Recently, my 2 besties, my mom and my mother-in-law all threw me the most special and beautiful baby shower! It was my first baby shower so I was super excited. (I didn’t have one with my first child because in Judaism it’s customary NOT to have one.)

But my daughter has taught me MANY things, including to enjoy every moment, and most definitely to celebrate the small things. After all, that’s what life is made up of really. 🙂

I truly thank my hostesses for helping me celebrate this journey! They really outdid themselves. I can’t imagine a more gorgeous, meaningful and special celebration.

The party was at one of my favorite spots in LA, Plant Food & Wine. If you’ve been following me online, you know I’m passionate about supporting those who recognize the role food plays on our health & environment. Matthew Kenney, the chef and owner, is one of those people. All of his restaurants, all over the world, are plant-based, locally sourced and seasonal. Plant Food & Wine has truly fine vegan food served in a gorgeous setting! I LOVE their rustic back patio with fig & olive trees, herb garden (that shows up on the menu!) and romantic hanging lights and candles. The location was also extra special for me since I know (like Matthew!) and am friendly with many of the fabulous staff and have taken classes at their raw culinary institute!

When I got there, I found a beautiful wishing tree on a table so guests could write their inspirations, prayers, quotes or thoughts for mommy or baby. I was so surprised to see the tree already filled with wishes from my dear friends and family from all over the world!

As the guests arrived, we got to mingle over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

There was a MOMosa bar complete with fresh mango, blackberry and peach purées. YUM! (I opted for the non-alcoholic peach version!).

During cocktails & mingling, my favorite (vegan) cheese platters were served. Plant’s artisanal cheese plate that day had smoked cheddar, truffle and mixed peppercorn nut cheeses with fennel crackers & fresh sliced peaches (along with some other condiments). Yes, ALL vegan and SO amazingly good!

Smoked hummus (sprouted garbanzo, herbs, lavish bread) , smashed avocado (pickled chilis, pistachio, herb crackers) and kale salad (orange, vadouvan almonds, sprouts, lemon vinaigrette) were then served “family style” at the tables.

For the main course, guests had a choice of: Spiced Apple Pancakes (maple syrup, candied pecan, cashew cream cheese), Wild Mushroom Sandwich (foccaccia, carmelized onion, creme fraiche, truffle aioli), or the Mushroom & Vegetable Burger (spelt roll, pickles, lettuce, carrot ketchup, chipotle aioli). I had the wild mushroom sandwich which is OUTSTANDING (just thinking about it makes me want one now!)!

It’s no secret I’m not a “cake” fan, so the girls had adorable vegan / gluten-free cupcakes and ice cream sandwiches for dessert!

After we ate, my hostesses said a few touching words and passed around a candle with colored string. Each guest said an affirmation or prayer for my birth out loud and tied on a string as the candle was passed around. I can light it during my birth and be surrounded by all that support and love.  SO very meaningful! What a thoughtful and touching idea! I LOVE IT! Since this was at the end of the party, my husband and daughter showed up and they each did one too!

As a bonus surprise, Chef Matthew Kenney himself even made an appearance! 🙂 (see the photo of the 2 of us!)

The entire event was SO special and meaningful. To have all these incredible people take time away from their busy lives and responsibilities as women, mothers, wives, girlfriends and employees, and spend time being together and celebrating my new arrival (and each other!) was beyond amazing. What a glorious and fun day. I am SO grateful!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much to my 4 gracious hosts and all my friends who attended to shower me and baby #2 with love! And thank you as well to everyone who sent prayers and wishes from afar! I’m moved and touched beyond words.

In gratitude,
Abby

(Not pictured: Suzanne R., Charla B & Emma B)