I hope you are well. I’m writing to you this week from a little house in Burgundy where they keep chicken and ponies. I’m spending the summer in different houses in this part of France both with family, my in-laws and friends. Visiting new surroundings within this region made me fall back in love with it. Stopping on the road to see a little village, finding some local ceramic mugs for my tea rituals, discovering a wicker-maker about 20 minutes from the house, visiting places that have been standing for 1000 years, colorful sunsets over the trees… I’m just taking it all in and loving it so much.

It’s super interesting to witness the same region from different angles. With my family we had one approach to living here and it is very different from the one my in-laws have. So I see different things, enjoy different aspects of Burgundy and it’s all very enriching. Some will want to visit villages and have a historical point of view, others will want to experience the flavors of local organic produce, have a sensorial experience. I remember my dad told me once that any field could be interesting. That there is something valuable/exciting/mind-opening to see in any point of view, any job, any domain. That really stayed with me. It’s probably why I’ve been so eager to work in wildly different fields (from communication, finance, entrepreneurship, to creative studio & wellness).

Today I wanted to talk about a plant: matcha. Being at the crossroads between health and tea, I could not not get interested in this ritual. I remember having a matcha latte one afternoon in Paris, and it was so un-tasty I could barely drink it. I wondered how it could taste so bad (spoiler it was just of poor quality), while holding so many health benefits and be so praised within tea culture. So I started digging. Eventually I served my adaptogenic matcha for Oh My Cream, Merci Paris, Galeries Lafayette & others through the brand I created. Several years later, my love for matcha hasn’t slowed down so I thought I’d share a few things I’ve learned on how to make a delicious cup of matcha.

Matcha is a green tea where the leaves have been reduced to powder form. When we drink matcha, we drink the whole leaves as opposed to Earl Grey where the leaves are infused into the water. The matcha version most talked about right now is a matcha latte (made with a milk option) but the traditional way of making it is 100% water-based. Originally, Japanese buddhist monks sat during their meditation with a cup of matcha, which is why it remains intertwined with mindfulness in today’s culture.

what i love about matcha

In summer, matcha is a daily ritual of mine. Because green tea is refreshing for the body, I try to turn towards darker teas during winter. I love the taste, the ritual of preparing it, and my favorite way of drinking it is with water. By far. Which is also why I loved looking into what makes it delicious: when there’s nothing to hide the taste (like sirups or milk), you need the produce to be really good :) I also love it for its health benefits:

• Matcha is filled with antioxidants which makes it basically edible skincare.

• It raises energy levels but in a diffused way. Contrary to coffee that gives you an instant kick, matcha is both energising and calming because it contains L-theanine. This amino acid boosts serotonin, dopamine and GABA production which creates a natural relaxed state (which is why it was originally used for meditating). That way you don’t get the coffee jitters.

• Matcha is also high in chlorophyll which is good for elimination of toxins and improved digestion.

the grade

In my experience, the biggest factor in choosing and making a delicious cup of matcha is the chosen grade. There are basically 3 (the names can change according to makers and brands) and they are defined by harvest time, leaf selection and parts used:

• the first one for drinking is called ceremonial grade. This one has no bitterness and is vibrant, light green. That’s the one I love. To make this grade, farmers handpick the youngest and brightest leaves (first harvest) of spring. That means the highest in nutrients. Then stems are removed from each and single leaf, making sure no bitterness stays in the tea.

• then there is one for culinary use, often called culinary grade. I would use this one if I’m making matcha cookies. The harvest is typically done during late summer or autumn, using more mature leaves, with no removing of the stems. This one is leaning towards fade or neutral green. If the matcha is kaki or brown, it is a sign of very low grade.

• there’s another one for drinking often called premium. It’s a middle ground. It holds some slight bitterness and is more vibrant in its color than the culinary grade. This is typically from a second harvest in spring and stems are not necessarily removed which adds bitterness.

The grade doesn’t just change the taste & color. It changes everything about the properties it holds.

the making

My favorite way of making a cup of matcha is with water. Whatever the method, you want to start with cold water or under 75°C, so not to burn the matcha’s properties since it is nearly raw. Then whisk with your chasen (bamboo whisk) and add additional water (or milk) either at room temperature, warm or with ice cubes during very hot mediterranean days.

the storing

Matcha is nearly raw and both sensitive to heat, humidity and air. Exposed to one or several of the three, matcha will lose its properties. That leads to 4 tips for storing:

• Make sure the container is hermetically closed.

• At home, you’ll want to store your matcha in the fridge (I keep it in the door) when it’s over 25°C and in a dark cupboard if temperatures are lower.

• When you prepare your matcha, you’ll want to close the tin quickly when you’re done. I just close the tin right after I’ve taken my spoon of green powder. Side note: if your matcha has been packaged directly in Japan it will be of higher quality than if it is bought in bulk and then re-packaged in another location.

• When I travel, I usually have a little dose of matcha with me so I don’t expose the whole tin to heat.

If you’d like to join the chat or comment section, I would love to hear: what is your favorite tea? Which matcha & tea brands do you love? Which cafés have you noticed serve ceremonial grade? What does your personal tea ritual look like?

Wishing you a wonderful week!

x Louise

I’m spending a few days with my family in Burgundy and it is the best feeling to be back in nature. My son turns 3 months in a few days so post-partum is officially over. My only goal during the first 40 days after childbirth was to heal, rest and cocoon with my newborn son and husband. For 40 days, I focused on nourishing my body with nutrient-dense foods, herbs, sleep and very little movement. I put on quite some weight but did not care the least (i’ve lost 80% of the weight now one month later, and it was the most fluid, natural thing — not that this is mandatory, but that’s I feel best in my body & head). During post-partum, my only focus was on the health of my baby and my body. Today is an overview of the foods and herbs that have helped me recover fast in the hopes that they can be useful for you too to healing your body in this very special & magical time.

Since starting my health journey, I have chosen foods not just for how their taste but also for the nutrition they bring. I personally believe that health comes from several areas, creating a personal balance between nourishment, movement, sleep, strong relationships, emotional resilience, stress regulation, time in nature, and a grounded mind. And while I’ve looked into these different areas over the years and have found a system that works for me, post-partum is not life as usual. Most of these pillars get very limited. Food is what remains most available, it is also the most important to restore vitality in our organs short-term. Herbs bring that extra dose of vitality to otherwise nutrient-dense meals.

The chosen herbs below mostly stem from my research in traditional uses, like Traditional Chinese Medicine, and recommendations I got from the practitioners I go to. For each herb, I’ve included known benefits and how I prepare them.

RECOVERY

Meals

During the last weeks of my pregnancy I prepared foods in anticipation of post-partum: chicken soup, bolognaise sauce, bone broth, ginger tonics ice cubes. After 25 years being vegetarian, I started incorporating meat into my diet when I turned 25 and never looked back. I certainly understand anyone who doesn’t want to eat meat, but my health & energy are just not the same without natural meat. And this is especially true in physically demanding times. I also kept eating lots of eggs for breakfast & nuts for snacks, while re-introducing some crudités & fresh berries back.

Part of our family lives close by and they have been so kind to come with home cooked meals for us as well. These days are so overwhelming and tiring, you don’t really have the energy or the time to commit to daily cooking. For us, that meant chocolate cakes, apricot compotes, pot-au-feu and extra veggie stews.

Eating these types of slow-cooked meats, meals and eggs helps replenish the qi (the vital energy in Traditional Chinese Medicine) by providing easy-to-digest proteins and deep nourishment to stabilize mothers after childbirth, help with tissue repair and lactation as well.

Herbs

• Ginger is widely used across TCM, Ayurveda and western herbalism for post-partum because of its properties to warm the body, improve circulation, reduce inflammation and support digestion. Before giving birth, I prepared a big batch of ginger-turmeric tonic that I stored as ice cubes. I drink it as it adding just warm water.

• Nettle is a mineral and iron rich tonic that helps rebuild blood levels, a real physiological need since childbirth is often synonymous with iron depletion. I prepare it as infusion.

• Raspberry leaves start becoming a regular in the pantry during the last month of pregnancy to facilitate childbirth. It helps with perineal recovery. I prepare it as infusion.

• Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin A & C, and polysaccharides. In TCM, they are used to nourish liver and the kidneys. They can be added to soups and teas, but I prefer them as raw snacks or with a yoghurt.

MILK

Breastfeeding started as a challenging journey because my birthing included two sleepless nights and milk production is heavily related to sleep. Having enough natural milk for your growing baby is one of the biggest components of entering post-partum and not always the easiest. Hydration also needs to increase during this time since about 87% of breastmilk is water. If you usually aim for 1.5L-2L of daily water, this period requires closer to 2-3L and ironically, access to fetching a glass of water with a baby in your arms is less easy than ever (water bottles and husbands are key here too :))). Then these herbs have helped increase milk supply throughout my breastfeeding journey.

• Fennel : A traditional European and Ayurvedic herb rich in potassium, vitamin C and fiber used for milk supply also credited with easing digestion.

• Fenugreek: Probably the best-known lactation herb. Boosts prolactin and early milk volume.

• Anise: Contains anethole, believed to be responsible for milk-boosting

I make infusions with the three herbs above. Particularly a few days prior to baby’s growth spurts around day 7-10, weeks 3, 6 and 9, months 3, 6, 9 and 12.

• Almonds: Not an herb but a traditional postpartum food across many cultures and recommended by my osteopath as it is nutrient-dense (protein, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium) and calorie-dense, useful for meeting the higher energy needs of lactation. I eat them raw and we’ve made a few many (yummy!!) cakes with almond flour.

HAIR

I have never really been someone who is super invested in her hair, and rather low maintenance when it comes to that part. I rarely go to the hair dresser and would rather cut my hair myself (50€ for a simple trim sounds excessive to me). But a few weeks into post-partum I noticed a bit of shedding. So I started getting curious about natural hair remedies. The two herbs that stand out are nettle and rosemary. I’ve planned a whole post on this with my full new hair-routine.

• Nettle : Traditionally valued for postpartum hair loss because it’s rich in silica, iron, and B-vitamins that support hair structure and scalp circulation. I make nettle infusions, preferably as cold brews.

• Rosemary oil : Not a post-partum herb in itself but stimulates hair growth. I make hair mask before washing my hair.

OTHER HERBAL REMEDIES

• Flower remedies: Alexis Smart sent me her remedies for this very special moment of my life. The first aid kit supported me during labour to ease contractions and I’ve been taking her Peaceful warrior during post-partum. I absolutely love flower remedies and her’s especially.

