MORGAN ANGELIQUE OWENS
  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Professional Pretty Blog
  • Subscribe
  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Professional Pretty Blog
  • Subscribe
Picture

Beyond the Sparkle: The Work, the Grief, the Grind

10/3/2025

1 Comment

 
Picture
 want to take a moment to pause and say thank you. Every comment on my Instagram posts, every heart on a travel blog entry, every DM or email cheering me on—I see it, I feel it, and I appreciate it. Truly. The love and support I receive from my community keeps me going, especially when I’m pouring my heart into documenting my travels and sharing my entrepreneurial journey.
But I also want to be real with you: this is a lot of work. Behind every curated photo or blog recap, there are hours of writing, editing, pitching, planning, and yes, second-guessing myself. Add on the emotional weight of grief since losing my dad, and some days it honestly feels overwhelming.

I try to be as transparent as I can, because it’s not always glitz and glamour. It’s rejection emails that sting. It’s waiting on payments that should’ve come weeks ago. It’s being in limbo with projects, or feeling stuck when creativity just doesn’t flow. It’s numbness that hits out of nowhere, or that voice of self-doubt whispering, “Are you enough?”

And let me tell you—it’s exhausting when companies don’t take you seriously, or when people make assumptions about where your income comes from. The work behind the sparkle isn’t always visible. The grind doesn’t stop. The questions and doubts don’t stop. Sometimes it feels like it never ends.

But here’s what keeps me grounded: you. My community. The people who don’t just double-tap a picture, but who understand what I’m building and why I share so openly. The ones who see my vision, who believe in me even when I’m struggling to believe in myself.

Because at the end of the day, my mission is bigger than me. I do this for the little Black girls who look like me—the ones who deserve to know that they can travel the world, build businesses, and live outside of every box society tries to put them in. I do this so they can see that the sky is not the limit. That there is no limit.

Grief has taught me that life is fragile, but it’s also lit a fire in me to make sure I’m living fully and authentically. Entrepreneurship has taught me resilience and creativity, but also patience and humility. Travel has taught me to see beyond borders, both physically and mentally. And all of it combined reminds me daily: I can’t give up, because someone is watching and needing to see that it’s possible.

So thank you—to every single one of you who supports, who comments, who shares, who cheers me on even when you don’t see the full weight of what I’m carrying. Your encouragement is fuel. Your belief in me is confirmation.

This journey isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. And I promise you, as long as I have a voice and a platform, I will use it to inspire, to uplift, and to remind the next generation that there are no ceilings, no boundaries, no limits.
​
The sky was never the limit. And I refuse to let young girls who look like me believe it is.
1 Comment

Reasons You Should Designer Shop in Paris (Save Those Coins, Girl)

10/3/2025

0 Comments

 
Listen, shopping in Paris isn’t just retail—it’s strategy. And if you know me, you know I’m all about girl math: looking good and keeping my coins where they belong. Paris is the fashion capital for a reason, and when it comes to luxury shopping, it’s honestly one of the smartest moves you can make for your wardrobe. Let me break it down.

1. VAT Refund = Built-In Savings
Here’s the tea: when you shop designer in Paris, you can claim a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund at the airport. That’s about 12% back on your purchase. Meaning? A Chanel bag or Dior belt automatically costs less here than it does back in the States.

Girl math: you’re not spending—you’re investing. That extra refund goes right back into your pocket (or towards your next purchase, no judgment).

I always plan a little extra space in my suitcase just for this. Nothing feels better than strutting through CDG with my VAT forms stamped and knowing I played the system and looked fabulous doing it.

2. Exclusive Stock You Can’t Get Anywhere Else
Paris boutiques are the mothership of fashion. They carry limited editions, colors, and cuts you simply won’t find online or even in New York. That burgundy bag? That buttery trench? Those chef’s kiss seasonal colorways? Sometimes, they’re only released in Paris.
This is where you find those pieces that make people stop and ask, “Where did you get that?” And you can answer, with a smirk, “Oh this? Paris.” Trust me, nothing beats it.

