July 2026 Neighbors of Leland

Neighbors of

© Best Version Media

MEETOUREXPERTS

ACCOUNTING

Accounting Tax Consulting

Julia K. Eskander CPA PC (910)840-3858 jkcpa@eskandertax.com www.eskandertax.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Live Life Optimized Call Us (910) 769-0104

biosymmetrywilmington.com

509 Olde Waterford Way #302 Leland, NC 28451

www.yourhcpoa.com

PUBLICATION TEAM

Publisher: Debby Daigle

Content Coordinator: Doreen Sargente

Designer: Jong Vang

Contributing Photographer: G. Frank Hart Photography

ADVERTISING

Contact: Debby Daigle

Phone: (910) 443-3199

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS:

© Best Version Media

Email: ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com

HelloFriendsandNeighbors!

Well, there’s no denying it now—it’s HOT! If you’ve stepped outside lately and immediately looked for the nearest air-conditioned building, you’re not alone. July has arrived in full force, bringing with it the heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms that remind us we’re living in one of the fastest-growing and most desirable communities in coastal North Carolina.

This month, as we celebrate Independence Day, our nation is also marking an extraordinary milestone—the 250th Anniversary of the United States. Throughout Leland and the surrounding communities, we are fortunate to be surrounded by veterans who have served our country with courage and dedication. Their service has helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy every day, and this month is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on their sacrifices and celebrate the enduring spirit of America.

Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: dsargente@bestversionmedia.com

NEIGHBORHOOD SUBMISSION INFORMATION:

Are you on the communication committee for your neighborhood? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to your neighbors. Email dsargente@bestversionmedia.com

Content

December

January

March

One of the things I love most about publishing Neighbors of Leland is having the opportunity to meet the people behind the businesses that choose to invest in our community. Last month, I had the opportunity to tour the new o ce of Beach Aesthetics and meet members of their team. Their commitment to exceptional care and personalized service is evident, and we’re thrilled to have them in our community.

You’ll also find articles and insights from many of our valued sponsors. Their support allows us to bring this publication to your mailbox each month, and we encourage you to support the businesses that support our community. Without these dedicated local businesses, Neighbors of Leland simply would not be possible.

Be sure to read this month’s feature story on Claire and Paul Clemmons, a couple whose roots in the Leland area run deep. Their story began at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, where Claire was volunteering and Paul was working during a college spring break. What followed sounds like something from a di erent era—a courtship built on handwritten letters and postcards. It’s a wonderful story of love, commitment, and a lifetime connection to the community they proudly call home today.

And don’t forget about our Pet Corner! We love featuring your fourlegged family members. Send us a photo of your favorite furry friend along with a few details, and they may appear in an upcoming issue.

As we enjoy backyard barbecues, fireworks, and time spent with family and friends, I hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate everything that makes Leland/Belville such an incredible place to live.

Doreen Sargente Content Coordinator

Ciao!

Debby Daigle Publisher

© Best Version Media

JULYCALENDAROFEVENTS CALENDAROFEVENTS

Saturday, July 11

⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

RIVERFRONT FARMERS MARKET

@ Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk Fresh produce, handmade goods, local treats, and live entertainment along the waterfront.

Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Cost: Free to attend

Saturday, July 11

STRAIGHT NO CHASER

@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

Popular a cappella group performing a mix of pop, humor, and harmonies that appeal to all ages.

Time: 7:30 PM

Cost: Ticketed; pricing varies by seat

Tuesday–Wednesday, July 14–15

⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

BLUEY’S BIG PLAY

@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

Live stage version of the hit children’s show featuring Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli.

