Easter Prep at the Chateau: Maria's Cracking the Whip!

Hello lovely people! Today, I'm taking you on a behind-the-scenes look at all the Easter preparations happening here at the chateau. The season is nearly here and we're all working hard to get everything ready for our guests.
I finally manage to drag myself out of bed after a nasty flu kept me there for a few days. I even ventured outside to join Pavlina on a wild garlic hunt in the woods, where I was reminded of how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful place. We picked some garlic, which I plan to use in a delicious delicious Easter recipe.
Most excitingly - Maria has returned! And we can already tell that she's going to be cracking the whip, after finding the kitchen in a bit of a mess (but for a good reason!) And Grant's come back to the chateau with his family to celebrate Easter with us!
Last but not least, Philip and I have been enjoying choosing the new wallpaper for Bonne Maman's bathroom. It used to belong to the Marquise, and it's the largest bathroom in the chateau, so we wanted to make sure we found the perfect wallpaper to complement its history. I can't wait to show you!
So there you have it - a little glimpse into our busy Easter preparations here at the chateau. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
The Chateau Diaries Episode 376 ✨🏰✨
Escape to the chateau with 'The Chateau Diaries' 🏰
This channel follows the adventures of chatelaine Stephanie in her French 16th century home, the Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
We share our life in this ancient chateau in the heart of the French countryside, and show you the diy, renovations, crafts, cooking and gardening that are needed to bring a home like this to life!
A very special thank you to all of you who have become Patrons of the Chateau de Lalande. You have made The Chateau Diaries one of the top 400 Patreon accounts in the world, and have transformed not only our lives here, but the future of this beautiful chateau! I'm overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. On behalf of this beautiful chateau that will continue to survive and flourish because of you, thank you!!!
If you're interested in becoming a Patron of The Chateau Diaries, click here: / thechateaudiaries

[@ralphstephan353]

Stephanie is like a busy bee, attracting creative people to surround her and contribute to the development of a unique community centered on her chateau and its acres of natural woodland. All this and pink wallpaper in the bathroom. The rewards of many years of hard work, well deserved.

[@amyschneidhorst1384]

That look On Maria's face where it is clear she wants to rearrange everything to reclaim her work space.

[@juliacobb4355]

I just can’t get over Amaury. He is the perfect man. Your aunt and uncle are to be congratulated over and over again. So happy Maria and Grant are there. Maria keeps everyone on their toes and I love it🥰🥰🥰

[@kimkerley4218]

Yes he is! 😊

[@juliagregg7155]

He us so talented it runs in the family with so many great friends ❤️ it ❤️ that have great talents to goes to show you what you can accomplish with great direction and surrounding yourself with quality people

[@michaelwieneke1992]

Amaury is truly amazing. You are fortunate to have him, Stephanie!

[@hobou1901]

I love how Amaury says “fairy lights” without reservation.

[@marychrishannon7048]

He is secure in his masculinity

[@maggielarkin9314]

Because they are fairy lights!!!!...jeez, what's that got to do with masculinity?...calm down ladies...

[@ttbko]

@@maggielarkin9314 I'm so happy for you that your life clearly doesn't include bigotry.

[@KristyRadio]

I think this is the correct term in England, it's just what they are called there :)

[@mariahoulihan9483]

he's his Mother's son. lol.

[@marcellejosephine9119]

Lovely to see Maria again and Grant and his family! Hope you’ll feel better soon Stephanie 💛🌱🐣

[@ttbko]

Did you see that glorious pink sky over Maria's shoulder in the area cuisine? Absolutely beautiful!!!

[@janetroberts2262]

I had to pause the video at 29:57 to do something and when I came back there was Maria and Phillip, paused on either side of that beautiful pink and blue sunset sky, it would make a great photograph ❤

[@nancyhelgeson9934]

And so beautiful with all the plants in the window with the pink sky in the background!

[@toddmurphy523]

I noticed that beautifully colored evening sky as well.....glorious.

[@raffaellavitiello1762]

Love how Natty adore and appreciated her Man openly! SO BEAUTIFUL TO HEAR.

[@joyeddlemon798]

Love seeing Grant and family. Love having Maria back for the season. Hopefully Marie will visit soon.