3. The Whole Experience
Shopping in Paris is not a mall run—it’s a moment. Think champagne at Dior, private styling sessions at Louis Vuitton, and personal shoppers who treat you like the VIP you are. It’s giving movie scene energy. And even if you walk away with just one piece, it feels like a memory you’ll keep forever. Because sometimes the experience is just as luxe as the item itself.

✨ Bonus: Milan Designer Outlet Gems
Okay, so while Paris is the queen, let me spill about a little detour I made in Milan: the Serravalle Designer Outlet (just an hour outside the city). Y’all—when I say deals, I mean deals. I found a timeless Gucci skirt and YSL heels for under $1,000 USD together. Do you know how crazy that is? Girl math says I basically saved enough to justify another trip.
And don’t forget—you still get your 12% VAT refund back from Italy too. So not only was I twirling in my new Gucci skirt in front of the Duomo, but I also knew I’d be getting some of that money back. Savings + style = sparkle.

Here’s the bottom line: designer shopping abroad isn’t about splurging—it’s about investing. The VAT refund makes it make sense, the exclusive pieces make it one-of-a-kind, and the experience is unmatched. Add in an outlet trip to Milan, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate luxury-on-a-budget story.

So the next time you’re planning Paris (or Milan), don’t think of shopping as an indulgence. Think of it as building your forever collection—pieces that tell a story and remind you of the chapters of your life you’re living out loud.
​
Because sis, receipts don’t lie: you saved money and secured timeless style.



0 Comments

Why You Should Never Skip a Paris Pharmacy for Skincare

10/3/2025

0 Comments

 
Listen, sis. Forget Sephora for a second—when you’re in Paris, the real beauty mecca is the pharmacy. And I’m not talking about your typical Walgreens run for Advil and gum. Paris pharmacies are like skincare heaven on earth. The aisles are lined with products that French women swear by—effortless, chic, and results-driven.

Every time I step into one, I feel like I’ve entered a beauty playground, only this one won’t make your wallet cry the way a luxury department store will. If you’ve never experienced it for yourself, let me put you on game about why Paris pharmacies deserve a top spot on your itinerary.

1. Exclusive Gems You Can’t Leave Without
French pharmacy shelves are stocked with brands that skincare lovers in the U.S. would pay double for—if they can even find them. Think:
  • Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water – The OG micellar water that gently removes makeup without stripping your skin. In Paris? You can snag the big bottles for half of what they cost in the States. Girl math says that’s basically free.
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50 – A holy grail sunscreen that layers beautifully under makeup. Lightweight, no white cast, and dermatologist-approved. It’s a must-have, especially since I never skip SPF (I also pack my Skin by Brownlee & Co. SPF, but I love having both in rotation).
  • Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil – A chic, lightweight body oil that smells like summer in a bottle and leaves your skin silky smooth. I grab at least two every time.
  • Caudalie Beauty Elixir – A refreshing spray that doubles as a toner, setting spray, or mid-flight pick-me-up. It’s luxury in a bottle, but without the markup.
These aren’t just “products”—they’re staples. Paris makes them affordable, which means I can stock up without guilt.

2. Skincare Advice from the Pros
Here’s the thing: pharmacists in Paris aren’t just there to hand you your prescription. They are trained in skincare science. You can literally walk in, tell them your skin concerns—dryness, hyperpigmentation, breakouts—and they’ll put together a whole routine tailored to you. No pushy upselling, just knowledge and real recommendations. It’s like having a personal esthetician on speed dial, only better.

When I was struggling with dullness after long travel days, a pharmacist introduced me to A313 Vitamin A Pommade—a French retinol alternative that’s a cult favorite. Life. Changing.

3. Girl Math Approved Savings
We all know beauty products can get expensive. But Paris pharmacies are where your coins go further. Buying directly in France means no import costs, no luxury markups, just straight access to the good stuff. You can snag full skincare routines for the price of a single serum back home. Stock up now, thank yourself later.

