Inside My Best Year as a Vegan Chef- The Rise of Vegan-Wise: A Landmark Year for Vegan Catering & Retreats in the UK

What an incredible year it’s been — without a doubt, my best year in business yet! I can honestly say that 2025 has been the year that Vegan-Wise truly bloomed. The vegan catering side of my business has had a real boom, and I’m filled with so much gratitude looking back at everything we’ve achieved together.

From vegan weddings and hen-do's all over the South West, Wales, Cornwall, and Devon, to large-scale events and festivals across the UK — it’s been non-stop joy, hard work, and delicious food! I was honoured to once again support The League Against Cruel Sports for their annual members and new members weekend — a cause close to my heart — and to join the amazing Embercombe team in Devon, Exeter, supporting their full retreat catering schedule this year.

Vegan Catering UK — A Year of Expansion

This has been the first year that I’ve had multiple events happening at different venues on the same day — something I could never have imagined when I first started. To make it all possible, I brought in some incredible help from fellow vegan chefs and friends. Huge shoutout to the talented Rahel Lutz of Don’t Waste Your Taste and the wonderful Siggy of Dates on Plates. Their creativity, reliability, and shared passion for plant-based cooking made this year’s events flow with ease and flavour.

And of course, my glorious mother, who has always been my behind-the-scenes queen — showing up for the biggest jobs, working tirelessly on her feet, cleaning, organising, and keeping everything running smoothly. She’s an absolute role model, a source of relentless strength, and my biggest inspiration. You can find her over at Kriya Ayurveda, sharing her wisdom and grace.

Gratitude for Every Plate and Every Person

To everyone who welcomed Vegan-Wise into their special days, wellness retreats, and rewilding experiences — thank you. Whether it was a private vegan chef booking, a vegan retreat, or a wedding feast, each event has been a privilege to cook for. The connections formed through food this year have truly filled my heart.

The Heart of It All 💚

Finally, the biggest appreciation goes to my partner, Chris — not a chef by trade, but definitely one by spirit. He’s been there for every event: my constant support, driver, ingredients-and-equipment hauler, sous chef, and tent-putter-upper (for those weddings where we camped overnight in a remote field to start bright and early the next day!). He’s dealt with me at my tiredest, most stressed, and most overstimulated moments — always with love and humour. Chris made this year possible. This expansion possible. This next step for Vegan-Wise possible.

Looking Ahead

As I look toward next year, I feel a deep sense of pride and excitement. The growth of Vegan-Wise Catering reflects not only my personal journey but also the growing demand for plant-based, seasonal, and mindful food experiences across the UK. Whether you’re searching for vegan catering UK, a vegan retreat chef, or a private vegan chef for your special occasion, I can’t wait to continue sharing this passion with you all.

Here’s to more weddings, retreats, collaborations, and community in 2026 — and to the beautiful people who make it all worthwhile.

With love and gratitude, Nikita Leys x Founder of Vegan-Wise