Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Cleveland.
Dawn, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It started in November 2020. I was a Registered nurse at a busy hospital. Always being a foodie, I woke up one day and decided I was going to start making Charcuterie Boards for the holiday season.. It was a huge success. I realized that people wanted charcuterie boards for many reasons other than just the holidays. People were requesting them for birthdays, showers, weddings, end of life celebrations, etc. A few months into it I was approached by a metro brewery who asked if I would teach classes on how to prepare charcuterie boards. I was very hesitant as I had never taught a class before. However, I agreed and it was a successful sold-out of class. We added another class and that sold out as well. I then had another realization that this is something that people like so I started offering my services to other breweries around the metro area. Soon establishments were coming to me asking if I would come and teach classes. I am now at breweries and wineries across the state as well as teaching classes privately in homes and corporations.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not always been smooth. Being the sole person running the show here at From the Diner, I do everything. Booking, emails, shopping for food, prepping the food, etc. Some days can be very busy!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I make charcuterie boards for all occasions and teach classes on how to prepare boards just like I do. I don’t really know what I’m known for; however, I have heard people say, “ She’s the one one who makes those pretty meat and cheese trays.” Or “ She makes food art.” I’d say I’m most proud of finding something I love-being able to make a living doing it. In fact, I always encourage others to do the same. What sets me apart is that I believe I’m the only one doing these classes at primarily breweries, even though private and corporate classes are gaining in popularity as word gets out about what I do.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Looking back, I guess I remember always wanting to be in the line light. ( I’m a Leo) Pretending to be Cher or Marie Osmond. I also always loved baking, cooking and getting fresh food from the garden. My Mom always let me do as I wished in the kitchen. As I grew older, I toured Le Cordon Bleu to become a Chef. I ultimately decided cooking would be a hobby and Nursing my passion. But here I am back to working with food.
Contact Info:
- Email: Dawn@fromthediner.com
- Website: Fromthediner.com
- Instagram: from.the..diner
- Facebook: From the Diner
- Other: https://linktr.ee/fromthediner
Image Credits
Suzanne Navarro Photography
Kaite Peterson on Instagram @thirstycrab
