


                       

My entire stay in Paris last January was spent looking longingly through the windows of Hotel Costes Roses Dani Roses' gorgeous shop.  They were always closed.  I knew I had to get inside for my magazine assignment so I got up bright and early (for me) our last day and walked the two blocks down rue St. Honoré determined. I had tried to set up an appointment via email prior but we never set a date so I waltzed in prepared to negotiate.  The gentleman in the shop tried his best to contact someone to give me permission and finally told me he couldn't allow photos as he was not in charge. He asked me to come back later that day.  At about 5:30, as the sun was setting, I slid in the door, introduced myself and this lovely man whose name was Francis looked at me and said, "Madame, I have been waiting for you all day!". On that note, he so very kindly moved vases, helped me set up shots and could not have been kinder.  While I shot, I noticed he was wrapping some roses and I thought it was for a delivery. Non, they were for me. When I thanked him for his kindness, he  handed me the bouquet and said, "For your last night in Paris."  A Paris moment I will never forget.  I walked the blocks back down St. Honoré feeling like the luckiest girl in Paris.

rue St. Honoré
75001 Paris

14 comments:

Cezar and Léia said...

A gentleman! :)
Léia

Linda Carswell said...

I have passed this shop many times, plus I have taken many photos (from outside...lol!) it is a delight....I love it!!!

Kate said...

You are spoiled, VJ...definitely spoiled. I cannot imagine an American man doing that...sorry, guys, but I think that's probably a correct reaction. Wonderful new banner.

Alexa said...

What a lovely man! Doesn't he have kind eyes too? (And I like seeing you peek over his shoulder here, V.)

Jeanne said...

There's a story that warms the heart:-) Thanks for sharing Virginia.

Jeanie said...

You're right -- you were the luckiest girl in Paris! He's most attractive, too! And very kind! I love this story!

Virginia said...

Alexa, I didn't even notice that!

Thank you all. I'm a lucky girl and I know it.
V

Angele Style said...

He is a beauiful gentleman and yes his eyes say it all. When they say Paris is the city of romance he is the perfect example. His gesture came from his soul just naturally which makes it so delightful.

Paulita said...

What a great story and a charming gentleman.

Starman said...

Why are French shopkeepers so afraid of someone taking photos in their shop?!?!?!?!?!?

Elizabeth said...

What a fantastic treat! Roses always make one's day!

PeterParis said...

I'm not sure he would have offered roses to anyone! :-)

Heather Robinson said...

L'elegance totale! I love that story. :)

Sketchbook Wandering said...

Romantic...sigh...