Our Service Categories
We don't just drop off food and leave. Our service is a full experience—from consultation to cleanup, we're with you every step of the way. Whether you need an elegant spread for 20 or a show-stopping installation for 200, we scale our service to match your vision.
Gourmet Catering
Full-service catering with setup, monitoring, replenishment, and cleanup. Perfect for events where you want to relax and enjoy.
Learn moreGrazing Tables
Stunning, Instagram-worthy spreads of artisan cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and accompaniments styled on your table.
Learn morePrivate & Corporate Events
From intimate dinner parties to large corporate functions, we bring the same passion and attention to every gathering.
Learn moreWe Cater to Everyone
Great hospitality means making sure every guest feels considered. We have extensive experience accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences:
Halal
We source halal-certified meats and clearly label all items. Separate serving utensils available.
Vegetarian
Robust vegetarian options including our full cheese selection, crudités, dips, and plant-based accompaniments.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-free crackers and clearly labeled items. We can create entirely gluten-free spreads on request.
Nut-Free
Nut-free options available. We clearly label all items containing nuts and can create nut-free zones.
Kosher
We can source kosher-certified items and maintain separation as required. Advance notice appreciated.
Our Allergy Protocol
- All dietary restrictions are documented during consultation
- Items are clearly labeled at the event
- Staff is briefed on all restrictions
- Separate serving utensils provided when needed
- Cross-contamination prevention protocols followed
More Than Just Charcuterie
At The Little Cheese Collective, we go beyond the board. Every event is an opportunity to create something truly memorable, and we offer a full suite of services to make your gathering effortless and elegant.
Tablescaping & Florals
Elevate your presentation with risers, boards, candles, and coordinated styling props. Add fresh seasonal florals from our local florist partners for a stunning, photo-ready centerpiece.
Supplies & Paper Goods
No need to worry about the details. We provide coordinated paper plates, quality silverware, cloth or paper napkins, and serving utensils to match your event's style.
Service Staff
For larger gatherings, our trained service staff ensures your display stays pristine throughout the event—replenishing platters, maintaining presentation, and allowing you to enjoy the moment with your guests.
When You Book With Us, You Get:
Delivery & Setup
For catering events and special occasions, our team arrives 1–2 hours before your event to set up grazing tables and arrange your order to perfection. Additional time may be required for tablescaping, floral arrangements, and other add-on services.
To ensure on-time delivery and beautifully curated creations, all orders must be placed at least one day in advance. We also kindly ask that any pets be secured in a separate area during setup—this helps us work quickly and safely while keeping your furry friends stress-free!
Looking for something special?
We create custom menus for events with specific requirements. Tell us your vision, dietary needs, and budget, and we'll design something perfect.
What Sets Our Catering Apart
There are plenty of caterers in the DMV. Here's why clients choose us—and keep coming back:
Artistry Meets Food
Every spread we create is designed, not just assembled. We think about color, height, texture, and flow—your table is our canvas.
True Partnership
We don't hand you a menu and disappear. We collaborate with you to understand your event, your guests, and your goals.
Reliability You Can Count On
We show up on time, every time. Your event timeline is sacred to us—we build in buffers so you never have to worry.
Fresh, Never Frozen
Everything is prepared fresh for your event. We source ingredients days—not weeks—before your date.
Responsive Communication
Questions at 9pm the night before? We're here. Our team is accessible and responsive throughout the entire process.
Full-Service Experience
Our specialty in luxury charcuterie pairs with other plays on flavorful cheeses—from savory and sweet Brie crostinis to loaded Feta salads, our commitment to excellence never falters. It's not just about meeting your expectations—it's about going so far above and beyond that your guests' jaws drop.
When you book our catering service, you're not just getting food. You're getting a team that treats your event like their own.
- Professional setup and stunning presentation
- Continuous monitoring throughout your event
- Replenishing platters to keep displays full
- Complete cleanup when the event ends
- Dietary labeling and accommodation
- Coordination with your venue and other vendors
White-Glove Service
When you choose our staffed catering option, you're not just getting food—you're getting peace of mind. Our trained staff handles everything from arrival to departure, allowing you to be a guest at your own event.
Our team is professional, personable, and proactive. They anticipate needs before they arise, engage warmly with your guests, and ensure every detail is handled with care.
- Dedicated event coordinator
- Professional uniformed staff
- Dietary accommodation expertise
- Flexible service styles (stationed, passed, hybrid)
- Real-time problem solving
- Guest interaction and hospitality
Don't forget to ask about tablescaping & florals!
We partner with local florists to bring fresh, seasonal florals that complement your spread and elevate your event's aesthetic.
Choose Your Service Level
We offer flexible service options to match your event needs and budget:
Drop-Off
Delivery, basic setup on your provided table, departure.
- We deliver at your specified time
- Basic arrangement on your table
- You take over from there
Setup & Style
Delivery, full artistic setup with our equipment, styling, departure.