[@_MANNATESTIMONIES]

Plant the wild garlic or sprinkle the seed heads when they are ready.. right beside the stream and it will spread everywhere along the banks. It loves being right by the water : )

[@lukehartman9386]

Fantastic idea! Keri💜

[@KristyRadio]

"They are fancy people they need to eat fancy stuff" 😂😂 love Pavlina!

[@robyn8242]

Grant’s son is suitably obsessed with Molly…. So sweet.

[@margaretglaser6227]

oh yes Maria is back so so happy

[@leaagol8034]

those wallpapers are gorgeous but I would say take a few days to decide - I think the green or gray background matches the floor so beautifully that they would be a delight for decades

[@dharper9332]

As always thanks for opening your doors to us. I told my husband if I could go anywhere it would be La Lande...........nice to see Grant and his family as well as Maria! Amery is truly a wonder...........

[@gb4375]

Stale baguette is an opportunity for French toast breakfast!

[@geenagr]

Whoever you are, I like you! 😆

[@joyeddlemon798]

It also makes great croutons 😃

[@deboramccallum3987]

Or more food for peepers

[@lukehartman9386]

My grandmother used to make the best French toast with stale baguette. I completely forgot, thanks for reminding me! Something I will start doing…Keri💜

[@endeavouringit]

or put some water on it and pop in the microwave or oven and fresh again

[@cruelaz]

I love amories work ethic. he ain't cutting no corners getting the job done. living in an 100 year old house myself I know the struggle of doing anything even when the base is uneven allover 😂

[@juliehinkel608]

I realize its a bit chaotic, but I like when so many projects are going at the same time.

[@AllegraHarris]

Loved this one - the reactions/happiness of old friends being welcomed back. Magical

[@coleenbean2185]

Such a great painting of Phillip next to the tulips, it captures him so well.

[@TheChateauDiaries]

It’s by Wendy Grimwood, who also made the little pig disguised as the Easter bunny!

[@tydanum]

Love Maria back, reminds me a little like mummy 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@pdq5465]

I agree. Maria is something of a Sergeant Major. She doesn’t give praise easily.

[@tydanum]

Love Maria though, wonderful addition to the LaLande family, so talented 👏🏻👏🏻💕

[@Leed216]

So glad to have Maria back, love her humour and smile.

[@lindacamp8561]

Emery is so good at what he does! What a gem you have in him.

[@belescli]

I am sooo happy to see Mária back! I was worried she wasn’t going to show up! :) Hope her family and loved ones are safe. Maria’s wit is so fun!

[@KerryBlue72]

The sound of that stream is so meditative and lovely

[@sandramuis7430]

Fairy lights are special indeed…🥰👍❤️

[@denniscampeau6577]

It’s always a joy to watch you all !

[@teresaproano7984]

Lovely photo of Philip, I agree!

[@katherineleavitt6335]

The flowers in the woods are just magical Stephanie and the lights in the courtyard are beautiful thanks to Amery. Good to see your house full of friends how wonderful. Hugs, hope you feel better soon Stephanie. Kathy USA

[@robintatina9819]

Yay Maria's back! AND Grant!! So glad you're feeling better Stephanie. Springtime at Lalande! ❤❤❤

[@kayebanks887]

I hope my post goes through…. My daughter and I have watched for years and have fallen in love with all of you. Prayers for better health Stephanie, you bring so much joy to so many, Happy Easter to all of you.🐰🐣🦚🦔

[@rolo4945]

The bluebells will look amazing with the marble and the floor tiles. It’s beautiful ❤

[@donnastevenson6700]

@ Stephanie Jarvis now that you have so many friends and helpers at the Chateau, can you go back and imagine how you stayed there by yourself long periods of time? You are so blessed. Hugs from NY

[@candydonnelly7543]

The Magic continues, Happy Easter everyone! Rest up for the Easter Egg Hunt ❤️🌸🌼🌷🌺🪷🌻❤️,greeting from the Jersey Shore in the USA ❤️🇫🇷🇺🇸❤️

[@annam.f.meiners7844]

Please keep sharing the design decision making. It’s so inspiring ❤

[@marybethschultz202]

"I usually cough from my knee" lmao Stephanie 🤣

[@newday5]

Get well Stephanie the Easter egg hunt is coming !