• Homeopathy: this set was also recommended by Alexis, and I ordered online from the UK. The post-partum remedies were a great help with a deeply felt before / after effect.

Wishing you a beautiful weekend!

x Louise

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I am writing this post to reintroduce myself, whether you’re new here or an OG, because I just gave birth to my son and it sparked something in me. So I’m taking up my dusty Substack again. :)

Experimenting with plants, rituals & remedies is something I truly love and I miss having a creative outlet to pour all my health research, nature wonder & beauty curation into — and Substack just felt like the spacious place for me. A few years ago, I had a brand called Maison Loüno (French adaptogenic blends, where we handmade everything organic in Brittany, France). I loved it and was lucky enough to take quite far. But after 5 years, I did not see myself taking it further as it required building a team and so on. Instead, I took pause, studied other topics I’m passionate about and built another brand where I pour all my love for mindfulness, contemplative practices, alignment & creativity into. It’s the very beginning but you can already have a look if your interest is piqued. It’s called perssee.

Recently I became a mother for the first time and am loving it so much. It’s so interesting to find my balance now that my son is here, it has given me even more purpose and energy. During post-partum, I started experimenting with hair care remedies to strengthen my hair and increase growth. I got such outstanding results (even my husband asked about it right away) and I just wanted to share it here, to keep note of the treasures I’m finding. I love doing monthly-ish experiments like that, for instance in august I’m doing a 30-day cycle of morning pages. This fall I want to have an antioxidant month because I live in the south of France and have danish pale skin, so I want to counterbalance the sun intake somehow. And also… What exactly is the difference between kobido, lymphatic massage, face yoga and all that? What is the deal with water needing to swirl? What makes a good quality matcha? These are some of the questions I have been asking myself over the years and I’d love to take you on this journey with me.

I’m also a creative. Photography & style are my favorite creative outlets. I also draw a little and cook. My husband and I recently bought an apartment that we entirely renovated and re-designed. Like we only kept the bearing walls. He is an architect, so design is our mutual love language. What gets my attention is furniture that unites natural materials + minimal aesthetics + comfortable functionality. I am Danish after all :) Photography became my job in 2018 and I’ve had the great chance of working with wellness brands that I love, seeing my images published in Vogue & Vanity Fair, and shooting behind-the-scenes of fashion shows like Skall in Copenhagen. It’s my work, my reset practice and my love language. Photography is also a way for me to express what I can’t put into words. Words and photographs complete each other but don’t say the same thing. I get inspiration from a wide range of fields and it’s an emotional process for me. You’ll find some of these visuals in my daily notes here on Substack.

Some short & recent notes:

• I made a herbal infusion recipe for post-partum and it has become my very favorite of all. Plus it’s loaded with nutrients. (working through the “exact” proportions before sharing)

• This place makes the best matcha tonic in Marseille.

• I created a new collection of prints.

• This is the café I want to visit next time I’m back in Denmark

These are the things you can expect to read here / sometimes I like to go very deep. Sometimes one sentence feels like enough.

I’m so excited to start this new journey with you.

Wishing you a wonderful week!

x Louise

PS: My hope is that this space becomes a gathering of like-minded yet diverse souls. And with that in mind, I would love to hear from you too. If you feel like it, hit reply, and say hi :) Let me know a bit about you, what you are currently obsessed with, where you live, what drew you here and any wishes you have on topics for this newsletter. Bisous ! <3

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Which plants are with you these days?
I’m still settling into my new home in Mallorca and slowly exploring the plants in my garden. There’s something new every day! This morning I discovered a wild physalis bush full of ripe fruit.

Do you have summer morning rituals?
First thing in the morning, I walk barefoot on the grass and sit in the sun for 10 minutes, soaking up some Vitamin D and grounding myself.

Which colors feel like home to you?
Warm, earthy tones like rusty red, terracotta, ochre and khaki.

What ritual feels like a meditation to you?
Brewing tea with freshly cut herbs.

If your aesthetic had a soundtrack, what would be on it?
Gentle sounds. Classical music or yogic music are my favourites.

What is a favorite time of day for observing the world?
The moment before sunrise. I love the stillness and the way the natural world slowly awakens. It feels so innocent and pure to me.

What texture or material brings you the most comfort?
I’m currently obsessed with wool. I recently bought a wool mattress topper from German sheep and it’s been so nice!

Which artist, past or present, inspires your sensibility?
I look up to herbalists and those who do things differently. Jane Goodall is a huge inspiration, as is Alexis Smart, who always offers helpful advice and inspiration.

What is your favorite scent, and what does it remind you of?
Peppermint. It clears my mind, alleviates nausea, and is the best travel companion.

Where in Mallorca should one go for a shot of inspiration?
Take a hike through the Tramuntana mountains in autumn or winter. The mountains are breathtaking and there is always something to discover, like a hidden waterfall or wild goats roaming around.

Where do you get most inspiration from?
Traveling to different countries. South Asia, in particular, inspires me deeply. The people, culture, and food always leave me coming home with so much new inspiration.

What is your most treasured possession?
A piece of gold with red dirt on it that I found in the middle of nowhere in Western Australia. A family friend took us out to "dig for gold," and I couldn’t believe I actually found something!

Which place in the world feels most aligned with your aesthetic?
Sri Lanka, California, Mallorca, and Australia.

Who inspired you most in your lifestyle today?
The people I’ve met on my travels, especially spiritual teachers and those who shared inspiring stories and personal strength that changed the way I live.

What small detail in everyday life do you find endlessly fascinating?

The fact that the sun rises and sets every day, and that life revolves around this simple, yet profound rhythm.

What do you consider your greatest achievement, career-wise (so far)?
Following my dreams, even when things feel scary. For example, I lived in Tokyo for three months at 17. It was my first time outside Europe, I barely spoke any English, and I didn’t know anyone there. But the excitement of the unknown pushed me to take the leap.

What is your definition of elegance?
Intention.

What word do you particularly love in your language?
“Fernweh”. The longing to go somewhere far and explore.

Which season feels most like you?
Autumn.

Which photograph, painting, or image has stayed with you the longest?
A painting of two women I found during my trip to Tahiti. I’ve taken it with me every time I’ve moved.

If beauty were a mantra, what would yours be?

Be kind and trust. Beauty always radiates from the inside out.

Any books you really loved discovering on your inner journey?
Woman Code, Conversations with God, Set Boundaries Find Peace.

Find me on instagram here and here.

I won’t be in Copenhagen this summer for fw but if you’re town, I’ve gathered some favorites below. I go back 1-2 times a year to see family and friends (both my parents are Danish and I grew up spending all summers on the Danish coast) — and of course, I also love discovering the places that have opened and go back to my favorites. There’s so much inspiration to savour. Here are my recommended 50+ places to eat, drink and see. Enjoy <3

Sommaire

• Where to eat & drink

• Where to get Scandivian bakery & breakfast

• Where to sip tea

• Where to sip coffee

• Where to spend an afternoon

• Where to shop

• Where to stay

You will also find a recap at the end of the article.

Where to eat & drink

Auren’s Deli

A grocery shop and bar, a modern deli with local ingredients. Expect fresh focaccia, vibrant salads, and organic wines.

La Banchina

Part wine bar with food, part café, part sauna — and entirely magical. Located on the water in Refshaleøen, it’s a local favorite for cold dips, natural wines, and sunset lounging. Right next to Lille Bakery and Copenhagen Contemporary.

Bottega Barlie

A cozy, curated wine bar and café near Kongens Have (the King’s Garden) offering natural wines, seasonal small plates, and an effortlessly warm atmosphere. Perfect for slow afternoons or intimate evenings.

Gasoline Grill

I love a good burger with fries (I just remove the bread or get a gluten free bun where I can)! Gasoline is an elevated burger joint that began in an old gas station and now has several locations around the city. Simple menu, organic ingredients, and one of the best burgers in Copenhagen — best visited off-peak.

POPL

POPL is my other favorite burger joint created by the team behind Noma. It’s located on the waterfront in Christianshavn. POPL blends Noma’s ingredient-driven ethos with comfort food, offering organic beef, fermented condiments, and a gluten free option.

Circolo

A casual, design-forward Italian restaurant serving wood-fired pizzas and antipasti in a bright, modern setting. Best if you eat gluten. :)

Mirabelle

Originally known for its bakery, Mirabelle has evolved into an intimate, ingredient-focused restaurant in Nørrebro. Think sourdough bread and biodynamic wine.

Sushi Anaba

A high-end, reservation-only sushi experience offering a Nordic take on the Edomae-style. Minimalist counter, eight seats, and sustainably sourced seafood from the Nordic region — one of Copenhagen’s most exclusive dining experiences.

Beitsalma

Lebanese food and great coffee in the heart of Nørrebro. This is a newer addition to the Copenhagen food scene blending Levantine flavors with Nordic techniques. I love the atmosphere.

Vækst

A greenhouse-inspired restaurant in central Copenhagen, serving New Nordic cuisine in a glass-roofed space filled with plants.

Tokyo Restaurant

An institution in Copenhagen since the 1980s, Tokyo serves traditional Japanese cuisine in a retro setting that feels authentic.

Ved Stranden 10

A natural wine bar on the canal with outdoor seating in summer and a quiet, candlelit interior in winter. Thoughtfully selected wines.

Where to get Scandivian bakery & breakfast

Atelier September

A Copenhagen staple for design-lovers located near Kongens Have. I go there every time I’m town. Atelier September was a big inspiration for me when I created Maison Loüno. It was founded by former Noma-chef Frederik Bille Brahe — think grapefruit with granola, rye bread with cheese, and Japanese ceremonial grade matcha — served in a gallery-like space with iconic Danish furniture.

Grød

The original porridge bar so typical of Danish breakfast.Grød offers comforting bowls made with organic grains and toppings like caramel, apples, or fresh herbs. Fast, local and delicious.

Bakery Benji

A neighborhood favorite known for their pastries, seasonal tarts, and laid-back atmosphere — everything here feels made with care.

Apotek 57

Located inside the Frama Studio Store, this café-meets-bakery is set in a former pharmacy with stripped-back walls and raw light. Think sourdough bread & filter coffee.

Lille Bakery

A destination bakery in Refshaleøen making and serving sourdough bread, flaky pastries, and wholesome lunch plates. Set in a former warehouse, Lille has a communal, welcoming feel — worth the trip for a slow brunch or takeaway loaf. It’s right next to La Banchina and Copenhagen Contemporary.

Kantine on SMK (Statens Museum for Kunst)

The in-house café at Denmark’s national gallery serves seasonal, organic food in a beautiful dining space overlooking the museum garden - fearing a gorgeous arrangement of paper lamps.