- We bring our boards, risers, and styling elements
- Full artistic arrangement
- Photography-ready presentation
Full Service
Delivery, setup, monitoring, replenishment, breakdown, cleanup.
- Complete setup with all styling elements
- Staff monitors and replenishes throughout
- Breakdown and cleanup included
White-Glove
Everything in Full Service plus dedicated staff throughout the event.
- Dedicated service staff
- Staff engages with guests
- Proactive hospitality throughout
How It Works
From first inquiry to final cleanup, here's what to expect when you book catering with The Little Cheese Collective:
Inquiry
You reach out via our contact form, email, or phone. Tell us about your event—date, guest count, venue, vibe.
Consultation
Within 48 hours, we schedule a call or exchange messages to understand your vision, discuss options, and answer questions.
Proposal
You receive a detailed proposal with menu recommendations, service level, pricing, and timeline.
Booking
40% deposit confirms your date. We send a contract and lock you into our calendar.
Final Details
3-4 Days before, we confirm final guest count, dietary needs, delivery/setup time, and any last adjustments.
Event Day
Our team arrives 1–2 hours before your event, sets up, and creates something beautiful. You focus on getting ready.
Enhance Your Catering Experience
Take your event to the next level with these add-on services:
Tablescaping & Florals
Full table design with linens, risers, candles, and fresh seasonal florals from our local florist partners.
Bar Pairings
We'll recommend wine, beer, or cocktail pairings that complement your spread.
Dessert Station
Extend your grazing table with artisan chocolates, honeycomb, and seasonal fruit desserts.
Late-Night Snacks
Second wave of food for events that go late—mini sandwiches, cheese cups, sweet bites.
Next-Day Brunch
For multi-day celebrations: fresh pastries, fruit, yogurt parfaits delivered the next morning.
Guest Favors
Send guests home with mini cheese boxes as favors they'll remember.
Catering FAQs
How far in advance should I book catering?
2-4 weeks for most events. 4-8 weeks for large events (100+), peak season, or events requiring custom menus. We accommodate last-minute requests when possible—just ask.
What's included in catering pricing?
All food, our serving equipment (boards, risers, styling elements), setup, and breakdown. Staff service is included in Full Service and White-Glove tiers.
Do you provide plates, napkins, and utensils?
We offer paper goods and utensils as an add-on service. Pricing depends on guest count and quality level (standard vs. premium).
What if my guest count changes?
We can adjust up to 1 week before your event with no issue. Changes within 1 week may be accommodated based on availability. Final count due 3 days before.
Do you travel outside the DMV?
Our primary service area is the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia). We consider events outside this area on a case-by-case basis with additional travel fees.
What happens if there's leftover food?
It's yours! We can package leftovers for you to enjoy later. Nothing goes to waste.
Do you handle alcohol service?
We don't provide alcohol, but we're happy to recommend pairings and coordinate with your bar service or venue.
Can you accommodate outdoor events?
Absolutely. We have experience with backyards, parks, rooftops, and other outdoor venues. We'll discuss weather contingencies during planning.
Ready to Elevate Your Event?
Let's create something unforgettable together. Tell us about your event, and we'll craft a catering experience that has your guests talking for weeks.
What is a Grazing Table?
Unlike traditional buffets, grazing tables encourage guests to mingle, explore, and discover new flavor combinations at their own pace. They're perfect for cocktail hours, wedding receptions, birthday celebrations, and any event where you want to create a relaxed yet impressive atmosphere.
- Seasonal artisan cheeses
- Premium cured meats
- Fresh and dried fruits
- Artisan breads and crackers
- House-made accompaniments
What Makes Our Grazing Tables Different
Every grazing table we create is a custom experience. We don't believe in cookie-cutter presentations—your event deserves a spread that reflects your style, your guests, and your occasion.
Our process starts with understanding your vision. How many guests? Indoor or outdoor? Formal or casual? We take all of this into account to design something uniquely yours.
- Custom designs tailored to your event theme
- Sized precisely for your guest count
- Styled on-site for picture-perfect presentation
- Seasonal ingredients for peak freshness
Anatomy of a Grazing Table
Every grazing table tells a story through its layers. Here's what goes into creating the perfect spread:
The Cheese Foundation
A curated selection of 4–6 artisan cheeses ranging from creamy bries to aged cheddars, tangy blues to smooth goudas. We balance textures, milk types, and flavor profiles.
Premium Charcuterie
Thinly sliced prosciutto, savory salami, spicy coppa, and other cured meats arranged in elegant folds and rosettes from quality purveyors.
Fresh & Dried Fruits
Seasonal berries, sliced figs, grapes, and dried apricots add natural sweetness and vibrant color that complement the cheeses.
Artisan Breads & Crackers
A variety of textures from crispy crostini to seeded crackers to crusty baguette slices. Every cheese deserves the perfect vehicle.