Trust me, your suitcase might be heavier, but your skin (and your bank account) will thank you.
Paris is the city of light, love, and yes—luxurious skincare. If you’re planning a trip, do not leave without carving out time to wander through a pharmacy (or two, or three). It’s not just about the products—it’s about the experience. You’ll discover cult classics, get expert advice, and maybe even uncover a new holy grail that becomes part of your forever routine.
So sis, save your Sephora run for when you’re home. When in Paris, the pharmacy is the real glow-up destination.
0 Comments

Beauty Trends I’m Seeing in Milan for Fall 2025

10/3/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Milan in the fall has its own magic. The streets are lined with warm shades of brown, camel coats sweep past cobblestone walkways, and the air smells faintly of espresso and ambition. And of course, the beauty scene is just as intentional as the fashion. Milan doesn’t chase trends—it refines them, elevates them, and somehow makes them feel timeless.
Here’s what I’ve been spotting on the ground, straight from the sidewalks, showrooms, and quiet cafés:

1. Glossy Skin Over Matte
Matte had its moment, but Milan this season is all about the glow. Think skin that looks hydrated, dewy, and radiant—almost like you’ve just come from a facial. I’ve noticed women layering lightweight serums, skipping the heavy powders, and embracing “glass skin” that reflects light in all the right places. It’s skin-first, makeup-second. A good SPF and hydrating cleanser (yes, I travel everywhere with my Skin by Brownlee & Co. favorites) are the real MVPs here. When your skin is glowing, everything else feels effortless.

2. Deep Berry Lips
Fall in Milan is painted in shades of burgundy, plum, and rich wine—and the lips are no exception. I’ve seen everything from high-shine glosses to bold, matte lipsticks in deep berry tones. What makes it so chic? The pairing. Most women keep their eyes minimal—just a soft wash of neutral shadow and clean lashes—so the lip is the centerpiece. It’s giving understated luxury, the kind of look that says, I didn’t try too hard, but I still command the room.
​

3. Sleek, Sculpted Hair
Hair in Milan this season is unapologetically polished. Middle parts, sleek ponytails, and sculpted buns are everywhere, especially during Fashion Week. It’s not fussy or overdone—it’s precise. It’s the kind of hair that looks like it took effort, but also whispers confidence. And the beauty of it? It pairs with literally anything: a statement coat, a power suit, or even a cozy knit sweater for a dinner date. It’s very “boss babe in Milan” energy, and I’m here for all of it.

What I love most about Milan is that it never feels like it’s trying too hard. These trends aren’t about reinventing beauty; they’re about elevating the classics. Radiant skin. Bold lips. Sleek hair. It’s simple, timeless, and confident—the same way Milan approaches fashion.
So whether you’re walking through the Duomo, sipping cappuccinos in Navigli, or scrolling for inspo from your couch back home, remember: Milan beauty is about balance. Let your skin shine, let your lips speak, and let your hair tell the world you’ve arrived.
0 Comments

3 Milan Skincare Tips Every Boss Babe Traveler Needs

10/3/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Milan is more than just the capital of fashion—it’s a city that demands long walks, late-night dinners, and a lot of time outside soaking up the scene. Between the city smog, back-to-back exploring, and of course, indulging in an Aperol Spritz or two, your skin can take a hit here. As much as I love strutting through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, I also know that protecting my skin has to be just as much of a priority as choosing the right outfit.

Here are my three Milan-tested skincare tips to keep your glow intact while living your best boss babe life:

1. SPF Always, Even in the Fall
Milan may not feel tropical, but don’t let the cooler temps fool you—UV rays don’t care about the season. Protecting your skin is a year-round commitment. I never leave the hotel without applying SPF, even under my makeup. For this trip, I packed my favorite Skin by Brownlee & Co. sunscreen. It’s lightweight, layers perfectly under foundation, and doesn’t leave that dreaded white cast. Plus, it gave me peace of mind knowing I could wander through Duomo Square, shop in Brera, or sip espresso outdoors without sacrificing my skin’s future. Because let’s be real—wrinkles and sun spots are not part of the glow-up plan.

