Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacquelyn Ramirez
Hi Jacquelyn, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My first culinary memories are that of my grandmother and her sisters making tamales around a tiny table at my Tia’s house in Corpus Christi, Texas. There were stations set up and I was tasked with spreading the masa (corn dough) on the corn husks. I remember there was so much pressure to get the perfect thickness of masa because if it was too much, they would be thick and gummy and if there was too little, the tamale wouldn’t hold when you unpacked them. This was a regular gathering my family would do around Christmas time every year. Till this day, I remember the feeling I felt around that table-the laughter and joy. These are some of my favorite memories. Fast forward through a high school Culinary Arts program, a healthcare career, finding my love for gardening and soil, and many travels exploring different food cultures and markets, it has been quite the journey circling back to those memories and using them as a catalyst to build my catering company, Food has always been at the center of my curiosity and creativity. There was always this feeling that at some point, I would make my way to building a business around food. It took the birth on my son, COVID, and the struggle to balance parenthood with my healthcare career to muster up the courage do it. And I am so glad I did. Every time we get the privilege to create a delicious grazing spread for someone, we are striving to create the joy and warmth you feel when you are sharing a meal with people that you love. All of the ingredients have been thoughtfully curated with the best that come from Central Texas. The reactions we get from our clients who are seeing their space transformed into this delicious work of art is truly worth the long and winding journey it took to get here.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road! Personally, I’ve struggled with self-doubt. I realized that believing in myself and my capabilities is crucial. While I’m grateful for the amazing support system around me, their support only truly resonates when I first believe in myself. I need to take care of myself and be my own biggest fan. When I do, my food tastes better and looks more beautiful—it’s pretty incredible. Knowing that working through self-doubt is not linear; it sometimes resurfaces, reminding me to slow down, take care of myself, and reconnect with my ‘why.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about The Happy Grazer?
The Happy Grazer is an Austin area catering company that specializes in grazing spreads. This includes specialty cheese, charcuterie, fruits, nuts, olives, to dips, crudité, seasonal salads, sandwiches and more. Our curated grazing spreads are built with intention for events big and small with a focus on showcasing local food artisans and locally farmed, in season produce and florals. We offer a true farm to table catering experience. We believe that when the food that we eat is grown, cared for, and created with love, tenderness, and kindness, that it tastes better and is healthier for us. We also host community gatherings to showcase local food producers and educational workshops. We’re dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation for the land we inhabit. Our offerings are not just about food – they’re about building relationships, supporting local economies, and nurturing a healthier planet for generations to come.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The most important quality for my success is my passion for connection. I love connecting with farmers and food artisans. I love connecting people to great, healthy, quality food, and providing delicious meals that bring people together. Whether it’s around a dinner table or a grazing board, food has a unique way of breaking down barriers and sparking conversations. Witnessing the bonds that form over shared meals is a beautiful and inspiring experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thehappygrazeratx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehappygrazer.atx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558589859657
Image Credits:
Jacquelyn Ramirez