[@lisaakinlabi]

I truly love Phillips enthusiasm for the decor of the chateau and ensuring things are cohesive and moving forward. He truly has an eye for detail. Looks like so many jobs are getting done. How wonderful! I hope you get better soon Stephanie. Nice to see so many wonderful people are returning and the chateau buzzing with activity!

[@TheFiown]

I bought tester pots of green for my main room, I'm up to about 40+ pots ! I'm not usually hesitant but when it's up it's for life.

[@demoiselledelamontagne]

Aww I have missed Maria. Love to see her back again. I love that Kirsty and Pavlina planted random flowers in the forest. It's going to be beautiful and fairytale-like going down the paths

[@SoCalCaitlin14]

The panorama shot of the chateau and surrounding area at the end of the video is showing how much progress you’ve all made. So beautiful 🤩

[@aidamartinez2445]

Love Philip

[@Stephen_A.]

Wishing You All at Lalande, and everyone here, a Very Happy and Blessed Easter. 💝

[@ChristineKelly1000]

Hello everyone. Happy Easter to you all.❤❤❤

[@andreacatzel8259]

Loved this. Welcome back to Grant and his family and to the fabulous Maria! Looking forward to you whipping the kitchen into shape and hearing your beautiful playing….in your special room! Stephanie, feel better soonest! Philip, you are an Angel! Love to you all for a magical Easter! ❤

[@raffaellavitiello1762]

PHILLIP is an amazing wonderful man , hope he get fully appreciated, for is talent and kindness and patience

[@christikapa3856]

Can't wait to see Grant from Australia again! And to meet his family! Glad you are keeping that hat on. Works All the time for me. Easter Blessings for everyone ❤️🙏❤️

[@geenagr]

I wonder if he'll finish the pergola! Because Grant is Grant: Lalane's OG pergola builder

[@vickinoeske1154]

Oh, the wallpaper is splendid. I feel it's the best choice for that room. Adore the little pig/bunny in the kitchen. Glad you're feeling better Stephanie. ❤

[@trixiegirlism]

Maria, you must find a way to see that Phillip is served from that most practical tureen every day/night. You'll have that area organized in a more sensible way in no time. Thank goodness you're back!

[@JoeTheLion60]

Just a thought that the fairy lights might interfere with the blooming of the courtyard trees as they may be sensitive to natural light sequences - ie 100% light isn't natural for them..might be worth checking out...

[@cheriesharp234]

Lovely to Grant with his family back at LaLande, and the lovely Marie. Hope you are well on the mend Steph. Xxxx

[@dawndickinson1607]

Just saw the peacock tray I sent you on the table. Lovely that a piece of my home is in your home! The garden is looking lovely. Happy Easter 🐣

[@lukehartman9386]

How wonderful! Thank you for sharing!

[@kittycarr123]

Ahhhhhh Maria is back... whip those folks into shape.

[@marinaroper6922]

I miss seeing Dan around the Château. Paulina is a busy person, and she does a great job. 👍🏻😁 Get better soon Stephanie. 💕

[@carenvisser607]

I also miss Dan.

[@lindsayblundall8140]

Lovely to see the wild gardens developing, so glad you use all the produce at the chateau. Wallpapers are so pretty and quite understand the decision making process xx lovely to see you being looked after so well xx

[@coleenbean2185]

I do love the pink wall paper! So beautiful!

[@zander8018]

"YOU BINNED THE SPODE?" ❤😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂❤

[@glenyscallaghan1195]

Lovely to see you all gathering ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@laurabeaudry9464]

The trees in the courtyard look like that are on musical staves now. 😂

[@amberroberson883]

I just realized this is the blue bell bathroom!!! Wow how it has come along! Great Progress! Stunning transformation!

[@carynkabat4208]

Glad you are feeling better. So many projects around the chateau. It is really getting comfortable and elegant. Nice to see Maria back. We have been busy preparing for Passover. Don’t overdo it and so nice to have Phillip there to take care of you. Good to see Grant back. Happy Eastervto all of you.

