Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Newbern.
Hi Natalie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi, I’m Natalie Newbern and I am the Owner and Curator of Orange Blossom Grazing Company, LLC. My passion for this industry began in my early years of being a teenager. I have always loved planning, hosting, decorating, entertaining and of course, CHEESE! I started Orange Blossom Grazing Company in June of 2020. I had no idea how successful I would be starting this business during a global pandemic, but it turns out there is a real market for at home entertaining during a quarantine! I currently work in employee dining for the PGA Tour as well as child care for a wonderful family, but Orange Blossom Grazing Company is my baby, and I am passionate about the success and integrity of my business. With a broad background in the food, sales, and service industry I strive to make customer satisfaction my number one priority. The part I love most about the business and community I have created is the friendships and rapport I have gained with my customers. I love making connections, not only my local community here in Florida, but the cheese community around the world! I wanted Orange Blossom Grazing Company to focus on sourcing local Florida products from small business owners, in addition to using sustainable products to ensure the longevity of our planet. Every board I curate is one of a kind and I aim to center it around the vision of each individual customer. Although my business will grow and adapt for the better every day, my mission from the start of this journey will always remain the same.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Like most small businesses my journey with OBGC has definitely had its bumps along the way. Unfortunately, no one hands you a manual on how to be successful in this industry but the most rewarding part was figuring it out all on my own. The most difficult part was obtaining licensing, certifications, and any additional requirements needed to operate with integrity. Aside from getting squared away from a legal stand point, I would say another challenge for me was time management. I work two other jobs outside of OBGC so it often feels like there is never enough hours in the day. I am working every day to delegate the proper time for my business as well as my personal life!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Growing up I have always had a creative side that I expressed through art, interior design, music, and fashion. Orange Blossom Grazing Company started because I needed to have a creative outlet that would help me grow in a new category; Food. Being a type A personality, I am outgoing, a huge planner, and most importantly an entertainer. Creating a fun yet comfortable environment for my guests was always my number one priority while hosting but I also love to impress. Nothing stands out more than a Grazing Board made up of artisan cheeses, fresh bright fruits, dips and spreads, and crunchy crackers. Charcuterie boards typically contain items you wouldn’t normally put in your grocery cart so placing a Charcuterie board at the center of a cocktail hour gets your guests to come together and break the ice. I’m the proudest when I hear the “oooo’s” and “ahhh’s” when people eat from my boards. I set myself apart from others because I am very adventurous with my creations and I love to try new things, I will practically eat anything and I think my clients should branch out too.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love best about Jacksonville and Central Florida is the sense of community. Being from Lakeland, everyone knows everyone and that’s a concept I am ok with. Owning my own business has been a breeze because of the love and support from my community, family and friends. I love that my posts get shared anywhere from Miami to Tallahassee and although it doesn’t seem that significant, anytime I get a like, comment or share, I am forever grateful. There’s not much to dislike about my city other than while it feels so small, it is still so big. I wish it was easier to connect with everyone around me, but with time and patience I will soon be known by everyone in my city.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://orangeblossomgrazingcompany.squarespace.com/
- Instagram: @orangeblossomgrazingco
- Facebook: @orangeblossomgrazingco
Image Credits:
Shannon Fries Photography
