We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Charlie Kerbel. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Charlie below.
Hi Charlie, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience is deeply influenced by the lessons from my parents and my connection to my Jewish heritage, a realization that resonated with me profoundly after October 7th. My father, taught me the importance of hard work, reliability, and consistency. His mantra, “If you don’t ask, you don’t get,” instilled in me the value of initiative and assertiveness, highlighting the importance of actively seeking opportunities.
My mother, in contrast, encouraged me to pursue my passions and to do things that bring joy to my soul. She inspired me to embrace creativity and follow my heart, emphasizing the importance of joy and personal fulfillment.
But there’s more to my resilience than just what I learned from my parents. It’s also deeply tied to the history and spirit of the Jewish people. Realizing this has given me a new kind of strength. It’s like I’m part of a long line of people who have faced big challenges and come through them. This isn’t just about me and my life; it’s about being part of a story that goes back generations. It’s a story about never giving up, being creative, and finding happiness, no matter what. This understanding makes me feel stronger and more connected, both to my past and to the challenges I face now.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Hello, everyone! I’m Charlie Kerbel, the Founder and CEO of ME’N’U Grazing LA. I’m excited to share with you the story of our brand and the passion that drives us.
My journey into the world of charcuterie began during the unexpected turn of events brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. In a time when the world was grappling with uncertainty, I found a creative outlet that not only brought me joy but also allowed me to spread love and positivity. This led to the birth of ME’N’U Grazing LA, a venture focused on elevating the culinary experience through artful charcuterie creations.
At ME’N’U Grazing LA, we specialize in crafting stunning charcuterie boards, boxes, and table setups. What’s truly exciting about our work is that it goes beyond just food; we create culinary art that becomes the centerpiece of every gathering, be it an intimate family dinner or a grand celebration. Our dedication to crafting visually appealing and delicious experiences is what sets us apart.
We also offer charcuterie styling classes, which have become a popular choice for team-building activities and girls’ nights out. These classes are not just about learning the art of charcuterie; they are about creating memories and enjoying the process of making something beautiful and delicious.
Understanding the diverse needs of our clients, we’ve introduced specialized kids’ boxes. As a mom of three, I recognized the need for fun, child-friendly food options for parties and events. These boxes are designed to captivate our younger guests and add a delightful twist to any celebration.
Innovation and customization are at the heart of ME’N’U Grazing LA. We pride ourselves on our ability to tailor our creations to suit the unique preferences and themes of our clients. Our custom cookies, in particular, are a hit as they add a personal touch to each event.
Behind the scenes, the magic of ME’N’U Grazing LA is brought to life by an incredible team whose dedication and passion are unmatched. Together, we have turned a side hobby into a thriving business that not only brings joy but also fosters connection and community.
As we continue to grow, I’m thrilled to invite you to join us in this journey of culinary artistry. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special moment or simply want to experience the joy of charcuterie, ME’N’U Grazing LA is here to make it happen. Join us as we continue to spread love and creativity, one charcuterie board at a time.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey with ME’N’U Grazing LA, three key qualities stand out as instrumental in our success: Creativity, Adaptability, and Community Engagement.
Creativity: At the heart of ME’N’U Grazing LA is a deep-seated passion for creative expression. This creativity has been crucial in developing unique charcuterie experiences to “wow” our clients. For those starting out, I recommend immersing yourself in diverse creative fields to spark inspiration. Attend workshops, follow industry trends, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new ideas. Remember, creativity thrives on curiosity and openness to new experiences.
Adaptability: The pandemic taught us the importance of being adaptable. The ability to pivot and adjust to changing circumstances is vital. For newcomers, develop a mindset that welcomes change. Be proactive in learning new skills and stay informed about your industry’s dynamics. Adaptability is not just about reacting to changes; it’s about anticipating and preparing for them.
Community Engagement: Our commitment to charity work and supporting various causes has been pivotal. Engaging with the community not only fosters relationships but also enriches our brand’s purpose. For those at the beginning of their journey, I encourage actively seeking ways to give back. Whether it’s through your services or partnerships with organizations, find opportunities to contribute positively to your community. This engagement will not only help others but also provide a deeper sense of fulfillment and connection to your work.
For anyone embarking on a similar path, focus on nurturing these qualities. Cultivate your creativity, embrace adaptability, and actively engage with your community. These pillars will not only guide your professional journey but also enrich your personal growth and contribution to the wider world.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
As a Jewish business owner, I’m facing a challenge that’s deeply personal: the rise in anti-Semitism, which has become more pressing since the terrorist attacks following October 7th. At ME’N’U Grazing LA, we’re not just watching from the sidelines; we’re actively addressing this issue, holding strong to our Jewish roots.
We believe in being a source of support and hope in our community during these tough times. There’s a deep-seated belief among us that, despite these challenges, we will get through this and come out stronger. Our heritage has taught us resilience and the power of unity in adversity.
Part of our support is channeled towards Israel and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). We’ve introduced special IDF candy boxes and Hanukkah boxes. The proceeds from these go towards supporting Israel, the IDF, and families affected by the recent attacks. This isn’t just about financial help; it’s about showing where we stand and reinforcing the importance of solidarity with Israel right now.
We’re determined to not only get through this but to grow stronger from it. It’s about staying connected, supporting each other, and believing in our collective strength as a community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.menugrazing.com
- Instagram: me.n.u.grazing.la
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-ezekiel/
