Join Me in Provence this March!
Are you ready to discover Provence?
This extra-special Monday newsletter is a little bit different than ones you might be used to, as Camille and I are gearing up to launch our second TERRE/MER retreat – and I really hope you'll join us.
Our first week-long retreat took place this past November. Participants took full advantage of Camille's expertise and spent twenty hours crafting their own collection of signature pottery at ICI l'Atelier in the heart of La Ciotat.
Some had already worked with clay before; others were total débutantes. But the results surprised and overjoyed us all, from Margaux's signature tea service to Hélène's buddha bowls to Andrea's collection of ex-voto inspired serving pieces.
Camille was there every step of the way to guide and inspire our participants...
... including yours truly.
When I wasn't getting my hands dirty in the studio, I was doing what I do best: Nerding out about all things food.
We enjoyed croissants each morning for breakfast, and we sampled more than our share of local cheeses and wines. We hiked the cliffside calanques with a local beekeeper, and we discovered local beers with the passionate co-owner of a craft bottle shop overlooking the port.
We even enjoyed our own play on les 13 desserts, a Provençal Christmas tradition that went over just fine, even a month early. This tradition is one of my favorites: a combo of different fruits, nuts, and candies, perfect for enjoying over lengthy chats in the totally convivial atmosphere cultivated by our little group.
Sounds ideal? Well, now it's your turn.
Our next retreat is running March 26 to April 1, and we still have a few spots left!
What Is TERRE/MER?
The South of France has long drawn artists and cooks, writers and weary travelers looking for respite. A place out of time and yet very much of its time, the region is known for its crystal blue waters and rich terroir.
Along the rocky white cliffs of the calanques buzz bees raised by eco-conscious beekeepers; just a few miles away, deep black Grenache, Carignan, and Mourvedre grapes are grown for the region’s dry, pale pink rosés.
In the heart of historic La Ciotat, meanwhile, young entrepreneurs including organic produce vendors, winesellers, cheesemongers, and, of course, artisans like the ceramicists of ICI l’Atelier flourish, as the small city regains new life.
TERRE/MER invites you to be a part of this space, with Camille and myself as your guides.
TERRE/MER is not your typical vacation – nor is it your typical retreat. The adventure is built around community, hosting a small group of just seven women in typical Provençal homes. Together, you'll embark on a ceramics intensive at Camille's state-of-the-art atelier in the heart of La Ciotat, as well as cliffside walks, games of pétanque (invented here in La Ciotat!), small group yoga and pilates classes, and, of course, beer, wine, and cheese tastings and cooking ateliers with yours truly.
By the end of your stay, you will have made your own ceramic tableware, mastered the art of handmade aioli, and cultivated friendships to last a lifetime.
Book now! We cannot wait to welcome you.
– Camille et Emily