Today bouquinistes were allowed to reopen after the lockdown forced them to close for the second time this year. Which means I had the opportunity to deliver the proceeds from the first Bouquinistes Auction! I am so excited to share the results. Many thanks to everyone who took the time to share and spread the word about the auction, bid on items, make additional donations, and express interest in participating in future Bouquinistes Auctions.
The Bouquinistes Auction Concept
The concept for the Bouquinistes Auction is to give back to the beloved Paris booksellers after what has been a difficult year with multiple lockdowns and lack of tourism. The first Bouquinistes Auction was put together in the middle of the lockdown when the booksellers were already closed, but we were able to get some great items from two bouquinistes.
Romain has helped me a lot and is really the voice of the entire operation. He’s arranged all of the meetings and explained the concept to the bouquinistes in clearer terms for them. (I’m again realizing the limitations of my French). He’s just as excited about the auctions as I am and it has truly brought us both so much joy.
The First Bouquinistes Auction Results
The first Bouquinistes Auction featured ten books and two watercolors from two booksellers along the Seine, Pierre Cauffet and Gury Handan. Thanks to all who shared, bid, and gave extra donations we were able to give 1,129.04€ back to these bouquinistes.
When Romain called them to confirm they’d be open today so we could deliver the proceeds you could hear the excitement and deep appreciation in their voices. Hearing that alone was so cool, but seeing their reactions in person was truly so impactful.
It made me emotional seeing the green stalls open again today. These booksellers are so deeply woven into the fabric of Parisian life – they’ve been setting up along the Seine River since the 16th century. Looking at closed green boxes over the last month was just as strange as seeing a Paris without cafés.
Your support meant absolutely the world to these bouquinistes and I can’t thank each and every one of you enough for making the first Bouquinistes Auction a success. This year has been so difficult for so many people and in so many ways. I’m still processing the deep generosity from strangers around the world coming together to support this cause. Thank you all again.
The Second Bouquinistes Auction
The second Bouquinistes Auction will be here next week! This auction will be bigger and include more bouquinistes. I’m every bit as excited about this selection as I was the first.
The format will be the same as the first auction and it will again be held on La Porte Bonheur. I will keep you posted with more details as I have them. Feel free to spread the word and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for your support!