Danielle & Richard Sutton

St. James Cheese Company
Known for: A large selection of artisanal and farmhouse cheeses, hard-to-find European cheeses, and creative sandwiches
Years in business: 8
Years in New Orleans: 8
Biggest party achievement: “We recently did a cheese table that looked like it was straight out of a marché in Provence at an amazing Uptown wedding where they transformed an old traditional New Orleans home into a South Beach-style ‘white party.’”

Tip: Say Cheese

“While many people make a big deal about what goes with what, we generally believe there are no hard-and-fast rules to a cheese plate,” explains Richard Sutton. Here, some guidelines.

Balance. “That means balanced flavors (strong, medium, mild), textures (hard, soft, semi-soft), and milk (cow, goat, sheep). For a party, it’s best to go for a mix.”

Character. “I like to find cheeses that would be friendly if they met on the street. For example, rustic farmhouse cheeses with other farmhouse cheeses. I would not pair a commercially made cheddar with a farmer’s market artisan goat cheese.”

Aesthetics. “Look for different shapes, sizes, cuts, rinds, and (yes) colors.”

Regions. “If you need a place to start, try putting regional things together. Cheeses tend to have regional or national styles that will work well together.”

Sides. “I prefer fresh slightly acidic fruits, fresh bread, or mild flavored crackers, which will serve to highlight the cheese. I like things that are not overly sweet and have some herbal elements to bring them more in line with the cheese.”

To check out the rest of the Big, Easy Party Primer, click here.

Want more tips and recipes from the Suttons? Try out their recipes for Roasted Cauliflower, Gulf Shrimp with Andouille Grits, and Gingerbread Bread Pudding, as well as what they include on their own perfect cheese plate.