Where to sip tea

Io Tehus

A hidden gem for tea lovers in Nørrebro. Minimalist, calm, and deeply focused on high-quality loose-leaf Japanese-only teas served as ritual.

Sing Tehus

This teahouse blends East Asian traditions with Danish simplicity. The founder curates her own selection and the shop hosts regular tea ceremonies — also a great spot to see a friend for a calm sip.

Where to sip coffee

La Cabra

La Cabra is a minimalist specialty coffee bar in Copenhagen known for its light, origin-focused brews and elegant Nordic design. Tucked inside a boutique on Møntergade, it offers a refined pause for specialty coffee lovers.

Prolog

Tucked inside the Meatpacking District, Prolog is a small specialty coffee bar known for its house-roasted beans. The vibe is lively and casual, with room for both coffee enthusiasts and curious passersby.

Sonny

A café and brunch spot just off Strøget (the main pedestrian street), Sonny offers quality coffee, seasonal plates, and a minimalist Nordic interior. Known for its egg sandwich and calm atmosphere, it’s a favorite among local creatives.

Kompa’9

A cozy, dimly lit café on a quiet street in the city center. Kompa’9 feels more like someone’s living room than a coffee shop — low ceilings, vintage furniture. Great for an afternoon tucked in with a book.

Café Sandø

A lesser-known café near the lakes, offering great coffee and a small selection of pastries in a bright, unfussy space. A local go-to.

Lido

A new café near the lakes with strong filter coffee, matcha, and a curated interior in calm, muted tones. Lido feels minimal but warm — ideal for quiet mornings or solo afternoons with a notebook.

Where to spend an afternoon

Louisiana - outside the city center

An iconic seaside museum famed for its harmony between modern art, architecture, and nature — a cultural pilgrimage worth the train ride.

The museum is located about 40 min north of Copenhagen. You can take the S-train from Nørreport, it will take you Humlebæk Station from where you can walk to the museum (about 10 min). Reserve half a day for the whole experience.

Designmuseum

A refined celebration of Danish design history, from classic furniture to contemporary objects. Housed in a Rococo building with a tranquil inner courtyard café.

Copenhagen Contemporary

A dynamic contemporary art center housed in a former industrial hall. Known for immersive installations and thought-provoking exhibitions by international artists. The artist James Turrell created an immersive experience for the museum - which is now a permanent installation.

Gallery Louise Roe

A curated design gallery showcasing minimalist furniture, ceramics, and art pieces. Located near Kongens Have, the space blends sculptural Nordic aesthetics with a modern, elevated atmosphere.

Glyptoteket Gallery

An art museum known for its collection of classical sculptures, French impressionists, and the lush winter garden under a glass dome. A quiet, contemplative space at the edge of the city center. One of the museums I’ve visited the most over the years.

Den Botaniske Have

A peaceful green space with winding paths, small lakes, and 19th-century glasshouses filled with tropical plants. Ideal for slow walks and a moment away from the city’s pace.

Nyhavn

Copenhagen’s most iconic canal-side street, lined with colorful 17th-century houses and historic boats. Touristy but charming.

Ordrupgaard & Finn Juhl’s House

A museum north of Copenhagen featuring a mix of Danish modern design and French art. Finn Juhl’s preserved home offers a rare, intimate look into the world of mid-century architecture.

SMK

The National Gallery of Denmark - the country’s largest art museum, housing a blend of old masters and contemporary pieces. Spacious and calm, with a café (Kantine by Frederik Bille Brahe) and garden for quiet breaks between exhibits.

Danish Architecture Center

DAC is a cultural hub exploring urban design, architecture, and sustainability through exhibitions, talks, and installations. Great views of the harbor from the top floor café.

Arken - outside the city center

A contemporary art museum near the coast, known for its striking architecture and bold exhibitions. The surrounding landscape and seaside setting make it worth the short trip from the city.

Garden of the Royal Library

A tranquil public garden tucked between old university buildings and the Black Diamond library. Often quiet, it’s a perfect spot to meet up with a friend, bring some tea, sit on a bench in front of the central fountain.

Det Rundetårn

A 17th-century observatory with a spiral ramp leading to panoramic views of the city. An architectural curiosity and one of Copenhagen’s most visited landmarks.

Grundtvigs Kirke

A monumental brick church in the Bispebjerg district, known for its expressionist architecture and serene, symmetrical interior. Quiet, awe-inspiring, and rarely crowded.

Where to shop

Frama

A concept space housed in an old pharmacy, offering furniture, lighting, scents, and apothecary goods. The overall mood is minimalist, sensory, and quietly luxurious.

Tadaima

A curated lifestyle store blending Japanese craftsmanship with Nordic minimalism. You’ll find ceramics, clothing, incense, and everyday objects that feel timeless and intentional.

Paustian

An iconic Danish design store showcasing furniture, lighting, and interiors from many Danish designers. The space is architectural and worth visiting even if you’re not furnishing a home.

Stilleleben

A Copenhagen design favorite known for its well-crafted tableware, prints, and decorative objects. A go-to for thoughtful gifts, Danish ceramics, and clean lines with warmth.

Ruby Atelier

A quietly elegant studio boutique offering handmade textiles, home goods, and accessories in a soft, neutral palette. Everything here feels tactile, refined, and personal.

Klassisk

A specialist in vintage Danish furniture, Klassisk offers restored design pieces from the mid-century greats — Wegner, Mogensen, Juhl. A must-visit for collectors and design lovers.

Dinesen showroom

A serene, architectural showroom dedicated to Danish wood flooring and interiors. The space feels more like a gallery, with raw materials presented as part of a sensory design experience.

Arak’ai Beauty

A beauty studio focused on natural & botanical skincare. The shop area is curated for ritual and simplicity, blending plant-based ingredients with Scandinavian aesthetics.

Gubi

A showroom-meets-gallery filled with sculptural lighting, furniture, and design icons reimagined with bold silhouettes and modern tones. Elegant, expressive, and deeply Scandinavian.

New Mags

A design-focused bookstore offering art publications, travel books, and collectible coffee table editions. Perfect for browsing or bringing home a thoughtfully curated stack.

Where to stay

I always stay with friends and family but these hotels were recommended the most.

• The Audo

• Villa Copenhagen

• Hotel Sanders

• Hotel Alexandra

• Hotel Kong Arthur

• Coco Hotel

Recap

• Where to eat & drink

Auren’s Deli - La Banchina - Bottega Barlie - Esmée - Gasoline Grill - Circolo - Bar Amore - Mirabelle - Ancestrale - Pompette - Sushi Anaba - Beitsalma - Vækst - Tokyo Restaurant - Ved Stranden 10

• Where to get Scandivian bakery & breakfast

Atelier September - Grød - Bakery Benji - Apotek 57 - Lille Bakery - Kantine at SMK

• Where to sip tea

Io Tehus - Sing Tehus

• Where to sip coffee

La Cabra - Prolog - Sonny - Kompa’9 - Café Sandø - Lido

• Where to spend an afternoon

Gallery Louise Roe - Glyptoteket Gallery - Den Botaniske Have - Nyhavn - Ordrupgaard & Finn Juhl’s House - SMK - Danish Architecture Center - Arken - Garden of the Royal Library - Det Rundetårn - Grundtvigs Kirke

• Where to shop

Tadaima - Paustian - Stilleleben - Ruby Atelier - Klassisk - Dinesen showroom - Arak’ai Beauty - Frama - Gubi - New Mags

• Where to stay

The Audo - Villa Copenhagen - Hotel Sanders - Hotel Alexandra - Hotel Kong Arthur - Coco Hotel

What is your earliest memory of beauty?

Before starting kindergarten (I started late) my best friend was a 90-years-old woman who lived down the street, I remember being very fascinated by her hands, with the beautiful long, colored nails and gold rings.

Do you have a creative routine that keeps you going?

I’m a walker hahah, of course I watch old movies, go to galleries, dive around on Pinterest, listen to favorite music, all the things. But, usually when I need to get the inspo out, I go for a walk. It always helps me to not force the creative process, think about something else, even just for a little while.

Which colors feels like home?

Been loving brown and yellow together for as long as I can remember. I don’t necessarily decorate myself or my home with those colors, but I do love to look at them, giving me a calm feeling.

If your aesthetic was a soundtrack, what would be on it?

Way too hard to choose one soundtrack, it depends on the occasion. As most people I have a wide taste of music because it's often a memory connected to the song. However, I find the soundtrack "Thème de Camille" (by Georges Delerue, ndlr) from the movie Le Mépris, endlessly beautiful.

Which place in the world feels closest to your aesthetics?

We have moved a few times the past 5 years and it’s going to sound cliché, but it has proven to me that my place is wherever my family is. Somehow we always manage to create an aesthetic that feels like home, even if we don’t have many of our own things and it’s maybe not 100% our taste, we create it with the things we do have and our memories.

What season is most you?

Fall, because layers.

What is your favorite time of day to observe the world?

I love the mornings, not always because: love to sleep. But I have discovered I’m a lot more productive and open to take in my observations in the morning.

What texture or materials makes you feel most comfortable?

For wearing, suits of super wool 120 or above. For my surroundings probably a mix of wood, stone, ceramics, metal, chrome and lace.

Which artists inspire your sensibility?

So many I find inspiring, here's a few, in a random order:

• Nan Goldin

• Vilhelm Hammershøi

• Morrisey

• Alexander McQueen

• Glyn Warren Philpot

What is your favorite scent and what does it remind you of?

Lilacs, it's my absolute favorite flower, growing up in Norway the winter season is long so when the lilacs start to bloom you know it's finally spring :)

What rituals feels like meditation?

Long walks.

Where in Brussels should one go for a shot of inspiration?

There are many favorites and I’m actually still discovering, but here’s a couple:

• Villa Empain

• Bois de la Cambre

• Brussels Design Market

• Parc Leopold

• The royal Greenhouses of Laeken

If your life was a still life painting, what objects would be in it?

A vase, onions, a toaster, green flowers, some bread, my earpods (with wire), wine glass and a scented candle

What is your summer routine?

• Tons of water

• Best scenario: a walk or quick run

• Making coffee

• Shower

• Face-massage

• Pick out an outfit

• Skincare

• Make up

• Work on the computer (most productive in the mornings hahah)

What is one of the most beautiful books you own?

It's probably my collection of magazines, rather then one book. They are from early 2000/2010, it's a mix of The Gentlewoman, Vogue, Personae, Dazed, Habitat, Acne Paper, Smug and few more.

