One of my favorite ways to see Paris is by the crack of dawn…just like by night, Paris by morning has it’s own magic. The way the sun illuminates, gently, the splendid buildings and sculpted gardens…it’ an experience! I’m so glad I could share Paris by morning with Jake and Taylor, a sweet couple from the Midwest (US)! These small-town love bugs chose Paris for their first European adventure and I’m thrilled!

We wandered the city for a couple hours, starting with the Louvre and the Tuileries because we’re in France and Palais Royal does not open until 8. But we rolled with it, laughed, and it was lovely getting to them — from how they met (in a bible study); where they grew up (small towns not far from the other); and home now (with a garden that was bursting with blooms before they left for Paris!); to sharing hobbies (Taylor also loves reading, photography, and florals — my kind of person!!).

They also showed their adventurous spirit at the Jardins du Palais Royal and happily complied when I asked them to stand in the (rose) bushes. I’m not sure if we were supposed to do that…but the end result was lovely! No roses were squished.

We ended our morning at Boulangerie Chevalier in the 6th arrondissement — Taylor loved the classic façade and after I paid a visit to scout it out, I, too, was loving the charm. This was just another thing Taylor and I shared: a love for baking! I’m telling you, I found my people. After the final photo, Jake and Taylor walked out of the boulangerie with a whole bag of pastries. Really, anyone who walks out with a BAG of pastries is definitely my kind of person.

Merci, Taylor and Jake, for such a fun morning! I hope Paris treated you well, despite the rain.