Women Who Move Buffalo - Kailey from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations
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photo from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations IG
A few weeks ago I came across Buffalo Charcuterie Creations on IG and was immediately impressed with the creative business, so ideally for a friends birthday I planned to celebrate with a picnic in the park that featured F&B from local establishments in the area. It was the perfect opportunity for me to order a charcuterie box.
the picnic not only included the charcuterie box, but wine from Winkler & Samuels & macarons from Fairy Cakes
I contacted Kailey on IG on a Tuesday I believe it was with hopes she would be able to put something together on short notice for that Friday and she was able to! She asked me if I had any requests for the box and we finalized the details on time and place. She dropped off directly to my door step that Friday morning and everything was so easy.
Kailey Dougherty, owner of Buffalo Charcuterie Creations
When I got the box the presentation was amazing, everything was organized, labeled and it was what every event planner dreams of (you understand if you’re a planner). Everything in our box was delicious, some items I’ve had before (hello, Brie!) and some were brand new, but everything was fresh and tasted so good.
my box of heaven
Here is what was in the box:
Brie
Eggplant Garlic Spread
White Cheddar
Red Pepper Spread
White Stitton Cheese with Lemon Peel
Manchego
Goat Cheese with Honey (this was so, so good!)
Smoked Gouda
Cucumber
Salami
Fig
Crackers
Baby grapes
Asst. Nuts
Our box was for 2 people, cost $40 and was more than enough food (we had leftovers!) and it was worth every penny.
I had such a good experience that I reached out to Kailey to ask if I could feature her on my site because I want everyone to know what an awesome person and business she has. Check out my Q&A with her below.
photo from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations IG account
AND give her a follow on IG: @bflocharcuteriecreations
When did Buffalo Charcuterie Creations begin?
Buffalo Charcuterie Creations began during Coronavirus quarantine, April 2020 to be exact.
How did it all get started? What made you want to start this business?
It started when my mom wanted to do a charcuterie board for a social distance hang out with her girlfriends but didn’t want one large board that everyone touches. We searched the internet for personal boxes and ended up making each lady a box to enjoy themselves without spreading germs!
Are you a Buffalo Native?
Buffalo native! Born and raised in Amherst, NY
What is your favorite part of creating the charcuterie boxes?
My favorite part of creating the boxes is the artistic and creative ability each one gives me. There is no right or wrong way to construct a charcuterie board/ box and while creating each one I always think of a new layout or item to add.
Do you have a favorite cheese?
My personal favorite cheese is Brie- especially with some honey drizzled on top!
Is there a spread or fruit that you must always put in the boxes?
My favorite spread that I love to put in every box is a whipped goat cheese and honey with red pepper flakes sprinkled on top. That has gotten great feedback from many so that’s a must for my boxes now! I also love to always try and add cucumbers to compliment the spreads that are added.
What is your go to for food items in the boxes?
My go to lately has been smoked Goudas, salami and artichokes. I’m sure those will change soon but for now those are always on my shopping list when grabbing ingredients. Another favorite go to during the summer season has been cheeses featuring lemon- they’re more of a dessert cheese and such a great touch in a summer box!
Where do you find your creativity?
As crazy as it sounds most of my creativity came from TikTok (I guess that’s 2020 in a nutshell for ya!) When I was furloughed in the beginning I had a lot of time on my hands and once I stumbled on some charcuterie videos I was fascinated and was motivated to start playing around and trying to construct some boards for friends and family.
Each box you create is different, how/what inspires you?
Each box is definitely different and the main thing that inspires me is the season! I swear every time I go to the grocery store there is a new fruit or vegetable in season. I love to mix it up to compliment the time of year and also to keep up with trends of what food people are loving that I see on social media’s.
What do you love most about Buffalo/WNY?
My favorite thing about Buffalo is that even though it is a large city it has a way of feeling small and welcoming at the same time. I love always going somewhere and probably running into someone you know.
What is your favorite & fun part of owning your own business?
My favorite part of starting my own business is definitely being able to make my own hours. Depending on the day I can get spurts of motivation at 8 am or some days not till 4 pm. Making my owns hours leaves me a lot of flexibility and allows me to still create time with family and friends during the fun (short) summer months!
What types of events, parties, etc. are the boxes best for? Each order is customizable, how big of a charcuterie box can you cater to for those interested in ordering from you?
The boxes are best for so many events- from girls night, date night, birthday parties, etc. I have made personal boxes for just one person to enjoy on a night for themselves. I have also gotten great feedback that the boxes are perfect for date night, picnics, anniversaries and girls nights. I have also expanded from just the boxes to the larger charcuterie boards. I think these boards would be perfect for larger parties. I have a wedding order coming up this September which includes 6 larger boards to be spread around the reception. Very excited for that opportunity!
What has been the most popular item your customers request?
The most popular items that people have requested multiple times has been the whipped goat cheese with honey. I have also had a great feedback on adding in a dessert style cheese so it is now something I always try to add.
What has been the most unique item your customers have requested?
The most unique item I have had so far for me was figs! I had never really used or eaten figs before someone requested some in a box. After that I loved them and now I enjoy adding them every chance I get! I am sad they have such a short season because they’re such a beautiful and delicious fruit.
If people want to order, what is the easiest way to do so?
The best way to order is through my Instagram @bflocharcuteriecreations. For those who don’t have an Instagram they are always welcome to email me at KED2696@gmail.com
What has been your most memorable client or part of running Buffalo Charcuterie Creations so far? and why?
The most memorable part of Buffalo Charcuterie Creations so far is meeting all the new people and being able to connect and network all over WNY. This business has given me the opportunity to travel to many places around that area that I normally wouldn’t before.
