CARMEL VALLEY, CA – Rebecca “Boo” Simms, was an identical twin and co-founder of the specialty cheese shop Lady & Larder. Boo died earlier this week due to complications from surgery.
Boo’s twin sister and business partner, Sarah Simms, shared the heartbreaking news, expressing the deep sorrow felt by everyone who knew Boo. “Our hearts are completely shattered,” Sarah said. “Boo was our magic maker, our color painter, and the brightest light I have ever known.” Together, the Simms sisters built something extraordinary, a business that reflected not only their talent but also their passion for food, creativity, and community.
A Vision Born from Passion
Growing up as third-generation kids in the restaurant and hospitality industry, Boo and Sarah were surrounded by a love of food and service from an early age. Their shared experiences sparked a lifelong dream to create something unique together. That dream came to life in 2016 when they co-founded Lady & Larder, an artisanal cheese and charcuterie shop based in Los Angeles.
Lady & Larder quickly gained a reputation for its beautifully crafted cheeseboards, as well as its vegetable, fruit, and charcuterie boards designed for every occasion. Boo’s artistic eye was instrumental in shaping the aesthetic of the business, while Sarah, an accomplished chef, curated the menu and sourced the finest ingredients. Together, they built a brand known for its impeccable quality, attention to detail, and warm, personalized service.
In the years since its founding, Lady & Larder has grown into a staple in the Los Angeles food scene, attracting the attention of celebrities and national media. The business has not only thrived but also inspired a global movement in grazing boards, an art form that Boo and Sarah pioneered with their unique blend of culinary expertise and creativity.
Expanding a Dream
In 2023, the twins made the decision to expand Lady & Larder beyond Los Angeles, opening a second location in their childhood home of Carmel Valley. While the Santa Monica shop remained in the care of their dedicated staff, the new Carmel Valley location became a passion project for Boo and Sarah. It was a chance to return to their roots, bringing their signature cheese and charcuterie boards to a new community with the help of their husbands.
Boo’s vision extended beyond just food – she was a professional graphic designer and artist, and her creativity was evident in every aspect of the business. From the layout of the cheeseboards to the store’s design, Boo’s influence was everywhere, making Lady & Larder not just a shop but a work of art that delighted the senses. Her eye for color, texture, and detail brought joy to every customer who experienced her creations.
A Legacy of Love
As the community mourns Boo’s untimely passing, Lady & Larder remains a testament to the love and dedication she poured into everything she did. In a heartfelt message, Sarah announced that the Carmel Valley location will be closed until further notice as the family navigates this incredibly painful time. The Santa Monica shop, however, will remain open, continuing to serve customers with the same love and care that Boo always brought to the business.
“We ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this overwhelmingly painful time,” Sarah said. “Your continued support means more than words could ever say. Thank you, from the depths of my being, for standing with us during this unimaginable time.”
Boo’s legacy will live on through the work she and Sarah created together, through the memories of her radiant spirit, and through the countless lives she touched. Though her light has been dimmed far too soon, the beauty she brought to the world will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew her.
Lady & Larder, the cherished creation of Sarah and Boo Simms, will always stand as a tribute to the love, creativity, and passion of two remarkable sisters.