Lagos, Algarve, Melides, Portugal, The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh Scotland, book club dinner party, fashion, flowers
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The Paris House, Sunday Guides, Spring 2026
Cover
The Paris House, Sunday Guides, Spring 2026
Christian Louboutin's Fashionable Boutique Hotel
Melides Portugal
The Algarve
Dining in Lagos
Praia da Costa da Gale Melides
The North Sea, Leith
Cafe Royal Edinburgh
John Singer Sargent
High Tea at The Balmoral Hotel
Spring Beauty and Scents
The Spring Interior Refresh
Yellow Manicures Inspired by The Jonquil
The Rose Garden
Books We Love
EDITOR’S LETTER
This Spring issue explores fashionable travel, seasonal flowers, and garden- fresh recipes. We highlight asparagus and Pizza Rustica. Our main themes are travel inspiration, culinary exploration, and authentic experiences that reflect our commitment to gentle, meaningful discoveries.
Travel is a big part of both our lives and our work. It inspires us again and again. Gentle inspiration is at the heart of what we do, helping us stay true to journalistic integrity and authenticity. We usually avoid traveling in large groups, which is why we started our “People we meet along the way” segment years ago. Traveling alone often leads to meeting interesting people along the way.
I recently enjoyed a solo trip to Melides, Portugal—a coastal hamlet with unspoiled beaches, soothing colors, and striking architecture. Our magazine educates and inspires, never influences. We value gentleness and authenticity—these define our brand. My mission is to immerse myself in cultures and share insights in depth. Melides draws artists for its solitude, ocean views, and remarkable landscape. Rice fields, delicious food, and welcoming locals nourish the soul. My camera gathers moments for Sunday Guides magazine.
As a solo traveler, I avoid group tours and overly organized trips.I immerse myself in local culture alone, or with family or close friends. We always benefit most from a knowledgeable local. Their direct insights are hard to come by in large groups. That’s when I learn most and adapt to new places. I also love solo exploring to find places I’ve longed to see and to encounter unexpected surprises. I’m excited to share more about this beautiful Portuguese region. We have a special fondness for boutique hotels. Vermelho, created by Christian Louboutin, is located in Melides, Portugal. You’ll find more details in this issue’s Melides section.
We’re also sharing our favorite places to visit in London, with high tea as a highlight. Our Out and About section features our collaboration in Edinburgh, Scotland. Our columnists offer their top Spring fragrances and fitness and health tips. The new Stone Cottage columnist answers your questions about refreshing your home for Spring. Plus, we have a book section, an opera book club, a stylish dinner party, gardens, and much more!
Wishing you a wonderful season filled with inspiration and discovery. Wherever your travels take you, may you create lasting memories, forge meaningful connections, and return home with fresh perspectives and a heart full of joy.
Michele Rosenthal, Editor in Chief
Contributors
Michele Rosenthal, Founder and Editor in Chief
Sonia Schnee, Executive Graphic Designer
Teddy Rosenthal, Proofreading
Tina Baker, Fit Pro, Health and Fitness Columnist
Lisa Gomez, CUSTOMPARFUMS, Beauty and Fragrance Columnist
Linda Harbrecht, @stonecottage2250, Home and Design Columnist
Todd Durm, Jewelry and Antiques Photographer and Columnist
Map of Portugal by Holly Francesca
Melides Portugal
I TRAVELED TO MELIDES, PORTUGAL, a small town that felt like a village. Artists from everywhere are drawn to this quiet spot. While there I photographed and wrote for our magazine, I found it beautiful, inspiring, and peaceful— a perfect place to reflect and focus on words and images.
I started my days with breakfast on the balcony, overlooking the gardens and pool. In November, when I traveled to Melides, the town was calm, with both crowds and heat gone. An ocean breeze drifts in, and the garden flowers remain bright. The peacefulness is surrounded by panoramic views and nearby rice fields.
[Image] Rice fields off in the distance
STAYING AT HOTEL VERMELHO, as elegant as you’d expect from Christian Louboutin, adds history, signature red accents, and lively energy to your stay.
[Image] Sumptuous Interiors with pops of Louboutin red
[Image] Chic in Chartreuse
[Image] The Incredibly Chic Vermelho Bar
[Image] Melides
[Image] Dine in the beautiful gardens at Vermelho
[Image] SIP & SAVOR, Melides, Portugal
[Image] Fadist Melides Portugal
Melides Portugal creates fresh traditional recipes in an adorable location; the interiors feature the local landmark colors of white and blue, leaving you relaxed and happy.
The garlic shrimp, local beer, and fresh Portuguese bread were delicious! For dessert, it was a family and generational recipe; the dessert is called “Sericaia” and is traditional from Alentejo. Be sure to try their signature seafood platter and homemade pastries, which are highly recommended.
[Image] DESSERT: SERICAIA
[Image] Praia da Costa da Galé, a stunning beach on Portugal’s Alentejo Coast
See:
Praia da Costa da Galé Fontain has a stunning beach on Portugal‘s Alentejo Coast. Peaceful, pristine golden sand beaches reach for over a mile. The beach is often uncrowded, with secluded spots for relaxation. The dramatic cliffs seen from above are gorgeous!