Time: 6:00 PM

Cost: Ticketed; family show pricing varies

JULY GOLF OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN – LPGA AMATEUR GOLF ASSOCIATION CAPE FEAR/ WILMINGTON NC CHAPTER

• SATURDAY, July 18, 8AM, $47, The Links at Brick Landing, Ocean Isle Beach

• TUESDAY, July 21, 8:50AM, $50, Sandpiper Bay, Sunset Beach

• Every Thursday, 11:30AM (18 holes) and 4:30 (9 holes – dining afterwards), Beau Rivage Golf, Carolina Beach

• Mondays (2nd and 4th of the month) Ironclad Golf, Hampstead Time: 10AM: 9 holes ($20) or 18 holes ($39),

Non-members may golf twice before they decide if membership is right for them. Visit: lpgaamateurswilmingtonnc.com for details and to register. For questions, email lpgaamateurswilmingtonnc@ yahoo.com

Saturday, July 18 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT @ Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

The classic film shown on a giant screen accompanied by a live orchestra performance.

Time: 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM

Cost: Ticketed; pricing varies

Sunday, July 19 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

FAMILY DAY AT THE MUSEUM

@ Cameron Art Museum

Interactive art stations, gallery exploration, and hands-on creative activities for children and families.

Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Cost: Included with admission; free for members

Friday, July 24 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT

@ Leland Municipal Park

Family movie under the stars with lawn seating and snacks encouraged.

Time: Begins at dusk (~8:30 PM)

Cost: Free

Saturday, July 25⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

SUMMER SIDEWALK SALE & MARKET

@ Historic Southport Waterfront Shopping, food vendors, music, and coastal charm throughout downtown Southport.

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Cost: Free admission

Tuesday, July 28

JAZZ AT CAM

@ Cameron Art Museum

Live jazz performance in an intimate gallery atmosphere.

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Cost: Ticketed; typically $40–$60

Saturday, August 1

⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

RIVERFRONT SUMMER MARKET

@ Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk

Weekend market with crafts, produce, baked goods, and live music.

Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Cost: Free

Saturday, August 1

GRAHAM NASH

@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear

Community College

Legendary singer-songwriter performing classic folk-rock favorites.

Time: 7:30 PM

Cost: Ticketed; pricing varies

Wednesday, August 5

⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES

SOUNDS OF SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

@ Leland Municipal Park

Free outdoor concert with familyfriendly music and lawn seating.

Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Cost: Free

Friday, August 7

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear

Community College

Legendary country and gospel quartet performing classic favorites.

Time: 7:30 PM

Cost: Ticketed; pricing varies

© Best Version Media

UNCW Theatre Department Student Performances Dazzle with Professionalism

BY ARCHIE GIDWANI

One of the absolute joys of living in a university town is the electric burst of creative energy it injects into our daily lives! While most of us are accustomed to planning our big nights out around downtown staples like Thalian Hall or the Wilson Center, there is a whole world of theatrical magic waiting just around the corner. If you loved branching out to explore the cozy charm of the Brunswick County theater scene with me last month (https://issuu.com/daigleinc/ docs/may_2026_brunswick_forest_living?fr=xKAE9_ zMzMw), you will be absolutely thrilled by what is cooking at the UNCW Department of Theatre!

Forget any outdated ideas about modest “student drama.” These dazzling university productions are directed, designed, and brought to life by the department’s brilliant professional faculty. The results are highcaliber, high-energy shows that easily rival professional regional theaters. As the passionate department chair, Dr. Katherine Montwieler, puts it: “We o er audiences the opportunity to see professionally directed and designed productions at an unmatched price in the Wilmington area.”

My husband and I can personally vouch for that magic! We recently caught two phenomenal productions on the UNCW Mainstage—and here is a quick insider tip for your GPS: this intimate venue is tucked inside the Cultural Arts Building, not to be confused with Kenan Auditorium across campus.

First, we watched Crimes of the Heart by Beth Henley and were utterly blown away. The acting standards were razor-sharp, and the technical artistry—from the intricate set design to the evocative lighting—was pure genius. Having directed this exact Pulitzer Prize-winning play myself last year, I am the first to admit that UNCW raised the bar with a spectacular presentation! They followed up that triumph with The Play That Goes Wrong, a hilarious, high-octane riot of situational comedy directed by retiring Professor Ed Wagenseller. The wider community was just as enchanted; the department recently swept up an incredible 11 nominations at the 13th Annual Wilmington Theater Awards, celebrating outstanding artistic achievement across the board!

