This spectacular table was the setting for a memorable 2019 Christmas dinner party hosted by Julia Child and Jacques Pepin. Well, it was Jacques and Julia’s local stand-ins, but they did their muses proud. The small guest list was just right. The food, somehow humble and lavish, was just right. Foie gras and Sauternes. Caviar and Champagne. Beef bourguignon, homemade mashed potatoes, haricot vert and baguettes. Remarkable wines both red and white. And something totally delectable for dessert but owing to the Sauternes, Champagne and good wines, I’m fuzzy on the details. There was a replica of the Eiffel Tower on the hosts’ front porch- a marvel of chicken wire and lights. La Tour Eiffel paled in comparison to the centerpieces- table top and aloft. We dressed in berets, chef toques, and French neckwear. It was a festive and fabulous evening and I felt lucky to be included.
You’re probably wondering why in the world I’m telling you about this now. I’d intended to share this a while back as a reminder that excess on occasion is not only ok, but desirable- even essential. Good intentions went awry. But an article in the weekend WSJ got me back on track. No Company? Be Your Own Guest, reminded me that we can treat ourselves as we would invited guests, especially while we’re mostly keeping to ourselves in the Age of Corona. The article shared readers’ suggestions about ways to indulge in small pleasures to take the edge off aloneness and tedium. Drinking Diet Coke over crushed ice in Tiffany flutes. Using the best bed linens and thickest towels. Buying fresh flowers. Enjoying English Breakfast tea and biscuits on good china. Hand washing with fancy French milled soaps. You get the idea. Now make it yours.
From Rules, Aesthetics Matter. Use your nice things. Otherwise, what’s the point? You and your family are the worthy occasion! Avec moi-même. Avec famille. Très élégante!