What to Include on a Bridal Shower Charcuterie Board

A Tasty Guide from SmorgasBoard for St. Petersburg & Tampa Brides

Planning a bridal shower in St. Petersburg or Tampa, FL? A charcuterie board is the perfect way to serve up elegance, flavor, and fun without the stress of a full sit-down meal. Whether you're hosting a garden brunch or a glamorous afternoon tea, a well-curated charcuterie board is a beautiful centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy. 🎉

At SmorgasBoard, we’re sharing exactly what to include on a bridal shower charcuterie board to impress your guests and celebrate your bride-to-be in style.

1. Cheese: The Star of the Show 🧀

Cheese is the heart of every great charcuterie board. Aim for 3–4 varieties to suit different tastes and textures:

• Sharp Cheddar – A bold crowd-pleaser

• Brie – Soft, creamy, and perfect with fruit

• Goat Cheese – Tangy and elegant, often rolled in herbs

• Mozzarella Pearls – Bite-sized and easy to eat

Slice or cube the cheeses and spread them across your board for visual appeal.

2. Meats: Savory Pairings 🍖

Add 2–3 types of cured meats that complement your cheese selection:

• Salami – Rich flavor and fun to fold into “roses”

• Prosciutto – Delicate and ideal with melon or brie

• Turkey or Ham – Lighter options for simple palates

Arrange meats beside the cheeses they pair best with for easy grazing.

3. Crackers & Bread: Crunchy Foundations 🥖

Offer a mix of textures with:

• Water crackers

• Whole wheat or seedy crackers

• Mini breadsticks

• Thinly sliced French baguette

Scatter these in clusters across the board to keep the layout balanced and accessible.

4. Fresh Fruit: Pops of Color & Sweetness 🍓

Fruit adds a fresh, juicy contrast to savory cheeses and meats. Include:

• Grapes (red or green)

• Strawberries (whole or halved)

• Apple or pear slices

• Blueberries or raspberries

Tuck fruit into small bunches to create visual variety and vibrant color.

5. Nuts, Olives & Pickles: Little Surprises 🫒

Add texture and tang with these tasty extras:

• Almonds, cashews, or walnuts

• Green or black olives

• Cornichons (mini pickles)

• Roasted chickpeas or spicy peanuts

Just be mindful of nut allergies—offer labeled alternatives when needed.

6. Dips & Spreads: Flavor Boosters 🍯

Enhance your board with small bowls or jars of:

• Honey (perfect with goat cheese or brie)

• Fig or raspberry jam

• Hummus (great with crackers and veggies)

• Stone-ground mustard

Place these first on the board and build around them.

7. Sweet Treats: Because It’s a Celebration 🍫

Balance the savory with a touch of dessert:

• Chocolate-covered pretzels

• Mini cookies or brownies

• Gummy candies

• Yogurt-covered raisins

• Marshmallows

Use small amounts to add flair without overwhelming the board.

8. Make It Pretty: Instagram-Ready Details 💐

Add special touches to wow your guests:

• Edible flowers or herbs (like rosemary)

• Salami folded into rose shapes

• Mini chalkboard labels or flags for cheese names

• Pink and gold napkins, themed toothpicks, or ribbon

Looking for inspo? Check out our holiday and event board for more creative themes.

9. Match the Theme: Personalized Style ✨

Create a board that fits your bridal shower vibe:
Garden Party – Fresh herbs, cucumber slices, and berries
Pink & Gold Glam – Strawberries, watermelon, pink sweets
Rustic Chic – Wooden boards, kraft paper, and natural textures

Coordinate with flowers, signage, and party décor that reflect the bride’s personality.

10. Light Drinks to Pair 🍹

Pair your snacks with refreshing sips:

• Sparkling water with citrus or berries

• Iced tea with mint

• Champagne or sparkling rosé

• Non-alcoholic mocktails with fruit and herbs

Serve drinks in mason jars or stemless flutes with pretty straws.

11. Try Charcuterie Cups for Easy Serving 🧁

Want an easy, mess-free option for a shower in St. Pete Beach or an outdoor Tampa garden? Try charcuterie cups! Each one includes a mini selection of your board’s best items:

• A cheese skewer, topped with Brie and two other cheeses

• Meat skewer filled with Applewood Salami 

• Fruit skewer with strawberries, grapes and blackberries

• Chocolates and Nuts

• A few crackers to provide a savory crunch.

They’re hygienic, adorable, and great for mingling events. Browse our charcuterie cup designs for inspiration.

12. Step-by-Step: Build Your Board Like a Pro 🪵

Here’s a quick how-to:

1. Place your bowls and jars (dips/spreads)

2. Arrange cheese and meats

3. Add crackers and bread

4. Fill in with fruit, nuts, and olives

5. Top with sweets and pretty extras

Use a large wooden board or food-safe tray. Leave breathing room between items and vary color and shape to keep it eye-catching.

13. Bonus Tips to Impress

• Chill cold items until serving time

• Use toothpicks or tongs for easier snacking

• Keep extra crackers and fruit on the side

• Snap a photo before guests dig in 📸

• Don’t stress about perfection—have fun!

Final Thoughts

A bridal shower charcuterie board is more than just food—it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting in downtown Tampa, by the water in St. Petersburg, or anywhere across the Bay, your guests will love the elegant, effortless style and mix of sweet and savory bites.

Need help creating one? Contact SmorgasBoard to craft a custom board or cup display that perfectly suits your bride and event. 💍🧀