The theatre department presents four major Mainstage shows each year, running eight vibrant performances per show over two-week brackets. Crucially for those who prefer to skip driving after dark, every single run features a sunny 2:00 PM Sunday matinee.

Because it is a university venue, ticket prices are wonderfully light on the wallet, and they even o er deeply appreciated discounts for retirees. The theatre itself features an intimate 280-seat layout, meaning you are always close to the action. Plus, hassle-free parking is abundant right outside the doors, and the facility features excellent, easily accessible wheelchair-friendly spaces.

The o cial UNCW theatre season fills our calendars with joy from September through May. Full season tickets are available right now to the public. The upcoming 2026–2027 lineup is a beautifully diverse kaleidoscope of genres:

• The Wolves (Fall 2026): A fierce, fast-paced contemporary drama tracking a high school girls’ soccer team.

• The Reunion in Tauris (Fall 2026): A bold, striking modern reimagining of classic Euripides mythology.

• Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Spring 2027): A sweeping, magical treat for parents, grandparents, and kids alike!

• By the Bog of Cats (Spring 2027): A gripping, lyrical modern Irish masterpiece.

Treat your loved ones to the thrill of live storytelling. Take a peek at the upcoming calendar on the UNCW Theatre Productions Page, circle your favorite dates, and secure your seats today!

P.S For Dinner before the show, We tried the Blue Surf Café, 5 minutes from the Main Stage at UNCW. https://bluesurfrestaurants.com/

When You Age Alone, Who Steps Up When You Cannot?

PROVIDED BY WENDY MAPLE

When You Age Alone, Who Steps Up When You Cannot?

Steve Schroeder, 81, of Leland considers himself a semi-native North Carolinian, having moved here from Minnesota over 40 years ago. He stays active through his part-time job as an asset protection team member at Walmart, and by indulging his passions for art collecting and writing stories and poetry.

A divorcee with no children, he understands the challenges of caregiving and healthcare planning firsthand. He cared for his parents and was his mother’s primary caregiver for four years as she battled Alzheimer’s disease before passing away.

“That experience gave me serious pause when I thought about my own future,” said Schroeder, “I did have a friend willing to take on the caregiver role, but I don’t think either of us fully understood how much time, e ort, and knowledge might be required to do it well.”

Schroeder is part of a growing demographic known as solo agers. AARP defines solo agers as people age 50 and older who are unmarried, have no living children, and live alone. Their numbers continue to rise across the United States, particularly among women.

The Cape Fear region is experiencing one of the nation’s fastest retiree-driven population booms, with many newcomers relocating here without extended family nearby. As a result, the number of solo agers in the region is expected to continue growing.

Planning Without a Built-In Support System

For solo agers, one question looms: when illness or infirmity strikes, who steps up? A neighbor? A friend? A system built for strangers?

To reduce the burden on his friend, Schroeder turned to Your HCPOA, a new physician-directed Healthcare

Power of Attorney (HCPOA) agent service. Working with its founder, former internal medicine physician Dr. Chris Sepich, Schroeder shared his values and healthcare wishes to help ensure they would be understood and honored if he were ever unable to speak for himself during a medical emergency, critical surgery, or end-oflife situation.

Peace of Mind is the Point – Not Just Emergency Preparedness

Unlike a traditional HCPOA agent or proxy who may lack medical training, Your HCPOA pairs individuals with a physician who can help interpret complex clinical information and communicate clearly with care teams in real time reflecting the values of the person impacted. This service is available 24/7 to respond immediately in a crisis.

“I brought a medical professional into the process and that’s exactly what I needed to do,” added Schroeder. “I genuinely believe his services would benefit any forwardthinking individual, couple, or family. It’s never too early to begin this kind of planning, but it can be too late.”