2. Don’t Skip a Hydrating Cleanser
City air = pollution = clogged pores. And when you’re hopping from museums to boutiques, your skin collects more dirt than you think. At the end of a long Milanese day, I reached for my Botanic Hydrating Cleanser from Skin by Brownlee & Co. It’s gentle yet powerful enough to wash away city grime without stripping my skin. My post-cleanse glow felt like a reset button after hours of sightseeing. Pro tip: double cleansing at night (oil first, then hydrating cleanser) is a must if you’ve been wearing makeup all day.
​
3. Indulge in an Italian Pharmacy Stop
Just like Paris, Italy has a pharmacy culture that feels like a hidden skincare treasure hunt. Don’t sleep on it! In Milan, I discovered brands I’d never seen in the U.S. One standout? Avène Hydrating Thermal Water Spray—a cult favorite here. Perfect for refreshing your skin mid-day, soothing irritation from pollution, or giving you that “just left the spa” feeling. Pharmacies here also carry luxurious body creams and serums at prices that make stocking up a no-brainer.

Your skin deserves as much luxury as your wardrobe when in Milan. It’s easy to get caught up shopping for Prada, but don’t forget to shop for peptides, too. Protect, cleanse, and treat your skin like the VIP it is, and I promise you’ll glow just as hard as the Milan streetlights at night.
0 Comments

Black Woman Traveling Solo in Milan: My Experience + Travel Tips

9/26/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
After leaving London, my next stop on this Mo on the Go journey was Milan. Now, this isn’t my first time in the city of fashion, but sometimes even familiar places deserve a fresh perspective—and in my case, some updated content for my blog. Milan is one of those cities that always feels chic, stylish, and inspiring, no matter how many times you return.

I booked my flight with easyJet, which has quickly become my favorite affordable airline while traveling abroad. If you’re looking for budget-friendly ways to hop between cities in Europe, it’s a great option. My flight was smooth and quick, landing me in Milan Linate Airport—different from where I’ve flown into before. Linate is closer to the city than Malpensa, which makes it a convenient choice.

But let me pause here for a second: I couldn’t help but notice that I was the only Black person on my flight. And while this isn’t new to me—I’m used to the stares and the curiosity—I always take note of it. Representation matters. I want to see more of us—Black women, Black travelers—taking up space abroad, experiencing the world, and living boldly in places that were never “off-limits” to us, even if we were told otherwise. Every time I walk through a terminal, sit on a flight, or wander a new city, I remind myself that I belong here. And I want more of us to know that we belong here too.

Now, let me give you a little pro tip if you’re heading into Milan: don’t take an Uber from the airport. I know it’s tempting to hit that app, but trust me—grabbing a taxi will save you money and often get you there just as quickly.
​
When I finally arrived at my hotel, I was more than ready to drop my bags, slip into something comfortable, and hunt down my first slice of authentic Milanese pizza. Because listen, pizza just hits different in Italy. Crispy, chewy crust, gooey cheese, fresh toppings—there’s truly nothing like it.

What I love about Milan is that it has layers. Of course, it’s the fashion capital of the world—you’ll see couture walking down the street casually, as if it’s just a normal Tuesday. But it’s also a city of food, history, and energy. The Duomo still takes my breath away every time I see it. The shopping? Top tier. The vibes? Unmatched.

Traveling to Milan again reminded me why I started Mo on the Go in the first place: not just to document the places I’ve been, but to encourage other women—especially Black women—to see the world for themselves. To know it’s possible, it’s doable, and it’s worth it.
​
So, with a belly full of pizza and a camera full of new content, I’ll say it the Milanese way: Ciao for now!
0 Comments

How I Beat Jet Lag in London

9/24/2025

1 Comment

 
Picture
Traveling has been such a blessing for my mental health, but let’s be real—it’s also my job. You can’t be a travel blogger and not actually travel, right? So when I found a one-way nonstop flight from Cincinnati to London for under $500, it was a no-brainer. London was calling, and I had to answer.

Now, one of the most common questions I get is: Don’t you get jet lagged? And the truth is… not really. Or at least, not anymore. Over the years, I’ve figured out a few tricks to help me feel human when hopping across time zones. London is five hours ahead of Cincinnati, so your body definitely feels the shift—but with the right routine, it doesn’t have to knock you out.

