PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNA FISHER
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & STYLING BY ROBIAT BALOGUN
MAKEUP BY ARCHANGELA CHELSEA FOR CELESTINE AGENCY
HAIR BY LUCY GEDJEYAN FOR CLOUTIER REMIX
STORY BY MIN A. LEE
Composure Magazine: We’re very excited to have you grace our first Composure Living cover! To begin, you became vegetarian at the age of five following an eye-opening visit to a ranch. Now as an entrepreneur bringing ethical companies to the forefront, did you ever think that your experience would lead to all these great developments?
Daniella Monet: I think deep down, as a kid, I knew I was capable of creating change in a big way. I didn’t know exactly what that meant at the time, but as I matured, I realized my own potential. Being a part of developing these conscious businesses has been one of the more gratifying positions I’ve ever had.
CM: You’ve starred in numerous tv shows and films. With recurring roles on Victorious and Winx Club to now hosting the popular Nickelodeon show Paradise Run, do you feel acting has given you a stronger platform to promote conscious lifestyle habits and animal rights?
DM: Absolutely, and I’m so grateful for that. It’s been so special to share part of my real life and who I really am with people who have grown up watching me. Having a following of any kind is a responsibility, and I take a lot of pride in being my authentic self.
CM: For some, the transition to vegan can be difficult. What are your top two tips for those that want or are starting to change their diet?
DM: Keep options handy. If you aren’t someone to stock your fridge or pantry, it may be the time to start. Having quick and easy snacks or meals available makes life so much easier.
Another tip would be to start with one day at a time. Some can cold turkey (no pun intended) make the switch, but I recommend becoming a conscious eater first. Meaning, think before you eat, and eventually, you won’t really have to. Start with substituting a handful of meals per week with plant-based meals; see how it makes you feel and add in more as you go!
CM: You created a new company called Kinder Beauty. Can you tell us more about this?
DM: Kinder Beauty Box is a 100% vegan and cruelty-free subscription beauty box curated by myself and Evanna Lynch. We strive to bring high quality, ethical products to your doorstep at a cost-effective price. To give back in more ways than one, we donate a portion of our proceeds to our favorite animal rights and environmental organizations. Our ultimate goal is to end animal testing altogether. We believe that by providing kinder options, we can do just that.
CM: You’ve also partnered with a couple of companies Outstanding Foods and Sugar Taco—has it been challenging or do you find the rise in popularity for veganism has helped with building the businesses?
DM: The rise in popularity for veganism has made every challenge or obstacle that much more worth it. The teams behind both Outstanding Foods and Sugar Taco care about meeting the needs of the masses and providing food that’s absolutely delicious. It’s incredibly empowering to work alongside some of the most impactful, strategic investors in the business. I’ve learned so much and now can implement that in so many future endeavors.
CM: The beauty landscape is changing rapidly to push for more natural, cruelty-free products. Do you have a beauty brand you’d highly recommend?
DM: I love brands like 100% Pure and Inika. Both are vegan, cruelty-free, high quality and are mindful of using clean, non-toxic ingredients.
CM: And an ethical clothing brand?
DM: Clothing is slightly trickier. My approach is to just not over consume and when I do shop, I strive to spend my money on apparel that I know is made ethically. I’m still searching to find a one-stop shop!
CM: What are some of your favorite vegan restaurants around LA?
DM: My fiancé and I just ate at Pura Vita in West Hollywood, and it was delicious! It’s a small Italian restaurant with a bit of an East Coast vibe inside. The atmosphere and food were an A+.
Other than that, we love Hope in Studio City or Plant Food and Wine in Venice for a special occasion!
CM: For fun, can you share with us a delicious vegan dessert recipe to try at home?
DM: These are crowd pleasers!
NO BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER OATMEAL COOKIES
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup vegan butter
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup almond milk
- 1 tsp. vanilla
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 3 cups quick oats
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, vegan butter, chocolate chips, and almond milk and bring to a boil. Cook for about minute.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla, peanut butter, and oats – stirring well after each ingredient.
- Drop spoonfuls onto waxed paper and let set for about 1-3 hours. You can put them in the fridge or freezer to speed it up—I did.
