Meet Vaishali Verma | Charcuterie Expert

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vaishali Verma and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vaishali, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I started Dallas Charcuterie Lab, my thought process was fueled by a blend of passion, creativity, and a touch of madness. As a software engineer, my days are typically spent coding, troubleshooting, and making sure systems run smoothly. But outside the digital world, I craved something more tactile, artistic, and social. I wanted to create experiences that brought people together over beautifully crafted, delicious food.

Being a toddler mom and a wife, I also saw the need for making events more inclusive. I noticed that many gatherings lacked options for those with dietary constraints, and I wanted to change that. I started imagining charcuterie boards that catered to everyone, from vegans to those who are gluten-free. And, of course, there was a selfish aspect—I love cheese, meats, and all things charcuterie! So why not turn that love into a business that could also serve as a creative outlet?

Starting Dallas Charcuterie Lab wasn’t just about building a business; it was about balancing my multifaceted life. It was about channeling my professional skills, personal passions, and the desire to inspire other women to take the leap and trust their instincts. If I can juggle coding, crafting, parenting, and more, then any woman can pursue her dreams and excel.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career journey has been a fascinating blend of technology, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As a full-time software engineer, I’ve had the privilege of working on cutting-edge projects and developing innovative solutions that make a difference. But what truly sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly integrate my technical expertise with my creative passions. Dallas Charcuterie Lab is a testament to this unique blend.

One of the aspects I’m most proud of is the ability to create custom charcuterie boards, boxes, cups, and grazing tables that cater to a diverse range of dietary needs. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy on people’s faces when they experience our beautifully crafted offerings. What excites me the most is the opportunity to constantly push the boundaries of what we can create and how we can bring people together through food.

My professional journey hasn’t been a walk in the park. Balancing multiple roles as a software engineer, business owner, content creator, mom, and wife has its fair share of challenges. There have been late nights, moments of doubt, and times when it felt like I was juggling too many balls at once. But through it all, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, time management, and the power of a strong support system.

Overcoming challenges often meant taking a step back, reassessing my priorities, and finding innovative solutions. For instance, leveraging my technical skills to streamline business processes or using my creativity to find new ways to engage with my audience. Each challenge was an opportunity to learn and grow.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable. Trusting my instincts, embracing failures as learning experiences, and celebrating small victories have been key to my growth. I’ve also realized the importance of self-care and taking time to recharge, which ultimately fuels my productivity and creativity.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh, I love playing tour guide! If my best friend were visiting Dallas, I’d definitely want to give them an unforgettable experience. We’d start with a stroll through the Bishop Arts District, checking out the unique shops and grabbing brunch at Oddfellows. Their coffee and pancakes are to die for!

One evening, we’d catch a show at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, and maybe another night we’d head to Deep Ellum for some live music and BBQ at Pecan Lodge. I also can’t resist taking them to Klyde Warren Park for some food truck delights and a relaxing afternoon.

For a bit of culture, we’d visit the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center. And because everyone needs a little nature, a day at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden would be perfect.

Of course, we’d have to spend some time shopping at NorthPark Center and maybe enjoy a day trip to Six Flags Over Texas for some thrills. Throughout the week, we’d mix in lots of great food, like dinner at Tei-An for some exquisite Japanese cuisine and The Rustic for good eats with live music.
Dallas has so much to offer, and it’s all about enjoying the best of food, culture, and fun!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, I believe that no one achieves success entirely on their own. I owe a huge part of where I am today to the incredible support, love, and encouragement I’ve received from various people in my life.

First and foremost, I’d like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my amazing husband. He’s been my rock through it all, juggling his own responsibilities while being my biggest cheerleader. From late-night brainstorming sessions to helping with toddler duties so I can focus on my business, his unwavering support has been invaluable. His belief in me and my dreams has been a constant source of motivation.
Additionally, I can’t forget the incredible community of fellow small business owners and entrepreneurs. Their shared experiences and insights have been a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. It’s empowering to be part of a network where everyone lifts each other up.
Lastly, a special shoutout to my little one, whose boundless energy and joy remind me every day of the importance of pursuing what makes you happy. Being a mom has added a new dimension to my life and has taught me resilience, patience, and the value of creating memorable experiences for others.

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