Meet Kathleen Loofbourrow | Entrepreneur

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

Hi Kathleen, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After more than 15 years of navigating various jobs across different industries, I’ve finally found myself stepping into something that ignites a deep passion within me. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, filled with twists and turns, each experience shaping who I am today.

But now, I’m embracing my true calling, merging my love for food with my desire to create memorable experiences through beautifully crafted charcuterie and grazing spreads.

Graze is more than just a business venture; it’s the culmination of years spent searching for something that resonates with my soul, and I couldn’t be more excited to see where this path leads.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Graze is a grazing spread and charcuterie company that offers a variety of services, including beautifully curated trays, a mobile charcuterie cart for events, and large-scale grazing spreads. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to sourcing from as many local and small businesses as possible. We believe in fostering community and bringing people together through high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

I am most proud of how Graze has grown and the impact we’ve made—not just in creating stunning and delicious spreads but also in supporting other small businesses along the way. The journey hasn’t always been easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced challenges, from perfecting our offerings to navigating the logistics of events and scaling the business. However, my passion for creativity, food, and community kept me going. I overcame obstacles by staying adaptable, continuously learning, and surrounding myself with a strong support system.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that authenticity and relationships matter. People don’t just buy from a business; they invest in a story, a vision, and an experience. I want the world to know that Graze is about more than just food—it’s about bringing people together, celebrating moments, and supporting local artisans and businesses along the way.

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.
We are so lucky to live in San Diego, where we’re surrounded by beautiful beaches, rich history, and diverse cultures. It’s almost impossible to fit everything into just one week, but if my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what this city has to offer—great food, stunning ocean views, and a little bit of adventure.

When it comes to food, San Diego never disappoints. Some of my favorite places to eat include:

Crab Pub – For amazing Louisiana-style seafood boils.
Manna BBQ – The go-to spot for delicious all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ.
Birdseye Kitchen – A hidden gem for incredible Thai food.
Tacos El Gordo or Frida’s – Because no visit to San Diego is complete without top-notch Mexican food.

Beyond the food, there are a few can’t-miss spots that truly showcase the beauty of San Diego:

La Jolla Cove – Perfect for watching sea lions, exploring tide pools, or just soaking in the stunning coastal views.
Sunset Cliffs – One of the most breathtaking places to catch a sunset over the Pacific.
Balboa Park – A must-visit for its gorgeous gardens, museums, and Spanish-style architecture.

For a more relaxing day, we’d escape to Adobe Hill Winery in Fallbrook. It’s a hidden gem, tucked away off the beaten path, but once you arrive, it’s pure bliss. We’d sip on great wine, take in the peaceful surroundings, and watch a gorgeous sunset—just the perfect way to unwind.

Whether it’s relaxing on the beach, indulging in amazing food, or exploring the city’s rich culture, San Diego offers something special for everyone. There’s always something new to discover, and that’s what makes it such an incredible place to live and visit!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A lot of credit goes to my husband, Ian. After our son was born in 2019, I faced significant postpartum challenges. Though I planned to return to my job in the mortgage industry, I became a stay-at-home mom. Ian never made me feel less-than for not contributing financially and has been a constant source of love and support.

When our son started school, I was torn between the stability of a corporate job and starting my own business. Ian has always been my sounding board, biggest cheerleader, and voice of reason—grounding me when I spiral and offering wisdom when I need it most. After 17 years together and 8 years of marriage, I’m forever grateful God brought Ian into my life.

I also want to honor my parents, Odi and Oly, for being my role models in business. Growing up in the Philippines, I often joined them on trips to Manila for bazaars and events, witnessing their hard work and grit. Their businesses, reliant on exports, were deeply affected by the events of 9/11.

As the second of four children, I saw how rising expenses pushed my parents to make the brave decision to move to the U.S. for better opportunities. They sacrificed a comfortable life in the Philippines to start over and ensure a brighter future for us. Their resilience continues to inspire me every day.

Instagram: Graze_SanDiego