Curated Bites, Lasting Connections
WRITTEN BY LAUREN LAWSON | PHOTOS BY JORDAN RANDALL | DEVELOPED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GRAZE CRAZE
“You won’t see people gathering around a container of fettuccine alfredo, but they will linger at a charcuterie board, trying
new things and talking with each other.”
When Lizette and Ira Bryant opened Graze Craze in June 2024, it marked a new chapter in a life already defined by service and community. After 30 years in the military, Ira was preparing to transition into civilian life. One of his mandatory classes, Boots to Business, introduced the idea that military skills could translate into entrepreneurship.
But Ira’s specialty—field artillery and air defense—didn’t have a direct civilian equivalent. That’s when the couple connected with The Entrepreneur’s Source, a group that walked them through potential franchise opportunities. After a careful vetting process, they were presented with three options. Graze Craze, owned by United Franchise Group, stood out.
“We had always talked about owning our own business,” Lizette says. “With deployments and raising a family, it just wasn’t possible before. This felt like the right time.”
For 20 years, Lizette worked for Polk County Supervisor of Elections Lori Edwards. When the opportunity came, the couple jumped in—combining Ira’s discipline and logistics experience with Lizette’s creative eye.
Inside the shop, Lizette has earned a fitting nickname: the “board-building queen.” She can assemble popular options like the Large Gone Grazy board almost on autopilot. But what excites her most is experimenting with new creations—like their upcoming wine pairing board, which will feature honey pistachio–rolled goat cheese and other seasonal flavors, paired with wine curated by sommelier Warner Boin.
“Our other most popular option is the Sweet & Grazy board, which is also my favorite to make. It’s fun and delicious… and yes, I nibble a little while I work,” Lizette added playfully.
What sets Graze Craze apart from traditional catering is their speed and focus. Many caterers require 24 to 48 hours’ notice—Graze Craze can create a board in just a few hours. By keeping their offerings focused on charcuterie rather than hot meals or complex menus, they can deliver high-quality boards quickly. Whether for a small gathering or a large event, they’re ready to customize—down to the smallest detail.
“Recently, a bride asked if she could bring her own board. I gave her some guidelines to make it easy for us to prep and transport,” Lizette added, “that’s the fun part of owning your own business—you get to make those calls and connect with people personally.”
For Lizette, charcuterie is more than a business—it’s a way to bring people together. Her favorite projects are grazing tables: elegant flat lays designed to spark conversation. “I always say a grazing table brings people to the table,” she says. “You won’t see people gathering around a container of fettuccine alfredo, but they will linger at a charcuterie board, trying new things and talking with each other.”
Their boards have become a staple at ribbon cuttings, open houses, office parties, weddings, and even funerals—moments where food creates connection.
With the holiday season approaching, the Bryants encourage pre-orders for events and celebrations. More than anything, they’re focused on growing with the community they now serve. “We love being part of this community,” Lizette says. “And we can’t wait to keep growing with it.”