Why is it that the cheeseboards of the internet always look so different from the cheeseboards of reality? We can’t count the number of times we’ve hit up the market with every intention of coming home with the supplies needed for an Instagram-worthy bounty, only to discover that when all is said and done — our little cheese plate isn’t worthy of a photo at all. And not that good food exists to garner likes from strangers online, but there’s no shame in hoping to bring beauty into every aspect of our lives — even the cheesy parts.

Turns out, there’s more to an epic cheeseboard than just selecting a brick of cheddar and calling it a day. When we saw that one of our favorite stylists, Bianca Sotelo, had created The Cheeseboard to End All Cheeseboards for 24 East — we immediately jumped at the chance to absorb some of her expertise. In the slideshow, Bianca shares her TOP 5 TIPS to cheeseboard success. Whether it’s looking to your garden for embellishments or going beyond the board itself, you’re sure to learn something new.

For more images from this beautiful shoot – PLUS the insider scoop on the best cheese, wine, and decor resources the East Bay has to offer — head to 24 East now.