Where do you get most inspiration from?

Honestly everywhere, architecture, people watching, Pinterst, old movies, my husband and those old magazines :)

Your most treasured possession?

It would be a memory (or many) and for me, it's all the summers spent with my family at my grandparents house by the sea in a small place called Melsomvik. It holds a very special place in my heart.

Who inspired you most in your lifestyle today?

Probably my husband, he has the best taste ever!!

What detail in everyday life do you find fascinating?

How people choose to dress, my favorite thing since forever, is to sit outside a nice hotel or similar and observe people who have dressed up to go out for dinner, wearing their favorite outfit maybe, spent a bit more time on their hair/makeup and most often in a good mood.

What do you see as your biggest achievement career-wise, so far?

To have dared to change career paths a few times, continuing learning new things and raising a child at the same time hahaha.

What is your definition of elegance?

Confidence, you can wear anything really, if you wear it with confidence, it will show!

What word do you like in Norwegian?

Koselig, means cozy, so nothing special but I love it, it gives me warmth.

Which photograph or painting has stayed with you the longest?

A photograph taken by Nan Goldin of her friend Paul. I remember cutting it out from one of my magazines and using it in various moodboards when studying. I still have it, however it's somewhere in our storage.

A beauty mantra you go by?

Humor, I have discovered that it's the first thing I lose when moving to a new country. For me it's important to figure out a way to connect regardless of language, backround, etc and that is most often some kind of humor. I feel everyone is more beautiful when they don't take themselves too seriously!

What nourishes your imagination these days?

To be honest, these days, it would be my son, we are in the middle of summer vacation and the days are filled with everything from Dinosaurs, playgrounds and playing dress up to Bruno Mars music hahhaha :)

Find me here and here.

Let’s dig into what nourishes Johanna’s imagination.

What is your favorite scent, and what does it remind you of?

Recently, in Florence, I was invited to create a custom fragrance at Profumoir Firenze. I just uncorked it today; it needed to mature for three weeks.

I told the scent expert, Lucia, I wanted to capture a plant’s scent from root (earthy) to flower (expanding). She offered me various scent notes without naming them. In the end, my selections formed the final fragrance, which she blended by hand.

I named it In Aurea, from my name, Aurea, and “In” for what lives inside me. It reminds me of nature, of everything I love.

What gives you food for thought these days?

In some of my projects, I work as a culinary artist, curating recipes and menus for brands and events. The challenge is not only to present something nourishing and beautiful on the plate but also to address the broader issue of disrupted global food systems. How to do that with inspiration and relevance? That question demands my full imagination.

What are your summer morning and evening rituals?

I work through the summer. Some mornings begin early, especially when corresponding with colleagues across time zones. Every other day, I carve out time to read and write before easing into yoga or fascia-inspired movement. I’m not a big morning eater; a green juice, strawberries, and coffee sustain me until lunch.

Evenings are for my garden, cooking, and unwinding with a book or vinyl records.

My skincare ritual is tactile, not visual. I’ve stepped away from the mirror to focus more on how products and hand-to-skin feel than on how I look. In an image-obsessed culture, this practice feels like a reset.

Which colors feel like home to you?

It depends on where I am. In southern Europe, I feel more exploratory in my palate. In Sweden, I dress more simply.

While I’m drawn to the rich hues of Renaissance paintings and the art deco tones of the 1920s, my wardrobe is more reminiscent of 90s singer Sade: blue jeans, clean T-shirts, something sexy, and oversized shirts.

What ritual feels like a meditation to you?

Cooking and gardening. Cooking requires all five senses: scent for ripeness, touch for texture, eyes for color, ears for the sizzle, and taste to balance flavors. You can’t multitask; if you lose focus, something burns.

In the garden, hands in the soil and the slow rhythm of growth are reminders of life’s subtle miracles.

If your aesthetic had a soundtrack, what would be on it?

That’s a hard one. I love music; I'm probably polygamous in my music sense. It's so mood-based. Some days it's classic, then jazz; other days, drum and bass or techno. I couldn’t choose just one.

What is your favorite time of day for observing the world?

Dawn, when the world is quiet and it’s just me and my thoughts. Best time to write.

And late at night, especially in Swedish winters. It’s so dark, but around midnight, there's a peculiar energy. I often find clarity in those hours.

What textures or materials bring you comfort?

Clay. Kneading dough. Stress dissolves in the motion.

For clothes: silk, cashmere, and cotton. I can’t do synthetics; they irritate my skin.

Which artist inspires your sensibility?

I’ve made a conscious effort to broaden my artistic lens. I'm still learning.

I’m inspired by artist Patricia Kaersenhout, painter Firelei Báez, and both known and unknown herbalists who used cyanotype photography, botanical illustration, and the art of drying flowers to document their work.

If your life were a still life painting, what would be in it?

A country garden. In summer.

Where in Stockholm should one go for inspiration?

Stockholm shifts with the seasons. In summer, take a boat into the archipelago and cruise the islands.

In the city, the newly opened Stockholm Stadshotell is a beautiful place for cocktails and conversation. The Nord Books bookstore is a gem. For food, visit Babette for pizza or Brutalist for an experimental dining experience by artist Carsten Höller.

I work with the Swedish fragrance house Björk and Berries, and their flagship store is a step into scents of the Nordics; it's not all minimal here. In the store you'll find the mystical sagas of Swedish Fragrance.

What is your earliest memory of beauty?

It depends on how we define beauty. I spent my childhood living in various countries, and I remember snippets of nature, sounds, and scents that evoked a deep sense of tranquility. These moments, even in early life, revealed the quiet, powerful presence of beauty.

The late poet and philosopher John O’Donohue wrote:
"One of the huge confusions in our times is to mistake glamour for beauty... We need to draw back inside ourselves, and we’ll find immense resources there."
His words continue to feel profoundly relevant.

A beautiful book you own?

Currently it's:

Herbaria by Domitilla Dardi, which I recently found in Paris.

In terms of text, The Grammar of Fantasy by Gianni Rodari.

Where do you find inspiration?

Silence. Cooking. Writing. Reading. Movement. Gardening. On rotation.

What is your most treasured possession?

My imagination. Though not a possession in the traditional sense, it's my most precious gift.

Externally, my daughter and husband.

Which place feels most aligned with your aesthetic?

Italy or France, aside from their political turbulence. But I would love to visit my birth country, Ecuador.

Who has most influenced your lifestyle?

I have few role models. I’ve met many incredible and talented people, but mostly, I’ve shaped my lifestyle myself. I began working at 17 in fashion, and now, at 51, I’ve made my multi-faceted career through study, practice, and creative exploration.

What small everyday detail do you find endlessly fascinating?

That I wake up each day, first in body, then, if I’m aware, in spirit.

What do you consider your greatest professional achievement (so far)?

Being able to do everything I do, all at once. Wearing many hats and loving each one.

What is your definition of elegance?

Being at ease in your own skin. Movement. Energy that sends vibrations through a room when you enter.

It’s not what you wear; it’s how you carry yourself, with humility and grace.

Which season feels most like you?

Spring into early summer and the harvest season, garden-wise.

Which image or artwork has stayed with you the longest?

Again, it is hard to choose, but when I first saw the photography of Sally Mann, of her children, I felt really moved.
Last year a friend gave me a hand-crafted glass bead necklace from Ecuador. It's perhaps not art in the traditional sense, but I find crafted objects allure me more. And having been born in Guayaquil, it feels like I am wearing a piece of my heritage.

If beauty were a mantra, what would yours be?

Live Life Love.

Any books that shaped your inner journey?

I used to read many yoga texts, but now I seek diverse perspectives.

One powerful read is On Time and Water by Andri Snær Magnason. It opened my eyes to climate change through storytelling. I highly recommend it.

What nourishes your imagination these days?

Sleep. Without it, I’m lost. 😊

I’m thrilled to introduce you to my interview with Jillian Kasimow, on aesthetics.

Which colors feel like home to you?

Soft pastels that feel like the light in L.A. — peachy and warm orange hues.

What ritual feels like a meditation to you?

Cleaning and organizing makes me feel at ease and restores balance. It creates space in my head for new perspectives and ideas to come through.

What texture or material brings you the most comfort?

Crisp, fresh, white high thread count cotton bed linens.

Which artist, past or present, best inspires your sensibility?

There are so many but some of the most influential are Georgia O’Keeffe, Ed Ruscha, Luis Barragan, Donald Judd.

What is your favorite scent?

Smoky trees like pine, cedar, hinoki…they don’t have nostalgic ties I just love them.

Where in Los Angeles should one go for a shot of inspiration? 

The Hollywood Hills at sunset when the golden light casts a dreamy haze over the entire city or Malibu for a Pacific Ocean vista.

If your life were a still life painting, what objects would be in it?

Mineral specimens, tropical fruit, bougainvillea, a stack of vintage art books, an abstract sculpture or painting.

On what occasion do you lie about someone’s taste?

When someone expresses love for something that I don’t find appealing. I can see how much joy it brings them and I am not about to burst their bubble!

What is the most beautiful book you own?

Hard to pick just one! One of my favorites is Hans Hartung’s large scale book of beautiful rock photos “Un Monde Ignoré”.

Where do you get most inspiration from?

The past, mineral museums, traveling, a bookstore or library with a collection of rare books.

What is your most treasured possession?

A painting by grandma Libby of my father’s sister who passed away tragically.

Who inspired you most in your style today?

Joan Didion, Georgia O’Keeffe, Elsa Peretti, Lauren Hutton.

What small detail in everyday life do you find endlessly fascinating?

The spectrum of color.

What do you consider your greatest achievement, career-wise (so far!)

Having the courage to start Crystal Voyager and share my authentic creative vision with the world.

What is your definition of elegance?

When intention aligns with grace and soul.

What is the most beautiful word in your language?

Evocative.

Which season feels most like you?

Late Spring into early summer.

If your aesthetic were a piece of clothing, what would it be?

A gauzy 70s caftan.

What is your earliest memory of beauty?

My grandfather’s paintings and whimsical creations.

If your aesthetic had a soundtrack, what would be on it?

Deep cut disco, 60s Soul, Bossa Nova.

Which photograph, painting, or image has stayed with you the longest?

Henri Rousseau’s “The Jungle”, David Hockney’s “A Bigger Splash”.

Which place in the world feels most aligned with your aesthetic?

The 1970s versions of L.A. and New York, Mexico City.

What is your favorite time of day for observing the world?

The glow of sunset.

What does ‘timeless’ mean to you?

Rooted in an authentic sensibility but always evolving.

