Last month atop one of New York City’s premiere event spaces, Top of the Garden, I celebrated in style with 150 other lucky guests at the Will Travel For Vegan Food party and benefit for Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary. It was a celebration of nearly two years worth of travel for self-proclaimed entrepreneur and vegan food enthusiast, Kristin Lajeunesse, who literally ate her way across the country, dining at 547 vegan restaurants while living in a van she named Gerty. What an accomplishment! Who else can claim that they have diligently traveled the country for the sole purpose of eating? Not to mention, through her journey, Kristin, brought about an incredible awareness to the vegan movement and a compassionate lifestyle.
The celebratory party was truly a one-of-a-kind event that featured New York’s up and coming new vegan chef Jay Astafa, who tantalized our taste buds with appetizers from caviar to fried mozzarella sticks (all vegan of course). The food was truly some of the best I have ever eaten. And while we’re on the topic of food, I must give a shout out to Danielle Konya of Vegan Treats who was the official event dessert aficionado. Her desserts were some of the most beautifully decorated not to mention tasty treats ever. Out. Of. This. World. Amazing.
The Vegan Zombie crew was present to keep zombies at bay all the while greeting guests as they arrived on the red carpet. Some of the highlighted guests included Cobi of Veggietorials, Dan & Annie Shannon of Meet The Shannon’s (also authors of the book Betty Goes Vegan), Erin Red of Red Radio, Mary Mattern of Nom Yourself as well as Jessie & Alfredo of the delicious vegan cookie dough company, Eat Pastry. Needless to say, I was a bit star struck to see so many famous vegans in one place at one time!
There was plenty of entertainment to go around. Party goers were serenaded by vegan musicians, witnessed an impromptu flash mob, were given the opportunity to try on silly props for photo booth style pictures, as well as participate in a silent auction to raise additional funds for Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.
A big congratulations is in order to Kristin Lajeunesse not only for creating and coordinating such a unique one-of-a-kind event, but also for her dedication to living a plant-based lifestyle and spreading the message of veganism wherever she goes. Yeehaw Lady K!
For more great photos check out Drew B Photography, the official photographer for the Will Travel For Vegan Food party and benefit.
xo, Kayle
