Wednesday, July 15, 2026 From 6:00 PM To 7:30 PM Add to Calendar 2026-07-15 18:00:00 2026-07-15 19:30:00 From Passion to Business: French-Inspired Entrepreneurs in Boston An inspiring evening of conversation, wine, and tasting, exploring how passion for French culture became thriving businesses in Boston. French Library, 53 Marlborough St, Boston, Massachusetts, United States America/New_York
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How do you turn a passion for French culture, food, and lifestyle into a thriving business in the United States?
Join Karen Pevenstein of Louis Sel, Amy Villeneuve of Domaine Travelle, and Céline Kimberly of Nouvelle Maison for an inspiring evening of conversation, networking, and tasting centered on entrepreneurship, reinvention, and the French art de vivre.
Through candid and engaging conversations, these French and Francophile entrepreneurs will share how they transformed their passion for French culture, craftsmanship, wine, and gourmet food into successful businesses in the Boston area. The discussion will explore the realities of building a brand, changing careers, creating community, and turning passion into reality.
Karen Pevenstein, founder of Louis Sel, brings the flavors and spirit of Brittany to American kitchens through her French-inspired artisanal salt company.
Amy Villeneuve founded Domaine Travelle, a Provence vineyard born from her journey from Amazon executive to wine producer in the South of France, where she now produces rosé, red, and white wines as well as artisanal olive oil inspired by the flavors and conviviality of Provence.
Céline Kimberly is the founder of Nouvelle Maison in Winchester, a beloved boutique dedicated to French gourmet products, cheeses, and the art of entertaining
The evening will conclude with a tasting reception featuring wines from Domaine Travelle and specialties from La Nouvelle Maison, with opportunities to meet the speakers and discover their products.
About Domaine Travelle
After successful careers in technology and business, the couple left Boston to purchase and restore a vineyard in the South of France, bringing an entrepreneurial spirit to modern winemaking in Provence. Their wines, rooted in sustainable farming and the unique terroir of the region, have already gained international attention, including recognition in the Hachette Wine Guide. Domaine Travelle rosés, whites, and reds are now available in select shops throughout Greater Boston.
About Nouvelle Maison
Part gourmet market, café, wine shop, and neighborhood gathering place, the store offers carefully selected French and local products including cheeses, charcuterie, pastries, pantry items, wines, and home goods; all inspired by the French art of living and entertaining.
About Louis Sel
Inspired by her love of French cuisine, Karen discovered the salts at a Paris food fair and was immediately captivated by their quality and refinement. Through Louis Sel, she shares exceptional French sea salts that elevate everyday cooking and celebrate the simple pleasures of the table.
Read more about Karen’s story on our blog.
Partners
This event is presented in partnership with FACCNE’s Women in Business Network (FWBN)
From Nouvelle Maison to Provence
Upcoming Events
Join us at the French Library for a conversation about Contours du jour qui vient by Leonora Miano. We invite you to read the book in its entirety and meet us on July 22nd, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
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Read MoreJoin us at the French Library for a conversation about Contours du jour qui vient by Leonora Miano. We invite you to read the book in its entirety and meet us on July 22nd, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Read More