“Even if you never need me, my hope is to give you peace and assurance in life between now and then, so you don’t have to worry if or when you become vulnerable,” said Dr. Sepich.

Schroeder hopes he may never need to rely on his Your HCPOA agent’s services. He plans to live well into his 100s outliving his Aunt Ginny, who reached 103, but says he only wants to live long if he remains healthy.

© Best Version Media

Helping Property Owners Stress Less and Invest Smarter

Tucked into Wilmington’s growing real estate landscape is a company built on a simple idea: property ownership shouldn’t feel like a second full-time job. That’s the philosophy behind Keyrenter Property Management Wilmington, a locally owned branch of a national property management brand that’s quickly establishing roots throughout the Cape Fear region.

At the helm are co-owners Catherine and Jay Hu man, a husband-andwife team whose path into property management started from personal experience. Before launching Keyrenter, the couple owned and rented out multiple investment properties themselves, giving them firsthand insight into both the rewards and the challenges that come with being landlords. That experience ultimately inspired them to build a business centered on helping other property owners navigate the process with less stress and more confidence.

“We do one thing, and we do that one thing really well,” is a philosophy the Hu mans embrace wholeheartedly. Rather than spreading themselves across multiple areas of the real estate world, Keyrenter focuses exclusively on long-term residential rentals. From tenant placement and leasing to maintenance coordination and financial reporting, the company is designed to simplify the ownership experience while helping clients protect and grow their investments.

Serving communities from Hampstead to Calabash, Keyrenter combines the systems and resources of a national network with a distinctly local approach Catherine’s background in branding and operations complements Jay’s experience in finance and leadership, creating a balance of customer service and business strategy. Together, they’ve built a company that emphasizes communication, responsiveness, and proactive management.

BY DOREEN SARGENTE

But beyond the business itself, family remains at the center of what they do. The couple’s six-year-old son, Thomas, keeps life busy outside the o ce and serves as a reminder of why building long-term financial stability matters in the first place. For the Hu mans, property ownership is about more than collecting rent checks—it’s about creating opportunities and building wealth over time.

As Wilmington and the surrounding coastal communities continue to grow, so does interest in real estate investment. For many owners, having the right management team in place can make all the di erence That’s where Keyrenter aims to step in—not simply as a service provider, but as a partner helping clients make the most of one of their biggest investments.

At the end of the day, the Hu mans genuinely enjoy helping people succeed through property ownership. And in a market that continues to evolve, their focused, hands-on approach is helping Keyrenter quietly stand out across southeastern North Carolina.

“IhavetheopportunitytoworkwithCatherine. Sheisveryknowledgeableandprofessional. Hercommunicationskillsareonpoint. Iwouldhighlyrecommendhertodoproperty managementwhenyouhaveaneed. Iguaranteeyouwillhaveapositiveexperience.”

-EdwardBaron.

© Best Version Media

IN GOOD HANDS:

Lessons from Claire’s Wheel

By Doreen Sargente

Some people discover their creative spark early and let it flicker. Claire took hers, fed it good flour, gave it oxygen, and built a life around it.

Claire and Paul Clemmons are Leland locals through and through. Proud parents to Caroline (25) and Andy (22), they’ve spent their lives deeply rooted in Brunswick County. For Claire, history isn’t just something in a dusty textbook. With family roots going back to the 1700s, it’s her unique, personal story.

Claire and Paul met at the Brunswick Town/ Fort Anderson State Historic Site, where Claire was volunteering and Paul was working during a spring break from college. Their beginning sounds like something out of an old-fashioned romance: the kind with stamps and handwritten envelopes. In the summer of 1992, Paul left for a five-week family trip and sent Claire postcards from every stop. After he returned, they dated for a month before he went back to school, and the letters continued.

Paul and Claire both completed their initial studies in 1993—Paul earning his degree in electrical engineering and computer technology from UNC Charlotte, while Claire wrapped up her high school years before heading to UNC Wilmington. They shared five wonderful years of dating before marrying in 1998. Their relationship has always carried that steady, handwritten quality; intentional, thoughtful, and built to last.

