Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I have never been a big fan of studying. From very early on, I wanted to work, to earn my living & my independence.
To please my father, I took my baccalaureate and a BTS. With my diplomas in my pocket, I had various experiences in large companies such as SAP France, SFR, EDF and Gaz de France. But it soon became clear that I was not cut out for those kinds of structured work environments. I started as a Digital Communication & Marketing Consultant with 1001 Web Promotions, a company specialising in website creation that was well-established in the hotel sector. In the summer of 2007, with the encouragement of our hotel customers, my husband and I decided to launch our own agency. Since then we’ve been constantly busy bringing all the latest technological innovations to our customers.
In the hotel industry, I like to discover places with interesting decor. Sometimes I like it, sometimes I love it, sometimes I hate it... But it always stirs my emotions in some way. When I was younger, I wanted to be an interior designer. Thanks to my job today, I can participate in project launches and bring to them my personal touch!
I have always loved to travel. When I was very young, I took the night train to return from Berlin to France. Then, growing up, I flew on my own to visit my father in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Travel and the discovery of other cultures is essential to my wellbeing. It’s also a great source of inspiration.
I am very sensitive to the service and hospitality shown by my host. And I like to help my hotel customers to offer their guests the best possible experience. I’m involved in making people happy and I think it’s truly gratifying.
What attracted you to the Maison Mère project?
It’s the human dimension that I find particularly interesting about the Maison Mère project. To highlight the personalities, artisans and artists involved, we focus on the distinctive characteristics of each. Since beginning my participation in the Maison Mère initiative, I’ve come across some fascinating and beautiful projects. It’s so rewarding.
What appeals to you about the Maison Mère project?
It’s benevolent and has a lovely human dimension. A true neighbourhood and city community project... It will soon be a beautiful hotel, but also a new place of life in Paris, a place where Parisians will enjoy meeting up for a drink, a meal, and maybe more;)
Can you tell us about a personality who inspires you every day?
I don't have a particular personality that inspires me on a daily basis. My family, colleagues, friends, clients, people I meet; all of these people inspire me. Each present moment is inspired and / or inspiring. You just need to pay attention to the signs.
Can you share your favourites with us; your artistic or artisanal discovery of the moment?
Inès REG; she puts glitter in my life. Every morning I like to start my day by checking out her Instagram account. I love her humour and self-deprecation. I admire this irreverent and funny young woman for her ease, chattiness and naturalness. She’s like a good friend who makes you laugh because she is so unfiltered and who boosts your self-confidence because she herself is so happy and comfortable in her own skin. “Stay yourself, be different and put glitter in your life” - Ines Reg
Returning to Paris; do you have one or two recommendations to share with us?
A dinner at the Restaurant Le Grand Dictionnaire. This place opened last summer in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. I like its concept of shared cuisine and its small size, which allows for a very warm and intimate ambiance. It’s perfect for a romantic meal, or one with family or friends. The cuisine is very tasty and varied.
A shopping session at Starcow Femme. The men's boutique of this brand in the 1st arrondissement of Paris is already very well known. Recently, they opened a women's boutique. I'm lucky that this one is right next to where I work. My bank account is less fortunate… I’m a big fan of sneakers and here I can find both the basics and, especially, the hottest trends.
And finally, how about a small cultural recommendation? What book are you reading now?
The Last Girl: My Story of Captivity, and My Fight Against the Islamic State by Nadia Murad. I like to read biographies, true stories. I am always amazed by human barbarism. But also, the capacity of human beings to move forward and overcome the obstacles put in their way. Such stories remind me of how simple and happy my life is.