Stay:
Hotel Vermelho, owned by Christian Louboutin
Shop:
Vida Dura, a lovely shop in the charming town of Melides
[Image] Praia da Galé-Fontain has often referred to as Praia da Costa da Galé
[Image] Golden sand beaches located nearby Melides Portugal
[Image] The Stunning rock formations, golden sand beaches and breathtaking sunsets
[Image] Vida Dura: A lovely shop in the charming town of Melides
[Image] Beautiful sights to see in Lagos
[Image] Lagos, in the Alrgarve region on Portugal
Lagos, Portugal
Here’s my guide for solo travelers looking for an easy and memorable trip to Lagos, Portugal:
The hotel concierge arranged a private driver for me, the same friendly person who took me to Praia Da Costa Da Gale Melides earlier this week. Each trip fits my interests but always brings an element of surprise. This mix keeps every day interesting.
The scenic drive from Melides to Lagos takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. We stopped for espresso and figs with honey at Maria Vinagre in Faro, then continued along the coast to our destination.
When we arrived, we had lunch on top of the cliffs, looking out over the Atlantic and the sandy beaches below. My favorite meal of the week was shrimp risotto. I hope to recreate this meal at our cottage in Maine, where fresh seafood is also plentiful.
After lunch, we visited the old town church and strolled along the water. We browsed local shops and paused along the way for photos.
[Image] Beautiful Coves to enjoy the beauty of Lagos
Lagos, in Portugal's Algarve, is famous for its walled city and dramatic cliffs. From the town, you can walk down steep steps to the Atlantic beaches and Praia do Camilo. Nearby, the cliffs of Ponta de Piedade offer wide views and a lighthouse. The 18th-century Igreja de Santo António stands across from the baroque Castelo dos Governadores, and both add to the town’s historic charm.
The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is a must-see. Its limestone cliffs, hidden coves, sea pillars, and Ponta da Piedade are truly impressive.
[Image] Sip & Savor
[Image] A quick stop in Faro in the Algarve for a coffee and sweets
See:
Praia do Camilo, a beautiful cove in Lagos. It sits between the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade. You reach it by steep wooden steps that lead down to a golden-sand beach and calm, turquoise water.
Shop:
Walk along the water, and you’ll find charming shops and cozy cafes, perfect for coffee or wine.
[Image] Ponta da Piedade, famous for dramatic cliffs, caves, turquoise water and grottoes!
Porto Covo
[Image] Quaint Porto Covo
This is one of the most charming fishing villages on the Alentejo coast. The white houses with blue and red trim stand out against the landscape. Tall cliffs rise above the crashing waves, and sunsets here always feel special.
Beautiful views, fresh seafood, natural scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere attract travelers and surfers from around the world. These qualities make Porto Covo perfect for relaxing and taking in the dramatic landscapes.
Porto Covo, just south of Lisbon and near Melides, offers unforgettable sunsets and calming waves. Its peaceful beauty reminds you to slow down and enjoy every adventure. As each day ends along Portugal’s beautiful coast, there’s a sense of wonder that invites you to plan your next journey.
[Image] The white houses with blue and red trim stand out against the landscape
[Image] Sunsets, Porto Covo
[Image] The Alentejo Coast
[Image] The Stunning Porto Covo
Candle Making Class
At sunset, we returned to Melides and the boutique hotel by Christian Louboutin, where a fun candle-making class brought our adventure to a creative close.
THE HOTEL AND THE DESTINATION, A WORLD OF CREATIVITY
(Article, Courtesy of Hotel Vermelo)
Nestled in the charming village of Melides, Portugal, the Hotel Vermelho, designed by Christian Louboutin, is an ode to Portuguese craftsmanship. Every detail, from the hand-painted frescoes to the antique furniture, reveals meticulous workmanship and a tribute to creativity. Its thirteen rooms, unique and refined, celebrate elegance and authenticity. The Xtian restaurant showcases the flavors of the Alentejo region, served in tableware by local artisans, while the gardens designed by Louis Benech offer a serene interlude. An address where art and culture express themselves in every corner.
[Image] Fashionable Interiors
Explorer la cuisine portugaise, c’est faire un voyage dans le temps, à une époque où on se concentrait sur les trésors de la terre locale et sur ce qu’elle avait à offrir, saison après saison. Grâce au climat chaud et la richesse des reliefs du Portugal, la cuisine portugaise met en lumière une multitude d’ingrédients, dont le célèbre Bacalhau de l’océan Atlantique. Nous y découvrons un éventail de saveurs et de techniques culinaires traditionnelles axées sur la mise en valeur des nuances qui donnent à la cuisine portugaise un caractère unique et exceptionnel.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN
Eclectic, maximalist and bold, the essence of Christian Louboutin shines through in every nook and cranny of our intimate and welcoming Melides hotel. More than a dozen winters in the Alentejo turned into a source of inspiration for Christian Louboutin, who designed this hotel celebrating Portuguese tradition and savoir-faire, while reflecting his passion for culture, curiosity and welcoming character. A home away from home, ready for all to discover.
MELIDES DESTINATION
The village of Melides exudes a sense of humility, where people strive to keep their traditions and crafts alive. Nestled inland on the west coast, between the hills of the Serra de Grândola, south of Comporta and Lisbon, it’s a land of vineyards, rice fields and forests, just a stone’s throw from immense beaches bathed by the Atlantic Ocean.
[Image] Shopping in Melides
HERITAGE AND TRADITION
Vermelho embraces this peaceful pace of life and heritage. It can be felt in the local hand-painted tiles, each telling the story of a village of craftsmen and enthusiasts. It’s savored in the dishes of Xtian, our restaurant in Melides, prepared with local ingredients and produced from the local market. It can be heard in the calm music that resonates in our wellness area. It can be felt in the Atlantic sea breeze drifting inland and in the flora inhabiting our gardens. And, above all, it can be felt in the bom dia and obrigada that make us feel right at home.
