Aperitivo Hour: A Parisian Summer Party with Rebekah Peppler
As the heatwave grips Paris, Rebekah Peppler, a seasoned host and Montmartre resident, embraces the challenge of summer entertaining. With her partner, Laila Said, she orchestrates a delightful aperitivo hour, transforming their apartment into a haven of French hospitality. This article delves into Peppler's hosting philosophy, from her meticulous table setting to her carefully curated menu, offering a glimpse into the art of Parisian summer parties.
Setting the Scene
Peppler's table is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance. A heavy marble slab, sourced from Leboncoin, serves as the centerpiece, inviting spills of wine and tomato juice without a hint of worry. Her table setting is a blend of practicality and style, with Post-Its noting the contents of each dish, a nod to her food styling days. The size of the plates varies, from standard dinner plates to smaller ones, ensuring comfort and accommodating generous portions.
The Hosting Outfit
Peppler's hosting attire embodies chic comfort. In the summer heat, she opts for a palette of white, beige, and tan, with a focus on breathable fabrics. Her go-to outfit includes pants that allow for movement, an oversized white button-up shirt, and a bold red lip. Brands like Homme Plissé Issey Miyake, Chava Studio, Sézane, and By Malene Birger feature prominently in her wardrobe, offering a blend of style and practicality.
Tabletop Heroes
The table is adorned with a mix of heights, featuring cake stands for gougères and seasonal fruit. Hemstitch napkins, sourced from Mexico City, add a touch of elegance. Vintage cutlery, found at flea markets in Paris and the South of France, along with pieces from Sabre Paris and Pallarès Solsona, completes the tabletop ensemble.
What's on the Menu
Peppler's menu is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. For aperitivo, she offers olives, gougères from her cookbook À Table, fresh baguettes, flaky salt, mustard, and good butter. The main course is a grand aïoli, accompanied by a variety of vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and tinned fish or steamed mussels. The dessert is a simple affair with chocolate bars, seasonal fruit, and crème cru.
Drinks Station
Given the apartment's size, Peppler forgoes a dedicated drinks station. Instead, she opts for vintage ice buckets and Ann Demeulemeester x Serax wine glasses. The evening begins and ends with bubbly, and wine is served over ice to combat the heatwave.
All in the Details
As the sun sets, Peppler lights tapers and pillars, creating a cozy ambiance. Her floral arrangements, sourced from local markets, add a touch of nature. The living room fireplace mantel, adorned with a gruyère candle from Gohar World, becomes a focal point.
Dinner Party Dos and Don'ts
Peppler shares her hosting wisdom, emphasizing the importance of offering to bring something to the party. She advises guests to ask their host for needs, whether it's ice or a last-minute ingredient. Her stress-reducing secret involves chilling wine and welcoming guests with a cold beverage, setting the tone for a memorable evening.
The Party Playlist and Guest List
Laila, Peppler's partner, curates the party playlist, setting the perfect vibe. The guest list is carefully considered, aiming for a balance of energies, especially for those who don't know each other. Peppler's table size allows for easy conversation, and she accommodates guests with social anxiety by inviting them to sit next to her.
In conclusion, Rebekah Peppler's aperitivo hour is a testament to the art of French hosting, where simplicity, elegance, and a touch of Parisian charm create unforgettable summer memories.
