- January 14, 2025
- Luxe Design
A Luxe Sweet 16 in Paris
When my daughter Eva’s sweet sixteen was approaching, I knew I wanted to make her birthday unforgettable. A mother-daughter Paris trip felt like the perfect way to celebrate her milestone.
Paris is the epitome of sophistication and charm—making it the perfect destination for our luxurious getaway. From strolling the cobblestone streets to marveling at timeless French design ideas in boutiques and historic landmarks, every moment felt effortlessly elegant.
Whether you’re planning a milestone celebration or just want to treat yourself, here’s how to make your trip to the City of Lights luxe-worthy.
A Memorable Arrival
Skip the big chains and opt for boutique hotels that capture the essence of French style. We stayed at the charming Hotel 9Confidentiel in the heart of the Marais district. Designed by the famous Philippe Starck, this hotel has a cozy yet super stylish vibe—like stepping into a chic little jewelry box.
For those who love hidden gems, Paris is also home to boutique hotels like Hôtel des Grands Boulevards and Pavillon Faubourg Saint Germain, where you can revel in Parisian interior design. Each of these hotels feels like a storybook escape, offering unique decor and a warm, intimate vibe.
Pastries Worth Writing Home About
Mornings in Paris should begin with a decadent treat. Each morning, we tried something new. Angelina’s rich hot chocolate was pure decadence, and we were OBSESSED with Damyel’s artisanal macarons. Explore patisseries across the city to discover flaky croissants and heavenly éclairs.
Shopping, Shopping, and More Shopping!
Shopping in Paris is an experience in itself—blending discovery, artistry, and style. In Le Marais, we explored charming boutiques and uncovered unique treasures. A standout was Universelle Buly 1803, where creating a personalized lip balm added a bespoke touch to our visit.
Another highlight was Merci, a beautifully curated boutique featuring everything from clothing and jewelry to home furnishings, all infused with contemporary design and French elegance.
The day continued at the Dior Museum and Café, where we admired the iconic fashion house’s history while indulging in delightful treats. We ended our shopping adventure at Galeries Lafayette, a true spectacle during the holidays. Under its stunning glass dome stood a massive Christmas tree, surrounded by dazzling lights and festive displays, turning the store into a magical wonderland.
Sightseeing Made Special
Skip the crowds and make your sightseeing experiences unique and family-friendly. We booked a VIP Louvre tour, skipping the lines and diving straight into the art.
For design lovers, we also visited the stunning Musée des Arts Décoratifs, which showcases centuries of interior design and craftsmanship. In Montmartre, we enjoyed the artsy vibe and street performers, stopping by L’As du Fallafel in Le Marais for the world’s most incredible falafel sandwiches.
Adding a Little Extra Luxe
Elevate your trip with one-of-a-kind experiences that create lasting memories. We booked a private perfume-making workshop at Le Studio des Parfums. This hands-on activity was both fun and educational, as we learned how fragrances are crafted.
Experimenting with floral, citrus, and woodsy notes, we discovered the art of blending scents to create something truly unique. The ultimate highlight? Leaving with a custom-made perfume—a one-of-a-kind souvenir that’s entirely your own.
Another luxe experience you don’t want to miss out on is booking a private Seine River cruise to see Paris from a whole new perspective, complete with champagne and stunning views!
Savor the Farewell
End your trip on a relaxing note. Spend your last morning at a cozy café, reminiscing over coffee and croissants before heading home.