The Retail Years

Claire’s professional life began in downtown Wilmington at a dress shop called The Quarter. In 1999, she purchased the shop’s Lumina Station location, stepping fully into the role of business owner. Then came 9/11, which shifted the economy and slowed retail everywhere. Around the same time, Caroline was born, followed by Andy. Claire eventually stepped away from the dress business and pivoted— something she does with both courage and creativity.

Her next chapter, which was a surprisingly long one, was all about yarn. Claire moved her

business to Oleander Oaks, where rent was far more manageable and the shops were still mostly locally owned businesses. Walmart, or any other big box store, was no where to be found. Just independent shop owners who knew their customers by name. Having learned to knit from a skilled German instructor in a continuing education class years earlier, Claire transformed that skill into The Quarter Stitch, a yarn shop that operated six days a week for 12 years. Altogether, she spent 17 years as a retail business o wner.

Running a small business requires grit, heart, and determination, traits that Claire has in spades. But in April 2018, The Quarter Stitch closed. Around that time, her mother became ill, and along with her stepfather, Claire devoted herself to caregiving. Her mother passed away in November 2019. It was a season of grief, love, and long days that required deep reserves of strength.

A Master in the Making Claire jokes that she “o cially retired at the ripe old age of 42.” Retirement, however, didn’t look like pickleball courts and beach chairs. Happily, for yours truly, and countless other students, it looked like clay.

In March 2018, she and Paul took a pottery class at the Leland Cultural Arts Center. What began as a distraction during a di cult time quickly revealed itself as something more. Clay became therapy, expression, and challenge all at once.

By March 2020—barely two years after that first class—Claire was teaching.

For anyone familiar with pottery, that timeline is astonishing. Mastering the wheel is notoriously humbling. Clay has a way of collapsing at the exact moment confidence rises. Yet Claire’s natural ability, combined with her years of teaching customers knitting techniques and guiding them through creative projects, translated seamlessly into the studio.

Her students benefit not only from her talent but from her temperament. She teaches the way she lives—patiently, attentively, and without ego. When a student’s bowl caves in or a handle refuses to cooperate, she doesn’t swoop in to fix it. “Clay has a memory,” she likes to say. “It remembers how you treat it.” The lesson, of course, extends beyond pottery.

The Creative Spirit

If you think her creativity ends with yarn and clay, think again. Her home is a living gallery of her creative spirit and natural talent. Paintings hang on the walls that look as though they belong in an art gallery. Shelves hold both functional and sculptural pottery pieces—mugs that feel perfectly balanced in the hand, platters that make even takeout look special. Her handmade slipcovers rival professional upholstery work, tailored and precise. And then there’s the baking. Oh my, the baking! On a recent visit, the scent of sourdough bread drifted through the

house, warm and yeasty. Baking sourdough bread is a newer interest, but in Claire’s hands, it already feels like an art form. “I like working with things that change,” she says. “Clay, dough, yarn—they all respond if you pay attention.” That attentiveness is at the core of who she is.

Looking for a ‘fresh start’, in the fall of 2020, Claire and Paul moved from Olde Towne to Waterford. She loves the sunsets, the active community, and the convenience of being close to nearly everything. She speaks warmly of her neighbors, enjoys participating in the art club, and rarely misses a block party. Community has always mattered to her—from the historic site where she met Paul to the yarn shop that became a gathering space where friendships grew, to the pottery studio where students now find both instruction and camaraderie.

Continue on Next Page >

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Leland

525 Village Road 910-383-3511

Hampstead 16076 US-17 Hwy N 910-821-1713

Wilmington 1535 South 41st Street 910-791-9099

New Perspectives

Yet not every chapter has been easy. In the spring of 2024, Claire was diagnosed with cancer. She describes it as both the worst and best year of her life. The worst for obvious reasons. The best because of the overwhelming outpouring of love and support. “I had no idea how many people were in my corner,” she reflects. Today, she is happily recovered, carrying both gratitude and perspective into her work and daily life.