[@worklifebalance9696]

chag Sameach pesach

[@livingthegoodlifechannel]

Hello, may I please ask a question? I noticed a couple of Jewish families walking back from synagogue today @ noon time. Could I please ask what religious observance that it was today? (I thought that Passover concluded at sundown on Wednesday.)

[@worklifebalance9696]

@@livingthegoodlifechannel Its Passover, it goes for 8 days and nights and finishes on Wed 12th April. We attend Synagogue on the first two mornings of Passover and the last one. Although some more orthodox (observant jews) attend throughout Passover. Feel free to ask more questions if you want further clarity

[@kellyhawes9293]

Any one want to take bets on how long Maria leaves the tureens on the shelf? 😂

[@annettewalter2273]

So good to hear that Aussie accent good to see you with your family Grant. Maria you light up the place when you arrive and the lights are spectacular Amaury, such a welcome for the Easter arrivals.

[@ralphjones9903]

Great to see Maria & Grant & his wife and Kids back at the Chatueau.❤⛲️🏰And big up to Amaury for restoring the work surface and installation of the very important Dishwashers 😀 👍

[@muhlaynee]

My two favs have returned !! I hope Amaury will share his tools with Grant this time around ;-)

[@jeanthobaben]

Pavlina is a real prize! Hope her family and friends in Ukraine are well.

[@patrickgomes2213]

Bucket? No, it's Bouquet! (Goblin?)

[@jasondubey8251]

The pink wallpaper version is very nice in a bathroom, it is soothing to look at and accentuates the skin. Good choice!

[@cindyblount8621]

Philip & Maria look like they could be siblings - & they just might bicker like ones sometimes too lol;)

[@HenriHowardEarlofSurrey]

Hello dear Landers and lovers of all things Chateau Diaries. Happy Easter to you all. Get well Stephanie ❤

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

Nice to see Grant back, with his family this time! And Maria will whip the kitchen into shape in no time! Another magnificent installment! Thank you for the video and have a brilliant Easter weekend!

[@ruthcarter8895]

Happy Easter! I have to say, that Phillip! He is on the ball! Bravo, Phillip!❤😊

[@ellenhaselman5020]

New dishwashers an absolute MUST HAVE ....

[@endeavouringit]

Amaury deserves more than pizza, maybe a couple of cartons of his favourite drop !!

[@norvelldudley6436]

Happy Easter to everyone! From Detroit Michigan USA 🇺🇸

[@1231ms54]

Spring is springing.

[@cindymarie2475]

Glad you are feeling better Stephanie❣️🌸

[@CHERYLBERGLEWICZ]

Happy Easter to you and all at the chateau. 🐰❤️

[@SD-hs2pk]

Philips reaction 🤣 at the start

[@crinkle2649]

Nice to see Maria.

[@patriciaatkinson2435]

Is it my imagination that Marie is channelling someone sooo familiar... mmmh... someone with a brilliant smile... keep them on their toes, Marie

[@lizarce272]

Maria!! Be gracious and happy!

[@ta3970]

Your wallpaper choices are over the top Gorgeous !!! LOVE the Bluebells 💙💙💙

[@lizstevenson7801]

Its wonderful to see familiar faces back again with you at LaLande, its like the family reunion. I hope you get better soon Stephanie, your doing a grand job. Hapoy Easter to you all 💕🇦🇺

[@shelbycooper7504]

Excited as always 😊hi everyone

[@jeannamcgregor9967]

We leave for Paris on Easter and are hoping to tour Brittany and the Loire. So ready to go!

[@michellezevenaar]

We went to England for Easter this year! Just arrived so looking forward to seeing all the lovely treats in the shops.

[@marielcalder103]

Health and strength, love and light to you and yours Stephanie 🥂 With many thanks for the hours of joy and comfort your videos have brought me. ☺️💕

[@katherinecormack5727]

Have been away and am catching up on all of the goings on. Thank you for the joy you bring, Stephanie, Philip, and all the Lalonders for the joy you bring to level work surfaces, wild garlic, pizza nights, and seeing old friends again. Spring has arrived - finally - to western Canada. Once the water (snow melt) in the fields subsides, veggie gardening will commence! Don't think we'll catch up to Lalonde gardens but we'll give it our best shot. Cheers!

