Women Who Move Buffalo, Kristen from Meet + Eat Charcuterie
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photo credit: Meet + Eat Charcuterie
Guys! Today’s feature is on a woman who I can honestly say inspires me to do whatever it is that I have set out for myself. I was introduced to Kristen’s business, Meet + Eat Charcuterie through Instagram last year. I saw the boards she was creating and was pretty amazed by the creativity and different options she was offering (it’s not just a basic cheese board, but so much more!). In the Fall when I was looking to do a fun virtual event for work I took a chance and reached out to see if she would be interested in helping me and the rest is history.
I wanted to feature Kristen on my blog this month not only to promote her amazing charcuterie business and the awesome work she is doing for the community, but I also wanted to feature a feel good story that I think celebrates and inspires others to pursue whatever it is that sparks joy in their life.
Learn more about Kristen and Meet + Eat Charcuterie below and give her a follow on IG - @meetandeatcharcuterie
How did Meet + Eat Charcuterie begin? What gave you the idea to start this business?
The concept came directly out of quarantine boredom. I was trying to do something fun for my kids (8 & 3) and decided to arrange our Saturday morning breakfast (pancakes, bacon and fruit) in to a fun, themed “board”. I posted a picture of it on Instagram and was surprised at how many people commented and liked the photo. I then found myself looking for more opportunities to create “breakfast boards” for my family and friends, and then finally someone suggested that I dedicate an Instagram account to my “charcuterie” creations. I couldn’t believe how quickly the following grew (my favorite Peloton instructor Ally Love even shared one of my photos) – and it wasn’t until people started offering to pay me that I realized that this could be a thing.
Have you always wanted to own your own business?
No! I honestly never thought in a million years that I could turn this hobby in to a business. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, but as a mom and a full time leader at a large organization the thought of owning my own business was never in my purview.
Where does your creativity come from? Is there any one thing that sparks an idea?
I just recently started following other charcuterie artists for ideas and tricks - but a lot of it just happens in the moment. Most of my creations are just “felt” and not planned ahead of time and I tend to approach each one like an artist with a blank canvas. My favorite thing to do is to ask the person ordering to give me an idea or a theme - it challenges me to find the most creative use of food, flavor and space.
photo credit: Meet + Eat Charcuterie
What is your favorite board to make? Do you have one?
My favorite one to make is probably one that includes the Buffalo skyline. Who doesn’t love a skyline made out of Swiss and Cheddar?
My favorite one to eat is the “fiesta” breakfast board. It includes breakfast burritos, quesadillas and nachos. I tend to make that one for my family the most.
What is your favorite ingredient to use/include on a board?
Blueberry lemon basil jam from Honey Sweet Jam. It goes so well with Brie!
Your favorite type of cheese?
Unexpected Cheddar from Trader Joe’s! It’s so addicting and I have a hard time not eating it while I make the boards!
What sets Meet + Eat Charcuterie out from the other charcuterie businesses that have popped up in the area this past year?
I have been so impressed by the entire Buffalo charcuterie community, but I think the focus on breakfast is what originally set me apart. I also just recently started offering private and public Virtual Charcuterie Classes and free tutorials - I really enjoy teaching and inspiring others to create boards of their own.
What is the one thing you love about Buffalo/WNY?
It truly is the city of good neighbors. Even during times of uncertainly and struggle, this community delivers on the “I have your back, no matter what” vibe.
photo from Meet + Eat Charcuterie
What is your favorite memory so far of owning your own business? Could be a special board you made, a client you've met, or a collab you've done with another local business.
By far the collaboration and partnership with Shea’s Performing Arts. It was the first time that I was asked to plan and execute on a large scale Virtual Charcuterie Class and not only did it benefit the community, but it made me realize how much I truly enjoyed teaching people the art of charcuterie. It has forever shifted and positively impacted my entire outlook and plan for the business.
What is one thing you love about running your own business?
I love having an opportunity to cultivate community and create things that make people smile – and I just recently realized that I have the room, space and control to evolve it in to anything I want it to be.
Where do you see yourself going with being a business owner over the next 6 - 12 months?
I would love to see the business shift in to more virtual classes, and if I’m able to hire (delivery, packaging etc.) then I def. will. For now I am working on finding the best way to balance being a mom, working full time and continuing to pursue this passion!
