How did you get your start as a chef?
My culinary journey began with a deep passion for nourishing and uplifting others through food. After training at Le Cordon Bleu, I worked in fine dining and eventually became the Executive Chef at the President’s House at Columbia University. Alongside these roles, I launched my own boutique catering business, Eclectic Soul, where I had the opportunity to create meals that blend wellness with flavor. Throughout my career, my focus has always been on using food to uplift, heal, and bring people together.
How did this experience lead you to starting your own plant-based milk company, Edenesque?
Working closely with clients on their health journeys, I noticed a growing demand for clean, whole foods, which inspired me to experiment with plant-based milks. I began with cold-pressed juices and almond milks, and the overwhelmingly positive response made me realize there was a real gap in the market for a chef-crafted plant milk company. My goal was to create products that nourish in the purest way—free from preservatives or fillers, and made with whole ingredients that truly support wellness.
What’s your favorite part about the New York small-business community?
I love the incredible diversity and resilience of New York’s small-business community. Here, every business has a unique story, yet there’s a shared drive to make a difference—whether through food, art, or social impact. The community is deeply supportive and collaborative, with people always ready to uplift one another and tackle challenges together. Being part of it feels like being at the heart of a creative and compassionate movement
Tell us about how Edenesque aims to advance social justice?
Edenesque is built on the belief that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and have access to nutritious, high-quality food. Through our Food Insecurity Initiative, we partner with local farms, kitchens, and organizations to support communities in need. Our open hiring practices also provide stable employment opportunities to individuals reentering society, giving those in need of a second chance a path to stability. Social justice is at the core of everything we do, from our sourcing practices to our commitment as a BIPOC, LGBTQ, and woman-owned business.
We love your signature motto, Be the Love™, signifying that love is actionable, and when compassion meets purpose, transformation is possible. Can you tell us more about your belief in the healing power of food?
I wanted to create a brand that inspires people to nourish themselves and, in turn, nourish others. The tagline actually came from a conversation I had with my aunt over the holidays. We talked about what it means to 'be the love'—whether through small gestures, showing up, giving yourself grace, or even just sharing a smile with a stranger. That conversation inspired me to make this message personal, not just for me but for others as well. When we approach food with love and intention, we’re nourishing not only ourselves, but also our communities and the environment, creating a ripple effect of positivity.
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@edenesqueplantmilks
www.edenesque.com