MEET LAUREN YANCHUNAS: THE HEAD CUTIE BEHIND SHARK CUTIES CUSTOM CHARCUTERIE BOARDS
- Heather Burkett-Ocasio
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Lauren Yanchunas’ statuesque figure and radiant smile might be what first catches your eye in a crowded room—but it’s her warmth, humor, and down-to-earth charm that make you want to stay and chat. She’s the kind of person who instantly makes you feel like you’ve known her forever.

Lauren loves nothing more than spending time at home with her husband, Adam, their two mischievous cats—Tobias “Toby” Fernando and Silvester O’Malley—and their chihuahua/foxhound/terrier mix, Tippy La Rue. But when she’s not doting on her family, she’s all-in on running her booming small business: Shark Cuties Custom Charcuterie Boards.
With Adam’s help and encouragement behind the scenes, Lauren stepped into the role of “Head Cutie” in 2023, and just celebrated Shark Cuties’ second anniversary this past May! In just two short years, she’s carved out quite a reputation for herself—making multiple appearances on First Coast Living, creating the beloved “Cutie Cart” (a mobile Charcuterie Cart), and filling custom orders for private events, weddings, and more.

One of her proudest ongoing partnerships? Her collaboration with Total Wine & More in St. John’s Town Center, where she creates custom grazing tables for their popular wine and bourbon tasting classes. This opportunity allows Lauren to showcase her creative boards to new audiences every single week—expanding her reach and building lasting Relationships.
But in true Lauren fashion, she stays humble:
“I like to think of myself as that kid in gym class nobody wants on their team. And when you finally get picked, you’re like, ‘Oh, you want me?’ That’s how I feel when people want to collaborate with me. Like, ‘Oh, you want to work with me?! That’s exciting!’”

What Makes Shark Cuties Different?
In a sea of charcuterie options, Lauren stands out by treating every board like a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. She customizes each order based on the client’s preferences, dietary restrictions, and aesthetic vision. She's even known for excluding common allergens—like nuts—unless specifically requested. That extra layer of care means every guest can indulge without worry.
When asked about her most unique customer request, Lauren playfully replied:
“I don’t like to think of them as unusual—just unique to each person.”
But she does admit she has a soft spot for seasonal spreads. She lights up when talking about her playful, holiday-themed boards: think Halloween brie mummies, jam-filled cut-outs, and Christmas cheese balls shaped like trees, snowmen, and ornaments.
“Expect those to come back this year,” she teased, with a mischievous grin and tented fingertips that gave off full-on mastermind energy.

Snack Like a Champion
We asked Lauren how her boards could elevate interactive events like our scavenger hunts or mystery parties, and her answer was hilariously relatable:
“I like to think of myself as very competitive—like, very. With any board game, card game—any kind of game—I get really hungry. I usually have a little snack bag with me. I like to think my boards and trays give people the sustenance they need to get out there and WIN. Beat the competition. Be the best.”
And who wouldn’t want to fuel up for victory with something that tastes and looks incredible?

Catch Her at the #GoLoveYourself Brunch
We are thrilled to partner with Shark Cuties for our upcoming #GoLoveYourself Brunch on November 15th. Lauren will be dazzling our guests with her signature charcuterie creations—complete with her tried-and-true flavor combos and unexpected little twists. It’s the perfect pairing for an event centered on connection, community, and self-love.

If you're planning a milestone celebration, wedding shower, or interactive party like a Video Scavenger Hunt or Sabotage Mystery Party, Lauren’s boards offer that perfect mix of luxury, indulgence, and fun.
To see more of her work (and maybe catch the big announcement she’s hinting at before the end of 2025), follow her on Instagram at @shark.cuties or visit her website at SharkCutiesBoards.com
Because when the vibes are right and the snacks are elevated, every guest leaves with a full heart and a full plate.










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