Okay I stutter a bit when I am nervous and thursday night I will be "the" celebrity in this chic gallery.

What kind of things can I say to people - in French obviously - when I am presented to them other than "enchanté." These are people that will be buying my paintings.

Congratulations. If I were not sick like a chien, I'd come.

First take a deep breath.
You'll be fine. They will be the ones who are eager to talk to you.

Here are the stupidest openers, not seriously for you to use, but for you to feel reassured…

You can say:
"Entrez, entrez, soyez bien au chaud."
"Merci d'être venu dans ce grand froid."
"Avez vous un verre de vin? Servez-vous."
Or you can talk about something interesting they wear. That always works.

If they tell you they like your work, - and of course they do, - ask them which ones they like most. Then you can tell them more, the creative process, your inspirations, etc. These are the things you are most sure of, and they are most interested in hearing.
And don't spend too much time on each person. So many will want to have some of your time...

No advice, but congrats, Angie! How wonderful! If I were in Paris I'd come, I love your work.

Laura

Ditto to Laura's comment. Congrats!

Here a few sentences you could use:

Merci de votre visit. Je suis heureux de vous presenter mes oeuvres.

Je vous en prie, mettez vous a l’aise.

Si vous avez des questions, ne vous genez pas pour me demander.