Since owning a business doesn’t leave much room for travel, it was limited during her early career. Still, being the hopeless romantics that they are, she and Paul made it a tradition to take an anniversary trip each year, often somewhere within the United States. Recently, they traveled to Scotland and England for the first time. As a self-proclaimed English history geek, Claire was in heaven walking through ancient streets and historic sites. Paul, once a reluctant traveler, may have been even more enchanted. More adventures are already on the horizon— Hawaii, perhaps Italy.

In the meantime, her students are the real winners, getting to learn from her incredible eye and even bigger heart. She’s the first to celebrate their small wins like they’re her own and is always pushing them to try new techniques. When a piece cracks or a glaze comes out of the kiln looking... ahem…disappointing (hey, it happens to the best of us), she’s right there modeling how to bounce back. Above all, she’s a constant reminder that creativity isn’t about being perfect—it’s about patience, practice, and just keeping at it.

Claire’s life has moved from fabric to fiber to clay to crusty loaves, each chapter shaped by circumstance. Her story is not just one of talent. It’s one of thoughtfulness, reinvention, and quiet courage.

And if the clay remembers how it’s treated, so do her students. They remember patience, kindness, and the steady hands that showed them how to center. And they leave her class not just with bowls and mugs, but with confidence, curiosity, and the understanding that making something with your hands can shape a life just as surely as it shapes the clay spinning on the wheel.

© Best Version Media

BY DEBBY DAIGLE

PROVIDED BY SUZANNE SMITH

Charlee

© Best Version Media

Short and Sweet Swing Fixes: Chip that Run across the Green

BY NICOLE WELLER

While it’s a relatively small little shot near the green, chip shots can wreak havoc and drive scores higher than necessary for novices and mid to higher handicap golfers. Instead of a nice low hop into the air and then a smooth roll towards the hole, the ball rockets across the green over the other side… not quite the plan! Chip ends with the letter P so the ball has just a little air but mostly roll, like a putt. It’s a smaller word than a pitch, so it’s a smaller shot in general. It’s amazing how it can take a golfer one shot for the ball to travel 100 or even 200 yards and then take two or more shots from within 10 feet of the green.

If you want to drop shots o your score, the short game is an ideal place to begin. It doesn’t take any power or massive distance… it’s a small shot that we strive to keep as simple as possible.

Possible Causes:

1. The club is catching the ball on the ascent or way up. The goal is to allow the clubhead to catch the ball at the end of the descent or just through the ball, but not on the way up.

2. The golfer is trying to get ‘under’ the ball. Truth be told, there usually isn’t an ‘under’ hen the ball is lying on the ground unless it’s a flu y rough lie or in the sand. The golf ball is touching the ground and when two hard surfaces touch, there isn’t an under. Just like trying to take a quarter and ask someone to get another quarter laying on a table up by going under it, all one would do is shove the quarter on the table o the end. One can’t get ‘under’ a quarter laying on the table, those are two hard surfaces touching, there isn’t any space. The goals is to catch the ball as the club descends or goes through the bottom of the ball.

3. The ball position is too far forward, catching the ball in the ascent of the swing… a No No!

4. The upper body is leaning or moving backwards creating a swing that moves up through the ball. The goal is to be center to slightly forward with the center (sternum) so the club can

pass through or down through the ball, not up. This doesn’t mean popping the lead hip in front, which can still cause the upper body to lean backwards.

5. The golfer thinks he or she ‘hit it too hard’ when in actuality it just wasn’t struck solidly. The ball loves the middle of the clubface and so do we!

To find out which of these causes it might be, contact your local PGA or LPGA teaching professional and let’s get those solid chips all onto the green and then start getting them closer to the hole!

Nicole Weller instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com.

