Meet Shay Cowser | Charcuterie Catering (food and beverage services)

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

Hi Shay, why did you pursue a creative career?
When I think back as a young child, I remember being creative in a multitude of ways. I remember the first time my mother brought home a computer. I taught her how to turn it on and she hasn’t turned it off since. She started a graphic prints and design business from home. Both of my parents worked for Ford Motor Company in the 80’s and 90’s. However, they both held on to small hustles outside of Ford. I was taught at a very young age how to work hard for others and 3 times harder for myself. A creative career came natural to me in all aspects of life. From cooking, writing poetry to designing nails. You name it, I’ve always had a eye for uniqueness. The thing about being artistic is that there’s no limit on exceling. Once the creativity sets in, my mind continues to rotate making it unique in my own special way.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
It all began with my love for wine and pairing wine with other flavors; its fascinating. I have been bartending at Hartsfield Jackson International Airport since 2008. Throughout my bartending career I’ve learned a lot about wine and have attended quite a few wine tasting for both business and pleasure. I myself have even hosted wine tastings. Charcuterie (Shahr-ku-tuh-ree) is a French tradition and art of preparing an assortment of cured meats with cheese, fruit and or nuts. There is no wrong way to do it. I have put my own special spin on how i arrange boards, boxes or even party trays. I put a lot of detail and personalization into each and every other. I like to call it “food art”. What sets me apart from others is the time I take to create something extra special and the knowledge I have behind wine pairing. Building my brand isn’t easy at all. I have to constantly find ways to captivate my audience in hopes to open their minds while putting their palates to test. I have to set weekly goals for myself so that I don’t get discouraged when business slows down. However, I’m always thinking of ways to out do myself. One major lesson I’ve learned along the way is to think BIG not small, and to be consistent no matter what. Although I am still in the beginning stages of building my brand, I have to remind myself that I am growing stronger and larger each day. With that in mind, I have to think different and be prepared for the time when business is overflowing. I am a very strategic person and I’m always a couple steps ahead. So when it’s my time to shine, I will glow brighter than any other.

Winenot Xperience is an extraordinary brand. it brings friends, family, co workers or even strangers together who all have something profound in common; the love for food! “Getting into it is the only way to do it!” That means to explore the different flavors amongst you and share your favorite combinations. I like to share my personal favorites with everyone who places orders with WNX. “Winenot Xperience the love of you palate!?

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Vista Vibe Ponce City Market
Two Urban Licks
Krog Street Market
Breakfast at Barneys
Piedmont Park
The Garden Room
Canoe
Mall of Georgia
Red Martini
Glenn Hotel (sky lounge)
Twisted Souls
Legal Seafood
East Atlanta Village (Thai & Sushi)
Clarmont rooftop bar
Little Five Points
Sweet Lounge
Top Golf
Main Event

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

My close friends and family definitely deserve credit for pushing me and allowing me to see that what I do as a “hobby” can be my money maker. However, I give a special thanks to the following people who constantly remind me that continue to climb the ladder!

Trisha Murphy

Alexis Walker

Jarvis Kirkland

Saquell Johnson (owner of Knoxcarterkandles)

RuQaiah (Kids braider- crownbellish.setmore.com)

Website: winenotxperience.com (under construction)

Instagram: winenotxperience

Other: winenotxperience@gmail.com

Image Credits
Shay Marie