If beauty was a mantra, what would yours be?

Create a moment of pause, elicit feelings that are both human and transcendent, inspire a shift in perspective.

What is your earliest memory of beauty?

Up until I was three I lived in the Celtic Park Apartment Building in Queens, NY with my parents. The building was standard and unappealing, but I have vivid memories of passing through a columned archway and stepping into an enclosed outdoor courtyard that the apartment complex surrounded. I remember absolutely LOVING the courtyard garden. The courtyard garden is my earliest memory of beauty.

Which colors feel like home?

Cream, ecru, rich tobacco brown, warm light brown, black lacquer, taupe.

What ritual feels like a meditation to you?

A bath with an incense or candle.

If your aesthetic had a soundtrack, what would be on it?

I think a lot of Toro y Moi. Toro y Moi’s Pavement, Patti Smith’s cover of Smells Like Teen Spirit.

What is your favorite time of day for observing the world?

The time right before Sunset.

Which artist, past or present, best inspire your sensibility?

I don’t have a specific artist in mind to be honest and this might be because I am attracted to many different eras and styles. Lately I have been turning to galleries or shops. I really identify with Jacqueline Sullivan Gallery’s entire aesthetic. Other examples would be Lemaire or Mantel.

Lemaire:

Mantel:

Jacqueline Sullivan Gallery:

What is your favorite scent, and what does it remind you of?

I love the smell of tulsi (so fragrant when fresh, but also nice dried) and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. They bring calm to the kitchen. I also love the smell of lime. The smell of a magnolia tree, lilac, or jasmine vine. They remind me of Spring, Summer. To wear, I love to smell monastic… I love natural perfume…oud, frankincense and wild rose. Incense. Bodha’s Earth too.

If your life were a still life painting, what objects would be in it?

An orange, some dates, a head of cabbage, butter, honey, a gold cigar ring, a small perfume bottle.

Where do you get most inspiration from?

Art books. Antiquing and vintage shopping IRL. Instagram!

Which place in the world feels most aligned with your aesthetic?

The East Coast.

What texture or material brings you the most comfort?

Mohair blanket.

Who inspired you most in your style today?

For clothing… so many women. Women who bring masculine and feminine to their style. I need both. At this very moment I am very inspired by Hermès, by Margiela late 90s - early 2000s. And to be really cliché but truthful, my mom.

What do you consider your greatest career achievement so far?

Working for a successful small business in retail. Building a new category (apothecary, beauty) from the ground up.

What is your definition of elegance?

Refined.

If your aesthetic were a piece of clothing, what would it be?

It would be a light neutral color, of natural material, oversized, very little shape.

Which season feels most like you?

Autumn.

What is the most beautiful word you know?

I love the word anise as in star anise, but I pronounce it ‘ah-neese’

Which photograph, painting, or image has stayed with you the longest?

I really love Botero’s Little Girl Smoking. You have to see it in person.

What does ‘timeless’ mean to you?

Not trendy. Classic materials. Always in style.

If beauty was a mantra, what would yours be?

Feel it first.

Inspired by the timeless Proust Questionnaire — a 19th-century parlor game turned introspective mirror — On Aesthetics is a new series here on my Substack. In each edition, I sit down with a creative whose work is rooted in intention, beauty, and elegance. Creatives of all types drawn by a shared devotion to how things look and feel.

This isn’t about trends. It’s about the inner architecture of a person’s world and taste: the rituals, references, and rhythms that shape their sensibility.

On Aesthetics is a gentle invitation — to pause, to notice, and to remember that a life thoughtfully observed is, in itself, a kind of art.

The first interview lands this Saturday.

Bonne fin de semaine!

x Louise

Mid-January I finished working on some big long-term projects and needed to take a few days off while staying in Marseille. A proper vacation wasn’t an option, so I needed to find a quick alternative. To be honest, I was convinced I needed to get away to be able to disconnect and started looking at airbnbs only to wonder… can it really be right that I need to go away just to be able to have a deep break? Then I remembered that last year, I had made myself ‘A Home Retreat’ (I also wrote about it in French here) because in March, I felt the same heavy fatigue and needed to refresh my nervous system. Had I done it once, I could do it again. So I decided to stay home, and create myself a second version of The Home Retreat.

How do you get deep rest when you stay home? This is what worked for me this month (I did that for non-consecutive 3 days, as in that was all I did during those days!):

• time with friends

• sleeping in & taking unapologetic naps in the sun

• journaling

• reading

• reducing screen time to a minimum

• almost no work, no projects (or 1 hour per day)

• learning something new

• spending time by the sea

• watching documentaries on artists & musicians (arte has a great selection)

• meditation

• contemplating beauty

Winter rituals

The cold season is not my favorite, so I compensate with rituals that make days nice and cozy. I’ve started taking saffron as supplement to make up for the lack of sun, short days and ‘lower temperatures’. Saffron is an excellent anti-oxydant, anti-inflammatory which lifts the mood. I get it at my local herbalist from the organic brand called Vegetal Progress.

Another ritual I’ve started in January is taking my pilates practice out from my living room into a studio where I can alternate mat and reformer. I vary the classes, which makes things quite exciting and lifts the January energy.

Similar to previous years, winter rituals in my home start with beeswax candles. Lighting candles all day long is a Nordic tradition i’m very attached to as it brings so much warmth to the heart and makes any room cosy. The reason why i’m choosing beeswax is because it emits negative ions when burned (which is good for us), and does not release harmful chemicals into the air (as opposed to other types of candles). I light it in the middle when i get settled into the office or when i move into the living room for some reading.

This year, winter rituals also include toasted bread with manchego and warm genmaicha tea,

drawing,

journaling in bed,

together with veggie stews, veggie soups, resting, reading under a woolen blanket and movie nights.

What i’m reading

As I shared on the chat on Sunday, I’ve started reading this book i bought one year ago, and have been excited to start digging into ever since. The book is called ‘Eastern body, western mind’ written by Anodea Judith. Needless to say, i’m very excited to get deeper into it. The book’s philosophy embraces an approach to life and health that speaks to me dearly. Taking the best from both worlds so we can make our own special mix according to circumstances.

My mood this month

I’ve started using pinterest a lot again. For clients that i’m working with in art direction & photography, for my personal inspiration and for Maison Loüno. I spent many hours imagining the visual aesthetics of Loüno’s chapter one, and i didn’t think it would be such a challenge to translate those new experiences i’m creating into pictures. But i’m getting there, and of course, I always love a good challenge. The moodboard above is part of my personal inspiration. I’m currently drawn to minimal shapes, grey photographs, suits, pearls, aesthetic accessoires and anything green. Less vivid colors, more neutral tones and a lot more quietness.

As always, i love hearing from you. Hit reply, leave a comment or a heart if you enjoyed reading. :-)

Have a great end of week!

x Louise

Le collier Sæmé

Mon amie Luccia a lancé sa marque de bijoux l’an dernier et ne cesse de fabriquer à la main ses colliers, bracelets et bagues de perles précieuses depuis. J’avais eu l’immense honneur d’avoir un collier imaginé pour moi et qui porte aujourd’hui mon prénom :) La semaine dernière, j’ai reçu une commande que je lui ai faite : un collier avec des grosses perles de nacres blanches et un fermoir doré en S, avec une petite bague en perles de nacre également. Je suis complètement sous le charme. Je n’ai plus envie de les quitter.

Découvrez les bijoux de Luccia sur son insta Sæmé

Le livre de cuisine d’Alice Roca

La cuisine est un de mes premiers grands amours, et une des inspirations fondatrices de Maison Loüno. Sauf qu’avec mes nombreuses intolérances, j’avais perdu le plaisir d’imaginer et de tester des recettes. Là je m’y remets doucement et je me rends compte à quel point j’aime cela. Je n’ai pas encore retrouvé un niveau satisfaisant à mon goût (pun intended), mais vu que je ne dois plus développer de recettes justement, je n’ai plus d’exigence de “perfectionnisme”. J’ai envie de parfaire mes recettes mais dans le temps, quand j’en ai envie et sans pression.

Le livre ‘Réunir’ d’Alice m’accompagne en ce moment. Elle me l’avait offert lors de sa sortie, et j’avais été envoutée par l’amour qui se dégage du livre. C’est sublime, généreux, gourmand, simple, convivial et beau. Je me suis notamment inspirée de sa salade de pomme de terre à l’aïoli, suis tentée de tester de faire ses frites de polenta, œufs mimosa, et cela fait des lustres que je rêve de faire une pavlova aux fraises, donc je me suis inspirée de sa base pour les meringues.

Découvrez le livre Réunir d’Alice Roca

Le sac tressé Hartford

Complètement dingue de ce sac Hartford en rafia naturel, parfait pour le printemps à Marseille.

Voir le sac

Hors-série Les Confettis sur la créativité

Le Hors-série Les Confettis sur la créativité avec en interview des amies Maison Loüno comme Margaux de Fouchier et Virginie Hucher ou Alexis Tuersley. Le livre parcours différentes sources d’inspiration et des points de vue intéressants pour booster sa créativité. Comment voir la donnée temporelle différemment, comment se servir du mouvement ou du journaling pour se connecter à soi et passer à l’action… des philosophies très proches de celle Maison Loüno, et qui me parlent beaucoup.

Disponible ici

Le tank top Ofira par Essentials for Zula

Ce top fabriqué de manière engagée avec des chutes de tissus et il est incroyablement agréable à porter. Il tient chaud au corps et a ce look années 90’s que j’adore !

Découvrez le top Ofira

Je vous souhaite un bon weekend, j’espère que ces partages vous inspireront à trouver vos favoris du moment. N’oubliez pas que vous êtes toujours les bienvenues pour partager sur Instagram si vous faites une recette d‘Alice Roca, que vous achetez un collier chez Sæmé ou le sac tressé chez Hartford. J’adore vous lire !

Bon dimanche,

Louise x

Vous aviez peut-être vu passer l’info sur insta , j’ai composé un livre photo sur Marseille avec des photos personnelles capturées depuis mon arrivée ici il y a 2 ans, une partie city guide avec des bonnes adresses où manger et boire, des portraits de créatives et des recettes de cheffes inspirantes. Henry Miller disait “Une destination n’est jamais un lieu, mais une nouvelle façon de voir les choses.” C’est comme ça que je vis le voyage, et le livre s'inscrit dans cette philosophie en proposant également une exploration de soi à travers une série de questions introspectives.

