A French dinner party has taught me more than I ever expected about French culture, personal discovery, and the way we connect with each other.
After two decades of living in Paris, I’ve come to see these dinners as so much more than a meal. What strikes me most is how much thought goes into who’s invited, where they sit, and how the evening unfolds. Why does that matter? Because conversation is the heart of it all. And sometimes, real connection requires a little tension. Disagreement isn’t something to avoid. It’s often where growth begins.
I’ve learned that French etiquette—waiting to be seated, arriving fashionably late, skipping the wine gift—reflects something deeper: care, respect, and a sense of occasion. These details have changed the way I think about my own gatherings, and how I show up for the people around me.
In this episode, I’m sharing the quiet but powerful life lessons I’ve learned from the French dinner table. They’ve helped me find my voice, stay curious, and be more intentional in ways that go far beyond food. I hope they do the same for you.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Welcome to April in Paris
01:07 The Essence of French Dinner Parties
02:28 The Structure of a French Meal
05:58 Embracing Tension in Conversations
08:23 Finding Your Voice at the Table
10:57 Navigating Difficult Topics
12:24 The Art of Care in Hosting
14:01 Cultural Norms of Timeliness
15:52 Gifts and Etiquette for Dinner Parties
18:11 Seating Arrangements and Discussion Dynamics
19:41 Life Lessons from French Dinner Parties
Links
Connect with Jane Bertch:
Website: www.janebertch.com
Instagram @janebertch
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