Here are my tried-and-true tips to beat jet lag and hit the ground running:

1. Stay Hydrated 
This might sound simple, but it’s major. Airplane air is dry, and dehydration will have you feeling sluggish before you even land. I always travel with a refillable water bottle, and I make it a point to sip throughout the flight. I limit alcohol and caffeine (okay, I’ll still have my matcha latte before boarding—but after that, it’s water only). Staying hydrated keeps your skin glowing and your energy levels more balanced.

2. Keep Going 
As tempting as it is to collapse into bed the minute you check into your hotel—don’t do it! The secret is to push through until your normal bedtime in your new city. When I landed in London, I went straight to my hotel, showered, changed, and then went out to explore. By keeping myself moving, I adjusted so much quicker.

3. Reset Your Routine
 Once you’re in your destination, live as if you’ve always been there. For me, that means going to bed around 9–10 p.m. local time and waking up around 7 a.m. I didn’t oversleep or give in to random naps—and by the next morning, I felt completely aligned with London time. The trick is consistency. If you sleep all day, your body will take days to adjust.

4. Move Your Body 
Here’s the bonus tip: get some movement in. I don’t mean running a marathon after a red-eye, but even a short walk around the city or some light stretching in your hotel room can work wonders. Movement wakes your body up, gets your blood flowing, and signals your brain that it’s daytime. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to step outside and soak up your new surroundings.

So there you have it—my four go-to tips for beating jet lag. By staying hydrated, keeping yourself active, resetting your sleep schedule, and moving your body, you can spend less time yawning in your hotel room and more time making memories.
​
London was the perfect first stop, and thanks to these little routines, I was able to enjoy it right away without missing a beat.

Because at the end of the day, Mo on the Go doesn’t slow down for jet lag.
1 Comment

Finding Myself Again After Losing My Dad While Running a Business

9/9/2025

1 Comment

 
Picture
Grief changes you.

When I lost my dad in 2022, it wasn’t just the heartbreak of losing a parent—it was like losing a part of myself. One day you’re in the middle of building dreams, juggling meetings, creating content, strategizing your next big move—and the next, life pulls the rug from under you. Suddenly, everything feels different. The things that used to matter so much feel small. The person you’d call to celebrate every win, or to just check in after a long day, isn’t there anymore. And you’re left trying to figure out how to keep going.

I won’t sugarcoat it: navigating life after dramatically losing my dad has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. As a full-time entrepreneur, I didn’t have the option to just hit “pause” on my responsibilities. Entrepreneurship doesn’t come with PTO, sick days, or someone to step in when you’re falling apart. I had to keep showing up, even when I barely recognized the woman in the mirror.

But here’s the thing—grief doesn’t wait for the right time. It doesn’t check your calendar. It will meet you in the middle of a client call, in between content shoots, or while you’re boarding a flight for your next opportunity. For me, it became this quiet shadow, always there, reminding me of my loss even as I was pushing forward.

Getting back to me after losing my dad has been a process. Not a linear one, either. Some days, I feel like my old self—confident, inspired, and ready to take on the world. Other days, I can’t get out of bed without tears. But slowly, I’ve learned that healing doesn’t mean going back to the person you were before. It means learning who you are now and giving her grace.

As an entrepreneur, I’ve leaned into building a life that honors both my hustle and my heart. I’ve started choosing projects and partnerships that truly light me up. I’ve allowed myself space to grieve without guilt, even when that means saying “no” to opportunities I would’ve jumped on before. I’ve given myself permission to be human—to cry, to rest, to mess up, to start again.

The hardest part? The silence. My dad was one of my biggest supporters, and there are so many times I want to pick up the phone and tell him about a win or ask him for advice. But in that silence, I’ve found a new kind of strength. I carry his voice with me, not out loud, but inside. Every risk I take, every step I make to keep my business alive, is a way of honoring him.

And here’s the lesson I’ve learned: grief and entrepreneurship can coexist, but only if you let go of perfection. Only if you stop pretending you’re “fine” all the time and instead allow yourself to move through the pain while still building something beautiful.