Les pages du livre ont été imprimées en Belgique et sont actuellement en train d’être reliées par un fil blanc qui est cousu à la main. Si vous me suivez depuis quelques temps, vous connaissez mon amour pour le beau papier. J’ai choisi du très beau papier pour le livre, un épais 120g pour l’intérieur du livre, avec un toucher légèrement texturé mais pas trop, et de couleur blanche pour faire ressortir les couleurs des photos, et un de 300g pour la couverture.

Quand je voyage, j’aime vivre comme quelqu’un de local. Je n’ai pas forcément envie de courir dans les lieux les plus célèbres, et je peux facilement retourner plusieurs fois dans un café, j’aime ressentir l’atmosphère des rues, des lieux et des gens. Ce sont d’ailleurs souvent les cafés et le design qui me guident. Je planifie certaines choses à l'avance mais sinon j'aime suivre le flow du moment et rester ouverte aux envies spontanées qui émergent sur place.

Pourquoi pré-commander le livre

• Pour avoir un bel objet à la maison et en voyage.

• Pour l’amour du beau papier.

• Pour l’amour des rencontres, des photos argentiques et des bonnes adresses.

• Pour vivre deux explorations passionnantes.

• Pour l’Art de la contemplation.

• Pour se faire du bien.

Comment se procurer le livre

A photobook of Marseille est en pré-commande aujourd’hui et demain 15 avril à 25€ avec des goodies offerts (détaillés ici). A partir du 16 avril, il passera à 35€ dans la limite des stocks disponibles.

Si vous voulez être certain.e de recevoir un exemplaire, je vous conseille de le réserver dès maintenant. <3

Je commande le livre

Comment se procurer les tirages photo

La sortie du livre est accompagnée de trois tirages de mes photos argentiques. Les photos sont disponibles en 3 formats :

• 15x22,5cm pour lequel je conseille un cadre 30x40cm avec passe-partout

• 30x45cm pour lequel je conseille un cadre 50x70cm avec passe-partout

• et 50x75cm pour lequel je conseille un cadre 60x90cm avec passe-partout

Aujourd’hui et demain, le livre vous est offert pour l’achat d’un tirage.

Pour commander des tirages, c’est par ici.

Je commande un tirage

J'offre un tirage

Merci merci merci merci

Vous avez déjà été nombreux à pré-commander le livre et les tirages et je voulais vous remercier mille fois. C’est grâce à vous que ce livre (qui me tient tant à cœur) peut voir le jour. <3

Merci à Lili Barbery-Coulon, AnOther Magazine, à Oh My Cream et d’autres d’avoir déjà parlé de mon livre. <3

Share The Richness & Deep Flavors of Life I Louise Skadhauge

Version française ici

The last few months have been very intense. I studied to become a certified wellness coach, passed the exams, navigated highly challenging times in my personal life, discovered I had SIBO, finished writing/making my book and sent it for print, while continuing photo work & you know, personal life… My body was asking for a deep restorative pause and although I first was scared to ‘not do anything’ for a week, I gave myself what I was really longing for.

What did I want from this Home Retreat?

When I lived in Paris, I found it so difficult to rest & restore my energy. Even on weekends, having slow days didn’t do much. On paper, I was ‘doing nothing’ but it didn’t work. I didn’t feel I have re-gained any strength. Now that I live in Marseille, I don’t have the same feeling at all, I’m much more grounded on a daily basis, but I knew last week that on top of needing a break, I could reach new levels. New levels of bliss, of grounded-ness; creating days where the compass is a regulated nervous system, and not to-do list! :))) I love my to-do lists, but like in any relationship, sometimes you need space to strengthen the bond. ;)

I needed to unplug, re-install a sense of calm in my days, have a regulated nervous system and re-center. I wanted to be able to clearly hear my inner voice & intuition. What I have learnt over the years is that re-centering is a daily practice. When you think about it, we have a daily habit of brushing our teeth and getting back to equilibrium after each meal, so why wouldn’t we do the same for our emotions which are just as impacted during the day... ?

And when you’re hyper-sensitive like me, going all the way with these Home Retreats (I started trying this out a year ago), is SO powerful, like necessary actually.

What do the days look like?

It looked like a Holistic Retreat but at home. Let's be honest, I spent a lot of time in my pjs in my bed :))) The key is to take a complete break from Insta and have a rather chill week on the work side. Started my days with a prolonged version of my daily practice which includes breathwork, meditation, journaling with pilates & yoga, spent time with friends over home cooked meals or on the phone, started learning new things, tended to things I never feel I have time for and I kept my 1:1 coaching sessions and worked circa 1/3 of the time.

Why at home?

Because I felt like it (loooove my home) :) and because the goal was to tap into this state of being + reinforcing resilience in rituals and feelings for daily life. I’ve often felt that when I came back from a retreat away from home, I didn’t know how to fit everything I had learnt and experienced into my daily life. There was disconnect. I still think retreats away from home have tremendous value, but what I’m interested in this year is how to create an environment where it’s easy and automatic to harness the benefits of a practice to unplug and re-center exactly where the de-centering process happens.

How do I feel at the end of the week?

A-ma-zing. So grounded. Gained so much clarity, focus, energy, power and excitement. :) I’ve already noticed a change in how I react to certain situations. Re-writing those old patterns to make them serve us best, is LIFE.

Honestly there are so many benefits to this, I’m gonna do this again regularly. Maybe first week of May already! Can’t wait to get back to work tomorrow and can’t wait for the next Home Retreat as well <3

My word for 2023 was love and that word blossomed beautifully into reality. I got my ‘lovers’ tattoo on the wrist, I deepened my relationship with myself big time!, closed down chapter one of Maison Loüno to leave space for something more aligned (which was the most difficult thing to let go of); my relationships have evolved, deepened, or gotten space to overall become more aligned with who i am today. 2023 was filled with alignment & love like never before!

Since October, i’ve done a little experiment which is to only incorporate in my life what i feel is a ‘full yes’. It’s a super powerful tool to focus on what energises you & gets you closer to your aligned self. It makes decisions so much easier, and you embrace much more obligations & less fun things that come with a specific decision. That’s one of the biggest take-aways from 2023, that i will definitely keep with me going into 2024. Here are other things i learned:

1. Taking time off your phone during weekends calms your nervous system, boosts your productivity, and focus big time! It’s only natural that we need to learn to set some boundaries with this new type of addictive part of our lives.

2. Getting a video projector really is worth the investment (& you can be set with less than 400€!) I got this one and love it!

3. Adding a real stereo installation to your home makes a huge difference in how cozy & warm it feels!

4. Intex make super good high mattresses for your guests!

5. Discovering Dr. Hauschka’s 100% natural makeup collection was a game-changer for me as i started wearing makeup again.

6. Wouldn’t mind a trip back to Mallorca. :)

7. Clearing out & closing down (projects, relationships, physical objects...) creates space for things that are more aligned. Not always easy, but really wor

8. Is it a full yes? If not, it’s a no.

9. The city you live in really. does. impact. your energy.

10. Discovered Maison Loüno’s calling & second chapter: empowering people & their minds.

Happy Holidays!

Mon mot pour 2023 était amour, verbe/nom/intention qui s’est magnifiquement réalisé. Je me suis fait tatouer “lovers” sur le poignet, j’ai approfondi ma relation avec moi-même, clôturé le premier chapitre de Maison Loüno pour laisser place à quelque chose de plus aligné (le lâcher prise qui a été le plus difficile pour moi); mes relations ont évoluées, se sont approfondies ou espacées pour s'aligner davantage avec qui je suis aujourd'hui. 2023 a été remplie d’amour et d’alignement comme jamais!

Depuis octobre, j’ai fait une petite expérience qui consiste à n’incorporer dans ma vie que ce que je ressens comme un ‘full yes’ / un ‘oui franc’. Cette technique est un outil super puissant pour se concentrer sur ce qui nous dynamise et ce qui est aligné. Il facilite grandement la prise de décisions. C’est probablement l’élément 2023 le plus fort que je garde avec moi en 2024. Voici d’autres choses que j’ai apprises :

1. Passer ses weekends loin du téléphone est un bonheur qui fait une grosse différence au quotidien ! Cela calme le système nerveux, augmente la productivité et la concentration.

2. Se procurer un vidéo-projecteur vaut vraiment l'investissement et on peut s'équiper en dépensant moins de 400€ ! J'ai acheté celui-ci et je l'adore !

3. L’ajout d’une stéréo au salon fait une énorme différence dans le ressenti cozy et chaleureux à la maison.

4. Intex fabrique de supers matelas élevés pour vos invités !

5. La découverte de la collection de maquillage 100% naturelle Dr. Hauschka a changé la donne : j’ai recommencé à me maquiller.

6. Je ne dirais pas non à un nouveau séjour à Majorque. :)

7. Le tri et la clôture de projets, relations, objets physiques, etc. créent de l’espace pour des choses plus alignées. Ce n’est pas toujours facile, mais ça vaut vraiment le coup.

8. Est-ce un oui franc ? Sinon, c'est non.

9. La ville dans laquelle on vit a un réel impact sur notre énergie.

10. J’ai découvert la vocation (et deuxième chapitre) de Maison Loüno : accompagner le renforcement mental de mes clientes.

Bonnes fêtes !

Veste Vinto + Pantalon Party de chez Hartford

Jupe Alexandra + Polo Angélique de chez La Française

Depuis le début de l’automne, ces deux ensembles m’accompagnent lors de mes consultations Maison Loüno. Des moments où j'ai besoin de me sentir très confortable dans mes vêtements pour que toute mon attention se porte sur la personne en face. Les matières sont naturelles, et incroyablement agréables à porter !

I’ve been wearing these two outfits during my Maison Loüno consultations. These are moments where i need to feel super confortable in what i’m wearing so that all my attention goes to the person in front of me. The fabrics are natural and feel incredibly nice on the skin!

Digital Detox

Depuis quelques semaines, je déconnecte d’instagram tous les weekends. Cela fait un bien fou ! Je suis beaucoup plus connectée à moi-même, aux personnes autour de moi, je peux approfondir mes réflexions et lire beaucoup plus. Cela apaise également considérablement le système nerveux.

Si vous voulez vous joindre à moi, je vais continuer l’exercice sur les 6 prochains weekends, jusqu’à la fin de l’année 2023. Voici quelques conseils et retours d’expérience :

➰ En amont - sur votre téléphone

1. Automatismes

Déplacez l’appli sur votre téléphone (ou supprimez-la si vous n’avez pas de brouillons en cours). Au début, votre doigt va aller à l’emplacement initial d’insta par automatisme. Si à la place, cela ouvre la météo, on évitera déjà un peu de mindless scrolling.

