Super talks to Food + Fashion: Entertaining at Home in Style author Jenni Epperson about Christmas, her passions and her new book
How much fun did you have working on the book?
So much fun! The thrill of seeing it come together was amazing. I’m amazed by the people that I worked with, how they have exceeded my expectations, and how much I’ve learned during the whole process. Tom shot all of the photos for my book, they are all beautiful! Dix Perez did a wonderful job designing and laying out my book. Soleil Ignacio and Kris Abrigo did a fabulous job with the illustrations.
How did your love for food and fashion start?
Fashion has been running in my veins for as long as I can remember. I’m very blessed to have found my way into a career path that I love. Food/cooking started since I was a kid. My parents and our whole family are all into cooking and baking. My parents encouraged my siblings and me to play with recipes in the kitchen. I started to really get into it though when I had my own family. I wanted to provide my husband and kids with the best dish that you can at all times— which means sumptuous and healthy. They are my inspiration.
Did you ever think your two passions could merge?
I have already been balancing the two as both stylist and mom, and most of my projects really involve both of these passions, especially my blog www.JenniEpperson.com. This book however really set it in stone and I am so happy and excited!
Who are your fashion and food idols?
Martha Stewart, Jamie Oliver, and Gwyneth Paltrow for expert cooking and hosting and Coco Chanel for timeless fashion.
What’s your favorite Christmas memory?
I can’t decide! Every Christmas is better than the previous. My kids are growing up so fast. Tom and I are blessed to be alive and well, to be greeting so many opportunities and to have the strength to go through hard times. It is just being with my family that always makes my Christmas a new favorite!
Favorite Christmas food?
I would say honey-coated ham or chicken is a classic. However, trying something new never hurts—in fact I encourage it in my book!
Favorite Christmas tradition?
Putting up the Christmas tree, and of course Christmas brunch—my family is half American so a big breakfast on Christmas morning is something we all look forward too!
If you could give your book to just one person this Christmas, who would it be?
I would give it to someone who needs a fashion and food 911! Haha! I’m proud of my book because I worked hard on it. There are a lot of tips on what food to prepare, table setting ideas, and what to wear for every occasion. It’s a helpful but fun book that everyone can enjoy!
Visit Jenni’s blog at www.jenniepperson.com. Jenni Epperson Fashion + Food: Entertaining at Home in Style is available in National Book Store and Powerbooks.