Getting back to me hasn’t been about returning to the woman I was in 2021. She’s gone. Instead, it’s about embracing the woman I’m becoming—the one who’s learned resilience in the face of unimaginable loss, the one who can still sparkle even through the tears, the one who’s redefining success not just as financial wins but as peace of mind.
​
I don’t have all the answers yet. But I know this: I’m still here, I’m still building, and I’m still finding my way back to joy—day by day, project by project, breath by breath.
Because even in grief, even in loss, we can still find our way back to ourselves.
1 Comment

My First Caribana Weekend in Toronto

9/8/2025

17 Comments

 
If you’ve been following my blog for a while, then you remember last summer I had my bags packed and my outfits laid out for Caribana in Toronto—only for life to throw me a curveball. Instead of feathers, fun, and soca music, I spent the weekend in bed with a stubborn sinus infection. Not cute. Not fun. And definitely not the Toronto experience I had been dreaming of.
This year? Redemption. I finally made it to Caribana Weekend in Toronto, and let me tell you—every second was worth the wait.


The Purpose of Caribana
For those unfamiliar, Caribana (officially known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival) is one of the largest cultural festivals in North America, celebrating Caribbean culture, music, and traditions. It’s more than just a parade—it’s a full-on cultural movement. Streets are filled with vibrant costumes, steel pan bands, delicious food, and people from all over the world coming together to celebrate the beauty of Caribbean heritage.
The festival has roots tracing back to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival, but Toronto has made it its own, creating a space where Caribbean culture is not only honored but also shared with the world. It’s an atmosphere you have to experience at least once in your lifetime—the music, the colors, the energy—it’s unmatched.


Destination Toronto Delivered the Eats
When I wasn’t dancing in the streets or soaking up the parade energy, I was eating. And if you know me, you know that’s just as important. Destination Toronto made sure I had some memorable culinary stops on my itinerary, and baby, they did not disappoint.


Bar Mordecai
First up: Bar Mordecai. This spot is giving retro-glam lounge with serious personality. Inspired by Wes Anderson films, it feels like you’ve stepped onto a movie set—complete with bold colors, playful design, and an energy that’s both cool and cozy. I couldn’t help but laugh when I realized I had actually been here before on a date years ago (but that’s a story for another blog post). The nostalgia mixed with the flavor made this stop extra special.


Cocktails are the star of the show here, and they didn’t miss. I tried one of their signature creations that was as beautiful as it was delicious. The menu is designed for sharing, with playful small plates that keep the night flowing. Bar Mordecai is the kind of place where you can start your evening—or end it—knowing it’ll always be memorable.


Casa Morales
Next up was Casa Morales, and listen… this spot stole my heart. It’s a cozy Mexican restaurant with a warm, welcoming vibe.
Casa Morales is all about authentic flavors and hearty portions that make you feel like you’re eating in someone’s home kitchen. Their tacos? Flavor-packed. Their margaritas? On point. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just serve you food—it serves you an experience.


Toronto: The Place to Be
What I love most about Toronto is how alive the city feels—especially in the summer. Caribana is definitely the crown jewel of the season, but honestly, the city doesn’t stop once the feathers and parade floats are put away. From food festivals to art shows to exploring neighborhoods like Kensington Market or Queen Street West, Toronto has an energy that carries you from summer straight into fall and beyond.
​
If you’re looking for a destination to close out your summer—or to plan your next trip any time of year--Toronto is it. Caribana gave me the excuse to finally get here, but the city itself made me want to come back again and again.


Final Thoughts
After missing out last year, finally experiencing Caribana was everything I imagined and more. The celebration, the food, the culture—it all reminded me why travel is so important. It’s about connection, joy, and making memories that stay with you long after the weekend is over.
Toronto gave me all of that and then some. So, if Caribana has been on your bucket list—or if you’re just looking for a vibrant city with amazing food and culture—go ahead and put Toronto at the top of your list. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
17 Comments

Solo in the 6ix – The Truth About Traveling Alone

8/26/2025

7 Comments

 

I’ve been in Toronto since the end of July, and won’t leave until September 4th. On paper, it sounds amazing—living in a new city, exploring, working, creating content, and just being Morgan. Everyone says, “Wow, your life is so glamorous!” And don’t get me wrong—it absolutely has its sparkle. The scenery, the food, the fashion, the freedom of planning my own days—it’s all incredible. But what no one tells you about solo travel is that it can also be… isolating.