Discover all the activities available around Melides. Book a picnic lunch, prepared for the occasion by our chef, and explore the village of Melides and its verdant countryside by bicycle, available for hire at the hotel. Go horse-riding along the Comporta coast or visit the local vineyards and taste the Portuguese wine...
[Image] Shopping in charming Melides
Out and About
Sip & Savor, The River Cafe
Enjoy their artisanal Mexcal cocktails were fantastic, with notes of orange, and a persimmon mezcal cocktail was also outstanding. The Dover Sole was impeccable, as was the soufflé for dessert. What stole the show for me were the Fleurs de Courgette!!! What a treat in the middle of winter with freezing temperatures! They were some of the most outstanding zucchini blossoms I have ever had (and I grow them in our garden, so I’m very familiar with them). I asked our waiter for the details. He returned within a minute to tell me that “they had been flown in from the eastern part of the Mediterranean, the Middle East, West Asia”.
Stay
Get there early, linger at the bar, and watch the boats pass by under the Brooklyn Bridge. There are hotels easily accessible in Brooklyn or Manhattan. The Roxy is very close by in Tribeca.
See
Enjoy spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the skyline; wander through cobblestone streets for shopping, coffee, and pastries. Whether you’re enjoying fine dining or famous Brooklyn pizza, everything is at your fingertips. When the weather warms up, visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and shop at Terrain
Shop
In the Paris House shop, we link all the outfits we wear and style for our models and personal clients! The Merlot tights ’m wearing complement my gorgeous manicure by @blinkandpolish. We will be styling one of our beautiful models, Caroline, in the dress that I’m wearing soon.
[Image] Macy’s Flower Show
[Image] Branchbrook Park Cherry Blossoms
[Image] Philadelphia Flower Show & Ritz Carlton for Cocktails
[Image] A Portland Restaurant Worth Noting
[Image] Hotel Peter and Paul New Orleans
[Image] Laduree SoHo
[Image] NYBG Orchid Show
[Image] NYC Brunch
[Image] Joie de Vivre Stories, Paris
[Image] Gainsborough, The Fashion of Portraiture, The Frick
[Image] Lyndhurst Mansion
Out And About With Paris House: Lyndhurst Mansion
At Lyndhurst Mansion’s Petals and Prosecco Flower House event, we savored hors d’oeuvres and cocktails on the scenic porch, then joined an exclusive after-hours tour of the mansion’s creative floral installations. The evening’s ambiance and decor added a special touch to this unique event experience.
A little History (to the best of our knowledge):
The mansion’s three former owners—the Pauldings, Merritts, and Goulds—each left their personal style on the estate. Built between 1838 and 1842, the mansion’s historical and architectural details came alive during the event. The fusion of gardens, fashion, art, and design in the floral installations made the evening stand out.
[Image] Petals & Prosecco, Lyndhurst Mansion
Event highlights for me included admiring the Tiffany glass, the gallery wall, and especially the Harem Room painting, all of which were made even more memorable by the floral arrangements displayed during the evening.
I recommend visiting the grounds and the bowling alley down by the water. Both are open to visitors during posted hours. Comfortable shoes are helpful for exploring the area.
I also enjoy stopping by the gift shop, which offers a curated selection of books and souvenirs. I like to browse before leaving, as hours may vary.
During summer, enjoy Jazz on the lawn every Thursday evening—bring a picnic, relax with the music, and watch the sunset. Weekend concerts and other special events also take place, so check the schedule in advance when planning your visit.
I check the website for updated schedules throughout the year since they often change. On my previous visit to the fashion exhibition, I enjoyed it so much that I returned this year.
I hope you enjoy my travel & lifestyle content. Don’t miss my magazine, Sunday Guides!
[Image] Flowers & Gardens
[Image] A Beautiful Evening at Lyndhurst Mansion
[Image] Extraordinary details, using leaves for the wig
[Image] Fashionable Evening in the Garden
The Cabinet of Culinary Curiosities:
In The Kitchen With The Paris House
American breakfast looks different depending on where you are. Every meal connects to a place and a moment. My Italian grandparents came from Rome, Naples, and Sicily and settled in Upstate New York. In Italy, breakfast was just coffee and a pastry. After moving to America at age seven, their mornings included strong coffee, toast, and something sweet. On weekends, they added eggs, bread, jams, cheese, meats, fruit, and something homemade. Their breakfast became a mix of Italian traditions and American ways. As a child, I loved waking up to the smell of coffee, eggs, fresh bread, and my grandmother’s baked treats.
Food evokes my strongest memories, making me pause to savor each experience—a sentiment likely kindled by my appreciation for Proust’s Swann’s Way. I remember nearly every meal: crème fraîche-smoked salmon in Edinburgh, escargot in Lyon, smoked fish at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, hummus in Bahrain, tacos in Mexico City, pancakes in New England with butter and maple syrup, ricotta lemon pancakes in D.C., pastries in Prague, ice wine in Canada, tapas in Barcelona, and steamed lobster shelled at the table in Nova Scotia. The list goes on, but let’s return to the American breakfast.
