Meet Raven Willis | Charcuterie and Grazing Board Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Raven Willis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raven, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Giving up will never be an option in any aspect of my life. What people have to understand is that no matter the circumstances, you have to show up for yourself. Show up for you in spite of the hardships because if you don’t, no one will. No one has ever succeeded by giving up.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a paralegal at a local law firm in Buckhead Atlanta, I found that I needed a way to creatively express myself. I started creating charcuterie boards a few years ago after taking a strong interest in wine. As a wine enthusiast, I enjoy pairing wine with various foods that you often see included in the boards that I create. When I assemble boards, I think about what flavors go well together and how I can elevate my customer’s experience. While I don’t consider it difficult, I will say that the science behind the connection of wine and cheese is complex and does require thought into what should and should not be paired together. In addition to creating boards, I host exciting, instructional workshops that are perfect for anyone looking to level up their charcuterie. I’ve always been a believer of the saying that nothing brings people together like good food and I’m proud to say that’s the foundation of my business. I believe what sets me apart from others is the amount of passion, care, and personalization that I put into my product. I enjoy the fact that my customer’s will always know that each board is custom created specifically for them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite spots in the city include:

Brunch at Beetlecat and Tupelo Honey Cafe. I’m an oyster girl so I’d definitely hit up the Optimist and C&S Seafood Oyster Bar. One of my favorite places to frequent is Cru Wine Bar located at the Battery. My girl Savannah does a phenomenal job with wine flight recommendations and another go to at the Battery is Burn Cigar Bar by Rocky Patel. Also can’t forget about Bamba Tuesday’s at Rocksteady for the best Amapiano Afrohouse music.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my circle of friends. I’ve received support in many ways from referrals to helping prep orders. My girls show up for me which motivates me to show up for myself. They are the real MVP’s.

Instagram: bobbieray

Other: email: winewithraven@gmail.com

Image Credits
Rashad Berry