To our village~
This month, I'm thrilled to share the launch of our new Organic Chili Infused 100% Pure Avocado Oil—our latest labor of love, made with the dried heirloom mother of chile de árbol grown by Krissy and her team at Boonville Barn Collective in Mendocino. The story of this collaboration is one that's close to my heart. Back when I had the restaurant in Soho, a care package arrived—inside was homegrown Piment d'Espelette, a chili I often used at west~bourne, and a handwritten note: "We're the only growers of Espelette in the country. I'm a woman-run business and would love to partner up." That single act of outreach planted a friendship and partnership that's grown alongside west~bourne ever since. So when it came time to create our first chili infusion, there was no question whose peppers we'd trust.
I've always believed in the power of the cold call, the open hand, the willingness to reach beyond your own circle. Entrepreneurship can feel like this every day: vulnerable, bold, a little uncertain, but I've found the best things come from taking the chance to connect. As we roll into the holidays—our industry's most important season—I'm reminded how much magic starts from a simple invitation, a door opened, an unexpected collaboration. We spend all year preparing for these moments, not unlike how we gather and give thanks in November. What makes this season meaningful isn't just the table we set, but the hands we reach for and the circles we widen.
So as you cook, gather, and give thanks this month, I hope you'll extend your table just a little further. Reach out to someone you don't know well, invite a neighbor or friend-of-a-friend, or share a bottle of wine (or avocado oil) with your favorite local restaurant. If you're able, consider giving your time to organizations such as (in LA) Project Angel Food, Crop Swap LA, Farmlink Project, and Union Rescue Mission, or simply sending a note or a meal to someone in your community. I'm reminded of a favorite book, Give and Take by Adam Grant, who puts forth that the greatest abundance comes to the greatest givers. This time of year, I believe it more than ever: you get what you give.
This November, my front runners in produce include:
Sprouted Cauliflower
Sweet Garleek from Row 7 Seed Co.
Cara Cara Oranges
Rosalba Radicchio
Wishing you warmth, connection, and a little extra heat at your holiday table.
With gratitude,
Camilla
Chef and Founder, west~bourne |