I’m at the cottage in Maine, baking brunch. I’ll wait for blueberry season, but for now, I made a raspberry cream cheese almond coffee cake from the cookbook A Real American Breakfast by Cheryl Alters Jamison & Bill Jamison. We had raspberries on hand, and the recipe doesn’t need much sugar. It’s simple for experienced bakers and easy for beginners if you follow the steps. The authors suggest a 10-inch springform pan, but I used a 7x10 Pyrex dish, and it turned out great. Coffee cake and black coffee are a classic New England breakfast and bring back memories. You can add herbed eggs, country bread with butter, and Vermont maple-glazed bacon. For more brunch ideas, check out our blog for yogurt fruit parfaits—these meals might become your own traditions.
[Image] Pizza Rustica
Pizza Rustica, The Cabinet Of Culinary Curiosities
Every Easter at the end of Lent, my Italian grandmother, Carmella, would make her own Pizza Rustica. Our family has kept this tradition alive. The recipe below is from Paris House, inspired by my Napolitan, Sicilian, and Roman roots. Pizza Rustica has been made in Naples since at least the 17th century, maybe even earlier. You can use your favorite cheeses and meats to make it your own.
Ingredients For Filling:
1lb fresh ricotta cheese, strained using cheesecloth (disregard liquids)
1lb shredded mozzarella cheese (not fresh)
4 large eggs, beaten
6 ounces ham, diced
6 ounces prosciutto, chopped
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1-2 tablespoons of finely minced fresh parsley
Large Handful of chopped fresh spinach (I do not use frozen)
Filling Preparation:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until blended. Set aside.
All-Butter Pie Dough
You will need to make two batches of this pie dough: one to line the bottom and sides of a 9” springform pan, and one for the top crust or lattice.
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed
¼ cup ice water
Dough preparation:
In a food processor, combine flour and salt and pulse until mixed.
Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until coarse crumbs form.
Gradually add ice water, pulsing just until the dough begins to come together.
Turn out the mixture, shape it into a ball, and flatten it into a disk.
Wrap the dough disk in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
After chilling, let it soften slightly at room temperature.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit the bottom and sides of a 9” springform pan.
Gently press into the pan and trim the edges.
Reserve any dough scraps for the top crust or decorations, if desired.
Assembly:
Lightly grease and flour a 9” springform pan.
Line the pan with the rolled-out dough.
Add cheese and meat mixture.
Top with lattice or decorative strips, if desired.
Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with parmesan.
Cut an X in the center for steam release.
Lightly grease and flour a 9” springform pan.
1 beaten egg with 1 teaspoon of water
1/4 cup shredded parmesan
Baking Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Baking Instructions: Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
After 30 minutes, cover the edges with foil if needed.
Remove from the oven when golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serve warm.
Reheat in the oven if needed.
[Image] Crostini Bruschetta
Paris House Kitchen: Crostini Bruschetta
Caramelized onions, sweet syrupy balsamic reduction, salt, pepper, excellent quality goat cheese, chunked, in little squares, caramelized walnuts, not melted just topped on toasted
[Image] Strawberry Rhubarb Crostata
[Image] Pastiera di Riso
Paris House Book Club
The Croaking Machine by Michele Rosenthal
The Croaking Machine by Michele Rosenthal is a very excited little toad who croaks very, very loudly when he gets excited about something. This doesn’t always go over well with his friends and classmates - especially when his loud croaking gets the class in trouble. Through all his troubles, his best friend Stella is always there for him.
This is a story about being different than everyone else - and accepting the differences of others. It shows that sometimes our unique traits and qualities can save the day and make us true heroes in the end.
Workhorse by Caroline Palmer
This book started out slowly for me; however, around page 100, it picked up the pace and pulled me in. As a magazine editor, I was intrigued by the inner workings of a Manhattan fashion magazine—even if the idea terrifies me, to be honest. Turning to the characters, I found each unlikable for distinct reasons: some were ruthlessly ambitious, others manipulative or self-absorbed, which, while adding complexity and realism, made it difficult to connect with them. If pressed, I might say I disliked the protagonist slightly less than the others because her internal struggles felt somewhat more genuine, but none truly won me over. Ultimately, it's a more venomous read than The Devil Wears Prada can ever dream of being.
How to Commit a Post-Colonial Murder by Nina McConigley
This book stands out for its emotional impact, tracing the struggles of two sisters, their Indian mother, and their white father, who leaves for long periods to work on Wyoming oil rigs. Their livelihood depends on oil prices; the family faces troubling events during his absence. Set in the mid-80s, the narrative evokes anger, sadness, laughter, and reflection, urging readers toward compassion and understanding. Although readers may hope for a happy ending, the story shows that real life is often unresolved or bittersweet, reminding us that resolution is not guaranteed.
Trad Wife by Saratoga Schaefer
This novel is one of my favorite books from recent years. My main argument: it stands out by satirizing social media influencers and unexpectedly blending horror and gore. Together, these elements transform a familiar narrative into an immersive, unforgettable experience. From the start, the book mocks the curated lives of online influencers, blurring the line between authenticity and performance. As horror creatures and chaos emerge, it keeps readers hooked, as it did for my husband and me when I read him chapters each night. The mixture of satire and genre surprise made it hard to put down. Although I don't usually read books with scary creatures or gore, Saratoga Schaefer's sharp mockery of influencer culture and clever writing made this unforgettable.
Audio Book: Funny Story by Emily Henry
Looking for a fun, audio book to pass the hours on a solo road trip? This is it! It follows the aftermath of a breakup, a broken heart and a few little lies along the way. This adorable audio book will have you at your destination in no time!
