Inspiring Conversations with Krista Brewer of Happy Snacking Athens, LLC.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Krista Brewer.

Hi Krista, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Happy Snacking Athens started in 2022 when I was unhappy with my employment at the time. I knew that I would find more happiness working in a kitchen. I started cooking for a friend of a friend, preparing weekly meals delivered on Sundays. She was a very busy single mom and having healthy meals ready for her to heat and eat was helpful and took some items off of her To Do list. She posted on Facebook about me, and Happy Snacking evolved from there. After a while, I was approached by a luxury cabin company looking to expand their guest offerings. This prompted my business model to focus on charcuterie and fun snack boxes.

I spent 2025 really honing my craft and analyzing what flavors paired well. I have fun creating and offering specialty snack boxes, but I find the most joy in giving back to my community. This year I introduced “Snack – it – Forward” where I donate proceeds from that month’s sales to an organization or a person that needs a boost. This month, I also co-hosted a “No Spend Market” with a friend who manages a local hotel. That event brought in over 500 people. It allowed folks to “shop” for clothes, shoes, jackets, toys, etc. without spending a dime.

While the main focus and source of business is charcuterie and snack boxes, I also offer small event catering.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
While running a small business, there are going to be struggles along the way.

In addition to Happy Snacking Athens, I also work full time at a local brewery where I am the kitchen manager. I have to balance my time between the two. Sometimes that means waking up at 4 am to get orders delivered to multiple cabin companies and clock in to my 9 am shift. I also have a beautiful family at home and have to make sure I’m giving them the time they deserve. It really is a balancing act.

I also struggle with “am I doing enough?” – meaning, am I reaching the right audience? Do people actually like the product I’m producing? Am I tracking my budget and doing my taxes correctly?

Luckily, I have a lot of friends in this industry, and I lean on them for support and mentorship.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I think the best way to answer this question is to quote my website – I always have a hard time putting what I do into words.

Welcome to Happy Snacking Athens — a proudly woman- and LGBTQ+-owned charcuterie business based in the heart of Athens, Ohio. Founded in 2022 after relocating to this vibrant and welcoming town, Happy Snacking Athens was born from a love of beautiful food, thoughtful presentation, and community connection.

We specialize in handcrafted charcuterie boxes, boards, and grazing tables for any occasion — from cozy nights in to weddings, showers, and corporate events. Each spread is curated with care, using high-quality ingredients and a creative touch that reflects our passion for flavor, artistry, and inclusivity.

At our core, we believe food should bring people together. That’s why community is at the heart of everything we do. We’re committed to collaborating with local businesses, supporting fellow makers, and creating a space where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and well-fed.

What makes you happy?
The little things.

Playing cards with my wife on a snowy Sunday evening. Hiking with my dogs. Spending a summer day kayaking. Sitting at home reading.

Happiness to me is taking a minute to slow down and enjoy the little things.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.happy-snacking-athens.squarespace.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happysnackingathens/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happysnackingathens/