They share the story of launching their business during the pandemic, their adventures as substitute teachers, and their deep roots in the Grayslake community. With humor and authenticity, they discuss adoption, parenting, and the joys of serving neighbors through creative charcuterie boards. The episode captures the spirit of friendship, small-town pride, and the power of giving back, offering listeners a genuine taste of Grayslake's welcoming hometown charm.
Friendship, Food, and Community: Lessons from Olive You Charcuterie on Discovering Grayslake
In the heart of Grayslake, Illinois, community isn't just a buzzword—it's a way of life. This spirit shines through in the latest episode of the "Discovering Grayslake" podcast, where host David Woll sits down with Kat and Kate, the best-friend duo behind All of You Charcuterie. Their story is a testament to the power of friendship, the resilience of small business owners, and the unique flavor that local entrepreneurs bring to their hometowns.
Whether you're a Grayslake local, a small business dreamer, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Let's break down the main themes and tips from Kat and Kate's journey—so you can bring a little more heart, creativity, and community spirit into your own life and work.
Table of Contents
The Power of Friendship in Business
Turning Passion into a Pandemic-Era Business
Building a Business with Heart: Inclusivity, Affordability, and Community
Balancing Business, Family, and Community Involvement
Actionable Tips for Small Business Owners
The Grayslake Difference: Why Community Matters
Final Thoughts: Authenticity, Kindness, and Local Pride
The Power of Friendship in Business
Kat and Kate's story begins long before their first charcuterie board. Their friendship, forged as college dorm neighbors, is the foundation of their business. This deep bond is more than just a feel-good backstory—it's a strategic advantage.
Key Takeaways:
Trust and Communication:** Years of friendship mean Kat and Kate can communicate openly, resolve conflicts quickly, and play to each other's strengths.
Shared Values:** Their mutual commitment to authenticity, humor, and community shapes every aspect of their business.
Support System:** Entrepreneurship is tough. Having a partner who understands your personal and professional life makes the journey more sustainable and enjoyable.
Actionable Advice:
Choose business partners you trust deeply.** Shared history and values can help weather the inevitable storms of small business life.
Schedule regular check-ins**—not just about business, but about your friendship and well-being.
Turning Passion into a Pandemic-Era Business
All of You Charcuterie was born out of necessity and creativity during the COVID-19 pandemic. With their catering gigs on hold and corporate jobs feeling less fulfilling, Kat and Kate leaned into their love of food and entertaining.
How They Did It:
Start Small, Think Big:** They began by making boards for friends and family. When someone offered to pay, they realized they had a viable business.
Leverage Past Experience:** Years of working with high-end chefs gave them the skills to create visually stunning, delicious spreads.
Adapt to the Times:** With large gatherings off the table, they focused on small, shareable boards perfect for intimate celebrations.
Expert Insights:
Test your concept with your inner circle.** Friends and family can be your first customers and best marketers.
Be ready to pivot.** The pandemic forced many to rethink their business models—flexibility is key.
Building a Business with Heart: Inclusivity, Affordability, and Community
Kat and Kate's approach to business is refreshingly inclusive. They're committed to making their charcuterie boards accessible, beautiful, and tailored to the needs of their community.
Inclusivity in Every Bite
No Upcharge for Dietary Needs:** Gluten-free, nut-free, and allergy-friendly options are available at no extra cost.
Variety and Quality:** Their boards feature a mix of meats, cheeses, fruits, veggies, and unique items like lemon pepper green beans and stuffed peppers.
Affordability and Transparency
Cost-Effective Catering:** Charcuterie boards offer a luxurious feel without the high price tag of traditional catering.
Clear Communication:** They're upfront about pricing and delivery, with free local delivery and reasonable fees for farther locations.
Community Engagement
Giving Back:** Kat and Kate regularly donate boards to local fundraisers and school events.
Word-of-Mouth Growth:** Their reputation is built on personal connections and community involvement, not flashy advertising.
Actionable Advice:
Prioritize inclusivity.** Accommodate dietary restrictions without making customers feel like an inconvenience.
Engage with your community.** Sponsor local events, donate to fundraisers, and build relationships beyond transactions.
Balancing Business, Family, and Community Involvement
Kat and Kate are more than business owners—they're moms, school staff, and active community members. Their ability to juggle these roles is both impressive and instructive.
Lessons in Balance
Embrace Flexibility:** Both women transitioned from corporate careers to roles in the local school system, finding fulfillment and flexibility.
Set Boundaries:** They admit to sometimes undercharging or giving away products, but are learning to value their time and expertise.
Find Joy in Service:** Subbing in local schools isn't just a job—it's a way to connect with their kids and neighbors.
Expert Insights:
Don't be afraid to pivot your career.** Sometimes, the best opportunities come from unexpected places.
Value your work.** Generosity is important, but sustainability matters too.
Actionable Tips for Small Business Owners
Drawing from Kat and Kate's journey, here are nuanced, actionable tips for anyone looking to start or grow a small business—especially in a tight-knit community.
1. Start with What You Love—and Know
Leverage your unique skills and passions. Kat and Kate's background in event catering gave them a head start.
Don't wait for perfect conditions—start small and iterate.
2. Build Your Brand on Authenticity
Be yourself in every interaction. Customers are drawn to genuine people.
Share your story—people want to support businesses with heart.
3. Use Social Media Strategically
Even without a website, Kat and Kate built a loyal following on Facebook and Instagram (@allofyoucharcuterie).
Respond promptly to messages and keep your content fresh and engaging.
Don't be afraid to ask for help with new platforms (like TikTok).
4. Prioritize Customer Experience
Offer convenient delivery and pickup options.
Handle setup and cleanup when possible to make events stress-free.
Consider loyalty programs (like punch cards) to reward repeat customers.
5. Give Back—But Set Limits
Support local causes, but don't undervalue your work.
Set clear policies for donations and discounts to maintain sustainability.
6. Lean Into Community Connections
Partner with local organizations, schools, and businesses.
Attend and sponsor community events to increase visibility.
The Grayslake Difference: Why Community Matters
Kat and Kate's story is inseparable from the fabric of Grayslake. Their business thrives because of the town's unique blend of small-town warmth and open-mindedness.
What Makes Grayslake Special:
Supportive Neighbors:** Word-of-mouth and personal recommendations drive business.
Respect for Differences:** The community rallies around shared values, even when opinions differ.
Traditions and Togetherness:** Events like the Freeze opening, tree lighting, and end-of-school rituals foster a sense of belonging.
Actionable Advice:
Get involved.** Whether it's volunteering at schools or attending local events, show up for your community.
Celebrate local traditions.** They're the heartbeat of small towns.
Final Thoughts: Authenticity, Kindness, and Local Pride
Kat and Kate's journey is a masterclass in building a business that's as nourishing for the soul as it is for the stomach. Their advice for listeners—and for anyone looking to make a difference—is simple but profound:
Be unapologetically yourself.** Authenticity attracts the right people, both in business and in life.
Do the hard things first.** Tackle your biggest challenges head-on, every day.
Spread kindness.** Small acts—like a smile or a helping hand—can transform your community.
As David Wool reminds us at the end of the episode, everyone is fighting a battle you can't see. Let's make Grayslake—and every hometown—a little brighter, one charcuterie board (and one act of kindness) at a time.
Connect with All of You Charcuterie
Facebook & Instagram:** @allofyoucharcuterie
Email:** allofyoucharcuterie@gmail.com
Website:** Coming soon!
Subscribe to Discovering Grayslake on your favorite platform for more stories of local heroes, hidden gems, and the spirit that makes this town truly special.
*If you enjoyed this post, share it with a friend, support your local businesses,