[Image] The Book Club Dinner Party for the Opera Lover. Inspired by Francine Segan. Curated by Paris House
Binge Watch: Love Story
The series reimagines a story that once captivated the world, weaving real moments from the lives of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and John Kennedy Jr. with dramatic flair. Back in the 90s, I was mesmerized by them, drawn especially to CBK’s effortless elegance. Her classic style inspired me to fill scrapbooks with magazine cutouts, treasures I still keep. When news of their tragic plane crash broke, I, along with millions, mourned their loss. Love Story takes these threads of truth and legend and spins them into a compelling, dramatic tapestry.
“Your Fresh Start: Spring Fitness Made Simple” by Tina Baker
Spring is the perfect time to reset your routine and reconnect with your body. After a long winter of heavier layers and often slower days, the shift in season naturally brings more energy and motivation. You don’t need an intense overhaul, just start small and stay consistent. A daily walk in the fresh air, a short strength session a few times a week, or even stretching in the morning sunlight can make a meaningful difference. The key is to build habits that feel good and are sustainable, not overwhelming.
This season is also a great reminder that fitness isn’t about perfection, it’s about feeling strong, capable, and confident in your own skin. Lifting weights, moving your body in ways you enjoy, and prioritizing your health are powerful acts of self-care, especially for women in midlife. You are not too old, and it is not too late. Spring invites growth, and that includes you, so step into it with intention, grace, and just a little bit of grit.
Here are five simple ways to embrace spring fitness:
1. Take your workouts outside, fresh air can instantly boost your mood and energy.
2. Add light strength training 2–3 times a week to build muscle and support bone health.
3. Set a small, realistic goal (like moving your body 20 minutes a day).
4. Find movement you enjoy, walking, biking, gardening, or dancing all count.
5. Stay consistent, not perfect, progress comes from showing up, not doing it all.
“The Spring Home Refresh” by Linda Harbrecht
Fresh warm breezes wafting through the home puts everyone in a mood to embrace the special joys of this season. We asked Linda of @stonecottage2250 on Instagram to share her suggestions for inspiring spring rituals, and she suggested the following:
- Clean and polish. “I always like to have some additional sparkle around the holidays to reflect candlelight and all the twinkle, and I love seeing freshly cleaned surfaces in spring sunlight,” said Linda, who polishes up any silver pieces or copper cookware, oils vintage wood cutting boards and cleans windows and mirrors. “Seeing all that sun bounce around the house instantly changes the environment.”
- Switch out darker, heavier throws for lighter versions. “Winter wools are packed away as soon as we start getting a string of warmer days,” she said. “But I know people still like snuggling up with throws in any season, so have stacks of lighter weaves in spring colors accessible – maybe piled in a large basket or slung over the backs of sofas and chairs.”
- Fill the home with spring flowers for both their beauty and their scent. “An inexpensive six-pack of annuals is a great low-cost way to add a little spring color,” she said. “Thickly planted in a weathered terra cotta pot, for example, they can really pack a punch.” She also uses containers she collects throughout the year – vintage baskets, pottery, copper pots, white ironstone – to add a little charm to pots of tulips, hyacinths and hydrangeas. “And I love cutting flowers like lilacs or forcing blooms from flowering trees, which can make a really dramatic display.”
- Change the look of rooms with slipcovers, pillow covers and paintings with spring and summer themes. Linda covers her green velvet chairs with ticking stripe slipcovers in spring and switches out pillow covers to work in lighter colors and patterns. Winter-themed paintings go back in the attic and florals, landscapes and seascapes come out. “You don’t have to change every piece of art in the home,” she said. “But a lush green landscape over the fireplace, for example, is a quick way to reflect the freshness of this new season.”
- Switch out decorative displays to spotlight spring and summer themes, such as majolica, shells, nests, botanicals, florals, garden objects and plates with spring colors and patterns. “It might seem like a significant effort,” she said, “but it makes such a difference. The whole home feels fresh and new.”
- Make sure your entranceway feels welcoming. Linda changes front door displays throughout the year, and spring is no exception. Starting in early March, the front door could have a moss wreath, a hanging basket of forsythia branches, a bike basket of pansies, a straw gardening hat or a wreath holding terra cotta pots planted with garden center blooms. “And we usually have two large topiary on either side of the door, with maybe a smattering of smaller planted pots to add a little color,” she said. “Whatever the color and plant theme, it gets repeated in our window boxes, which change with the seasons.”
- Organize table linens and entertaining supplies to be ready for opportunities to dine al fresco. “I can’t resist a lovely tablecloth,” said Linda, who readies spring- and summer-themed linens early in the season so that they are handy when an opportunity arises. “I like to organize them all in fall/winter and spring/summer categories and just switch them out as soon as it starts to get warm out. Having them all ready to go means you don’t have to scramble when an unexpectedly warm evening can turn into dinner in the garden with friends.” She also stocks up on candles, tests patio lighting and hauls out rattan serving pieces such as placemats, flatware and ice buckets so that they are easily accessible for impromptu gatherings.
- Freshen up porches, patios and indoor/outdoor spaces. Power-washing the home’s screened porch is a spring ritual in her home, as is touching up the painted vintage patio furniture. “A little bit of effort goes a long way here,” she said. “We also recover the cushions on our vintage wicker set, which gets a lot of use over the season. We mostly use basic ticking stipe fabric. It doesn’t take much time, but everything feels fresh and ready for a new season of enjoyment.”
Linda Harbrecht is an award-winning former journalist and communications professional who now focuses on freelance writing and editing, primarily for home and design publications. Through her Instagram account at @stonecottage2250, Linda indulges her passion for interiors, gardens, food and historic homes. She has a particular fondness for cottage style, artful living and a nature-inspired seasonal approach.
