From Passion to Business: French-Inspired Entrepreneurs in Boston

Meet entrepreneurs who have turned their their passion for France into a thriving business, in partnership with the French Library.

How do you turn a passion for French culture, food, and lifestyle into a thriving business in the United States?

Join Karen Pevenstein, Chair of FACCNE's Women in Business Network, and founder of Louis Sel, Amy Villeneuve of Domaine Travelle, and Céline Kimberly of La Nouvelle Maison, for an inspiring evening of conversation, networking, and tasting centered on entrepreneurship, reinvention, and the French art de vivre.

📆 Date: Wednesday, July 14, 2026
🕔 Time: 6 pm - 7.30 pm
📍Location: French Library, 53 Marlborough St, 02116, Boston
🎟️ Registration: $18, registration through the French Library

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, chair of FACCNE's Women in Business Network and founder of Louis Sel, brings the flavors and spirit of the Mediterranean 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 La 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.

Event Location