#AllCoopedUp with Kabrel Geller, Founder of This Messy Table LA

Assembling an insta-worthy charcuterie board is not as easy as it looks. Luckily if you lack the cheese board gene, do not fear, The Messy Table is here. Not only has Kabrel Geller mastered the art of pretty platters, but after some encouragement from a blown-away, full-bellied friend, she launched her super successful business exactly 2 years ago. Before we became #AllCoopedUp, Kabrel was supplying delicious bites for snazzy soirees all across Los Angeles. Now, she has pivoted to offer the ultimate in gift baskets to spice up any quarantine scene. In her words, she is adding flavor and style to the new normal. I can't decide if I am more impressed with her pivot skills or her cheese board game. I’ll let you decide. -Jenna

What’s your profession, and what does your day-to-day work experience look like now?

I create food experiences in the form of Grazing Tables. I spent the 1st several weeks dealing with clients as every event I had booked between March 16th-August 30th was cancelled. To be honest, I was in shock, I had 25 events cancelled. Once I came out of my haze I went into full on pivot mode.

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Are there objects or spaces in your house that you are newly appreciating? Or are there objects and spaces you have come to loathe?

This is a daily conversation in my house! “I’ve used every spot in this house as a workspace - I need new scenery!” And I’ve taken a hard look at my home and have a list of projects for the rest of 2020. My backyard is going into a full-on renovation as of next week.

Describe your at-home quarantine uniform.

Black sweatpants and my daughter’s Sarah Lawerence sweatshirt. Every day I say “tomorrow I’m putting on a cute outfit!”

Who are you quarantining with? Do you feel the need to “get away”? How do you make it happen?

My 17 year old daughter, 13 year old son, 23 year old goddaughter, my dog Daisy and and every Real Housewife of every City. I’ve found myself becoming emotional at times, I go into my bedroom, close the door. I don’t feel suffocated, everyone in the house is very cognizant and respectful of each other's needs in that area. At this point we’ve really become aware of each-others rhythms. I think we’d do fine stuck on an island together!

What’s the last thing you purchased online? Regret or obsessed?

Quarantine cliche #1... a Peloton. Def not obsessed.

Tell us the best shows, podcasts, or books you’re loving right now.

At the beginning of quarantine I vowed to read 19 books in honor of Covid 19. I’ve only made it to 11. Right now i’m reading Untamed by Glennon Doyle. My review of it would require a whole separate interview!

Do you have any new quarantine activities or rituals?

I’ve spent so much time working the past 2 years I have gotten away from cooking for my kids. Well, I've made up for it over the past couple months. Silver lining? Mom guilt gone!!!

What is your favorite quarantine snack? What restaurants are you ordering takeout from?

Quarantine cliche #2.... sourdough bread!

What is your creative outlet and how are you making space for it?

The Messy Table pivot! The Messy Box. Thank god for it. A creative outlet is key to my mental health.

Describe your biggest quarantine indulgence.

Not feeling guilty for not being as productive as usual. Letting myself off the hook.

If you have kids, how are you maintaining some kind of schedule for them?

My daughter took that bull by the horns early on. She made a schedule for herself working out online, learning guitar on YouTube.... My 13 year old? I’ll let you know when I figure it out.