Spring Beauty By Lisa Gonzalez
Fragrance thoughts on Spring
Spring perfumes tend to feel like a reset—lighter, brighter, and more alive after the heavier, cozy scents of winter. Perfumers usually lean into notes that evoke freshness and renewal, like citrus, green, and soft florals. Citrus notes (think bergamot, lemon, grapefruit) are often used at the top of a fragrance—the “top notes” are what you smell first, and they are designed to be uplifting and quick to evaporate. In spring, they give freshness and sparkle, like the first warm day after a long cold stretch.
Floral notes really come into their own this time of year, but not in the heavy, powdery way you might find in classic perfumes. Instead, spring florals tend to feel airy and natural—like peony, lily of the valley, rose, orange blossom, and jasmine. These usually sit in the “heart notes,” which form the core of the fragrance once the top notes fade. Each flower carries a kind of emotional tone: rose can feel romantic or fresh depending on how it is treated, jasmine adds a soft sensuality, and lily of the valley gives a clean, almost dewy innocence. Perfumers often blend several florals together to create a bouquet effect that mimics a garden in bloom.
To ground all that brightness, spring fragrances still need base notes—the deeper elements that linger on the skin. But instead of heavy woods or resins, you will often find lighter bases like musk, soft woods (like cedar or sandalwood), or subtle amber. These give the scent longevity gwithout weighing it down. You might also see green notes (like freshly cut grass, tea, or herbal accords) woven throughout, adding a crisp, natural edge. The overall goal is balance: something that feels fresh but not fleeting, soft but not dull—like wearing sunlight, but with a little structure underneath.
[Image] Customparfums. Creating custom, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted fine fragrances that are uniquely you and only for you.
@customparfums (Instagram)
Curated by Paris House:
The Chic Interiors
Tropical Getaway
Garden Party
Entertaining
Spring Pastels
The Patio
Accessories
Boarding Flights
For the Littles
Off to the Ballet
Off to the Opera
The Elegant Engagement Dinner
The Timeless Little Black Dress
For the Adventures
Scotland
For the Gentlemen
Spring Blues
Beauty
Paris House Cocktail Ring
[Image] Jardin du Luxembourg
Beginners Guide to Planting a Rose Garden
Paris House Florals & Designs
[Image] Paris House Floral Design
[Image] Floral Designs Inspired by the Spring Daffodil
[Image] Feminine Florals
Edinburgh Scotland, The Balmoral Hotel
The Balmoral Hotel recently extended its hospitality to my colleagues and me for an elegant High Tea in The Palm Court. While every detail delighted, the truly outstanding aspect was the service—so attentive and refined that one might be reluctant to depart. The offerings were exquisite, the champagne superlative, and the decor evoked an atmosphere of enchantment.
[Image] Balmoral Palm Court. Thank you for hosting & treating us to high tea.
Video: Balmoral Tea
The following content is courtesy of The Balmoral Hotel. Photography by The Balmoral Hotel.
Irene Forte Spa
Uniting the latest science with Mediterranean traditions for fast results and longer-term wellbeing.
Irene Forte Spa is bringing bio-innovation, clinically proven skincare and Sicilian inspiration into the rhythms of Edinburgh. The result is an approach that feels as luxurious and sensorial as it is effective: a seamless fusion of “natura e scienza”.
Founder Irene Forte shares her excitement at bringing this one-of-a-kind, comprehensive spa philosophy to one of Scotland's most iconic hotels, The Balmoral:
“Our vision has always been to create spaces where wellbeing feels both luxurious and purposeful,” says Irene Forte. “At The Balmoral, we've combined everything I love: the science of high-performance skincare with the soul of Mediterranean living to help people feel uplifted, instantly and enduringly, in one beautiful and restorative space.”
Facilities include five treatment rooms, a thermal suite with sauna and steam room, and a 15-metre indoor lap pool. There's a gym with the latest Technogym cardio and strength equipment, as well as a movement studio for Reformer Pilates and fitness classes. The dedicated Wellness Bar serves nutritional food, juices and infusions, inviting guests to pause and recharge.
Skincare and treatment innovation
Bespoke facials and body therapies use Irene Forte Skincare, with botanicals sourced from the brand's organic farm at Verdura Resort in Sicily. Formulations are shaped by 40 years of biomedical research and are vegan, suitable for all skin types, and clinically approved for sensitive skin.
Highlights:
3D skin analysis provides a detailed assessment to gain optimal results by tailoring treatments precisely to individual needs.
Indulgent, anti-ageing facials include the Phytomelatonin facial with buccal massage, LED and a hyaluronic acid sheet mask; the wrinkle-smoothing Peptide Power paired with Tri Energy microcurrent radio frequency; and the LYMA Laser PRO Facial, which uses a clinical-grade laser to trigger unprecedented transformation deep within the dermis.
Body therapies are all non-invasive yet highly targeted, such as Endosphères body or legs therapies using micro-compressive vibration for contouring and lymphatic drainage.
Massages deliver a complete range of outcomes, whether to stimulate circulation with ximenynic acid-enriched oil, ease tension for expectant mothers with rose body oil, increase comfort by incorporating breathwork and techniques accredited by the Standards Authority of Touch in Cancer Care, or restore balance through the use of Etna volcanic hot stones.
Locally inspired rituals use Scottish Cairngorm quartz, renowned for its balancing properties, to ground and nourish from head to toe.