House-Made Accompaniments
Our signature honey drizzles, pepper jellies, fig spreads, and marinated olives—the finishing touches that elevate the experience.
The Garnish
Fresh herbs, edible flowers, and thoughtful styling elements that transform food into art.
The Grazing Table Experience
Consultation
Tell us about your event. We'll discuss guest count, dietary needs, venue details, and your vision for the spread.
Custom Proposal
We'll send you a detailed proposal with recommended sizing, menu selections, and pricing.
Sourcing
In the days before your event, we source the freshest seasonal ingredients and prepare our house-made accompaniments.
Setup
Our team arrives 1–2 hours before your event to transform your space. We handle everything—you just point us to the table.
The Reveal
Guests arrive to a stunning, Instagram-worthy display. Cameras come out. Jaws drop. The grazing begins.
Enhance Your Grazing Experience
Make your grazing table even more memorable with our add-on services:
Tablescaping & Florals
Transform the entire table setting with coordinated linens, risers, and fresh seasonal florals from our local florist partners.
Branded Signage
Custom cheese labels, menu cards, or event signage that matches your theme.
Dessert Extension
Add a sweet section with artisan chocolates, honeycomb, and seasonal fruit desserts.
Extended Service
For longer events, we'll return to refresh and replenish your display mid-event.
Our Grazing Collection
Grazing Table FAQs
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 2–4 weeks ahead for most grazing tables. For larger events or peak season dates (holidays, wedding season), book 4–8 weeks out to ensure availability.
What sizes are available?
Our grazing tables start at serving 15–25 guests and scale up to 50+ guests. For smaller gatherings, consider our charcuterie cups or lunchboxes sold by the dozen.
Do you set up the grazing table?
Yes! Our team arrives 1–2 hours before your event to style and set up everything. You provide the table; we transform it into a stunning spread.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. We regularly create spreads that accommodate halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, and kosher requirements. Just let us know during consultation.
What's included in a grazing table?
Every grazing table includes a curated selection of artisan cheeses, cured meats, fresh and dried fruits, breads and crackers, and our house-made accompaniments. All beautifully styled on your table.
Do you provide the table and linens?
We style on your existing table. However, we offer tablescaping add-ons including linens, risers, and florals for an additional fee. Ask about our full styling packages!
Sizes for Every Occasion
From intimate dinners for 15 to grand celebrations for 50+, we have grazing options to fit your needs.
Private Events
From intimate anniversary dinners to milestone birthday celebrations, baby showers to bridal brunches, we specialize in making your personal moments extraordinary. Our team works closely with you to understand your vision and bring it to life through stunning food presentations.
- Personal consultation to understand your vision
- Custom styling that matches your event's theme
- Flexible sizing from intimate to large celebrations
- White-glove service that lets you be a guest at your own party
Corporate Events
From small office gatherings to large-scale corporate events, The Little Cheese Collective is your partner for high-quality catering and detail-oriented service. With our grazing tables and bundles, you'll impress clients, reward employees, and elevate any business occasion with ease.
- Professional presentation that reflects well on your brand
- Punctual delivery and setup—we know time is money
- Simple invoicing and corporate billing options
- Dietary accommodation expertise for diverse teams
The Little Cheese Difference
Whether it's a wedding for 200 or a board meeting for 8, here's what sets us apart:
We Listen First
Every event starts with a conversation. We ask questions, take notes, and design around your specific needs—not a template.
Quality Without Compromise
We only serve what we'd proudly serve at our own events. Every cheese, every meat, every accompaniment is chosen with intention.
Local Roots
From Virginia honey to Shenandoah Valley seasonings, we source locally whenever possible. You're supporting the DMV economy with every bite.
Hospitality in Our Blood
Our Afghan and Guatemalan backgrounds taught us that hosting is an act of love. That philosophy shows in everything we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 2–4 weeks ahead for most events. Larger events (100+ guests) or peak season dates should book 4–8 weeks out. Last-minute requests? Call us—we'll do our best.
What's your minimum order?
Our smallest grazing option serves 15–25 guests. For smaller gatherings, we offer charcuterie cups and lunchboxes sold by the dozen.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. We regularly accommodate halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, and kosher requirements. Let us know during consultation and we'll customize your spread.
Do you provide setup and breakdown?
Yes. Our team arrives 1–2 hours before your event for setup and can return for breakdown if requested. Setup is included; breakdown may be an additional service.
Can you work with my venue?
We work with all types of venues—homes, offices, event spaces, outdoor locations, and more. We'll coordinate with your venue on delivery access and setup requirements.
What's your cancellation policy?
Full refund for cancellations 7+ days out. 50% refund for 3–6 days. No refund within 48 hours as ingredients have likely been sourced. We're reasonable about emergencies.
Let's Plan Your Event
Every great event starts with a conversation. Tell us what you're celebrating, and we'll help you create a grazing experience your guests will be talking about long after the last bite.