Fruit Is Life Cafe - The World's First Fast-Fruit Restaurant
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Hello! My name is Jeannette Donofrio also known as MsFitVegan, and I am obsessed with helping people eat fruit instead of dead animal body parts! I am currently focused on launching my own fast-fruit restaurant, Fruit Is Life.
With a background as a Food & Beverage Consultant, I’ve successfully opened over 20 raw vegan restaurants for notable companies like Organic Avenue and Juice Press in New York City. I served as the Operations Manager at Organic Avenue for seven years, where I was responsible for over 500 employees; and later as Head of Training and Development at Juice Press LLC. These roles equipped me with the skills and confidence to open my own establishment, hire, cultivate and lead teams filled with employees that LOVE their jobs, and operate a successful plant-exclusive business effectively.
I also help to run the world's largest fruit festival, The Woodstock Fruit Festival and am also the author of several books and courses in the plant-based and living foods community (including The Raw Vegan Beauty Book, Raw Vegan Excuses Part One and Two, The Healing Powers of The Raw Vegan Diet and many others!) I am extremely passionate about sharing my experience and knowledge of a fruit-based raw vegan lifestyle, which I have followed since 2011. Following a fruit based raw food diet has naturally healed my cystic acne, chronic fatigue, migraines, IBS, eczema, depression, chronic lung infections, chronic back and knee pain, and helped me lose over 60 lbs! What a blessing!
I know it is my life purpose to help others easily eat more fruit and heal - just like I did!
I’m thrilled to be launching an exciting, health-driven venture in the heart of Miami—a fast fruit restaurant that prioritizes fresh, locally grown exotic tropical fruits! We’ll offer a vibrant menu of smoothies, juices, fruit bowls, nice creams, and other wholesome options designed to fuel our community. This restaurant will be a go-to destination for health-conscious individuals seeking quality, convenience, and a refreshing alternative in Miami’s food scene.
To bring this vision to life, I’m aiming to raise $250,000 to cover the initial setup costs.
Below is a detailed breakdown of how the funds will be used to ensure a seamless and successful launch:
1. Location and Rent:
• Lease Deposit and Initial Rent: Securing a prime, high-traffic location in Miami’s bustling food district is crucial for success. We’ll need a comfortable budget to cover lease deposits, upfront rent, and essential utilities setup. Total: $25,000
2. Renovations and Interior Design:
• Space Construction and Design: Transforming the space into a warm, inviting, and functional layout requires significant work. Funds will go toward the buildout of customer seating (indoor and outdoor), restroom facilities, countertop installation, and storage solutions. Additionally, we’ll invest in quality décor, lighting, and eco-friendly materials to reflect our brand’s fresh and natural ethos. Total: $90,000
3. Equipment and Supplies:
• Essential Commercial Equipment and Supplies: We’ll be investing in top-grade commercial equipment, including heavy-duty juicers, high-capacity blenders, refrigeration and freezer units, stainless steel prep tables, and shelving. Beyond this, initial inventory will cover a wide variety of fresh, organic produce, biodegradable serving cups, smoothie and juice containers, compostable utensils, reusable cleaning supplies, and all necessary food-safe storage. Total: $60,000
4. Staffing:
• Hiring and Initial Payroll: To deliver a consistently exceptional experience, we’ll bring on a well-rounded team, including managers, prep and counter staff, and fruit prep “chefs” dedicated to ensuring top-quality service and presentation. Initial funds will cover staff recruitment, on boarding, and training, as well as the first few months of salaries for core team members, allowing us to establish a reliable foundation. Total: $20,000
5. Licenses and Permits:
• Legal and Health Compliance: Starting a food establishment involves a series of licenses and permits, including business registration, health and safety certifications, occupancy permits, and insurance requirements. This category ensures that we meet all local and state regulations, allowing us to operate with full compliance and peace of mind. Total: $10,000
6. Marketing and Branding:
• Brand Launch and Community Engagement: We’ll invest in a strong branding strategy, including logo design, signage, and promotional materials to introduce our unique concept to the community. Additionally, a portion of funds will support digital marketing, social media outreach, and partnerships with local health and wellness influencers to drive awareness and excitement around our launch. Total: $25,000
7. Contingency Fund:
• Buffer for Unanticipated Costs: Every new venture faces unexpected costs, whether for additional inventory, equipment repairs, or unforeseen construction needs. By setting aside a contingency fund, we’re ensuring that we can adapt to any challenges that arise, maintaining smooth operations without interruptions. Total: $50,000
Total Fundraising Goal: $250,000
Your support, whether through a donation or simply sharing our campaign, means the world to me. With this funding, we can bring Miami’s first fast fruit restaurant to life—a place where people can enjoy convenient, healthy, and delicious options made from the most incredible and healthy ingredients on earth - fruit!
Thank you for helping make this dream a reality! I can't wait to invite you to the Grand Opening!
Organizer
Jeannette Donofrio
Organizer
North Miami Beach, FL