Golden Moments by the River: My 50th Birthday Celebration

Last week, I celebrated a milestone—my 50th birthday—in a way that felt both personal and magical: with a drinks party on the terrace overlooking the serene, sun-dappled Dordogne River.

There’s something about reaching fifty that feels different. Not just another candle on the cake, but a pause and a deep breath—a chance to reflect, to celebrate what’s been, and to look forward with clarity. And what better place to mark the moment than surrounded by dear friends, clinking glasses under the open sky, with the slow-moving Dordogne sparkling below us like it, too, was raising a toast?

The Setting

The terrace was dressed simply but beautifully— vintage linen tablecloths catching the late afternoon light, fairy lights and bunting strung across the trees, and wildflowers picked from the garden nestled into mismatched vases. As the sun began to lower, it cast golden hues across the water, turning the entire scene into something out of a French countryside dream.

Guests arrived in good spirits, glasses of chilled Crémant de Bordeaux and G&T's finding their way into hands almost as quickly as the laughter began to rise. It was a gentle gathering—no grand speeches or fuss—just meaningful conversations, shared memories, and the pleasure of being together in such a timeless place.

As night fell and the stars took their place above the valley, the terrace glowed with the soft light of the moon and conversation. No one was in a hurry to leave. It felt like time had slowed for us, just for one evening.

A Thank You

I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect way to mark this chapter. Thank you to everyone who came, and to those who sent their wishes from afar. I felt truly celebrated—and deeply grateful.

Here’s to the next 50 years. May they be just as full of love, laughter, and beautiful riverside evenings.

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