Holiday Gift Ideas for Paris Lovers (You Can Buy Online)

Paris is always a good idea, right? Especially for the holidays! Whether you know a Paris lover or you are yourself a Paris lover, here is a collection of my favorite Paris themed gift ideas. From prints to books and from chocolate to the gift of travel, put Paris under your Christmas tree this year, in a few simple clicks. Note: See our updated post for 2018 here.

rebecca-plotnick-photography

For the Virtual Parisian

I’ve been a big fan of the work of photographer Rebecca Plotnick and had to pleasure of doing some shooting in Montmartre with her back in the fall, during which time, she shot my beautiful new author photo. Rebecca has a talented eye for capture that perfect Parisian moment. Somehow she manages to shortlist these and makes them available as prints on paper, wood or canvas. These make a gorgeous gift for anyone who wants Paris as part of their everyday lives. You can peruse her beautiful prints on her shop here.

craig-carlson-santa-barbara

For the “Paris Dream” Dreamer

Know someone who wants to set up a business in France? Or dreams of moving here? Or just dreams of the real Paris? Get them a copy of Pancakes in Paris, the excellent new memoir by Craig Carlson, founder of the Breakfast in America restaurants. Entertaining and engaging, Craig reveals what triggered his love of France, the story behind his successful chain of American style diners in the city of haute gastronomie and his own personal growth in the process. I truly enjoyed this book and Craig skillfully takes readers on this fun and somewhat turbulent ride…  that may want any French business dreamers reconsider! You can buy it on Amazon here.

Alternatively… for Paris readers, you can meet Craig and get a signed copy of his book on December 8th at 5:30 -7pm at WHSmith bookshop. More information at this link.

Henrietta Richer Christmas card

For the Letter Writer

Another excellent photographer, British expat Henrietta Richer has a lovely range of Gift Cards and more. Her original images of Paris, nature and still life subjects can be printed as cards, wall art, accessories and other options. She’s also come out with a specific collection of holiday greeting cards which you may want to scoop up quickly to send out in time for Christmas, or do as the French, and send New Year’s wishes in January. You can buy them directly via her online shop here.

jtm-books-bench-2

For The Offbeat Romantic

If you know someone who likes a little adventure, humor, fun and modern romance, than perhaps my new book Je T’Aime… Maybeis what virtual Santa could deliver? In the second volume in the Je T’Aime series, Lily is now seeking true love, however, it’s not always la vie en rose in the romantic life, but the resulting funny tales are exciting and quite unbelievable. Laugh or cry along, it’s already entertaining readers around the globe. The book is available on Amazon at this link, but you can also buy copies directly from me which I’ll sign and send directly to the giftee (only those purchased at this link via paypal here).

For the Sophisticated Bag Lover

Carry Paris around whenever you go with Kasia Dietz beautiful bags. The native New Yorker who know calls Paris home, finds inspiration for her designs from the city as well as her travels. Each limited edition handbag, tote, clutch and purse is unique and made in Paris. I was already fond of her stylish Rive Gauche / Rive Droit totes (pictured above), but her latest collections had recently caught my eye. In her new Roma collection of totes and Cote d’Azur line of clutches we see the influence of more vibrant southern colours and style influences. Discover these and her other collections at this link.

For Your Sweet-Toothed Sweetie

La Maison du Chocolat is one of the only French chocolate makers who deliver outside of the European Union, plus they always have a nice holiday collection. Treat your Paris gastronome friend, lover or family member to their Effervescence gift box of dark and milk ganache flavored with champagne, christmas tree shaped chocolates, traditional candied chestnuts (my personal favorite) or an indulgent Boite Maison box set. France and Europe orders must go through this site, whereas orders to the U.S. here.

sandrine-bassieres-1

For The Food Lover’s First Trip to Paris

Know a food lover who is traveling to Paris for the first time? Order them a copy of Dining Out in Paris, by long time Paris resident and avid gastronome Tom Reeves. Now in it’s second edition, Tom endeavors to demystify the dining and food purchasing experience in France. His useful guide gives an introduction to the various types of “eating out” in Paris from picnicking to fine dining, as well as general dining tips and a selection of his favorite shops and restaurants. This is especially recommended this for first time visitors who are eager to eat like a local. You can get copies directly on Amazon at this link.

Context Travel Montmartre Tour

For the Curious Traveler Coming to Paris

Know anyone planning a trip to Paris in the coming year? Why not help them have a fabulous trip by purchasing them a voucher or gift certificate towards accommodation or activities while they are here. Have they always been dreaming of learning the secrets behind making the perfect baguette? Get them a space on a cooking class at La Cuisine Paris. Are they are history buff? Book them some spaces on one of Context Travel‘s expert-led walking tours (you can also purchase a gift certificate in the amount of your choice by emailing them here). Are they coming to France to try some of the country’s best wines first-hand? Travel directly to wine country with sommelier Preston Mohr of Paris by the Glass. Alternatively, fashionistas or antique-hounds are in great hands with the very knowledgeable Jodie Hutchins during one of her custom shopping tours. Or help them out towards their stay with a night at the romantic Hotel Secret de Paris or a local experience at one of the fabulous apartments of Perfectly Paris or Haven In.

For the Witty Cocktail Lover 

If you know someone who likes good laughs, tasty cocktails and France, consider getting them a copy of Vicki Lesage’s book Christmas Confessions and Cocktails, a collection of hilarious and heartwarming holiday stories! Vicki has entertained thousands of readers with her funny, true stories about living in Paris, raising kids… and here surviving the holidays! The 25 essays range from her time growing up in the Midwest to even crazier holidays in France. Get giggling with some strong eggnog here.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out the other ideas in this post by Les Lolos (note: I’m not sure if all are available online for international delivery like the above)

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