Meet Monica Johnson | Pallet Designer & Business Owner

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

Hi Monica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Taking my passion for gathering people and creating beautiful spaces and turning that into an actual business has been so fun and exciting. I launched Pallet to Palate in August 2020 after spending a year hosting outdoor adventure experiences for my friends. The common denominator for every experience was a beautiful charcuterie spread that I would design, assemble, and tailor to the occasion. The heart behind the business was to gather for no other reason than “just because.” You don’t need a major milestone to celebrate life and enjoy a beautiful and special experience!

Like so many people, the pandemic was what really pushed me to step out and try something new, and I’m so glad that I did! It definitely felt risky, and it comes with its challenges, but the reward has been far greater than the risk. Today, Pallet to Palate has become more than I ever imagined it could be. I’ve been able to cater to so many amazing people in San Diego and beyond. Some of our pallet experiences include date nights, engagements, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, weddings, birthday celebrations, memorial services, holiday parties, corporate events…and my favorite ones – the “just because” experiences.

Each event and set up that I get to do is unique and one of a kind. I love that I get to create a custom and personalized experience for each customer. Being able to meet new people from all over the map, using my creative abilities, and discovering breathtaking and secluded outdoor locations are just a few of my favorite things about my job!

This is not your ordinary dining experience! Reach out, I would love to meet you and create a beautiful charcuterie experience for you!

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.
I absolutely love what I get to do. Pallet to Palate creates experiences and lasting memories for intimate gatherings and larger events. It allows for you to embrace the authentic conversations that happen as you eat a vibrant spread of charcuterie, cheeses, crackers, fresh bread, fruits, veggies, and local San Diego fare. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to gather your favorite people for special events, celebrations, or just because. Get outdoors, come as you are, embrace the simplicity, and just be. There are so many fun ways that Pallet to Plate is unique. Besides the breathtaking sunsets and ocean views, the charcuterie spread really speaks for itself and honestly– steals the show. The simplicity of the set up allows for people to enjoy and be in the moment. Each event is curated specifically toward each guest, adding intricate details throughout the whole set up, based on their preferences. All the little details matter, including our naturally dyed napkins, handmade clay plates from Mexico, tiny tongs, hand-me-down wine goblets, twinkle lights, and your favorite flowers spread throughout your customized charcuterie board. My hope is that every person will walk away feeling so special, refreshed, and taken care of. Life’s turn of events and circumstances presented me with the freedom and opportunity to start this business. Every challenge that has presented itself to me has been a lesson to be learned and a mistake to avoid in the future. I am so thankful for the numerous people who have come alongside me to teach me, support me, and show me the ropes over the past few months. I’ve learned that there is no better time than right now to start taking risks. Risks will eventually lead to failing, and through failing we grow and develop into more of what we’re supposed to be. It’s all worth it in the end (or so I’ve been told!). I’ve also learned that I’m not always going to love every part of the job and that’s ok because the parts of the job that I come alive in and find so much joy in far outweigh the others. Life is too short to be doing the wrong thing, so prioritize what you love! Find value and meaning in the little things, gather your loved ones, adventure outdoors, eat good cheese and drink good wine!

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.
San Diego has so much to offer! I’ve lived here for over 10 years now and I still find myself in awe of how much there is to do and how beautiful it is. You really can’t go wrong when it comes to exploring this city! I would definitely make sure to go to the beaches, catch the sunset, eat tacos and go on hikes. Being outdoors and walking around each little neighborhood and checking out coffee shops and window shopping is also so fun! Come visit– you won’t be disappointed, trust me!!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to everyone who has booked with Pallet to Palate over the last year and a half! I truly wouldn’t be where I’m at today without you. Thanks for entrusting me to carry out the vision of your special day and allowing me to help you create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. Each person I meet along the way has motivated me to keep creating and dreaming. Also, gotta shoutout to my awesome group of friends who have been in the process with me from day one!

Website: https://www.pallettopalate.co/

Instagram: @pallet_to_palate

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/pallettopalate

Yelp: https://yelp.to/B5v0w3GCwnb

Image Credits
Juliana Hernandez