Some days, I get hit with this wave of loneliness that I didn’t expect. I miss my Mom, my dog Ralph, and I think about my Dad constantly—especially since losing him. Being away from my “normal life,” from the people and routines that ground you, brings all those feelings to the surface. You start reflecting, sometimes a little too deeply, about life, family, and everything in between. The mental load of managing grief, missing loved ones, and feeling “far from home” is real.

It’s not all dramatic, though—I’m still working. That’s the point of being here in the first place. I’m managing projects, meetings, content, and deadlines all while trying to enjoy this city. But solo travel is a constant juggling act. I have to actively manage my mental health because there’s no “home base” to lean on. There’s no quick hug, no familiar conversation, no late-night venting session. I’ve had to learn how to check in with myself, give myself grace, and find little pockets of joy—even when I’m missing everything else.

Some people think being a solo traveler is all about freedom. And it is…sometimes. But it’s also about patience—waiting for payments, waiting for opportunities to land, and navigating a city that’s new to you, without a built-in support system. You learn quickly that you can only control your actions, your attitude, and your self-care. You also learn the importance of carving out space for stillness, reflection, and even a little indulgence—like sitting in a café with an iced matcha, just watching the city breathe around you.

I’ll be honest: I’ve had moments where I wanted to just cry in my hotel room or talk to my dog on FaceTime like I used to. And that’s okay. Part of traveling solo is giving yourself permission to feel fully—whether that’s joy, awe, loneliness, or longing. You can’t have the highs of exploring a new city without the quiet moments of reckoning.

Toronto has been beautiful, inspiring, and full of opportunities for growth. But the reality behind the scenes is that solo travel is emotionally taxing. It requires balancing the dream with the grind, the excitement with the solitude, and the work with the reflection. And it teaches you something that’s easy to forget in everyday life—you can survive, thrive, and find magic even when you’re doing it all on your own.
​
So yes, I’m here, solo in the 6ix, living my best life on the surface, while also sitting with the complicated, emotional, messy layers underneath. And honestly? That’s what makes it real. Because the sparkle isn’t just in the city—it’s in learning how to hold space for yourself, even when the distance feels long and the nights feel quiet.
7 Comments
<<Previous
    Picture

      Stay In The Know.

    Subscribe to Newsletter

    About Morgan

    Morgan Angelique Owens  is the author of "Finding My Sparkle" and Founder & CEO of the MAO Brand, Professional Pretty, and Curvy Cardio, LLC.
    ​
    Morgan is a dynamic travel and beauty blogger, and a seasoned media correspondent. She has been featured on television programs and in publications all over the country.

    As an entrepreneurial powerhouse—she wears many hats, including Author, Consultant, Speaker, and Brand Ambassador. Morgan uses her vision and voice to coach and uplift women and young girls, sharing the wealth of knowledge and expertise she’s honed in the realms of physical and mental health, beauty, personal empowerment, and lifestyle content.

    With her passion and fashion-forward savvy, Morgan bridges the gap between brands and underserved audiences, creating authentic connections.

    ​She is dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses to invest in their futures and discover their own sparkle.

    Archives

    October 2025
    September 2025
    August 2025
    July 2025
    June 2025
    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    November 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    June 2023
    January 2023
    November 2022
    October 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020

    Categories

    All
    Beauty
    Cooking
    Fashion
    Fitness
    Lifestyle
    Skincare

    RSS Feed

    Let's Work Together!
    Email Me

Company

About
​
Shop
​


Support

Contact
FAQ
Terms of Use
​Privacy Policy
​Return Policy (All Sales final)
© COPYRIGHT 2015. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.