A table dressed for feasting, adorned with confit fruit, silver sprigs from the olive trees outside, and candlelight sparkling in the champagne coupes, for her first holiday campaign, Sophie Carbonari invites you to join her family in their festive fantasy: an evening by the fireside at the sumptuous Château des Alpilles.
Speaking from outside the château, bathed in the gentle Autumn sunshine, crisp amber leaves underfoot, Sophie tells us why her holiday campaign has been an homage to her upbringing. “I was raised in a family rich in diversity, from Bamako to Seoul, passing by Fossombrone in the North of Italy and Paris; but I was brought up in the South of France, close to Nîmes, so Provence is always a call to home and my roots.”
Having exposure to a variety of cultures and skintypes was a natural part of Sophie’s family makeup, “it gave that ability to be able to treat any skin regardless of age, tone or type, and I wanted to master them all (…) When I first came to develop the reason behind the S Serum, my desire was to be able to satisfy and demonstrate efficacy on the largest skin spectrum possible”. She helps to prepare her grandmother, her mother, and sister for their soirée, with fingertips dancing across their glistening skin to bring out their natural glow in the signature Sophie Carbonari manner.
“I wanted to create products that would be to beauty what the little black dress is to fashion: safe spaces for which to turn to in all circumstances.”
Even as the days grow colder here, just outside of the charming town of St Rémy de Provence, inspiration to many famous artists, the light blue skies still pierce through. “I have been lucky to grow up in a place between Provence and Camargue where Vincent Van Gogh painted many of his most iconic pieces: the light and the spirit of the place is everlasting.” After a stay at the Château des Alpilles, Sophie knew that this was the location she wanted to provide as the backdrop to her family celebration: at the heart of Provence.
“I’m happy to be able to share this sumptuous ambiance with you. Happy Holidays to all.” With thanks:
Recommendations to the following local suppliers, who we used as part of this campaign.
Le Château des Alpilles
With 7 hectares of parkland, this family-run 19th-century chateau on the outskirts of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence affords the picture-perfect backdrop for a Provençal fairytale. Huge thanks to Maya and all the team who were always ready to help with a smile.
1392 Route du Rougadou, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence 13210
Lilamand Confiseur
Candied pineapples, cherries, pears and everything in between – a treasure for your sweet tooth for five generations.
20 Rue de la Commune, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence 13210
Cocquelicot
Floristry design of dreams
+33 04 90 94 07 34
1 Bd Gambetta, 13210 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Artistic direction and photography by
Tablescaping by
Sophie Carbonari
Napkins by Moustique Arles, other treasures & nick-nacks borrowed from friends & family.
