From Beverly Hills to Parisian Collector: My Journey to a New Life
Hi everyone,
It’s Nicolette, and I’m so excited to share a part of my life that feels like a fresh chapter—one I never imagined I’d be living. For those of you who’ve followed me you probably know me as the girl who unapologetically loved designer handbags, shopping sprees, and high-maintenance luxury. But life has a funny way of surprising us.
Today, I’m writing to you from my apartment in Paris, a city I now call home. My life is a lot quieter these days, but it’s also richer in ways I couldn’t have imagined. One of my favorite new passions is collecting high-end antiques—an unexpected but beautiful journey that has become a huge part of who I am. Let me take you through how I got here.
Leaving Beverly Hills Behind
Moving to Paris wasn’t something I planned for years—it just sort of happened. I was at a point where the fast-paced, image-driven lifestyle of Beverly Hills no longer felt fulfilling. I wanted something different. Paris, with its timeless elegance and rich culture, seemed like the perfect place to start fresh.
The transition wasn’t easy at first. Trading California sunshine for Parisian winters and leaving behind the familiarity of my old life was a challenge. But it also gave me the space I needed to rediscover myself. The streets of Paris, with their old-world charm, felt like a breath of fresh air.
Discovering the Beauty of Antiques
I fell in love with antiques almost by accident. One weekend, I stumbled upon a flea market in the Marais district. Among the stalls of vintage treasures, I spotted a small, gilded mirror. Its age and imperfections only made it more beautiful. For the first time, I felt connected to something that wasn’t new but had a story—a history.
That little mirror became the first piece in what has now become my growing antique collection. Since then, I’ve spent countless hours exploring Paris’s antique shops, auction houses, and flea markets. From delicate porcelain to stunning Louis XV furniture, every piece I collect feels like finding a hidden gem.
What Antiques Taught Me About Luxury
Collecting antiques has completely transformed how I think about luxury. As a teenager, luxury to me was about having the newest and most expensive things. Now, I see luxury as something that carries meaning. Antiques have taught me to appreciate craftsmanship, history, and the beauty of imperfection.
One of my favorite finds is a set of vintage crystal glasses I bought from a shop in Montmartre. They’re not flashy, but knowing they’ve been part of someone else’s life story makes them so special. These days, I find more joy in pieces like that than in anything I could buy off a store shelf.
Sharing My Journey with You
I’ve been sharing bits of my new life on social media, but this blog feels like a more personal way to connect with you. Some of you have told me you’re inspired by my transition, and that means so much to me. Honestly, I’m still figuring things out, but I can tell you this: Paris has taught me that it’s okay to slow down, reflect, and embrace change.
If you’re ever in Paris and want to experience the magic of antiques for yourself, here are a few places I recommend:
- Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: One of the largest flea markets in the world.
- Rue de Bretagne: A charming street filled with vintage shops.
- Drouot Auction House: A treasure trove for serious collectors.
What’s Next for Me?
Right now, I’m taking things day by day. I’m still exploring Paris, learning about antiques, and finding new ways to grow. Who knows? Maybe I’ll open my own boutique someday or even write a book about my journey. For now, I’m just enjoying the process.
To anyone reading this, I hope my story reminds you that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Whether it’s moving to a new city or finding a new passion, there’s so much beauty in starting over.
Thank you for being part of my journey, then and now. I can’t wait to share more with you.
Bisous,
Nicolette