Every therapist is trained in Irene Forte Skincare protocols and evidence-based techniques, ensuring consistent levels of care and expertise and exceptional results across all treatments.
Introducing the Forte Vita Bar
The first Forte Vita Bar to launch in the UK offers express beauty rituals for people on a busy schedule. Alongside hair treatments, cutting and styling, the non-toxic nail treatments include the first patented LED polish that's gentle yet long-lasting.
What sets the Forte Vita Bar apart is the range of fast facials, using advanced technology to achieve younger-looking skin in less time. The Base Facial, with EMS, radio frequency and LED, enhances skin tone and elasticity in just 50 minutes. Optional add-ons, such as oxygen infusions, peptide sheet masks and collagen-boosting Dermalux LED red-light therapy, deliver a radiant finish in five to 15 minutes.
Design and atmosphere
Designed by DO Design Studio, the new 1,102-square-metre spa offers a contemporary retreat that balances Scottish grandeur with an earthy colour palette of soft terracotta and sage tones. This creates harmony and connection between the heritage of The Balmoral and the Sicilian roots of Irene Forte Spa.
Reception spaces feature marble mosaics and calming palettes. Treatment rooms and changing areas follow a curved, cocooning design that ensures comfort and serenity. The cork flooring and acoustic ceilings further enhance the sensory quality.
Retail and product offering
The spa introduces the first dedicated Irene Forte Skincare retail space in Scotland, alongside a curated selection of complementary wellness and beauty brands chosen by Irene Forte. These include Davines for hair, Manicurist for nails, and the LYMA Laser PRO – one of the most prized devices among the world's leading aestheticians and dermatologists to deactivate the ageing process at home with no pain, no damage and no downtime.
Looking ahead, Irene Forte highlights how this opening marks a new chapter for wellness at Rocco Forte Hotels:
“Wellness is deeply personal. It's about creating environments that make people feel both cared for and empowered. When uncompromising scientific innovation works in harmony with the regenerative power of nature, it lifts your whole being. This launch is the next step in building longevity, vitality and joy into everyday life, however long you spend with us.”
Partner brands that Irene Forte loves
Beds: Lemi
Technology: LYMA Laser PRO, Dermalux Flex, Omnilux LED, Sculptra Desee Pro, OXYjet GO, Endospheres
Furniture: Spa Vision & Aram (pedicure, manicure, and hair chairs)
Gym equipment: Technogym
Lifestyle and beauty: Davines, Manicurist, La Bonne Brosse, LYMA Laser PRO
[Image] The Balmoral Edinburgh, A Rocco Forte Hotel
About The Balmoral:
Many hotels claim to have landmarks on their doorstep; few can say their doorstep is a landmark. The Balmoral is a grand railway hotel located at Edinburgh's most prestigious address, No. 1 Princes Street. The Balmoral began life as a grand railway hotel in 1902, and has 187 contemporary rooms and opulent suites. Excellent cuisine is guaranteed in Number One restaurant as well as the hotel's all-day dining venue, Brasserie Prince. Afternoon Tea is served in Palm Court, and the hotel boasts a collection of over 500 single malt whiskies at SCOTCH.
About Rocco Forte Hotels:
Established by Sir Rocco Forte and his sister, Olga Polizzi in 1996, Rocco Forte Hotels is a collection of 14 individual hotels, resorts, residences, and villas. All of the hotels are landmarks, both old and new, occupying magnificent buildings in exceptional locations. Led by a family who has been in hospitality for four generations, the hotels are united by their distinctive approach to service, ensuring guests experience the best of the cities and surrounding areas.
Rocco Forte Hotels comprises: Rocco Forte House, Milan; Hotel de la Ville, Hotel de Russie and Rocco Forte House, Rome; Hotel Savoy, Florence; Verdura Resort, Rocco Forte Private Villas and Villa Igiea, Sicily; Masseria Torre Maizza, Puglia; The Balmoral, Edinburgh; Brown's Hotel, London; The Charles Hotel, Munich; Hotel Amigo, Brussels and Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg. Future openings: The Carlton, Milan in November 2025; Costa Smeralda, Sardinia in 2026; Palazzo Castelluccio, Noto, Sicily in 2027 and Palazzo Sirignano, Naples in 2027.
Please read our previous magazine on Scotland here:
https://theparishouse.com/blog-1/sunday-guide-edinburgh-scotland?rq=scotland
[Image] Leith, The North Sea
[Image] Edinburgh, Scotland
[Image] Beautiful Hotel Rooms
[Image] Room Service
[Image] The Palm Court, High Tea
[Image] Flowers in Scotland
[Image] Quant Streets
[Image] Cafe Royal, Edinburgh Scotland
[Image] The Oyster Bar
[Image] Sip & Savor, Bar Prince
The Auld Bramble Paso
Ingredients:
2 oz Del Maguey Vida Mezcal
½ oz Aberfeldy Rye Scotch
½ oz Crème de Mûre
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz Demerara syrup (1:1)
2 dashes chocolate bitters
Directions
1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice
2. Shake vigorously (15–20 seconds) to build foam and until well chilled.
3. Double strain into a coupe or rocks glass (over a large cube if preferred).
4. Garnish with a few drops of crème de mûre swirled on top or a lemon twist.
(Feel free to use aquafaba to make the foam on top.)
