Tomoni began with a simple idea: to make life’s moments feel more special. That idea was shaped by the women who first taught me what food and connection truly mean.

From my biological mom, I inherited my earliest love of food and the belief, common in many Asian cultures, that life happens around the table. Food was always a language of care, celebration, and togetherness, and that understanding has stayed with me throughout my life.

My adoptive mom strengthened that love in her own way. She loved hosting and ran a small catering business when I was in high school. Through her, I learned the joy of thoughtful service and how a simple gathering can become an unforgettable experience. Though she has passed, her influence continues to guide me and remains a meaningful part of Tomoni’s heart.

In 2020, after creating a few charcuterie boards for friends, my partner Jackson encouraged me to turn that spark into something real. That led to Charcutiepies, a small passion project that quickly grew into a successful local business.

After several years of growth, I felt called to build something more intentional—something that truly reflected my roots and the way food has always connected the different parts of my story. That reflection led me to create Tomoni. The name means “together with” in Japanese and represents everything I value: gathering, care, and shared moments.

Today, Tomoni is about more than beautiful boards. It’s about creating experiences that bring people closer and honoring the belief that the best moments in life are created together.