Fine fabrics, upscale trims and braids, exquisite detailing, the finest workmanship. Call me “old school.” That’s cool with me. If there’s anything I adore and revere in this world in terms of aesthetics and artistry, it’s beautiful design in silk, linen, cotton or wool; the time-honored process of hand-rendered creations; and the visual and tactile masterworks with which we clothe ourselves and our lives.
My super-talented mom, Margaret Lane Lawhon, gets all the credit for this particular aesthetic in my life. A maîtresse of elegance, style, and couture-level inspiration, Mama instilled in my sister and me a deep appreciation for the finer things when it comes to presenting yourself to the world. Mom was American, not French, but she understood something many French designers inherit naturally — the notion of quality over quantity. You don’t need ten dresses when two or three chic, well-constructed pieces will take you everywhere, and you’ll never tire of them. Same for home décor that not only stands the test of time, but defines it, deepens our experiences, and certainly delights.
Planning a wedding can be full of challenges in trying to capture the dream in the face of reality, especially when planning a wedding in another country. Margaret and I communicated frequently as she embarked on the process of planning for a family wedding in Paris at the Cathedral — all long-distance except for a brief visit a year in advance of the wedding. Collaboration with Margaret flowed easily, with her vision proving to be impeccable, and the entire experience— flawless. There are not enough superlatives!
Dr. Timothy Thompson PhD, Parish Coordinator, The American Cathedral in Paris, Paris, France