2. Communication

Si vous utilisez l’appli comme moyen de communication, prévenez les proches avec qui vous parlez souvent sur insta et indiquez-leur comment vous contacter.

Idem avec votre communauté si vous avez l’habitude d’être présent.e les weekends.

➰ En amont - avec de quoi noter

1. Motivations

Pourquoi voulez-vous faire ce challenge ? Quelles sont vos motivations ? Quelles émotions souhaitez-vous que cela vous apporte ?

Prenez 1 minute et fermez les yeux. Imaginez que vous y êtes, vous êtes en weekend et vous parvenez sans problème à vivre sans insta. Que ressentez-vous ? Qu’est-ce que vous dégagez ? Quelle est la vision que vous avez pour vous-même. Notez ces images vers lesquelles vous tendez.

2. Alternatives

Pensez à tout ce que vous voulez faire à la place d’insta. Vos stats disent que vous y passez en moyenne 2 heures par jour les samedis et dimanches ? Génial, vous gagnez 4 heures dans votre weekend, comment voulez-vous les utiliser ? 

3. Déclencheurs

Avez-vous des routines liées à insta ? Des moments où vous avez l’habitude d’utiliser insta, comme au petit déj ou avant de vous coucher ?

Prévoyez une alternative pour ces moments en particulier. Ce sont les moments où vous aurez envie d’ouvrir l’appli par automatisme. Si vous prenez conscience de ces déclencheurs émotionnels (ennui...), circonstanciels (petit déj...) ou humains (se retrouver un moment seul.e...), vous serez déjà beaucoup plus préparé.es pour y faire face.

➰ Pendant la digital detox

1. Gérer les pulsions

Si vous êtes tenté.e d’aller faire un tour sur insta (c’est très probable, pas de culpabilité à avoir), voici comment changer d’avis : 

• Reconnectez-vous aux émotions et à la vision que vous souhaitez avec cette digital detox (voir le précédent point “Motivation”). 

• Demandez-vous de quoi vous avez réellement besoin. Du divertissement ? Pourquoi ne pas lire... De la connection ? Pourquoi pas appeler un proche... De l’inspiration ? Pourquoi pas aller marcher, aller au musée, feuilleter des magazines… 

2. Célébrer les joies 

Marquez chaque demi-journée sans insta. Félicitez-vous. Notez que vous y arrivez et laissez la place à la célébration des petites victoires. C’est comme ça qu’on en construit des plus grandes. 

For the past weeks, I’ve been disconnecting from Instagram during weekends. It feels so good! I am much more connected to myself, the people around me, i can deepen my thoughts and read more. This feels so soothing for the nervous system.

If you want to join me, i will keep the practice over the next 6 weeks, until end of 2023. Here are a few tips:

➰ Before - on your phone

1. Re-arranging

Move the location of the app on your phone (or erase it if you don’t have any current drafts). In the beginning, your finger will go to the initial location of insta. If, it opens the weather forecast instead, we already avoid some mindless scrolling right there.

2. Communication

If you use the app as a means of communication, give a heads up to the loved ones you usually talk with on insta and let them know how to contact you. Same with you community if you’re used to being present during weekends.

➰ Before - with a notebook or journal

1. Motivations

Why do want to do this challenge? What are your motivations? What emotions do you want to feel by doing this?

Take one minute & close your eyes. Imagine you’re already there, it’s the weekend and you manage to live without insta super easily. What do you feel? What vision do you have for yourself? Note these images and words that are guiding you.

2. Alternatives

Think of what you want to do instead of insta. Statistics tell you that you roughly spend 2 hours per day on Saturdays and Sundays? Great, you win 4 hours back, how do you want to use them?

3. Triggers

Do you have routines linked to insta? Moments where you usually use insta, like for breakfast or before going to bed?

Prepare an alternative for these moments in particular. These are times where you’ll want to open the app without thinking about it. These triggers can be emotional (boredom…), circumstantial (breakfast…), or human (being alone for a moment…). Becoming aware of them already makes it easier to face them.

➰ During the digital detox

1. Handle the impulses

If you find yourself really wanting to go on the app (which is very likely, nothing to feel guilty about), here’s how to change your mind:

• Reconnect to the emotions and the vision you have for what this digital detox will bring you (see “Motivation”).

• Ask yourself what you actually need. Entertainment? Why not read… Connection? Why not call a friend… Inspiration? Why not go for a walk, a museum or flipping through magazines…. 

2. Celebrate the joys

Mark each half day without insta. Congratulate yourself. Note that you’re doing it and leave space for celebration of the small wins. That’s how we built bigger ones.

Liste de ressources / List of ressources

• Pose tes limites et trouve la paix / Set boundaries & Find peace, de Nedra Glover Tawab

Je ne sais pas vous, mais je trouve que le titre n’est pas très sexy en français ! ^^ Pourtant, le contenu est puissant. J’aurais aimé lire ce livre à 20 ans. Poser des limites envers soi-même, envers les autres, comprendre ce qui est acceptable ou non, savoir comment formuler concrètement des limites, et comprendre qu’il faut généralement les répéter régulièrement pour qu’elles soient respectées fait partie des bases d’une vie épanouie. Qu’on vive un burn out, ou qu’on ait juste envie d’apprendre à poser ses limites calmement en perso ou en pro, ce livre peut vous donner les clés. 

I wish I would have read this book when I was 20. Setting limits towards oneself, towards others, understanding what is acceptable or not and knowing how to concretely formulate limits, understanding that limits generally have to be repeated regularly to be respected… that is part of a fulfilled life. Whether on is experiencing burnout, a codependent relationship, or that one just wants to learn how to peacefully set boundaries at work and in one’s personal life, this book can give you the keys.

• Start with Why, Simon Sinek

Changer une habitude, lancer une boîte ou commencer un projet n’est pas toujours un exercice facile. Savoir pourquoi on le fait et rattacher le projet à quelque chose d’émotionnellement fort rend l’exercice beaucoup plus puissant et perméable aux différents aléas qu’on rencontre.

Le TED Talk de l’auteur Simon Sinek tenu il y a 14 ans est encore d’actualité aujourd’hui. Alors qu’il s’adresse principalement aux entreprises “Les gens n’achètent pas ce que vous faites mais pourquoi vous le faites”, l’idée s’applique à tout type de projet.

Changing habits, launching a company or starting a project isn’t always an easy thing to do. Knowing why you do it and attaching it to something emotionally strong makes the exercice more powerful and permeable to the different hazards one can encounter.

The author, Simon Sinek’s TED Talk held 14 years ago is still relevant today. Although he mainly talks to companies “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it”, the idea remains true for every type of project.

• Rework, Jason Fried & David Heinemeier

C’est un livre que j’ai dévoré un des premiers étés après avoir lancé Maison Loüno. Venant du monde de la finance, je savais que je voulais autre chose que lever des fonds, la course aux chiffres, les benchmarks à gogo pour favoriser une entreprise auto-financée faisant perdurer des valeurs fortes qui ne seraient pas compromises pour les volontés d’investisseurs externes. Les auteurs donnent justement une autre vision du travail : comment penser et agir différemment, et nous proposent une multitude d’idées contre-intuitives. C’est très intéressant !

This is a book i read very quickly during one of the first summers after launching Maison Loüno. Coming from the world of finance, i knew i wanted something else than raising capital, on the hunt for numbers, benchmarking everything in order to favour a self-sufficient company that would sustain strong values and not give in to the will of external investors. The authors give namely another vision of work: how to think and act differently, and they offer us an wide array of counter-intuitive ideas. It’s very interesting!

Merci d’avoir lu ma newsletter ! Je vous souhaite un bon weekend ! Thank you for reading my newsletter! Have an amazing weekend!

Louise.

Photos argentiques de Grèce / Analog photos from Greece

Recevoir les développements de mes photos argentiques me donne un shot d’adrénaline gigantesque. C’est un des plus beaux cadeaux que je connaisse : re-découvrir mon voyage, voir ce que donnent les cadrages choisis, les couleurs, la lumière… j’adore ! La photo argentique est devenue tellement chère (juste une pellicule + son développement coûtent 30€…!), mais quand je vois le bonheur que ça m’apporte, je me dis que ça vaut le coup d’investir !

Je suis donc hyper excitée de vous partager les photos de ma semaine passée sur l’île d’Amorgos en Grèce en septembre !

Voir les photos

Receiving my film rolls developed from the photo lab gives me the greatest boost of adrenaline. It’s one of the greatest gifts i know: re-discovering my travel, seeing how the chosen frames turn out, the colors, the light… i love it so much! It has gotten reaaally expensive to make analog photographs today (one film roll + development is 30€ alone!), but when i see how much joy i gain from it, i’ve decided it’s worth the investment!

So excited to share my photos from a week spent on Amorgos island in Greece!

View the photos

J’ai adoré ce post insta / loved this insta post :

Découvertes / Discoveries

En septembre, Dr.Hauschka a (re-)lancé sa gamme de maquillage et encore une fois, c’est ce qui se fait de mieux. J’adore chaque moment passé avec l’équipe Dr.Hauschka car la marque a une vision similaire à celle que j’ai pour Maison Loüno sur l’efficacité, le sourcing, le bio, ou l’impact sur l’environnement avec beaucoup d’actions précurseurs mises en place. Pour moi ce qu’on met sur la peau doit être fait avec intelligence (et sans pesticides), tout comme ce qu’on mange.

Je n’ai pas porté de maquillage pendant des années car je n’avais pas envie d’avoir un effet contre-productif en mettant du rouge à lèvres (qui contient souvent pleins de cochonneries) après une routine de soin bienfaisante. Avec le maquillage Dr.Hauschka que je viens de découvrir, c’est différent. L’exigence des compos, la traçabilité des matières premières et le 100% naturel sont les mêmes que pour leurs cosmétiques. Les couleurs sont relativement classiques pour avoir une gamme réduite aux essentiels réalisés avec des pigments naturels et les résultats sont canons !

Je suis particulièrement fan du Brow gel, du rouge à lèvres (j’utilise la teinte 22) que je mets sur les joues et les lèvres, la poudre pour les peaux à rougeurs (je rougis facilement) et les fonds de teint à texture tellement légère que j’oublie que j’en porte…

Tous les produits sont à retrouver sur ce lien

(ce n’est pas un lien d’affiliation)

Last September, Dr.Hauschka (re-)launched their makeup, and yet again it’s the best there is. I love each moment spent with the Dr.Hauschka team because the brand has a similar vision yo what i do for Maison Loüno in terms of efficiency, sourcing, organic, or impact on the environment, with many pioneering & advanced actions. To me, what we put on our skin must be made intelligently (and without pesticides), just like what we eat.

