The Parisian “Champagne” Trick That Changed My Life (It’s So Good!)

It was an early, warm Saturday morning, and it was my last full day in France. It was the end of a bittersweet week: I was on a trip that I had planned to take with my mother to celebrate her 65th birthday, but it had turned into a way to honor the second anniversary of her passing. The trip’s itinerary was a mix of things we’d talked about doing together and things I thought she would enjoy, but this last day was just for me — and I had decided I couldn’t end my first trip to Paris without visiting the Champagne region. 

After taking to TikTok for ideas, my cousin, who was with me on this trip, suggested we use Get Your Guide for help exploring and learning about the region. We chose a shared experience that included transportation from our HIGHSTAY apartment in the Champs-Élysées neighborhood, visits to two Champagne houses in Épernay, France, and lunch. As we learned about the Champagne process from grape to bottling, one thing our guide said stood out to me most: “Champagne is not meant for saving. It’s meant for drinking.” And thus my own personal “drink the Champagne” method was born. 

What I learned on this tour was that unlike wine, which you can let sit and age at home for a better drinking experience, Champagne is best enjoyed promptly. For Champagne, our guide explained, the longer it sits and is not stored correctly, the greater its risk of spoiling. That’s why when you buy a bottle or give it as a gift, you should pop it open rather than saving it for a special occasion.

When I learned this, I thought about the bottles of Champagne I’d had sitting at home since 2023 — bottles I was waiting to open when I got a new job or finally finished my book proposal. I realized I could no longer wait for the “right” moment to open them, which unlocked the “Champagne method” I’m dedicated to using in all facets of life now. Rather than wait for some unknown time in the future to enjoy life’s little luxuries, I’m going to relish them now. 

Coming to the Champagne method was a poignant reminder of the time since my mom passed away. Imagine, I thought, if we hadn’t waited for a special birthday to take the trip to Paris, and had taken it when we were planning it. We could have done it together, but instead I had to take it without her.

After returning to Nashville from my Paris trip, I began applying the Champagne method to various aspects of my lifestyle. I began with a bottle of Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut that I was given during a trip to Dubai in 2023.

From there, I started to declutter some clothes I had been keeping in case I lost weight and could fit into them again someday. They were just taking up space in my closet, and getting rid of them allows me to make room for clothes that fit me now and make me feel good today. I also started buying fresh flowers for myself more often, rather than waiting for a holiday or special event date to bring flowers home. The Champagne method inspires me to pick up a bouquet just because — I don’t have to wait for a special moment to enjoy beautiful things. 

Another step I took was to start using certain gifts and self-care items I’d been saving, including candles, under-eye patches, sheet masks, a phone stand for my desk, and a portable handheld fan. I had a couple of spa gift cards that I hadn’t yet used, so I made the appointments.

Most recently, I invested in some branded items for my event series. The last time I had branded items at my event was when my mom bought drink stirrers with my logo on them. I’d been waiting for the right event, partner, and ticket sales to merit buying new branded items, but when I hosted a cocktail-making class the other week, I realized it was just the right time to take the leap — I bought some new recipe cards and drink stirrers emblazoned with my brand. 

People talk about living a Champagne life and having Champagne wishes, but the Champagne method is about more than the desire to own high-priced items and splurge on luxe experiences. It’s about celebrating everyday life in the best way you can, rather than waiting for a special excuse to spark joy. These days, I’m wearing the outfit, cooking the meal, taking the trip, popping the bottle of Champagne, and savoring every last sip.