After our visit to Monet’s garden, we returned to the Kimpton St. Honoré, greeted with the warmth and hospitality that only Kimpton can provide. As a Kimpton Inner Circle member for nearly eight years, I’ve been a regular at Hotel Eventi in New York City. When I learned the St. Honoré had opened in August 2021, I couldn’t wait to stay there. What I didn’t expect, though, was the level of magic awaiting us.
When we arrived, they escorted us to a room that took my breath away. And when I say “Room with a View,” I mean it. The Eiffel Tower and the Opera House stood proud, framed in our windows as if Paris itself was welcoming us. The room had a luxurious soaking tub—which I, of course, couldn’t wait to use—and soon after settling in, we were treated to champagne and delightful treats.
Maureen, who had joined us to celebrate the trip, opened the champagne and shared the delicate art of undoing the cage on the bottle—those little touches of French elegance. Later that day, I had the pleasure of doing a client’s brows—Maddie, a wonderful soul studying abroad in Paris. Everything aligned so perfectly, it was as if the city itself was guiding us through this unforgettable experience.
Our final evening together was on the rooftop of the St. Honoré, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance and the sky draped in the most vibrant colors as the sun set over Paris. There we were, dressed for our last shoot, soaking in the moment. I closed my eyes to etch this view, this feeling, into my mind forever.
This sunset wasn’t just the end of our trip; it was the beginning of Genuist Beauty. I wasn’t there to play the part of a model—I was there to give life to a brand, to breathe its story into the world, and to set in motion the Perennial Movement. I wanted to honor the French culture, beauty, and aesthetic that inspired Genuist Beauty—timeless, elegant, and effortless.
As I move forward, not only as the founder and CEO of Genuist Beauty but as a woman continuing her journey, I’m more committed than ever to soaking up all that life has to offer. And it is my mission to inspire others to do the same. This entire experience has been about more than a photoshoot; it’s been about facing the challenges, embracing every second of the journey, and knowing that the beauty of this brand and the message it carries will reach those who need it most.
That evening, we capped off our time in Paris at the Ritz, listening to live piano. Matthieu, our photographer, also a talented musician, had a friend performing. As the music turned to Adele, Madeline began singing, and I felt the flood of emotions wash over me. I started crying—not from sadness, but from joy and gratitude. It was one of those rare moments of perfect bliss, where everything aligns and fills your soul. Every detail of this trip, every challenge, every laugh, every photo—it all felt like a culmination of something bigger than myself.
And now, when I look at the flowers tattooed on my arm, I am reminded of that moment in Paris—the moment Genuist Beauty truly came to life. I am a Perennial Woman. I am forever blooming, and I will forever be grateful for this experience.
To anyone reading this: I challenge you to do the same. Embrace your journey, your beauty, your life—no matter your age. Because we are Perennials. We bloom not just once, but endlessly, with every new chapter.
Gratitude
Thank you, Matthieu Piriou, for capturing the spirit of Genuist Beauty in photos and videos, and for being so generous and loving behind the camera. Thank you, Madeline, for your voice, your energy, and your spirit—you brought joy to every moment. Belinda, thank you for always keeping me photo-ready with your makeup artistry and accompanying me on this journey. And to my daughter Quinn—my travel buddy and constant inspiration—thank you for reminding me that I must always lead by example. I hope I challenge you to live YOUR best life every single day.
