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She calls herself “your cheese board fairy godmother,” and she is here to help you with any and all occasions. Because, as she says, “When is cheese a bad idea?”
Amanda Carroll, who serves as a brand manager at Eric Rob & Isaac marketing agency by day, has turned her creative outlet into a business, formally launching “Little Rock Cheese Please.”
“I’ve been known as the girl who is surely going to show up to a party with a cheese board in hand, whip one up for a last minute girls’ night, or even serve one for dinner,” she explains.
“A little while back, a friend talked me into going on a weekend getaway to discuss all things life, and I finally opened up to her about my secret dream of making cheese boards for others to enjoy,” Amanda says. “She kind of laughed at me and wondered why I hadn’t already done it. I had a feeling it could be something people might enjoy, but sometimes it takes a best friend to give you that extra boost of confidence to throw it out to the masses.”
Although it’s called a cheese board, it’s really so much more. She pairs various cheeses with meats, pickles, olives, spreads, fresh fruit and vegetables, and crackers or baguette.
Obviously, cheese is the star of the board, but every star needs supporting roles. Based on the texture and taste of the cheese, each board comes with some kind of meat, as well as accompanying seasonal extras. “I usually stay stocked with an abundance of fresh options, so there’s no set menu when it comes to board making,” she explains. “I just create on a whim and think, ‘Would I eat this combo?’ It’s all about tasting great and looking beautiful. If I can meet those two goals, it’s a win.”
Her current offerings include three board sizes that serve anywhere from four to 12, as well as custom tablescape creations for bigger parties and corporate events. She recently helped a client who was hosting a large retirement party at her home and wanted to use her own heirloom crystal serving ware. “We used over 15 beautiful pieces to make for one fabulous – and delicious – table,” she says.
Another client asked for a “kid-friendly” option, so Amanda seamlessly incorporated powdered donuts.
She also offers a selection of three gift boxes – a ready-made cheese board in a box with a bow – that makes a great option for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and client gifts. One includes a mini bottle of champagne for special celebrations.
“The best part, in my opinion, is that every cheese board is unique,” she says. “To me, the fun of it is in the creation and reaction of those enjoying it. I love to add little surprises to boards, whether it is in the overall presentation or the actual ingredients. There are no rules in the cheese board game.”
Delivery is available in metro Little Rock, and pickup may also be arranged. She prefers at least four days notice, as this is still a side job, so her days and weekends may book quickly.
To place an order and for more information and ideas, follow Little Rock Cheese Please on Facebook and Instagram.
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3 responses to “Meet Your Cheese Board Fairy Godmother”
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What a great idea! Love this!!
These are some of the most beautiful cheese trays I’ve ever seen! I was a lucky recipient of one for Mother’s Day from my daughter! It was delicious and went a long way throughout the afternoon while we enjoyed it poolside with a glass(es) of wine!!!!
Amanda Carroll, you’ve got it! Beautiful and delicious: the best combo!