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Embrace the joy of Paris wherever you live with American expat Ajiri Aki, founder of the French lifestyle brand Madame de la Maison.The French are known for their joie de vivre—celebrating the simple things—a philosophy that tastemaker Ajiri Aki embraced all of her American life. As a child, she frequently tried to convince her Nigerian-Jamaican mother to pull out the fine china for everyday meals or when hosting friends. Her mother always said she was waiting for a special occasion, which sadly never came before she passed away when Ajiri was only twelve. Ajiri promised herself she would never hesitate to use her treasured pieces. When she moved to Paris, France, as an adult, she learned how central that idea is to French life, and she also began to absorb other essential lessons from her new friends: treat yourself to fresh flowers just because, take time to source the best baguette, and perhaps most importantly, enjoy être—just being.In this beautifully photographed volume of everything French, Ajiri shares what shes learned about living in Paris—from hosting the perfect apéro (happy hour) to lingering around town like a flâneur (loafer) to thrifting for antiques at the market. While exploring the prettiest cafes and shops, youll be inspired to reclaim your right to leisure as the French have, so you, too, can savor the spontaneous, joyful moments that happen every day.

Joie: A Parisian's Guide to Celebrating the Good Life by Ajiri Aki is an inspiring and practical guide to living a more joyful and fulfilling life, inspired by the Parisian way of life.

Aki, a Parisian lifestyle expert and author, shares her insights into the French art of joie de vivre, or "joy of living." She explores the importance of embracing simple pleasures, cultivating meaningful relationships, and savoring the beauty of everyday life.

With warmth and wit, Aki guides readers through the streets of Paris, introducing them to charming cafes, hidden gardens, and local traditions that contribute to the city's unique charm. She weaves personal anecdotes, historical context, and practical advice to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Parisian approach to life.

From the importance of taking breaks and enjoying the outdoors to the art of mindful eating and creating a cozy home, Aki inspires readers to adopt Parisian rituals and habits that enhance their well-being and bring more joy into their lives. She emphasizes the significance of self-care, self-expression, and the pursuit of passions, encouraging readers to live life to the fullest.

Joie: A Parisian's Guide to Celebrating the Good Life is an invitation to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and cultivate a sense of contentment and happiness. Aki's writing is engaging, informative, and infused with a deep love for Paris and its vibrant culture. Readers will find themselves not only entertained but also inspired to make positive changes in their own lives.

Whether you're planning a trip to Paris or simply seeking to bring a touch of Parisian joie de vivre into your daily routine, Joie: A Parisian's Guide to Celebrating the Good Life is an essential read. Aki's insights and recommendations will help you discover the joy in the ordinary, find beauty in the unexpected, and create a life filled with happiness and fulfillment.