Aaron Menitoff and Rachel Solomon saw their thriving catering business shut down unexpectedly. This wasn’t just a tough spot; it was their reality when the pandemic hit. But, they didn’t let this setback stop them. They found a new direction with Boardarie, previously known as Cheeseboarder.
They turned their tough times into a new business adventure. They started creating beautiful cheese and charcuterie boards. This move tapped into the popular trend of cheeseboards. Now, their product brings a touch of gourmet luxury to everyday life.
With support from both corporate gifts and personal fans, Boardarie started to stand out. Even Oprah gave them a shout-out. Appearing on Shark Tank episode 1407, they aimed to expand. They asked for $300,000 for 5% of their company, setting its value at $6 million.
They wowed the Sharks with their Florida facility’s commitment to keeping products fresh and delivering them the next day. This commitment helps them stay ahead in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways
- Aaron Menitoff and Rachel Solomon pivoted from a catering business to creating Boardarie amid the pandemic.
- They delivered pre-assembled cheese and charcuterie boards to consumers, tapping into the cheeseboard trend.
- Boardarie gained traction with corporate gifting, securing an endorsement from Oprah in 2022.
- On Shark Tank, they sought $300,000 for a 5% stake, valuing Boardarie at $6 million.
- Their pitch highlighted freshness, next-day delivery, and large-scale production capabilities in Florida.
Introducing Boardarie: The Innovative Surfing Accessory
Aaron Menitoff and Rachel Solomon switched from catering to Boardarie amid the COVID-19 crisis. They saw a need for at-home gourmet experiences and filled it. Their production can whip up 3,000 gourmet boards daily, featuring choicest cheeses, meats, and more. Celebrities and corporations are loving it, pushing Boardarie into the spotlight. Their focus is on quality and convenience, with boards ranging from small to large. They even offer customizations to make each gift special.
The Transition from Catering to Surfing
Boardarie’s shift from catering to surfing accessories was both challenging and rewarding. The pandemic pushed the founders to use their skills in a new way. Now, they’re catching waves of product investment and startup funding, which helps the brand grow.
Unique Features and Benefits
Boardarie is known for its unique assembly line and custom charcuterie boards. Their savvy in handling investor negotiations sets them apart. In Florida, their top-notch facility ensures all orders are fresh and on time. This commitment to freshness and customization wins over fans and investors alike, making Boardarie the go-to for exquisite gourmet gifts.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| State-of-the-art assembly line | Daily production of up to 3,000 boards |
| Customization options | Enhanced gifting experience |
| Robust Florida facility | Ensured freshness and prompt delivery |
Boardarie’s Journey on Shark Tank: A Recap
Aaron Menitoff and Rachel Solomon, the founders of Boardarie, made a big splash on Shark Tank. They caught Lori Greiner’s eye, who offered them $300,000 for 9% of their company. This was a big moment since they were asking for an investment for a smaller piece of their business. This deal helped them grow their business and reach more customers directly.
The Pitch and Investment
On Shark Tank, Menitoff and Solomon shared how Boardarie offers pre-made cheese and charcuterie boards. They have a large production facility in Florida. This setup showed their ability to grow and adapt in the gourmet gift world. Lori Greiner’s investment was a key moment. It helped them increase their capacity and reach new markets.
Impact of Shark Tank Appearance
Their appearance on Shark Tank greatly changed Boardarie’s future. Sales skyrocketed by 1000% by the end of 2022. They became the biggest overnight package shipper in Florida. They also got noticed for hiring developmentally disabled adults, showing their commitment to giving back. Their success was highlighted by being recognized with a Guinness World Record.
Product Expansion and Innovations
After Shark Tank, Boardarie expanded their product line. They created boards for different seasons, holidays, and dietary needs, like vegan and gluten-free options. These new products helped them stay relevant and cater to more customers. They continue to focus on quality and convenience, ensuring their place in the gourmet food market.