Daily Inspiration: Meet Nicole Dietz-Hunt

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Dietz-Hunt.

Hi Nicole, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As the Sales & Marketing Director of a large, NE Ohio catering firm, I wanted to branch out on my own. I knew that I didn’t want a full-service restaurant (initially). A small downtown Cheese Shop with elevated deli vibes, great service and unique offerings were just the ticket. We opened on October 4, 2019 and have been a Canton-favorite ever since. Our guests enjoy personal service and hearing about the history and legacy stories of the Cheese and Charcuterie that we offer.

We have successfully grown our little business into a Cheese Shop with a full bar, catering menu, lunch & dinner offerings as well as classes and private events. My husband, Rodney Hunt, came on last year as our Executive Chef. He has really improved our menus and introduced heightened dinner offerings Thursday-Saturday nights.

We proudly serve our community and capture interested foodies that visit Canton every day.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Small business ownership is never a smooth road and we are no exception. We opened right before the pandemic and while we were considered “essential”, staying open wasn’t the problem. We had to overcome the shut down of our entire downtown. No more foot traffic or workforce filling our office buildings. We also had supply chain issues. it was very hard to get imported goods at that time. Luckily, we had enough local support that our patrons moved with us as we were forced to continuously pivot for almost 2 years.

Another challenge of small-business ownership is the necessary roles to fill in every facet of the business. Marketing, accounting, communications, software tech, human resources and purchasing & inventory control are just a few hats that I wear. I had to learn how to manage most of that in real time.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the owner of a small Cheese Shop, I wear a lot of hats and I continue to learn and evolve as the leader of this organization. I specialize in bringing unique offerings and relevant food trends to Canton, Ohio. I’m known for beautiful food displays, professional catering services and community involvement. I’m most proud of making this community the center of my business. Without the support of the people of Canton, Ohio, we would not be here after 6.5 years. Giving back to local causes and organizations is the least we can do to prove how grateful we are to have been lifted up all these years.

What are your plans for the future?
We are not planning for any big changes but we could always grow. We’re making strategic plans to grow our dinner business as well as our catering facet in the next year.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://FromageCanton.com
• Instagram: FromageduMonde
• Facebook: Fromage Du Monde – Cheese & Wine Shop