Life & Work with Katie Carbery of Scottsdale

Hi Katie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello hello! Thanks for having me! I’m still fairly new to AZ, I moved here with my husband, and now 19 year old dog, in October 2020! We joke that we moved here for our pup’s retirement! My background is in hospitality, and marketing, and after years of working for other people, I took a chance on myself and did something I’ve always wanted to do: start a business!

I grew up in St. Louis where my family was/is in the restaurant business. From an early age I told myself I would never get involved because it wasn’t what it’s glamorized to be on tv and in movies, I wanted something different. I went to college, and during my sophomore year I went on a 35 day trip throughout Europe. It was during this time I saw firsthand what travel could do to a person, and I was hooked! I knew I wanted to study abroad before graduating, and chose the furthest, most exotic place I could: Thailand! Before going I had never actually eaten Thai food which looking back could’ve been a horrible mistake, however, quite the opposite happened!

I experienced a culture and way of life that I never knew existed beyond pictures, and took in all the sights, smells, and tastes of Southeast Asia! I also learned through this experience how much food can bring people together. There were plenty of times I didn’t speak the same language as others around me, but we could all share our enjoyment of what we were eating. We could talk with our eyes, and smiles, and others could definitely tell when the American girl was struggling! Luckily, they would take the time to show me what to do which further opened my eyes to different cultures around the world.

I earned a degree in Advertising & Marketing Communications, and went on to work in agencies, corporate, and independent businesses, none of which were a fit for me. I put my ego aside and landed a job in a restaurant, where I fell in love. The thing I’d been running from my whole life! I enjoyed socializing with customers, taking care of people, and making their experiences memorable. Every day wasn’t sunshine and rainbows; the (restaurant) industry was the hardest work I’ve ever done. It takes special talent and skills to do what anyone in the front or back of house does. I realized that it’s in my blood, whether I like it or not. Plus, if I love it and I’m good at it, why keep searching for something else?

From bartending, serving, and catering, I ran social media accounts for different restaurants. I also managed a marketing program in St. Louis, which brought people in the doors of independent restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. The program shut down due to COVID; several months later, we moved to Scottsdale! When we left St. Louis, we didn’t have jobs lined up or even a place to live! It seemed pretty crazy to others, but we knew it would all work out, and so far, it has (I’m sure several others can relate to this)!

What led me to start my own business was the thought that I moved here to get out of my comfort zone. I knew that I wanted to create and build something, and I also knew if there was ever a time to do it that now was it. I began brainstorming what I could do. I thought about travel. I missed it so much and hadn’t been able to go many places due to COVID. “How could I do anything with that? How could I bring or give travel to people? How could I bring people together when everything seemed so…distant?” I thought about how anytime I’d post a picture of boards that I’d make; I’d receive the kindest messages praising my work. I heard my mom in my head repeatedly telling me, “This is what you need to do for your business”, every time I’d post said pictures.

I used my marketing background to do a competitive analysis, then came the thought, “How can I make this different?” Surely, rolling salami in a unique way isn’t going to be the dealbreaker. That’s when it hit me: make the boards travel inspired and bring the location to their fingertips! AHA! I knew if I wanted to bring people together that I could do it through food!

I just celebrated one year of being in business, a feeling that’s hard to put into words. I’ve expanded from boards to cups to grazing tables to carry-ons which are perfect for a flight or road trip! I’ve done everything from countries to cities to holidays to themed parties/events. I’ve even created “barkuterie” boards for dogs and “immunity” boards to wish people good health and wellness! If you have an idea, I can turn it into beautiful food art!

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been fairly smooth?
Moving to a new (and much bigger city) was and still is an adjustment. I try to support small businesses as much as possible, and sometimes I feel like I’m on a road trip because I’ll drive all over the Valley to make it happen. For products I’m unable to get through local businesses, I’ve had shipping and inventory issues (things being out of stock for months, items not arriving on time, price increases). It’s been a lot of learning, but it’s also given me the chance to be more creative with how I package or create orders!

Imposter syndrome – it’s real. I’ve struggled with this at times, but luckily I have an amazing support system that reminds me who I am, what I’m capable of, and what I’m working towards. As a female business owner, there are a lot of assumptions that this is a business with my husband or it’s “ours.” I realize that I’m extremely fortunate to be able to do what I am with the support of my husband, and I’m thankful he helps out when needed, but travel aboards has been my blood, sweat, tears, and sleepless nights. I’m remarkably proud of how far I’ve come and what I’m building!

I’ve learned to not make excuses in order for my business to happen. If I ever had an idea in the past, I’d come up with a million reasons why I couldn’t do it. When it came to travel aboards, I decided this was it and would make it happen. My “What if it didn’t” mentality transitioned to “What if it did.” I had to try, at least. It was the greatest feeling to get my first order that wasn’t a friend! Then another, and another, and I realized people like my stuff!!! I’m proud of stepping out of my comfort zone. As a business owner, I have to be vulnerable, especially regarding social media and getting the word out about my product. I don’t know how others will receive my work, so to show up daily and put myself out there is a major accomplishment!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I create travel inspired food art, bringing a destination, holiday, or event to your fingertips! If you don’t have a location in mind, I have meat + cheese + veggie options considered “staycations.” I believe all should enjoy charcuterie, and I will do my best to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences! I also aim to satisfy your senses with my work, so it’s as delicious and fragrant as it is beautiful!

I’ve traveled to 17 countries, and know that one of the best ways to understand a culture, city, or country is to try their food. From the ingredients, even herbs and spices, you can tell so much about a place; it’s intriguing to me, and I want to share! I’ve taken cooking classes abroad, in cities throughout the US, and luckily come from a family of chefs so the tricks of the trade (and family recipes) have been passed down!  Following the seasons to provide the most nutrition and flavor is especially important to me, and I will take the time to find the best quality products. If you choose a destination inspired option, I like to make you feel like you’re there. I take the time to research countries, cities, and holidays to make it as authentic as I can.

For example, I had a client reach out because she was having a Tulum-inspired birthday and wanted a board to elevate her party! Fortunately, I have been there, so the ideas just started pouring in! Tulum not only has a beautiful and peaceful aesthetic but amazing food. I included roasted beets as well as a jicama salad from the infamous Hartwood, caprese salad, Italian meats and cheeses to represent the Italian influence of the food scene, mini acai cups, a Mayan ruin made out of cheese, churro bites, elote, plus Mexican & seasonal fruits and vegetables. My final touch was the inspiration signs you see throughout Tulum. It’s been one of my favorite boards to design!

What’s next?
I recently celebrated one year in business! I’m looking forward to growing my grazing tables throughout this year. Due to COVID, there are a lot of celebrations that have been postponed, and people are ready to party! I already have tables booked through February for baby & wedding showers, welcome parties, cocktail hours, bachelorette parties, and day of wedding brunch tables!

I also look forward to building relationships and getting to know other business owners better. I’m still pretty new to the city (and entrepreneurship), so I’m excited for what this next year will bring!

Pricing:

• All of my work is custom designed, so prices vary. Boards start at $60 for 2 people to $300+ for 14 people
• Cups start at $12/cup, minimum 10
• Individual carry-ons start at $15
• Grazing tables start at 15 people, contact for pricing
• Delivery is included in pricing within 5 miles of 85257, anything further will have an additional fee due to gas prices. Orders placed less than 48 hours before the event may incur a rush fee. Cancellations require at least 72 hours notice, and may be subject to a cancellation fee.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://travelaboards.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelaboards

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelaboards