An invitation to Provence

Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 | Hot Topics, Skin Care

loccitane A slower pace of life, lunch under the shade of plane trees with a backdrop of lavender and olives, sloping vineyards and the colourful scenery that charmed Van Gogh and Cezanne… Provence, regrettably is a place I’ve yet to visit.

Inspired by his childhood in Provence, a 23-year-old Olivier Baussan decided to recreate the traditions of his region. After purchasing a steam distiller, a relic from the past, Olivier harvested wild rosemary and produced pure Rosemary essential oil. Selling it at the local markets, this all-natural product was quickly embraced by villagers and L’Occitane was born.

And so today the story continues, bringing us a range of L’Occitane products for both men and women, that represent the traditions and values of the Mediterranean region. Every year, Olivier seeks out traditional techniques and ingredients once used in the region to ensure the well-being of our body, mind and spirit.

Imagine my delight on a typically bleak English afternoon when the new L’Occitane gifts arrive to bring some sunshine to my day. From the Verbena Shea Discovery Collection to tempt me with an inviting citrus scent to the Enchanting Cherry Blossom Collection to romance me with it’s poetic beauty. This year L’Occitane’s festive collection transports me to the hills of southern France between the Alps and the Mediterranean, down to the small Provencal town on Manosque.