There’s something so romantic about candlelight. As a method of illumination, candlelight is obsolete, yet there’s nothing more appealing than filling our homes with candlelight’s soft, flickering glow. For me, if the candles are subtly scented, so much the better!

That’s why I was so thrilled to be introduced to the Hervé Gambs collection of scented candles. Imported from France (and who’s more romantic than the French?!) these candles are the perfect way to set the mood this Valentine’s Day.

Like all Hervé Gambs interior fragrances and home products, this is a collection of the highest quality and exemplifies both sophistication and superb design. The most extraordinary part is the absolute purity and beauty of the various fragrances, with no hint of the chemical fabrication that you sometimes see in inexpensive scented candles.

Hervé Gambs candles are made with natural wax, lead-free wicks and for burn for hours. In fact, the extra large candle burns for an amazing 60 hours. From Lilas, to Brin de Muguet, to Feuille de Figuier (fig, my fave!), you’ll be hard pressed to choose a favorite

Available for only $49 at Quel Objet, the ultimate source for all things French.

The last few days have been a continual deluge here on the East Coast. Our little pond is overflowing its banks and the yard is a sea of red clay. Although intellectually I know that we need the rain, the soggy, gray days do nothing to improve my mood. So I was thrilled to open my email this morning and find the perfect antidote – a La Montagne Umbrella!

This gorgeous umbrella features images and symbols from the Basque region of the French Pyrenees, including the area’s distinctive architecture, tranquil green pastures and majestic mountains.

And, not only is this a truly beautiful umbrella, it also has a special system of double ribbing with springs, to prevent the umbrella from being turned inside out in the wind (finally!). Although it’s surprisingly strong, this umbrella weighs only 14 oz.

La Montagne Umbrella is $96 and is available only from the lovely and very, very French Quel Objet.

Tres chic!