A French Christmas Tradition: Le Brunch

You might know Philippine, founder of C'est Beau Chez Toi, a home styling studio based in San Francisco. Or you may know her as a creative director working with some brands you know and love.

We've worked with Philippine for years developing our sourcing trips in the French countryside and she always brings us something new.

Every year on December 25th, we do brunch. It's become our family tradition, less formal than Christmas Eve dinner, but just as special in its own way.

| Photography and Styling by Philippine Scali & CindyChesney |

The beauty of this tradition is in its simplicity. We keep the tablecloth from the night before, leave the votives scattered around the table. That immediately gives this simple brunch a festive look without any extra effort. The table already feels celebratory because it carries over from the evening before.

| Photography and Styling by Philippine Scali & CindyChesney |

The menu stays consistent: French pastries (évidemment), homemade crêpes, and a Christmas tree-shaped Nutella cake. Everything is laid out on the table, all the prepared food, all the toppings. People can sit and relax, make their crêpes the way they like and linger. It's casual in the best way.

| Photography and Styling by Philippine Scali & CindyChesney |

This is what we love about French entertaining, it's often centered around food, but the approach is about simplicity. No one is jumping up to serve courses or manage timing. Everything is already there, beautifully presented, and the focus shifts to being together. This works whether it's just your immediate family or a larger group.

For styling, we work with white and gold as a base, it's what feels right for the holidays but also what we own. The real principle is working with what you have in a color coordinated way. If your palette is different, use that. The sophistication comes from consistency and intention, not from having specific items.

| Photography and Styling by Philippine Scali & CindyChesney |

This is the c'est beau chez toi approach, inspiring without pressure. You're creating an atmosphere that makes sense for your home and the people you're gathering. Simple, thoughtful, beautiful.

RECIPES:

Crêpes Whisk together for smooth texture: 2 cups flour, 2 eggs, pinch of salt, 2 cups milk, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Add a splash of sparkling water to lighten. You can make the batter the day before.

| Photography and Styling by Philippine Scali & CindyChesney |

Nutella Christmas Tree Cake Purchase puff pastry. Lay out one sheet, spread a layer of Nutella, place second sheet on top. Use a sharp knife to cut into the shape of a Christmas tree, twist the branches. Whisk an egg and brush the tree to obtain a golden finish. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.