I haven’t worn makeup for years as i didn’t want the counter-productive effect of wearing a lipstick with really bad stuff inside after a carefully chosen skincare routine. With Dr.Hauschka’s makeup, it’s different. Their requirements for composition, traceable ingredients and 100% natural are the same as for their skincare lines. Colors are relatively classic in order to have a line that is reduces to the essentials, made with naturel pigments and the results are stunning!

I’m particularly fan of brow gel, the lipstick (i use #22 on lips and cheeks), the powder for skin with redness (i blush easily) and their foundation that is so light that i forget i’m wearing it…

All products are on this link.

(it is not an affiliated link)

Bon weekend ! Louise x

Have an amazing weekend, Louise x

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Earlier this week, i discovered bits of Mallorca for an incredible food experience. Let me begin with saying that the landscapes of the island, the Casa Balandra where we stayed, the cutest little artisans shops and the incredibly good company made everything taste even more delicious.

The food experience unfolded in 2 main parts:

1. Food experience + Dinner by Lucia Gaspari

2. Lunch at Ca na Toneta

1. Food experience + Dinner by Lucia Gaspari

This was a next level experience. We went back to the roots and used fire to cook dinner guided by Lucia Gaspari, a sweet italian creative chef who shared her favorite vision of cooking: taking the time to slow cook in the most natural way.

Sitting in the vegetable garden at golden hour, we started the evening by tasting lila ‘Lunaria Annua’ (Pope’s Money) infusions with fermented almond paste wrapping camomile, sage and berries as snacks. So delicious!

Instead of using aluminium paper, we wrapped the sweet potatoes into 5 big fig leaves which we then placed in the embers of the fire. We twisted black and white bread dough around a wooden stick and stood over the fire for about 10-15 minutes to bake the bread. Then dinner was served. Everything was exquisite.

One thing i would like to share with you from the dinner is the delicious garden dressing Lucia served with the sweet potatoes. She wrote it in a beautiful recipe book with hand-drawings which we got to bring home. Just what we love!

Garden dressing recipe by Lucia Gaspari

Ingredients

• 50g olives

• 50g capers

• 50g soaked raisins

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 cup fresh herbs

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• juice of 1/2 lemon

Preparation

Put all the ingredients in a mixer except the olive oil and give a quick mix. Add olive oil till you reach a smooth consistency. It goes crazy well with every kind of raw or cooked vegetables.

2. Lunch at Ca Na Toneta

A complete 8 course lunch with local wine pairing. A must visit if you’re on the island!

I am so grateful for being invited to this incredible journey hosted by Italian clothing brand Alysi and incredible PR agency AROUND STUDIO.

Thank you for reading! Hope you enjoyed following along :)

I wish you a wonderful weekend (rain, workout and reading is on the program for me)!

Louise x

—

VERSION FRANÇAISE

Cette semaine, j’ai découvert des bouts de Majorque pour une expérience incroyable autour de la food. Les paysages de l’île, la Casa Balandra où nous logions, les boutiques d’artisans si chouettes et la compagnie créative et bienveillante ont rendu le tout encore meilleur. L’expérience culinaire s’est déroulé en 2 parties principales : expérience ancestrale et diner par Lucia Gaspari et déjeuner chez Ca na Toneta.

1. Food experience + Diner par Lucia Gaspari

Retour aux sources pour ce diner cuisiné au feu de bois, guidé par la douce cheffe créative italienne Lucia Gaspari, qui nous a partagé sa vision du slow cooking, où tout est fait le plus naturellement possible.

Assises dans le potager pendant le golden hour, on a commencé la soirée avec une infusion de ‘Lunaria Annua’ (monnaie du pape) avec de la camomille, de la sauge, et des baies entourées de pâte d’amandes fermentée en guise de snack. Un délice !

Au lieu d’utiliser du papier aluminium, nous avons emballé les patates douces dans 5 grandes feuilles de figue puis les avons placées dans la braise. Ensuite, nous avons enveloppé de la pâte de pain blanc et noir autour d’un bâton que nous avons tenu au-dessus du feu le temps de la cuisson du pain (10-15 min). Puis le diner a été servi, tout était délicieux et innovant (je vous ai mis le menu et les photos au-dessus dans la version anglaise).

J’aimerais vous partager la délicieuse recette de la ‘sauce du jardin’ de Lucia qu’elle a servi sur les patates douces. Elle a noté la recette dans un joli petit livret de recettes avec des dessins, qu’on a emporté avec nous. Tout ce qu’on aime !

Sauce du jardin par Lucia Gaspari

Ingrédients

• 50g olives

• 50g câpres

• 50g raisins trempés

• 3 tbsp vinaigre balsamique

• 1/2 tasse d’herbes fraîches

• 1/2 tasse d’huile d’olive

• le jus d’un 1/2 citron

Préparation

Placer tous les ingrédients dans un blender à l’exception de l’huile d’olive et mixer grossièrement quelques instants. Ajouter l’huile d’olive jusqu’à obtenir une consistance homogène. La sauce se marie follement bien avec des légumes crus ou cuits.

2. Déjeuner chez Ca Na Toneta

Un repas en 8 plats avec accords vin-mets locaux. C’est une adresse incontournable si vous êtes de passage sur l’île ! Découvrez le menu et les photos juste au-dessus.

Je suis si reconnaissante d’avoir été invitée à vivre cet incroyable voyage organisé par la marque italienne Alysi et la superbe agence RP AROUND STUDIO.

Merci de m’avoir lu ! J’espère que vous avez apprécié voyager avec moi :)

Je vous souhaite un très bon weekend (pluie, lecture et sport prévu de mon côté) !

Louise x

Les photos de moi ont été prises par Alice Pilate <3

Les tasses Maury

J’ai à coeur de soutenir le travail de marques et personnes qui créent des choses belles, qui ont du sens et dans des cercles vertueux. Depuis le début de Maison Loüno, c’était important pour moi d’inclure cela à ma démarche et vu que je suis fan de céramiques et d’art de la table, c’était pour moi une évidence de collaborer avec des céramistes français pour imaginer des tasses faites à la main afin de compléter l’expérience des rituels. Cette semaine c’est le retour de la tasse créée par Hélène Maury dont j’adore le travail si doux et épuré.

_S’INSPIRER_

Adèle sur Canapé Six Places

J’aime le rapport à la célébrité que montre Adèle. Elle garde un rapport “au vrai”, aux choses simples, à ses amis d’enfance, et à des valeurs universelles. Rien que le fait de partager en podcast qu’elle ne prépare pas ses films et mise tout sur la spontanéité et le naturel… c’est assez cocasse !

_PRENDRE SOIN DE SOI_

Drainage lymphatique - visage

Alix St Georges m’a invité à tester son soin du visage dans son tout nouvel espace bien-être au coeur de Paris 9 : Paume. J’ai adoré ! Le drainage lymphatique est une pratique à laquelle je suis fidèle car comme je suis souvent assise (devant l’ordi en plus), la detoxification naturelle via la lymphe est souvent ralentie. J’ai été ravie de découvrir qu’Alix travaille avec des marques que j’affectionne beaucoup comme Absolution Cosmetics, des marques engagées et cleans ! Si vous y allez, vous pourrez même déguster un rituel Maison Loüno sur place :)

LA Bruket

La marque suédoise a lancé une nouvelle gamme de soin pour le corps à l’angélique, une plante avec de nombreux bienfaits, notamment apaisants le système nerveux. L’odeur me fait penser à celle des bonbons à l’anis que je mangeais petite. LA Bruket fait partie des premières marques auxquelles je me suis attachée. Déjà à l’époque où j’avais un blog (2012 environ), j’utilisais leurs produits donc j’ai un attachement particulier à cette marque scandinave. Elle vient d’ailleurs de rejoindre la famille Oh My Cream, avec le lancement de leur gamme skincare que j’ai hâte de découvrir sur ma peau ! Je suis sur la fin des produits Lesse que j’adooore et que je veux finir avant de commencer une nouvelle routine.

_RIRE_

Pierre Niney dans LOL - qui rit, sort

Ce mec est un génie !

_ADMIRER_

Jogging Marseille

Je suis passée faire un tour chez Jogging pour la nième fois, il y a une vibe que j’adore dans cette boutique. Pourtant j’ai remarqué quelque chose pour la première fois : les tissus des cabines d’essayage. Un mélange de textures et de couleurs à côté des sacs Jacquemus, j’étais subjuguée.

Fleurs de Pavot

Un bouquet de pavots orange. Tellement sublime ! J’achète régulièrement des fleurs pour la maison, toujours chez Mathilde et Coline, La Butinerie car en plus d’être belles, leurs fleurs sont locales et de saison !

_NOUVEAU RITUEL_

Lancement du Nouveau Rituel Maison Loüno

Mon nouveau rituel Maison Loüno sort (enfin!!!) demain et j’ai vraiment hâte de vous en parler (sur insta @maisonlouno et dans la newsletter ML) ! C’est un rituel qui m’accompagne depuis 2 ans maintenant, les après-midis et soirs. Et il fait l’unanimité auprès de la team de testeuses ! Hâte de vous en dire plus :)

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N’hésitez pas à me partager vos pensées, ressentis ou s’il y a des thèmes que vous aimeriez que j’aborde dans cette newsletter. Cela me fait toujours tellement plaisir de vous lire ! Les likes, les retours, les commentaires ici ou sur insta, c’est ce qui me permet de savoir ce qui vous plait le plus, ça fait trop plaisir et c’est très motivant :)

Je vous souhaite un bon weekend !

Louise x

J’ai emmené les pellicules au labo il y a 10 jours. Je ne m’attendais à rien parce que c’étaient les premières pellicules prises avec mon Olympus fraîchement reçu. Vu que l’appareil paraissait légèrement défectueux au niveau de la mise au point, je n’osais pas espérer quoi que ce soit. Rien que de prendre les photos, me suffisait presque.

Début mars, j’ai récupéré les développements, et il n’y a pas photo (jeu de mots de Louise, 6 ans), si je compare les rendus des différents appareils photo, mes favoris demeurent ceux pris avec mon Olympus. Il capte vraiment ma vibe. Les couleurs sont incroyables et je ressens la même émotion qu’à l’instant où je prends la photo. Je les trouve tellement belles ! J’en suis émue ! Et quand je vois la beauté solaire des photos souvenirs d’un été à Marseille, cela ne fait que confirmer le choix de mon changement de vie/ville.

Bonne fin de semaine,

Louise