Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Rodriguez.
Hi Melissa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Curated Spread was founded in the midst of the pandemic in May 2020. While working in an attorney’s office as a case manager, I was overworked, and unfortunately, when the pandemic started, I was furloughed. It was an extremely hard time for me and many others and my survival mode kicked in.
I had to do something to get by and I was so fortunate enough to be surrounded by so many supportive friends whom I introduced my boards to. I’ve always had a passion for food and I put my passion into action once the pandemic started. Little by little I taught myself how to artistically execute my vision onto boards, boxes, and grazing tables.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not! Although I have been extremely fortunate enough to land amazing clients it definitely hasn’t been easy. Having to do my own research in regards to licenses, permits, and product research came with a lot of trial and error. I asked several fellow women entrepreneurs of their struggles and what they did to get started and that has been the biggest blessing of all.
When I say there has been lots of trial and error, I mean it! I definitely have come a long way when it comes to plating and pricing. One of my struggles has been learning to say no when I’m fully booked. December 2020 was my biggest downfall- I was fortunate enough to get booked for 100 orders that day and I was extremely ignorant to think I could pull that off. I was burnt out, both physically and creatively. Unfortunately, during my delivery route, I was involved in a hit and run and it definitely took a hit on me.
Luckily, I have been fortunate enough to have amazing clients whom all understood my situation and didn’t punish me for it, they all agreed to reschedule and all checked in on me. Although it was a difficult day for me and my small business, I am glad it happened. I learned that I have the right to say no and although it is a blessing to be overly booked quality over quantity is better as well as your mental health.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Curated Spread specializes in made-to-order charcuterie boards, grazing boxes, and grazing tables. My charcuterie boards aren’t your typical cold cut meat, and cheese on a wooden board instead I have created my own take on charcuterie boards and adding a whimsical twist to all my boards, boxes, and grazing tables. I add color, and edible flowers and offer a plethora of ingredients that go hand on hand with one another.
I believe what sets Curated Spread apart from other similar businesses is the fact that I pride myself on building a strong relationship with many of my customers. In fact, 80% of my customers are regulars and have been purchasing from me since the beginning of my business. I know their favorites and aside of that I always keep a strong communication with them. I strongly believe that every customer needs to feel like they matter and I basically work around their preferences.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Absolutely! The biggest risk I took was reaching out to celebrities, influencers, and corporations in order to get the word out for my small business. It was extremely nerved recking reaching out to them and offering them to try out my boards. Of course, some responded while others didn’t but it only took one person to get back and shine some light on my business.
Other risk I took was participating in pop-up shops. Putting myself out there was also nerve-wracking. Lots of people don’t know what a charcuterie board is and I had to basically have a sales pitch but thankfully I’ve gotten over that and now I truly love participating in pop-up shops.
Pricing:
- Modern Medium is one of our most popular charcuterie boxes and they are priced at $55.
- Large Grazing Boards start at $165 and are usually purchased for small gatherings.
- Cheese and Charcuterie platters start at $240 and normally are ordered for larger gatherings.
- Grazing Tables start at $320 and are usually ordered for large events they feature multidimensional platters and include a floral installment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.curatedspread.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/curatedspread
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/curatedspread
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/HZUq6ixgnqb
- Other: https://g.page/r/CV4cRt58EQuDEAo