[@annieokerlin3170]

Yay Maria is back!!! The beanie threw me off in the kitchen clean up scenes... couldn't tell who was who!

[@kathyrichards1039]

If it had been me, I would have redone the rear kitchen with stainless steel worktops and cabinetry. Much easier to keep clean, hard wearing and hygienic. Doesn't have to be expensive either. Similar to how Dick and Angel designed their working kitchen. I'm sure Maria would approve!

[@carolinegooder7091]

The kitchen remodeling is on the plans, but for the next year or the next.😂😂😂

[@Bergantin23]

It makes me so happy to see you all having joy and good friends. The Chateau is truly coming on beautifully. The garden is so special. Take care, stay out of wind. Cheers from Barcelona.

[@kimberlymoore9776]

So excited for this video!! First though Stephanie take care of yourself. Second I’m so glad to have Maria back of my word I’ve missed her sweet face on the vlog. I miss others as well but hoping they will return to at least visit. Just love everyone. Love seeing all the progress on the inside and outside and love the gardens and trails. Cannot wait until the chapel is completely done and the lake is in that day will be awesome. Big love to you all and Biggest hugs from Arkansas!!

[@janeharris6925]

Always a joy!

[@jeanniehenrichs1897]

So glad to see all the happy faces coming back to LaLande and so impressed with all your hard work!! I love you guys♥️

[@charlottestobierski8024]

🌷🌷🌷🥰Happy Easter Stephanie! Thank you for sharing footage of the lovely Spring bulbs I planted in the English Garden in October while you were in Egypt. I gave Kirstie a PowerPoint to show you where everything was planted. I’m so thrilled to see how lovely they all sprouted. I planted the same Muscari and Tete-a-Tete miniature Daffodils and pink tulips in my own garden when I returned home. Wish I could be there to see the bluebells! Love to all LaLanders! Charlotte ❤

[@TheChateauDiaries]

You did the greatest job! They’re stunning - are they out in your garden yet?

[@charlottestobierski8024]

@@TheChateauDiaries Yes all tulips sadly finished and Muscari seeding now, but my mixed variety woodland Daffodils and Jonquils still going strong😍 I forwarded pictures to Kirstie and Pavlina via WhatsApp. Give Maria a big hug and kiss for me. I so miss her too!

[@jaxstorey6734]

I'm so glad you're feeling better, Stephanie. 🤗 Spring is happening I can see! 🥀💐🌸🌺🏵💮 So good to see Maria and Grant and his family! My man loves fariy lights as well. I'm so grateful for that because I love sparkly and bling! Lotsa love, Jacqueline from New Zealand 🥰

[@jayjay2129]

I think you need a bench or two down by the stream. It would be lovely to sit and read, listening to the stream.

[@KristyRadio]

Stephanie, every year I look forward to all of the beautiful flowers and woods and nature that you show us around Easter! It's a beautiful sign that Spring is here! Can't wait for the Easter egg hunt in the Bluebells!

[@geenagr]

Bonne Maman will look wonderful! Will Des Oiseaux and Perse be out for the season?Because of the work that needs to be done? I know this is secret patrons club secret, but could someone nod or something?? 😆

[@carolweaver3269]

I totally believe in Chicken soup. Always made sure my Children got chicken soup when ill. They did not appreciate it though like you Stephanie. Am glad you have lots of Tea. Pavlina is a sweet young woman. Philip is a dear, and he is very attentive and full of love for you. Michael is so caring too, and Natti and Amaury, oh my cannot just keep naming everyone, but you are surrounded with love. That makes anyone better! So many are coming back, and this will be very exciting!

[@sidoniejansson403]

Stephanie you are so brave. Although you have been coughing, you speak to us and take your time for showing what is being done in the rooms, kitchen and outside, Promise you will also take good care of yourself. I was thinking, perhaps there has been a lot of dust during the renovation, and as it was so cold the chateau has not been ventilated enough, be careful with your lungs. Do wear masks when there is dust. The walk in the woods seems to have done you good. Happy Easter, dear lalanders! À la prochaine 🌷🌷🌷🌷