Kalee Hernandez of Iron River shows off one of the hand-packed CharYooperie gift boxes she creates and sells from her home. (Submitted photo)

IRON RIVER — When Kalee Hernandez of Iron River launched her Upper Peninsula-inspired charcuterie gift box service, CharYooperie, in early December, she had no idea it would take off the way it has.

“What started as a small idea has exploded into something the U.P. community has embraced beyond anything I expected. In just a matter of days, the Facebook page has grown to more than 789 followers and 289,000 views, with overwhelming support and shares across the U.P.,” she said.

Hernandez said she has always loved food and giving gifts and she enjoys promoting businesses, but now she has combined in all for herself.

“CharYooperie was created to celebrate the flavors, experience, and unique region of the Upper Peninsula, and the response has been truly incredible — especially from realtors, local businesses and residents looking for meaningful gifts with local roots.”

The Original CharYooperie Board box includes items such as U.P. honey by GT’s Bees in Marquette County; jams from The Keweenaw Kitchen in Baraga; chocolate bars from Sayklly’s in Escanaba; Trenary Toast; Wisconsin cheeses; and Minnesota summer sausage.

They also come with crackers and cheese knife and a bamboo cutting board engraved with a silhouette of the U.P.

Two other options are available, including the CharYooperie Basic Box with no cutting board and a Super CharYooperie Board Box with premium add-ons.

They are all hand-packed in Iron River and include a handwritten note. Hernandez likes the idea that she can help support U.P. businesses.

“I’m partnering with local makers to keep U.P. flavors at the center of the business,” Hernandez said.

She has been shipping boxes all over the country but also offers local pick up and some delivery within 20 miles. Boxes have shipped as for away as Canada and Korea.

In the future, Hernandez plans to offer different experiences for the customers. She will also be launching a more corporate push for places such as boutique hotels or for employee or military appreciation.

She can be reached at charyooperie@gmail.com or through her Facebook page.