REAL ESTATE STATISTICS - APRIL 2026

BestVersionMediadoesnotguaranteetheaccuracyofthestatisticaldataonthispage.Thedatadoesnotrepresentthelistingsofanyoneagentoragencybutrepresentstheactivityoftherealestate communityinthearea.Anyrealestateagent’sadappearinginthemagazineisseparatefromthestatisticaldataprovidedwhichisinnowayapartoftheiradvertisement.

Ah charcuterie: the key to no-stress entertaining. As far as hosting parties goes, charcuterie is a real win-win for everyone involved. It’s easy to throw together – even last minute. – So, what’s Charcuterie? Charcuterie is a French word that literally means “cooked meats”. When serving charcuterie for a party it’s usually presented alongside cheese, bread, condiments, and other accoutrements.

What You Need:

• Serving board, platters, or butcher paper

• Napkins, toothpicks, forks & knives

• Small plates (this is optional, charcuterie can

• be served without plates)

What to Serve:

• Meats & Cheeses

• Nuts & Fruits

• Jams, Honey & Dips

Light Charcuterie

• Bread & Crackers

• Wine

If you love delicious, cured meat that’s high on flavor but lower on spice, there are a plethora of lovely meats for you to pair and enjoy. We recommend trying salty, mild meats like prosciutto, soppressata, or mortadella, all ideal for a beginner’s charcuterie.

For wines, try pairing these savory meats with your choice of lighter-bodied white wines (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio) or light to medium-bodied red wines (Pinot Noir, Merlot) If you’re feeling adventurous, sparkling wines (such as Prosecco and Rosé) (especially French and Italian varietals) can quickly enhance the taste of this type of charcuterie.

Pro Tip: allow 3-5 oz of each cheese and charcuterie per person when served as a main course.

dates:

Patch - September 25, 2026

Tree Lot - November 20, 2026

with the perfect wine pairing Charcuterie Board

Medium Charcuterie

In addition to adding some extra kick to your board, moderately spiced charcuterie opens your options to a new world of tantalizing wine pairings.

We recommend exploring charcuterie that spices up your board without overwhelming your palate. For your first step into this world of bolder flavor, try pancetta, peppered salami, or chorizo picante to gauge your ideal balance of salt and spice.

For wine pairings with this type of bolder charcuterie, light-bodied whites (Chenin Blanc, Verdejo) and fruity reds (Malbec, Gamay) are perfect companions for more robust spices and savory notes of meat.

Pro Tip: allow 3-5 oz of each cheese and charcuterie per person when served as a main course.

Bold Charcuterie

If you’re a person who lives life to the fullest and enjoys some exceptionally flavorful meat, bold and spicy harcuterie is the choice for you.

We recommend dipping your toe into the water of the boldest charcuterie by sampling favorites like Bresaola, Black Tru e Salami, and Spanish Dry Chorizo, but be prepared for a serious increase in flavor, spice, and complexity.

To balance out the aggressive profile of bolder charcuterie, you need an equally bold and well-structured wine that can hold its own with your meat selection.

We recommend fuller-bodied reds (such as Syrah) or medium to full-bodied whites (like Chardonnay) that won’t be overpowered by their charcuterie companions.

Cheese & Wine Pairing

While there are many delicious and creative wine and cheese pairings to be found, we will focus our guide specifically on a few main varieties of EASY-TO-PAIR CHEESES:

Gruyere, Havarti, or a young Gouda = Pair with dry white like Chardonnay or rustic red like Bordeaux

Aged Cheddar, Parmesan or Manchego = Pair with well-aged, bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah

Pro Tip: set your cheeses out before serving so they can come up to room temperature by serving time – usually about an hour ahead. Super cold cheese served straight from the refrigerator is less aromatic and therefore, less tasty.

Fruit, Crunchy and Bread

Whether it’s fresh or dried, fruit adds so much to a charcuterie and cheese platter, they help cleanse the palette while adding a sweet touch to the savory and salty components. Adding something crunchy helps bring a charcuterie board to life! Try adding gourmet potato chips, as well as nuts like marcona almonds, walnuts or pistachios.