and spent a month in Northern France

I was living in Lincoln Park, Chicago, working as a product manager for the fastest-growing medical supplies company in the US. With complete autonomy over product portfolios comprising over 100,000 SKUs, I collaborated with international manufacturers, quality engineers, and an extensive team of dedicated logistics professionals to provide custom healthcare solutions for end users.

The procurement process, including researching, outreach, testing, negotiating, and delivering personalized solutions, was something I thrived on. However, I kept wondering if my skills could be used to connect people and business owners with a product I have a deep connection with—design. The idea of joining my professional experience with the world of design was something I couldn’t let go without giving a try.

I decided to go all in, quit my job, and travel to France to spend a month among the world’s greatest collectors and curators.

I stayed with a young French couple in a small country town 50km north of Paris. The property was stunning, and the company even better. I fell in love with French culture.

Why France? Well, I have noticed that the people appreciate the beauty and history of vintage furniture. They view these pieces as artworks that each tell a unique story. And they have some of the best markets in all of Europe dedicated to these items.

When I wasn’t searching through flea markets, connecting with booth owners, and touring packed warehouses, I was exploring and photographing all over northern France.