Recipe created by Steward David Hawthorne, courtesy of Bar Prince, Balmoral Hotel, Rocco Forte, Edinburgh, Scotland
[Image] A Scottish Salmon
[Image] Pastries at The Milkman, Edinburgh
[Image] Fashion in Edinburgh
[Image] Royal National Galleries of Scotland, Lady Agnew of Lochnaw by John Singer Sargent
FASHION EDITORIAL:
Paris House Fashion Shoots, Coquette Editorial
Photographer & hair and makeup artist: Christen Holly Simmons
Set Design, Fashion Styling & Production: Michele Rosenthal
Models: McKenzie Martin, Caroline Lee, Julia McComiskey
[Image] Ultimate Textile, Elegant Dining by the Lake
Paris House Collaborations:
Paris House styled 3 gorgeous tables with Ultimate Textiles tablecloths!
Our table is featuring the Miranda fabric.
A two-toned polycotton jacquard with a refined, timeless pattern and gentle sheen.
Soft yet durable, Miranda is perfect for banquets, hotels, and special events that need elegance with performance.
Available in 10 colors.
Order today at Ultimate Textile.
https://www.ultimatetextile.com/store/main.aspx
Highwood, Elevated Arrangement
Location and set designed by The Paris House
https://highwood-usa.com/?srsltid=AfmBOop1nH81Sh7eQMENG4UnSiXn9S75_2gaiLj9kVWFoyKhTPlY7Tw0
[Image] Antique Pink Cameo
COLLECTING
Antique pink cameos with gold filigree are a very specific—and very collectible—corner of vintage jewelry. The look you’re describing typically combines hand-carved shell or coral cameos with ornate gold filigree frames, often dating from the Victorian through early 20th century periods.
Here’s a curated way to explore the style across different price levels and authenticity tiers.
Photos by Todd Durm
⸻
Fine Antique & Investment-Level Pieces
These are the real collector pieces:
● Hand-carved pink coral or shell cameos
● Solid 10k–14k gold filigree or engraved frames
● Sometimes accented with tiny diamonds or floral motifs
● Often convertible brooch + pendant
These can range from about $1,500 to $6,000+ depending on carving quality and gold weight.
⸻
True Vintage (More Attainable, Still Authentic)
● Typically mid-1900s (1940s–1970s)
● Real cameo carving, but simpler than Victorian pieces
● Gold may be lighter (9k–10k) or mixed with silver filigree
● Prices often $200–$800
● Mass-produced or revival styles
● Materials: resin, glass, or molded shell
● Gold-tone filigree rather than solid gold
● Usually under $150
⸻
What Makes Pink Cameo + Gold Filigree So Special
● Pink coral cameos are rarer than the classic brown/white shell versions
● Filigree work (delicate gold wire patterns) reflects European craftsmanship, especially Italian influence
● Many were popular souvenirs during the 19th-century “Grand Tour”
⸻
How to Choose the Right One
● For heirloom value: go coral + solid gold + high-relief carving
● For a Paris House aesthetic: look for floral filigree, soft blush tones, and romantic profiles
● For everyday wear: vintage gold or even high-quality gold-tone can give the same look without the price
By Paris House
Glamorous Jewelry
1-3) Glamorous handmade retro ruby rings from the 1930’s. These rings are made with 14k gold, diamonds, and synthetic rubies.
*In the 1930’s creation of synthetic stones (grown in a lab) was the new science of the time. People were so fascinated by this discovery that synthetic stones actually became more valuable than natural stones. Today that is not the case but does speak towards the authenticity of the jewelry.
4) An adorable 1950’s poodle pin featuring AAA fine akoya cultured pearls, sapphire, and diamond set in 14k gold.
5) A beautiful 1950’s - 70’s angel skin coral rose made with 14k gold and diamonds.
People We Meet Along the Way
Todd Durm is a visual artist living and working in New York City. He graduated with a degree in photography and contemporary art from Parsons: The New School for Design in 2016. Currently, he is working as a retail jeweler at Pippin Vintage Jewelry and producing his own independent photography zines.
The Maine Cottage
Coming Soon!!! Grand Cayman
Cartoon
Sponsors/Advertisers
Christen Holly
Skyland world travel
Floral Syndicate
About
Welcome to The Paris House — a world of timeless beauty, elegant living, and inspired travel. We curate a refined lifestyle through luxurious fragrance, fashion styling, beautifully designed experiences, and stories that celebrate culture, style, and the art of living well.
Through Sunday Guides Magazine, we travel the world discovering exceptional hotels, remarkable restaurants, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences. We collaborate with distinguished hotels, restaurants, museums, and cultural destinations around the world, including Château de Versailles in Versailles, France, the Picasso Museum in Málaga, and other iconic properties. We feature these extraordinary experiences while helping clients plan beautiful escapes to some of the world’s most sought-after places. From iconic cities to tucked-away retreats, we believe travel is the ultimate luxury.
At the heart of our brand is Paris House Perfume & Beauty, a collection created to evoke sophistication, romance, and effortless glamour. Each fragrance is designed to transport you — from the charm of Parisian streets to sunlit gardens and unforgettable destinations.
The Paris House also brings beauty to life through fashion styling, editorial photoshoots, elegant events, refined entertaining, and creative direction that inspire memorable moments and elevate the living experience.
The Paris House is where fragrance, travel, fashion, styling, and storytelling meet — created for dreamers, tastemakers, and those who live beautifully.
Testimonials
“Dear Michele, this will make two great grandparents and their 7 great grandchildren very happy! Your wonderful story will live for years to come.”
“You have aligned with institutions such as Chateau Versailles and the Picasso Museum Málaga, which places the brand in a rare category—culturally credible luxury, not just influencer aesthetic”.