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BEING PLANT-BASED...YOU'RE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

When I first began my work as a lifestyle medicine health coach and chef, I was very intentional about not using the word vegan in my marketing—even though I’m often pigeonholed into that category. Back then, and honestly even now, vegan felt like a heavy word. It sounded like sacrifice… like a red pen slashing through all the foods people love. And that just didn’t sit right with me.

Because the work of a health coach? It’s not about snatching things away. It’s about guiding people gently—step by step—toward small changes in their lifestyle and diet that build over time, until they look up and realize they’re living differently… and feeling better for it.

Now, let’s clear something up. The terms plant-based and vegan often get used interchangeably, but they are not the same.
🌱A Plant-based diet focuses on eating mostly foods that come from the earth—fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Some folks still include a little animal product here and there.
🌱A Vegan diet, on the other hand, is much stricter. It excludes all animal-derived products—no meat, no dairy, no eggs, no honey. But more than a diet, it’s a lifestyle, one that often extends to avoiding animal-based clothing, cosmetics, and more.

Believe it or not, simply saying I was a “vegan chef” used to turn people away from my services. The word vegan often conjures up a list of "can'ts" and "don'ts" in people’s minds. And while many people could benefit from reducing certain foods, they’re not always ready—or willing—to give it all up cold turkey (pun intended). So instead, I leaned into the title plant-based chef and health coach. It felt softer. More approachable. More “Hey, you got this.”

A lot of people think that moving toward a plant-based lifestyle means a complete overhaul. But here’s what I know: you’re probably closer to it than you think.

There are only a few cultures on Earth whose diets are primarily made up of animal-based foods—the Sioux of South Dakota, Brazilian Gauchos, the Chukotka of the Russian Arctic, and the Maasai of Kenya, to name a few. And their high-meat diets? They work because of their specific environments and the quality of their food sources.

But for the rest of us? Most of our plates already include a good amount of plants—some roasted veggies here, a salad there, maybe a bowl of rice or a handful of beans—with fish, chicken, or beef alongside. You’re already doing it.
Being plant-based doesn’t mean you can’t have your favorite foods. It just means you’re being more intentional about letting whole, fibrous, colorful plant foods take center stage on your plate.

So the next time someone suggests a plant-based lifestyle, don’t roll your eyes and write it off. It’s not about restriction—it’s about awareness and inclusion.​
Because if we were to peek at your plate right now, there’s a good chance you're already halfway there. It might just be time to fine-tune the balance.

My belief: If fruits, veggies, legumes, and grains are invited to the table, you’re well on your way to being plant-based.

And if the word plant-based doesn’t quite vibe with you, try these on for size:
🌱 Plant-Forward – This is about letting plants lead the meal. The bulk of what’s on your plate comes from the ground, with a little room for flexibility. You can still have some animal products—just in smaller portions.
🌱 Plant-Positive – This isn’t just about food. It’s a mindset. It means embracing plant-based living for the health of your body, the planet, and yes, even the animals. It’s a holistic approach to eating with intention.

Both terms shift the conversation from what’s being taken away to what’s being added in. They help us see the beauty and abundance in plant-rich meals.

So tell me…
​What’s your take on being plant-based? Does it feel aligned for you—or not quite your thing yet?​
​
Hit reply and let me know. You know I read every single message.

Here’s What’s Happening This Week:

🌿 Check Out What We’re Bringing to Market – Our schedule has shifted a bit, so take a look.
🌿 Cooking Through the Chakras Class – We just announced the details.
🌿 We Have a New April Menu – Get your orders in and let’s eat well, together.

Hope you enjoy every bite of it.

Much love,
​Essentially Chef Beee 🌱

Your Lifestyle Medicine Wellness Coach & Plant-Based Chef

WEEKEND HAPPENINGS & UPCOMING EVENTS:

WEEKLY MARKETS

✨🌿 Come find us this weekend at your favorite neighborhood farm stand and local farmers market! We’re showing up with a fresh lineup of delicious goodies, vibrant pesticide-free produce, and handcrafted artisan treats—straight from the farm and made with love. You’ll taste the care in every single bite.

🌱 Heads up—we won’t be at the Green Market at Piedmont Park this weekend because of the Dogwood Festival.
But no worries! You can still catch us at Oyun this Saturday, all day from 11am–6pm.

Swing by, say hey, and grab your favorites. Stock up on the goodness your body (and taste buds) will thank you for. We can’t wait to see your smiling faces! 💚✨

MARKET MENU

DRINKS

🌱Cucumber Limeade

🌱Sorrel Lime Cooler

🌱Watermelon Ginger Cooler

MEALS

🌱Curry Chana with Vegetables Beee Bowl (Only at Patchwork City Farms)

🌱Brooklyn Style Mushroom Gyros (Only at Oyun Botanical Gardens)

SNACKS

🌱Vegetable Pastries (Only at Oyun Botanical Gardens)

