There’s no shortage of local charcuterie businesses that build Instagram-ready boards and garner all the compliments of party-goers, but Savory Snackables stands out for reasons that run deeper than any photo opportunity or superficial trend.
The story of Savory Snackables in Denver, Colorado began not as a business idea, but as a passion born from love, family, and a mother’s dedication to her daughter. What started as a way to bring joy to one young woman has blossomed into a mission-driven enterprise with a purpose much larger than profits.
This is the story of a charcuterie business that’s far more than aesthetically arranged spreads—it’s a labor of love, an avenue for empowerment, and a celebration of community.
Julie and Kara are the women behind it with two very different roles.
Kara: The Inspiration and Heart of Savory Snackables
At the center of this journey is Kara, a young woman whose joy is infectious, whose smile lights up every room, and who happens to be non-verbal. Kara’s presence in her mother’s life has been a source of profound inspiration, leading her to find unique ways to celebrate and include her daughter in meaningful activities. It’s what led Julie Wismann, Kara’s mom, to start
Savory Snackables.
Sure, charcuterie is a hot business right now - but it wasn’t about capitalizing on a trend—it was about creating something that Kara could experience and participate in with joy and pride. It all started with the wind in Kara's hair....
Julie explains:
“The story behind Savory Snackables…at the height of COVID and we were desperate to keep Kara’s mind and happiness flowing with all the shutdown. We started a delivery service for free just to do things that were purposeful. She loves the car, architecture, and the wind. This is how we survived!
From the beginning, Kara has been an active part of the business. For her, the simple pleasure of joining her mother on charcuterie deliveries—feeling the wind in her hair, sharing quiet moments on the road, and experiencing the joy of each destination—is a constant thrill. Kara is also key in taking on simple, but meaningful tasks - like placing stickers on the board to brand it before delivery.
Kara’s joy has become the beating heart of Savory Snackables, and each
board ordered is crafted with the kind of care and consideration.
A Purpose Beyond the Plate: Empowering Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Julie realized pretty quickly that her disability inclusive venture needed to include more people.
Savory Snackables quickly grew from a family business to a community-focused mission. Realizing that the impact of the business could extend beyond deliveries, Kara’s mom saw an opportunity to support and empower adults with intellectual disabilities. She created hands-on workshops where these individuals could learn kitchen skills, explore the creative art of food presentation, and experience the joy of creating something with their own hands.
Through these workshops, adults with intellectual disabilities are encouraged to get creative with charcuterie. Each session is designed to build confidence, inspire teamwork, and foster a sense of accomplishment. Participants learn to craft beautiful charcuterie boards and, in the process, gain valuable skills that go beyond the kitchen—such as following instructions, working collaboratively, and discovering their own unique artistic styles. For Kara’s mom, every session becomes a celebration of capability, resilience, and creativity. Watching these individuals create and succeed is an emotional reminder of the beauty in everyone’s potential, regardless of ability.
The Workshops: Celebrating Capabilities and Building Community
The workshops are more than just classes—they’re celebrations of what each participant can achieve. Each “masterpiece” that emerges from these sessions is a powerful testament to the talents and contributions of adults with intellectual disabilities. Whether it’s arranging a symphony of colors with fresh fruits or carefully placing slices of cheese and meats, every creation is a symbol of pride, accomplishment, and creativity.
These workshops also create a strong sense of community among the participants and their families. Parents, caregivers, and participants alike find joy in the camaraderie, support, and shared purpose. The workshops remind everyone that, with encouragement and opportunity, individuals of all abilities can thrive and create something beautiful. Every participant is celebrated, and every creation is cherished, no matter how it looks, because it represents their unique expression.
A Growing Mission: Extending Opportunities Through Sponsorship
As Savory Snackables grows, the vision for the business continues to expand. With each passing day, more individuals and families reach out, wanting to join the workshops and experience the joy of creating something special.
Julie is always grateful when local businesses, community organizations, and individuals are touched by her mission and volunteer to sponsor adult day programs, making it possible for more participants to take part.
Sponsorships have been key to helping Savory Snackables expand its reach, inviting more day programs and transition programs to participate in workshops. Every workshop creates opportunities and celebrates capabilities that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Interested in booking a workshop with Savory Snackables? Workshops are available for any group with special touches added for disability programs. Email Julie directly at
savorysnackables@gmail.com for information.
The Future of Savory Snackables: A Business with Clear Vision and A Bright Future
Julie has dreams that go beyond the success of her charcuterie business. She envisions creating employment opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities, offering them not just a job but a role in something meaningful. As the business grows, Kara’s mom hopes to hire some of the very individuals who’ve participated in their workshops, giving them a way to contribute, earn income, and be part of something special. She sees a future where her daughter and others like her have a place within Savory Snackables, working alongside each other to create beautiful, delicious charcuterie that brings joy to every customer.
Other Ways To Join the Journey and Make an Impact
Support comes in so many forms - from participating in workshops, sponsoring a day program, or simply supporting the business by ordering a charcuterie board, each contribution adds to the mission. Customers don’t just get a gourmet snack—they become part of something bigger and inclusive.
Another way to give back is to support commercial kitchen/restaurant that supports Savory Snackables by allowing Julie to use their commercial space for workshops.
Brewability's focus is similar. The Englewood brewery creates meaningful opportunities and celebrate inclusivity.
Founded by Tiffany Fixter, Brewability Lab is the world’s first brewery to employ adults with developmental disabilities, offering them fulfilling roles that go beyond traditional jobs. Brewability provides a fun and welcoming space where patrons can order drinks by color, making the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Tiffany, a former special education teacher, wanted Brewability to be more than a place to grab a beer; she wanted it to be a destination that blends purpose with a unique and memorable experience. By creating Brewability, Tiffany has shown the world what’s possible when businesses commit to inclusivity and community impact.
So, how can you get involved from your screen right now? Could it be as simple as buying a gift card? Yes!
Support the mission at Savory Snackables by purchasing a gift card for the amount of your choosing. It’s the perfect gift for the holiday season or any occasion, allowing recipients to enjoy a beautifully crafted board at a future date while supporting a cause that empowers individuals with disabilities.
Both provide memorable gifts but also contributes directly to their mission of empowerment and inclusivity which happens at the intersection of empathy and community.
Savory Snackables is a testament to Julie’s unwavering love for her daughter and her vision for a more inclusive world. Through every board crafted, every workshop hosted, and every delivery made and smile shared, Savory Snackables brings a bit more light into the world.
Charcuterie Marketing Crew is lucky enough to work with Savory Snackables to help bolster their mission and send more business their way. If you’re inspired to run a mission-driven business in your community, let’s talk. elisa@charcuteriecity.com