Last Spring my dear friend Kelly and I set out on a three week european adventure. Tasked with a project to style and shoot four properties in Burgundy, France for writer Laura Bradbury, we were fortunate to stay in the picturesque village of Beaune for 10 days (we also ventured to Iceland and Paris—I'll save those stories and photos for another post).

We drove through the countryside. We rode bicycles from vineyard to vineyard. We travelled to Dijon—where, yes, we ate authentic Dijon mustard on roasted ham from the farmers market. We ate unlimited amounts of cheese and baguette, washing it all down with the best burgundy wine. We were in french heaven, we really were.

Of all the beauty and inspiration Beaune gifted us, the experience of participating in The Cook's Atelier market tour and cooking class was, hands down, our favourite day in France. We met our teachers (now friends) Marjorie and Kendall at their favourite cheese shop across from the Saturday market and began our shop for a day of cooking in their stunning kitchen.

Copper pots, marble counters and a collection of the most beautiful french dishes and wooden utensils I've ever seen in one kitchen, Kelly and I were literally in heaven. Not to mention the adorable and very friendly couple we were lucky to learn and dine with. The entire experience was flawless and so much fun. I had dreamed of Beaune and visiting The Cook's Atelier for years and definitely had a moment in my white apron where I pinched myself. Sometimes life is but a dream.

Our creative connection to Beaune will continue with another trip in the works next September for Laura Bradbury. I'm also very excited to begin a collaboration with Marjorie and Kendall of The Cook's Atelier. Sometimes, things just work out exactly as you dream them up. I'm beginning to think the more vivid and clear the dream, the better the chance of it becoming a beautiful reality. To France with love. Enjoy Kelly's photographs. xo