Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Celeste.
Hi Mary, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
It all started with *want* — I really wanted a charcuterie board, but when I saw the price, I nearly dropped my wine glass! So I thought, “Why not make one myself?” That first DIY board was for me — no frills, just cheese, meat, pickles and crackers served with pride.
I brought it to a local cigar lounge one night as my personal snack… and suddenly people were asking where they could get one. That’s when the lightbulb went off! I started selling mini charcuterie cups during karaoke nights — portable bites of joy that paired perfectly with off-key ballads.
Then my best friend showed me a Facebook post of this amazing woman in Austin selling charcuterie from a cart at a park. Something just clicked — *I can do that. Better yet — I’m going to.*
Six months later: business plan done, cart customized, license secured… and Mary Ann’s Charcuterie Bar was born!
Now? We bring flavor straight to the people — one delicious board at a time. Where convience meets indulgence.
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?
It hasn’t been all smooth sailing, to be honest. The process of starting the business was manageable—the food handling certification, alcohol permit, and business license, all checked off the list. But the real challenge was getting people through the door and keeping them coming back.
It’s been challenging to convince customers that our charcuterie bar is every bit as lavish and indulgent as a traditional grazing table. Charcuterie has a certain misconception, often perceived as just a fancy way to serve snacks. But in reality, it’s so much more—a complete, thoughtful, and satisfying dining experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a head start teacher within the non-profit sector for over 15 years, I specialize in early childhood education with a focus on social-emotional development. The aspect I am most proud of is witnessing the incredible growth and progress that children can make under the right guidance and supportive environment.
What sets me apart is my dedication to not only fostering intellectual development, but also in nurturing the whole child—their emotional, social, and emotional well-being. This holistic approach allows each child to truly thrive and reach their fullest potential in life.
What were you like growing up?
I was the kind of kid who traded cartoons for creek crawls—growing up in Orange County, California, my brothers and I were wild about nature. We’d spend hours exploring dry riverbeds, fishing at local lakes with homemade lines and hooks (not exactly by-the-book anglers, but we had heart!).
At four I was reading and once I discovered books? Game over—I had a book in hand everywhere I went. Still do! That love of stories shaped me.
But more than anything, those long days playing outside until the streetlights flicked on—that simple joy of being present with family and nature—is what shaped my spirit. It’s probably why now I value connection, curiosity, and creating meaningful moments… whether through teaching or building charcuterie boards that bring people together!
Pricing:
- $10-12 per cup single serving
- $20 per cup all you can eat
- $75 deposit to reserve date
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannscharcuteriebar?igsh=OXZ2dGEwbXZ1bWpz
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CwDmsP1Ue/
