A South Jersey charcuterie business is getting a permanent home in Swedesboro.
After five years of transforming celebrations with stunning grazing tables, handcrafted charcuterie boxes, and creative culinary experiences, Gather to Graze is opening its very first brick-and-mortar location at 1252 Kings Highway in Swedesboro.
For owner Karen Clemmenson, this milestone represents far more than a new storefront; it’s the realization of a dream that began during one of the most uncertain times in recent history.
Gather to Graze launched in September 2020, when many businesses were struggling to survive during the COVID-19 pandemic. What began as a simple curbside pickup operation for scheduled charcuterie orders evolved into a catering business.
As word spread about Karen’s beautifully crafted boards and exceptional attention to detail, demand exploded.
Soon, Gather to Graze became a familiar name at baby showers, bridal showers, birthdays, anniversaries, wedding morning brunches, corporate events, repasses, and countless other celebrations throughout the region.
The business also expanded beyond catering by hosting popular charcuterie workshops at local businesses, giving customers the opportunity to learn the art of building beautiful grazing boards while enjoying a fun social experience.
As the business grew, it became clear that Karen needed to find a space to accommodate that growth.
For more than three years, Karen searched for the right property, exploring everything from a full retail storefront to a commercial kitchen capable of handling the growing catering operation.
While visiting Swedesboro to pick up an order, Karen noticed a “For Rent” sign outside 1252 Kings Highway.
One phone call and one tour later, she knew she had found exactly what she’d been searching for.
The open layout offered everything she envisioned: a commercial kitchen, dedicated workspace, customer seating, and room to continue growing the Gather to Graze brand.
The new Gather to Graze location promises to be much more than a pickup spot for catering orders.
Customers can expect a welcoming destination featuring a large grab-and-go case stocked with individual graze boxes, shareable charcuterie boxes, fresh lunches, signature sandwiches inspired by Gather to Graze’s popular catering menu, and an assortment of fresh salads.
Karen also plans to feature products from fellow small businesses, continuing her commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs throughout South Jersey.
A retail section dedicated to all things charcuterie will offer unique gifts, entertaining essentials, and specialty items perfect for anyone looking to elevate their next gathering or simply treat themselves.
Although Gather to Graze is opening a permanent location, the business isn’t leaving behind the services that built its loyal following.
Customers will still be able to order the custom grazing boxes and spectacular on-site graze tables that have become the centerpiece of so many South Jersey celebrations.
Gather to Graze also plans to remain active in community events with its popular mobile charcuterie cart, bringing its signature creations directly to festivals, markets, and local gatherings.
Downtown Swedesboro has steadily become one of South Jersey’s most charming destinations for shopping, dining, and supporting independent businesses. The arrival of Gather to Graze adds another unique concept that residents and visitors alike can enjoy.
Congratulations to Karen and the entire Gather to Graze team on this well-deserved next chapter. We have a feeling this beautiful new storefront is going to become another must-visit stop in Swedesboro for locals and visitors this summer!
Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available. Follow Gather to Graze on Instagram for updates.
SJFS is dedicated to food, dining, restaurants, and drinking in South Jersey. Got a news tip? Email southjerseyfoodscene@gmail.com.