ELEVATE - New Years Networking Mixer
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse
As I stepped onto the rooftop deck of Cielo Rooftop Lounge, nestled atop an old theater in Downtown San Diego, I felt like I was walking into a different realm. The building, a nostalgic masterpiece, led to an oasis in the sky where the New Year Network Mixer, ELEVATE, awaited.
The first thing that struck me was the embrace of warmth - a hug, a smile, and a white rose. This year, roses have become a symbol of my journey, a constant reminder that I am right where I need to be, loved, honored, and acknowledged.
The rooftop was a sanctuary, draped in greenery and blooms, creating an ambiance of vibrant life. Each plant seemed to tell its own story, adding to the collective narrative of growth and beauty. I found a cozy spot under the sun, at a charming wooden table with a comfy cushion, the DJ's tunes setting the perfect backdrop.
Our host, Monisha, opened the event with words that resonated deeply - the essence of elevation, of seeking and receiving 'More' in every aspect of life. Her message set the tone for the day, aligning perfectly with my pursuit of a life filled with more blessings, peace, love, trust, and joy.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @emerging_excellence
Queen More Life then took the stage, sharing the transformational journey of More Life Liquid. Her story was one of perseverance, a testament to the power of patience and trust, culminating in the rebirth of her brand in partnership with Afro Vegan Beauty and the launch of the Mothership Collection.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @queenmorelife
Kaori Nik continued the narrative, emphasizing the transformative power of a plant-based lifestyle. Her strength and radiance were palpable, a visible sign of her inner 'superhero'.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @kaorinikstudios
The spotlight then shifted to Chef Key Locke, whose culinary artistry was about to take center stage. Each dish was not just food; it was a story told through flavors and textures.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @chefkeylocke
The first pairing was a revelation - the Golden Citrus juice blend, a symphony of orange, papaya, lemon, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper. It was a dance of sweet and spicy notes, a perfect match for the Phat Mango Sushi Roll, a delightful mix of mangos, grilled asparagus, mushrooms, peppers, green onions, cucumber, topped with mango salsa, drizzled with spicy mayo and unagi. The combination was a burst of flavors, with each ingredient playing its part beautifully.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse
Next up was The Blue Print, a refreshing blend of pineapple, apple, coconut, mint, and blue spirulina. It was paired with the Phat Mini Mezze, a delightful ensemble of garbanzos, cucumber, red onion, feta, kalamata, olives, hummus, served with pits and drizzled with herb infused grape seed oil. The harmony of the fruity drink with the Mediterranean-flavored mezze was a culinary delight.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse
The Heart Beet juice, a blend of beets, sweet potato, orange, cilantro, and lemon, was paired with the Phat & Jerked Linguini made with noodles tossed in jerk lemon butter, garlic, and beurre bane, topped with pecorino. The earthy tones of the juice complemented the spicy and tangy flavors of the linguini perfectly.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse
Finally, the Green Light - a mix of celery, cucumber, apple, kale, lemon, ginger, and cilantro - was coupled with the Phat Burger Bites made with plant based patty, chipotle caramelized onions, smoked gouda, luminous secret sauce. This pairing was a celebration of fresh, green flavors, with the plant-based burger adding a delightful twist.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse
As the event unfolded, I mingled with inspiring individuals, each conversation adding to the richness of the day. The speakers shared stories that echoed the event's theme of elevation and growth, leaving us all a little more enlightened and connected.
Photographed By: @creativelyrae
Featuring: @destinythemuse, @nicole_c_chung
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Monisha, Queen More Life, Kaori Nik, and especially Chef Key Locke, for orchestrating an experience that was not just a tasting, but a celebration of life and the joys it holds. Their collective vision and passion transformed the rooftop into a canvas of flavors, stories, and connections, painting every moment with the colors of inspiration and joy. This event wasn't just about savoring exquisite food and drinks; it was about savoring the essence of life itself!
