It seems like just yesterday I was working on photographing and writing my new book- French Country Cottage Inspired Gatherings. And today -is book release day! So, I am sharing a bit more about the story behind the book- including a short video and along with a few peeks- and lots of fun coming your way tomorrow.
Behind the book
Inspired Gatherings started out as an idea for an entertaining book- but we decided on more of a focus on special moments and intimate gatherings rather than long extravagant tables. (though I would love to work on a book about that too! ) With this book, I really wanted to share settings and gatherings that were ‘inspired’ – and finding inspiration everywhere and creating a special moment and memory with that.
I thought about what it was about a get together or gathering that had stayed with over the years. What I remembered about those special birthdays, parties or vacations from childhood and what stands out the most from those same occasions with my own young family. It wasn’t the big events. It wasn’t the ones that were grand and impressive. It was that warm and welcoming feeling that came from even the simplest of gatherings.
The Little Things
The summers at the lake with several families- and the smell of the bonfire every night & quiet mornings sitting out on the dock fishing with my dad and brother. The block parties, Santa parties and casual Thanksgiving gatherings that were always so fun.
And it was also those simple little beach picnics and everyday dinners in the backyard. And it was all of the little things that went into creating those gatherings- the chatter and conversations and the music … all the elements came together and created that wonderful ‘magic’ and feeling.
So when writing Inspired Gatherings- I thought about those things and that feeling is what inspired the settings.
Here is a quick video I put together with some behind the scenes and peeks at what you will find in the pages of the book.
A dream
Writing a book has been a long time dream of mine. And when my first book was published in 2018- I was about knocked over with how surreal it was to hold a book in my hands that had my name on it. And this book feels just the same. When I look at the pages and see the photos- I remember each of the settings and what it was like working on them.
I remember setting up the tables and dreaming of how they would look. Sipping coffee while watching the sunrise and setting up my camera at by Rainbow Bridge overlooking Donner Lake. Carrying a table into an apple orchard and the bats flying around overhead because I lingered far too long to grab just one.more.photo.
The night before we left for a work and vacation trip to Europe in the fall- I was standing in the middle of a beautiful field after dropping Sweet Pea off with my daughter in Tahoe. We set up and I tool photos of this table while the sun was setting in the distance. One of my favorites from the book.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to be able to work on and create books- it is an absolute dream and I hope to work on many more.
When I think back to when I started this blog- I had a lot of big dreams for French Country Cottage even then- but I didn’t know how to get there. So I just started taking baby steps. I am baby stepping towards things even now everyday . And I want to encourage you to do that as well. If you have a dream – just start taking those baby steps towards it. Right now since everyone has been staying at home- it is a perfect time.
Stay tuned for something FUN FUN FUN for you coming your way tomorrow to celebrate the launch- (GIVEAWAY!!!!) and much more coming in the next few weeks! And don’t forget to order a book if you haven’t yet so you can follow along with the virtual chats and breaking down the stylings from the pages as well.
You can order my new book at Gibbs Smith right now
And signed copies are on Sale in my shop this week to celebrate the release- and will ship next day after your order is placed.
A huge thank you to Jill Cohen, Madge Baird and Gibbs Smith and Rita Sowins for making French Country Cottage Inspired Gatherings a book dream come true.
Happy Tuesday and book birthday all.
Barbara C. says
I ordered my signed copy a couple days ago! did you include the link to the video? I can’t seem to find it! Thank you.
Courtney says
It should pop up on here- I embedded the video into the post- but if for some reason you aren’t seeing it- you can find it on my Youtube channel- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFW1bQ7p5hk
Jacki says
Already sold out on Amazon today!!! Happy for you; sad for me 🙁
Courtney says
Thank you Jacki! Is should be back up soon- and I have signed copies ready to ship in my shop. 🙂
Khadija says
OMG, congratulations!!!!!
Courtney says
Thank you!!!
Ardell m Deal says
I’m so happy you love doing the books because I loved your frist book so much. I get inspired everytime I open it up. I’m so grateful I found you.
Courtney says
Thank you so much Ardell! I am so glad you are here!
Tammy Moore says
Wow! Congratulations on your well deserved accomplishment! I’m inspired!
Courtney says
Thank you Tammy!
Deborah Acompora says
Dear Courtney,
Wow, I’m so glad already ordered a signed comply last week! amazing that it sold out and I’m so happy for you!
with much sincerity,
Deb
Courtney says
It should be available very soon! Thank you Deb!
Alison says
Congratulations!! I pre-ordered my book, but now i wish i knew you were going to have signed copies, oh well I am so excited to get your book i know i will love it as much as your other book!
Courtney says
Thank you!! Maybe the signed copy for you and the other as a gift? 🙂
Karrie Elizabeth says
Congratulations, Happy Book Birthday and all that jazz! I can not agree with you more, it is the simple gathering that bring a warmth and smile to my heart. Looking Forwa to receiving my copy.
Courtney says
Yes!! Thank you Karrie!
Diana says
Congrats Courtney! I love the different ways you pull flowers together, especially outside. It always seems natural I’m excited about tomorrow.
Courtney says
Thank you!
Maureen Boyle says
Both of your books are stunning. I wait with bated breath for another.