There are meat lovers, cheese lovers, fruit lovers, pickle lovers, snack lovers and all of the above lovers. So what is the one thing that could satisfy all of these people at once? The charcuterie board. Who doesn’t love them? They are beautiful, shareable and normalize my favorite thing to do at a party — graze. But, I am not going to lie, creating them is not really my thing. Lucky for me, I found Bon Appetit Charcuterie Cart before planning my friend’s baby shower at The Loft at the Mercantile.
Bon Appetit Charcuterie Cart is more than just a food display—it’s a joyful, welcoming experience that brings people together. What makes it unique, is the experience. Everything is beautifully styled, completely customizable, and served in a way that feels both luxurious and welcoming. It’s not just food—it’s a centerpiece for your event and the owner, Monika Milleson, is as charming as the mini charcuterie boards your snacks are served on.
Starting your own business can be intimidating, but for Monika, she found her way through faith.
“This business was truly born out of prayer and being led by the Holy Spirit. I’ve always loved gathering people together and creating beauty through food, but it wasn’t until I felt the Lord nudging me in this direction that I took the leap,” said Monika. “With God’s grace, I stepped out in faith and launched Bon Appetit Charcuterie Cart, trusting that He would guide my steps—and He has, every bit of the way.”
In addition to her faith, Monika’s husband has been a huge supporter of her new business venture.
”Without a doubt I give so much credit to my husband Todd — he’s my biggest fan and supporter in every idea and adventure I take on. From day one, he’s believed in this dream right alongside me,’” Monika added.
The cart itself is an adorable 3×6 mobile cart display that brings an elevated touch to any event— whether you’re planning a backyard brunch to wedding reception or corporate party. Bon Appetit Charcuterie offers a wide selection of handcrafted charcuterie items that are tailored to each event. A few weeks before my event, Monika sent the mom-to-be and myself her menu items and let us select our favorites, while offering her input. Each menu is thoughtfully curated, ranging from familiar favorites like artisan cheeses, meats, pickled vegetables, and seasonal fruits, to more refined touches like caviar and specialty pairings.
I was honestly blown away by the small touches. Monika thought of everything and it made took the baby shower to the next level. Monika has called Gulf Breeze home for over 20 years and her passion for this community and food is what makes her new business venture so special.
“I truly love this community. I’ve lived my whole life here on the panhandle,” said Monika. “I’ve always had a passion for food and presentation, and while I may not come from a traditional culinary background, I’ve spent years creating beautiful spreads for family, friends, and special events. That passion, combined with a heart for hospitality, is what drives Bon Appetit Charcuterie Cart today.”
There is nothing I would change about Bon Appetit Charcuterie Cart and I am so grateful I found it for my event. Instead of worrying about replenishing the cheese and meats, I could focus on my guests and enjoy the party stress-free. Thank you Monika for a wonderful experience and to the Loft at the Mercantile for a stunning venue.
You can find Monika on Facebook at Bon Appetit Charcuterie Cart, on Instagram @bonappetit.charcuteriecart, by email at BonAppetitCcart@gmail.com, or by phone at (850)454-7675. Monika loves working one-on-one with clients to make their event extra special. Give her a call, chat about your vision, event size, and preferences, and she takes care of the rest!
