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About French Elegance |
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Tablecloths and Fabrics
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In Europe, the tradition of dressing tables can be traced back many centuries. Most tablecloths were made of rich materials like damask, lace and silk. They reflected nobility and wealth. Fine table linens were treasured and passed down through generations as heirlooms. With the introduction of cotton, they became simpler and more affordable. I cannot remember a time when my grandmother or mother would not have put a tablecloth on their table. We would use simple ones for every day and beautiful ones for special occasions. When I moved to the US twenty some years ago, I brought several French tablecloths with me, including the ones that I inherited from my grandmother. I have always had a passion for tablecloths. I enjoy sewing and entertaining. A few years ago, while escorting a small tour group to Southern France, I discovered the colorful tablecloths of Provence. I fell in love with them and decided to import the fabrics. I only stock treated Provence tablecloths since they are so easy to care for. My friend Didier, owner of "La Provence Bakery" uses those table cloths in his restaurant in Lake Oswego, Oregon to help create a warm and charming Provençal atmosphere. My brother, who lives in Bayonne introduced me to the Artiga Company, in the French Basque region. I had the pleasure of touring the company in September 2003. Their Basque linen are made of the highest quality of woven cotton and finished to perfection. At the request of US clients with Basque Ancestry, I have added traditional Basque table cloths in green and red with the Basque cross. The traditional fabrics are rarely woven nowadays and are hard to find. There is a limited number of traditional table cloths and they are very sought after. The Jacquard table cloths have been made for more than 200 years in France. The new combination of colors and patterns will give a touch of elegance to your entertainment. They are very versatile and easy to care for. I don't know which one is more beautiful that the other. Another feature on the French Elegance site is the Travel section. As a native of Belgium and a travel agent for 30 years, I know France and Italy intimately. In this section, there will be useful information on destinations that I have visited. How I can assist you planning your dream vacation and details about future tours that I will escort. I hope that you enjoy our web site. My objective is to bring you linen collections from several regions of France and to share my passion with you. I invite you to check back as we continue to add new items and to join me on an authentic European vacation. I enjoy bringing "French Elegance" and the art of French living into your life. Chantal |
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Newspaper Article |
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