Did you know that Apis Cera means beeswax in Latin? Charles van Valkenburg is an artisan courier (a beeswax chandler) based in Provence. In this article, learn more about these 100% pure beeswax candles made in Provence. Master Candle Maker Long before electricity, candlemaking was an essential trade, without which …

Discovering local artisanal brands is among the many reasons to visit Provence. Over the last few years, we have had the pleasure of meeting several founders of these businesses. While these companies sell different products – lavender, perfumes, accessories, candles, linens – they all have the desire to share the …

From the fashion runway to the wine bottle “Made in France” (Fabriqué en France), products are recognized worldwide for superior quality and craftsmanship. Consumers familiar with Hermes, Dior and LVMH comprehend the expertise behind these French luxury products. But what about the tens of thousands of companies that design, produce, …

It’s easy to get lost in the steady stream of beautiful images on Provencal-themed Instagram feeds. However, when these things come together – artisan techniques, made in Provence and gorgeous photos – I had to find out more about Candlebox Provence. Then suddenly I was almost embarrassed, the Candlebox atelier …

Does that sound romantic? Actually, Ginger was away in Canada and Nutmeg was certain that he had zero interest in visiting the Provence perfume distillery le Musée des Arômes or the candle maker at the Ciergerie de l’abbaye des Prémontrés. The aroma museum is located in the Provencal town of Gravason, …

We invited some friends to visit us in early September in Provence. When they agreed, we jumped into planning mode and created an itinerary that would interest first-timers and those who had previously visited. It’s challenging to plan a holiday agenda that balances the needs of an active group who …

In Provence, Christmas is a festive season lasting over two months with many holiday traditions. While there are commercial aspects to the holidays in Provence and the rest of France, many old customs continue today. At this time of year, there is vin chaud, little saints (santons), thirteen desserts, holiday …

In France, you don’t just set a table for a meal. You create a “stage” for food and conversation, and it’s called l’Art de la Table. It’s no secret that France is a leader in fashion design (names such as Christian Dior, Coco Channel, Pierre Cardin, and Yves Saint Laurent), …

Hot summer days are precisely when you want an easy recipe that requires no cooking, a few fresh ingredients and a blender. The recipe for Cucumber Gazpacho with Culinary Lavender found below comes from ElsaLenthal.com and is republished with her permission. Lavender Craftsmanship in Provence Elsa Lenthal founded Fuseaux de …

Imagine sitting in a comfortable seat in an ancient Roman city with a mountain rising behind it. As the sun sets, and you can see thousands of candles among the ruins, perched on stone walls, stairs, and fallen columns. As the sky darkens, the candles begin to glow. Then, a …