Today we’d like to introduce you to Kris Beckman.
Hi Kris, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Salumi Rose came about later in life. I’ve always been a creative person, but for nearly 25 years I worked in corporate America for an insurance company in a career that didn’t nurture that creative side of me.
The idea for Salumi Rose was sparked while I was on vacation, where I took a workshop similar to the Signature Workshop we now offer. It combined woodburning and charcuterie skills in such a unique, hands-on way. I remember thinking, “There’s nothing like this in Kansas City” and it was so much fun!
I decided to put my own spin on the concept and began hosting workshops around town. The response was incredible. At the same time, I was increasingly being asked to create grazing boards for events and gatherings. What started as workshops quickly evolved into something more.
In October 2023, I opened a brick-and-mortar location in the heart of Waldo, complete with a commercial kitchen. Salumi Rose has grown into a space where creativity, community, and beautiful food come together. Pursuing this dream has been one of the most rewarding and challenging decisions of my life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely was not a smooth road.
Starting a small business is challenging anywhere, but opening a business in Kansas City, especially one that serves food and alcohol, came with layers of regulations, permits, and unexpected hurdles. There were moments that felt overwhelming, and at times it seemed like every step forward required three more steps behind the scenes.
I try not to dwell on the painful parts of getting the doors open nearly three years ago. Instead, I focus on what was accomplished and the resilience it took to get there. But the truth is, it wasn’t easy.
The challenges haven’t disappeared, but they are different now. I started this later in life, which means I’m constantly learning, adapting, and figuring things out as I go and grow.
The best analogy I can give is that building this business felt like having your first newborn baby. It was all the things— the deep desire to see it thrive, the overwhelming love, the unknowns, the steep learning curves, the sleepless nights, the big wins and the small joys. Every emotion was amplified because it mattered so much to me.
It wasn’t smooth, but it was worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Salumi Rose is simply about the experience whether at my place or yours. We want people to connect, create and celebrate. There are so many offerings and that is why I created a photo book to explain all the offerings of Salumi Rose.
Workshops are a huge part of the business. We specialize in hands-on, creative experiences that always include an element of beautiful snacking. Guests can learn charcuterie styling, wood burn on locally sourced walnut boards, paint candles, decorate Easter eggs, and more. I’m constantly dreaming up new workshops so there’s always something fresh and inspiring. Workshops can happen at Salumi Rose or we can bring the experience to you. Private workshops are available for groups of four or more.
The other side of the business is our made-to-order grazing boards. No two boards are ever the same. I work with what’s fresh and available, and each one is thoughtfully designed to feel abundant, approachable and delicious.
You can host Mahjong, bring your book club, plan a team-building event, or gather a small group of friends. We love collaborating and bringing your ideas to life. We offer high-quality, creative experiences at an accessible price point — and because it’s just me and one incredible helper, everything feels personal. That’s what sets us apart. When you walk into Salumi Rose, you’re not just a customer. You’re part of something special.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most is the people.
The customers who choose to spend their time and money at Salumi Rose, the groups who gather in the space, the guests who show up for workshops, my landlord who has been supportive — it truly takes a community to sustain a small business. I never take that support for granted. The relationships that have grown from this business have been one of the greatest rewards.
What I like least is probably what many small business owners would say — the challenges that come with operating in today’s world. Things like crime and safety concerns are always in the back of your mind. That said, I feel fortunate to be in an area that is continuing to improve, and I’m hopeful and encouraged by the positive momentum in the neighborhood.
Contact Info:
- Website: contact@salumirose.com
- Instagram: @salumirose
- Facebook: @salumirose
