We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Straub and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Melissa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I have always loved cooking and entertaining guests. After moving to Anderson from South FL, I found myself working in a medical office, but still had the desire to do something in the hospitality industry. After being asked to cater a bridal shower for a friend, I knew that this is what I wanted to do, so I left my office job and put my focus on Straub’s Charcuteries full time.
I love to see people enjoying the things we provide, and take pride in the taste and presentation of everything we serve.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Although many inquiries have people asking to see our “menu” we work individually with each of our clients to ensure that their vision is being met. From simple charcuterie, to sandwiches and salads, and even wedding reception buffets, we work diligently to help create your vision. Most recently we have been hosting pop up dinners at various venues in and around Anderson. We have been blessed to have several repeat customers attend these events, and are hoping to engage a larger audience for these going forward. We are also looking to provide tailgate packages in the future, as we feel these would be a popular addition to our offerings as it would give sports enthusiasts all the deliciousness with none of the work!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I actually have my sister coming into town in March, and the first thing I did was recommend Liberty Hall Bed & Breakfast in Pendleton for her and my niece to stay. They are an absolutely lovely venue and close to both Clemson and Anderson, which are all places she wants to visit. I will absolutely be taking her to Brews On Main, as she loves craft beers, and I think downtown Anderson is a must see. I love the small town almost Hallmark feeling of our downtown area, and of course I will be taking her to The Kitchen Emporium, as well as Up On The Roof, as I feel the view is spectacular, and it is a great atmosphere with good food. Sullivans is also a place I take people, as you can always count on an amazing meal there, or even just an appetizer at the bar.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
As with any new business venture, it takes some time to get the word out. I would be remiss if I did not mention Gay McLeskey, owner of The Kitchen Emporium and Gifts in downtown Anderson. She began using us for luncheons for The Clemson Women’s Group, invited us to set up a tent on her First Friday events in order to get our name, and most importantly, our food out there to the public, and even secured us to cater a Riedel wine event, which was our first larger catering experience. It is always wonderful to work with her and we are very grateful for her friendship and support.
Website: www.straubscharcuteries.com
Instagram: @straubs_charcuteries
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/straubscharcuteries?mibextid=2JQ9oc
Other: TikTok @straubscharcuteries