🌱Essential Oil Infused Fruit Cups

🌱KwaMix Trail Mix Snacks

🌱The Other Chocolate Chip (Gluten-Free) Cookie

EXTRAS

🌱Kale Salad Dressing

🌱E3Live Products

🌱Erzuli Black Soap

🌱"Let Plants Nourish You" Cookbooks

MARKET LOCATIONS

📍PATCHWORK CITY FARMS 🌱

Date: Fridays

Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm EST

902 Pinehurst Terrace, Atlanta, GA 30310

AND

📍GREEN MARKET at PIEDMONT PARK 🌱

***No Market This Weekend***

Dogwood Festival

AND

📍OYUN BOTANICAL GARDENS 🌱

Date: Saturdays

Time: 11:00am - 6:00pm EST

3353 Washington Rd, East Point, GA 30344

**REMEMBER GET OR USE YOUR LOYALTY REWARDS CARD WHEN YOU SHOP**

THE FRESH MARKET AT OYUN IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

April is serving all the good vibes! Not only is it Earth Month, but Oyun Botanical Gardens is launching its very first Farmers Market on April 19th! 🌿✨

Get ready to soak it all in—crisp, colorful produce, mouthwatering meals crafted by yours truly, live DJs spinning the vibe just right, and the air filled with the irresistible scent of good food. It’s going to be a full-on sensory celebration.

And it doesn’t stop there—you’ll find a gorgeous mix of local artisans and small businesses bringing their passion and creativity straight to the community.

This market isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a space to connect. To discover new flavors, support local magic, and vibe with folks who care about good food, good energy, and good people.

Mark your calendar and come be part of something beautiful. 🌱💛

Here are the Details:

Location: 3353 Washington Road, East Point, GA 30344

Time: Saturdays, Starting April 19th, 2025

We hope to see you there!

"COOKING THROUGH THE CHAKRAS" HAPPENING THIS MONTH!

Tap into the magic where nourishment meets energy alignment in our seven-part plant-based cooking class series: “Cooking Through the Chakras.” 🌈🍲

This isn’t just another cooking class—it’s a journey. Together, we’ll explore how the foods we choose can support balance, vitality, and a deeper connection to ourselves—one chakra at a time. ❤️

Each week, we’ll dive into the colors, flavors, and healing power of plant-based ingredients, crafting dishes that not only taste amazing but also nourish your whole being. Think: vibrant meals with purpose—food that feeds your body and your energy.

Come cook with us, explore your inner landscape, and leave each class feeling more aligned, inspired, and well-fed in every sense of the word.

DATE: April 30, 2025
TIME: 11:00-1:00pm
LOCATION: Oyun Botanical Gardens

FIRST CLASS FOCUS: ROOT CHAKRA

Arrive early and tour the garden! Cost: $30

NEW APRIL MENU ALERT

We have a new menu for April 13th-26th that you can enjoy right now. We have been very intentional about sourcing our produce from local farms as much as we possibly can.

Essential Meals 2Go! Menu Highlights:

• Locally Sourced and Pesticide-Free Produce
• Internationally Inspired Flavors
• Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients
• Diverse Selection of Wholesome Meals

All orders need to be in by Saturday at 5:00 PM EST to be added to the queue for the upcoming week. Delivery and Pick-ups start on Sunday afternoon. 🌿✨

BEEE WELL WEEKLY TIP:

Prioritize Your Mental Health—Even When the World Feels Heavy

Life doesn’t slow down, it throws curveballs, chaos, and constant noise. But in the middle of it all, your mental health still matters. In fact, it's especially important when everything around you feels like too much. Prioritizing your mental well-being isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Whether it’s carving out ten quiet minutes in the morning with a cup of tea, journaling your thoughts before bed, or simply saying “no” to something that drains your energy—these small acts add up.

Here are some practical and engaging ways to protect your peace:

• Take a digital detox: Even just one hour without scrolling can calm your nervous system.
• Move your body in ways that feel good: Dance in your kitchen, stretch on the floor, or go for a walk with music you love.
• Say “no” without guilt: Protect your time and energy like it’s gold—because it is.
• Check in with yourself daily: Ask, How am I really doing today? What do I need?
• Create a joy list: Write down 10 things that make you feel good—and do one of them this week.

ASK YOURSELF:

• When was the last time I did something just because it made me feel good?
• What’s one boundary I can set this week to protect my peace?
• Am I treating myself with the same compassion I give to others?

You deserve moments of stillness. You deserve to feel joy, even when the world is loud. Prioritize your mental health—not just when it’s convenient, but especially when it’s not.

ARE YOU READY TO SHIFT HOW AND WHAT YOU EAT?

• If you’re looking to transition to a plant-based lifestyle, START HERE. The PALATE RESET LIFESTYLE REBOOT is designed for busy professionals and entrepreneurs like you. It’s a simple, done-for-you cleanse that helps reset your taste buds and break free from salt and sugar cravings. Say goodbye to feeling overworked and hello to renewed energy and clarity. No need to wait—this reboot is ready whenever you are. 🌿 Let us guide you on your journey to wellness. Our Next Reset starts on May 5th.
• You can also SCHEDULE A BEEE WELL DISCOVERY CALL to learn how best we can support you.

We hope to see you all this week at our Markets and Events!

Take Care for now!
The Chef Beee Team