Minority Business Highlight: Brown Boards LLC

Brown Boards LLC, a specialty charcuterie brand founded by Nikia Simmons, is redefining food presentation and communal dining in Indianapolis.  

Launched by Simmons as a Black-owned and woman-owned business, Brown Boards focuses on custom-curated boards, sophisticated food styling and stunning grazing tables, turning casual gatherings into memorable culinary experiences. 

The company’s origin story dates back to 2018, sparked by a personal moment showcasing Simmons’s natural entertaining talent.  

“Brown Boards created its very first charcuterie and grazing experience in 2018 for my (best friend’s) bridal shower and has been encouraged to keep soaring,” Simmons said on the company’s website. That initial success solidified a business idea rooted in a long-held passion. 

Simmons’ philosophy centers on the conviction that food should be an interactive and beautiful experience. She combines a love of hospitality with meticulous design, ensuring her products are as visually appealing as they are delicious.  

“I have always loved hosting and entertaining guests and making delicious food look pretty,” Simmons said on her website. This dedication to aesthetics transforms simple ingredients — cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and nuts — into elaborate, edible centerpieces. 

Beyond the physical boards, Simmons is championing a return to thoughtful communal interaction. Brown Boards’ mission is to help people “reconnect” by elevating how they gather.  

“We should elevate how we entertain and take time to reconnect (and) break bread,” Simmons said. The grazing tables, in particular, serve as sprawling backdrops for conversation and shared discovery. 

As Brown Boards continues to grow its reputation for quality and presentation, it has become a go-to provider for clients seeking high-end food styling for events large and small.  

Visit indybrownboards.com to place an order.  

Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook @HorsemenSportsMedia. If you want your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.