Darling, let me set the scene.
A sun-drenched villa terrace. Soft linen tablecloths catching the breeze. Glasses chiming softly over murmured laughter. And me? Well, I was resting ever-so-lightly on the arm of a chair, basking in the glow of something truly rare: true craftsmanship of spirit.
Not in bags this time, but in women.
Who Are the AUGs?
AUGs, you ask? Oh, my love, they are Augustina’s Understated Guardians. They’re the women I watch over, or perhaps, who carry me as I carry their secrets and strength.
This wasn’t just a lunch. It was a gathering of hearts and minds, all shaped by style, purpose, and grace. Different ages, nationalities, stories… and yet, a familiar rhythm pulsed between them. That unspoken knowing. That quiet elegance forged through resilience.
And, might I add, just under half of them were proudly carrying their Augustina. I recognised the familiar curve on each arm and nearly blushed. Nothing makes a handbag feel more at home.
And yes, I may have shed a silent tear into a champagne coupe, but more on that in a moment.
A Theme Close to My Lining: Grapes
This year’s lunch, as always, had a theme. And it was one that spoke to my very core: Grapes.
Why grapes? Because they are the perfect metaphor for transformation. Pressed, aged, cared for. Sometimes under pressure, sometimes in stillness. Just like the women seated around that table.
The afternoon began with bubbles, of course. But not just any bubbles. A radiant welcome glass of Champagne from the maison of one of our speakers: a woman whose story was as crisp and layered as her cuvée. She spoke of heritage and heartache, of taking the reins and redefining what Champagne could mean in a modern world.
Later, we were swept away to Georgia , yes, that Georgia, the ancient birthplace of wine. Another AUG stood, radiant and grounded, as she shared her journey of soil and soul. Her wine, served alongside vegetarian Italian dishes, held the sort of elegance you don’t sip, you feel. Deeply. Quietly.
The Power of Reinvention
What moved me most were the stories whispered between courses. One spoke of starting over after 50. Another, of leaving a high-rise office behind to create something with her hands.
There were no grand performances. Just honest, tender truths. These were women who had been pressed, just like grapes, by life, and who emerged refined, rich, and unforgettable.
Practical Tip, From Me to You
If you ever find yourself doubting your path, love, do this:
Invite women you admire for their soul, not their status.
Set the table. Serve something meaningful. Let the conversation unfold.
You’ll walk away full, not just of food, but of fuel.
Tell Me, Sweetheart…
When was the last time you allowed yourself to be seen by women who understand the quiet reinventions you’ve made?
I hope you find your own table soon. And when you do, I’ll be right there with you, zipped up, but entirely present.
With bubbles and belonging,
Stay fabulous!
