Graze Craze Okemos Honored with 2026 Strong Start Award

Graze Craze Okemos Honored with 2026 Strong Start Award

We're proud to share that Graze Craze Okemos was named the 2026 Strong Start Award winner at the 517 Business Awards!

Presented by 517 Business Magazine, the award recognizes an emerging business that has made meaningful strides toward success. We're incredibly honored to be recognized alongside so many businesses doing great things throughout Greater Lansing.

But what makes this recognition especially meaningful to us is what it represents: the relationships, community support, and incredible people who have helped us build Graze Craze Okemos since opening our doors in 2023.

Building a Business Around More Than Food

When we opened Graze Craze Okemos, our goal was to create more than a place to order charcuterie boards and catering.

We wanted to build a business where people feel appreciated, where the little details matter, and where every order is treated as part of someone's special occasion.

Whether we're preparing a grazing table for a wedding, catering a corporate celebration, or putting together a small gift for someone having a difficult week, we know there's usually a meaningful reason behind the order.

That perspective has shaped how we approach our business from day one.

The Little Things Make a Big Difference

One of the things highlighted in the 517 Business Magazine feature was our philosophy of giving little unexpected extras, something we call GLUE.

It might be a handwritten note, a thoughtful touch on an order, or simply taking a little extra time to make someone's experience better.

They're small gestures, but we believe they matter.

We're also committed to making thoughtful choices about the materials we use, including our compostable serving trays and utensils.

For us, running a successful small business means paying attention to how we treat people, how we serve our community, and the impact we leave behind.

Proud to Be Part of Greater Lansing

As longtime Mid-Michigan residents, we feel incredibly fortunate to own a business in the community we call home.

Over the years, we've had the opportunity to work with local companies, schools, nonprofits, event venues, and families throughout Lansing, Okemos, East Lansing, and surrounding communities.

We've celebrated milestones, helped organizations bring their teams together, and supported causes that make our region stronger.

Those relationships are among the most rewarding parts of small business ownership.

A Recognition We Share with Our Team and Community

While the award recognizes Graze Craze Okemos, we know this accomplishment belongs to more than just the two of us.

Our employees bring creativity, care, and hard work to the business every day. Our customers continue to trust us with their celebrations and important moments. And our local business community has been incredibly supportive since the beginning.

We're grateful to 517 Business Magazine for the recognition and for sharing our story.

Most of all, we're thankful to everyone who has been part of our journey.

We're proud of how far we've come, excited about what's ahead, and grateful to keep growing right here in Greater Lansing.

Read the Full 517 Business Magazine Feature

[Strong Start Award: Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes](https://517mag.com/strong-start-award-graze-craze-charcuterie-boards-boxes