The French are masters at a few of my favorite things: croissants, cinema, and cream.  Hand cream from L’Occitane En Provence, that is.

On Thursday, December 8th, 2011, L’Occitane En Provence had their exclusive launch party of their first U.S. flagship boutique, now the largest L’Occitane in the world.  Guests were treated to Provencal delicacies such as fine French bubbly and lavender cakes, provided by Beaumarchais’ kitchen.  Sounds of the season floated through the air, provided by Beaumarchais’ resident DJ, Jacques Dumas.

I first discovered the magic of L’Occitane products years ago when I was visiting Paris.  In all the cafes, I would see fashionable French women pull out little bottles of lotion with the L’Occitane logo, and chicly rub the rich cream onto their hands before taking a delicate sip of their cafe au lait.  I made it my mission to visit one of the stores before the end of my trip, and stocked up on several of the miniature bottles of Shea Butter Lotion, throwing in the Shea Butter Foot Cream for good measure.  Clearly it was working for the women of Paris.

If you are looking for the perfect practical holiday gift with a splash of luxury, make sure to stop into the new L’Occitane En Provence flagship boutique.  The gift is sure to elicit an “Oh la la!”, and once the recipient experiences the magical powers of the Shea Butter, you’ll be getting a giant, “Merci, beaucoup!”, too.

WHERE: L’Occitane En Provence

170 5th Avenue (Located at 22nd Street)

New York, New York

By: Jessica Tiare Bowen