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Meet Gina LaMora of Grazing Theory in Temecula

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Gina LaMora.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Twenty years ago, I left South Africa at the age of 19 to become an Aupair in Virginia, USA.

Once I was here, I worked jobs ranging from childcare to waitressing, to slicing pastrami & corned beef at a NY Deli, to week-of-wedding coordination, land development, event design and finally charcutier.

I never would have thought I would be the creator and owner of a catering business specializing in charcuterie after leaving my little farm town in the heart of the Northern Cape of South Africa.

I have always had a love for entertaining/dinner parties/fundraisers! Basically, any excuse to polish wine glasses, arrange fresh flowers, create an amazing menu and beautifully style food on a plate! Seeing people enjoy my food visually and then tasting it just makes me happy!

Our family of four recently moved to Temecula, CA from the Bay Area. Here I met my hairstylist, Mariah, who recently moved to a new salon and was in the market for an event planner. I immediately offered my services and a month later, we hosted an incredible grand opening. They needed food at the event, and I cheerfully offered to create a charcuterie grazing table. It was a hit!

Shortly after the GURU Salon Grand Opening, the demand for charcuterie became so high that I changed my business from Event Design to Charcuterie. I obtained my Catering Permit, business license, and here we are today.

Grazing Theory was born! In South Africa, we ALWAYS ate around the table, and I believe this is where friendships and relationships are created. By “grazing” around the table, you are engaged with one another and you can not help but form a bond with your friends and family over food!

At Grazing Theory, we highlight local businesses and artisans on our boards. We bring you the BEST Temecula has to offer, all on one beautifully, stylish Charcuterie Board.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
If the road is smooth, you are not doing enough! I learned from my grandfather that if you want to do something, make. it. count. Growth comes from being uncomfortable!

The struggle of COVID 19 limitations is a real – even for a catering business. We had multiple charcuterie workshops, private events and weddings canceled in March 2020 due to the pandemic.

Instead of feeling defeated, I pivoted my business by partnering with local Temecula Valley Wineries to deliver our lavish charcuterie boards and pick-up our client’s wine from the wineries, and delivering BOTH. Not only did my business survive, but it also thrived during these challenging times. The relationships I have built with fellow business owners is invaluable and I cherish all of them.

Grazing Theory – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Grazing is our theory. We source premium fresh produce, artisan cheese, cured meats and delightful accompaniments that are arranged into stylish, abundant showcases.

We love highlighting LOCAL TEMECULA artisans and small businesses on our boards. Mrs. G’s Jellies and Meljess Bees Honey are just a few of the local artisans we work with today, and we are still expanding and exploring new local businesses every week.

What I am most proud of thus far is that our company has had a direct impact on our community of small businesses. Through highlighting local artisans, we are stimulating economy and enhancing visibility for small businesses by giving them the opportunity to be sampled all over the Temecula Valley Wine Country.

What sets us apart from other charcuterie companies is our passion for grazing. Every board we create is made with love, attention to detail, quality and a wow factor that will keep you gushing for weeks. Our presentation alone will complete your chic, modern grazing experience.

As a fully licensed and insured caterer, we can provide Lavish Charcuterie to wineries, breweries and all celebrations. We offer a mini charcuterie box for one and up to 4-foot charcuterie grazing boards for wedding celebrations of 200.

Our business model is for clients to pre-order charcuterie boards from our web site for next day pick-up or delivery.

The Temecula Valley Community is truly incredible! They have welcomed us with open hearts and empty stomachs and we are blessed for the relationships we have built.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is a happy customer who comes back for more! We always strive to wow our clients and treat each and every customer as a VIP. While we set our goals high, we are always raising the bar and pushing the envelope in terms of what we can offer to the community. Building relationships with like-minded business owners in the Temecula Valley and helping one another to grow is just one of many success markers that we look for as we continue to improve every day.

Pricing:

  • “The Grazer” Charcuterie Board, 4-6 people sharing – $75
  • “Social Grazing Board”, 10-12 people sharing – $150
  • “4 Foot Charcuterie Grazing Board”, 30 people sharing – starting at $325
  • “Kids Charcuterie Grazing Board”, 10-15 children sharing – $75
  • “Bagel Brunch Board”, 4-6 people sharing – $95
  • “The Mini Grazer”, (meat, veggie, vegan options) 2-4 people sharing – $55
  • “Charcuterie Cones”. individual – $7 each (10 minimum order)
  • “Brunch Board”, 4-6 people sharing – $75
  • “10” Round Grazing Board”, 2-4 people sharing – $75
  • “Charcuterie Mini Box”, 1-2 people sharing – $15

Contact Info:


Image Credit:
Golden Arrow Photography, Ada Rey Photography, Melissa Fe Chapman Photography

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