|
I probably just needed a hug, but instead, I booked a flight to Cancun, Mexico.
After spending nearly two transformative weeks in London, coming back to the States felt like a crash landing. No cushion. No pause. Just a hard shift back into grind mode. I knew I had to get back to business—finalizing the details and pushing ticket sales for my Professional Pretty Conference. And I did just that. In one week, I locked in my goal and sold out the conference. Mission accomplished. I told myself I wouldn’t travel again until after the event—aside from a one-night Beyoncé experience in Chicago (because… Queen Bey is therapy, too) and a brief Miami recharge. But as Memorial Day weekend approached, I could feel something bubbling under the surface. I was tired. Mentally, emotionally, and spiritually tired. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I needed something more than sleep—I needed a reset. Not a spa day. Not a nap. I needed sun, stillness, and space. The idea of being near the ocean, disconnected from constant demands, started to sound like a form of survival. I brought it up in therapy, almost laughing at myself, unsure if I was just being impulsive. But my therapist said something powerful: “If that’s what your spirit needs to recharge, book the flight.” So, I did. Was it in the budget? Not really. Did I care? Not at all. Grief has a way of distorting your internal compass. Since losing my dad, I’ve felt unmoored. Some days, I’m on top of my to-do list. Other days, I’m trying to remember to eat or breathe. My therapist described this stage as “confusion.” That word fits like a glove. I feel like I’m floating between functioning and feeling, succeeding and surviving. Cancun wasn’t about escape—it was about clarity. I booked the flight, set up my hotels, and reached out to my photographer friend in Mexico for a content shoot—something I hadn’t done since last year. That moment reminded me that I’m still a creative. I’m still me. In Mexico, I gave myself permission to just be. I laid by the pool, let the sun kiss my skin, sipped passionfruit margaritas, and rested. Not the kind of sleep you get in between deadlines—but real, soul-nourishing rest. I remembered what it feels like to be still without guilt. This wasn’t just a trip. It was a reset. A restart. A reclamation. The Professional Pretty Conference is less than two weeks away, and I’m going into it with a renewed sense of purpose. I created this event to inspire and uplift women who, like me, juggle dreams and deadlines, grief and glam, ambition and anxiety. And now, more than ever, I understand the power of carving out space for yourself—whether that’s through travel, therapy, or turning off your phone. So if you're reading this and feeling like you're running on empty, I hope this is your sign: Take the break. Book the flight. Honor your feelings. You deserve it. The best version of yourself is on the other side of rest.
0 Comments
 Five years of glow-ups, globe-trotting, and giving Black women the beauty, travel, and lifestyle content we deserve--Professional Pretty Blog just turned five, and we celebrated in style! The "Tini Bit Older" Celebration was more than just a birthday—it was a full-on experience filled with community, connection, and curated self-care vibes.
Hosted by founder and media maven Morgan Angelique Owens, the celebration brought out the city’s finest to honor the journey of a blog that has inspired and empowered women for half a decade. With a backdrop of good music, stylish decor, and plenty of "tinis" in hand, attendees enjoyed an evening full of fun, food, and fabulous vendors. The space was buzzing with energy as guests shopped from local Black-owned businesses, sampled delicious bites, and posed for selfies with their favorite beauty bestie—Morgan herself. As someone who has dedicated her platform to showing up authentically for her audience, Morgan didn’t just stop at the party—she gave her community something real to take home. During the celebration, Morgan shared her journey of rebranding and relaunching Professional Pretty Blog, turning it into more than a platform—it’s now a full lifestyle movement. From vulnerability and vision to strategic glow-ups, she gave insight into how she’s remained consistent and creative, even in the face of challenges. One of the highlights of the event? Morgan’s interactive workshop on how to "Keep Your Glow On While Traveling"—a nod to the travel-friendly beauty gems she swears by. With the help of Palmers, guests learned how to maintain healthy, radiant skin on-the-go and received tips on keeping their hair hydrated and protected while hopping on planes and living their best lives. From coconut oil formulas to deep conditioning hacks, the crowd left with travel-sized goodies and even bigger takeaways. Morgan took a moment to thank the sponsors who made the event possible, shouting out each partner who believes in the mission of Professional Pretty: to empower, uplift, and educate women—especially Black women—through the lens of beauty, wellness, and travel. To keep the celebration going, Morgan invited attendees and supporters to join the Professional Pretty Blog email list, where she’ll continue sharing exclusive tips, travel guides, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes boss babe content. As we raise a glass to five years of Professional Pretty, one thing’s for sure—this is only the beginning. Whether you’ve been rocking with the blog since day one or you’re just getting started, now’s the perfect time to plug in, level up, and stay glowing. Your heart health is essential to living a long, vibrant life. Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death among Black women, but the good news is that exercise can help reduce these risks. Pilates, a low-impact workout, offers unique benefits for improving heart health while also enhancing strength and flexibility. Here are three ways Pilates can help you prioritize your heart health and overall wellness.
Strengthen your core and boost circulation Pilates focuses on strengthening the core, which includes the muscles in your abdomen, back, and pelvis. When these muscles are strong, they support better posture, improved balance, and more efficient movement. But Pilates doesn’t just work your core—it also promotes better circulation throughout your entire body. Through controlled breathing and flowing movements, Pilates increases blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs. This process supports cardiovascular health by improving circulation and reducing strain on the heart. Even just 20 to 30 minutes of Pilates a few times a week can help make your heart stronger and healthier. Reduce stress and lower blood pressure Stress is a major contributor to high blood pressure and heart disease, and Black women often face unique stressors that impact their health. Pilates incorporates deep breathing and mindful movement, which can help you relax and reduce stress levels. Engaging in Pilates regularly can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and promote feelings of calm and well-being. Pilates also helps lower blood pressure over time. As you practice, you’ll improve your body’s ability to handle physical and emotional stressors, creating a healthier environment for your heart. Whether you’re doing mat Pilates at home or attending a studio class, you’ll leave feeling more centered and in control. Build endurance and improve heart efficiency Although Pilates is often considered a low-impact workout, it can still provide cardiovascular benefits when done consistently. Exercises like leg circles, plank variations, and Pilates push-ups engage multiple muscle groups and get your heart rate up without putting unnecessary strain on your joints. Over time, this can improve your endurance and the efficiency of your heart. For a heart-healthy Pilates routine, try incorporating a mix of traditional mat exercises and faster-paced sequences that challenge your stamina. The result? A stronger, more resilient heart that supports you in every aspect of your life. Prioritizing your heart health doesn’t have to involve high-intensity workouts. Pilates offers an approachable, effective way to strengthen your heart, reduce stress, and improve circulation. It’s not just a workout—it’s a form of self-care that nurtures your mind and body. For more tips and resources on heart health and wellness, visit The Health Gap, a trusted resource dedicated to empowering Black women to live healthier lives. The countdown to the New Year is on, and as we prepare to welcome 2025, it’s the perfect time to refresh, recharge, and revamp your beauty routine. This is the season of celebrating, setting intentions, and stepping into the new year as your most radiant self. But before you pop the champagne, make sure your beauty maintenance is on point. Here’s a guide to help you get ready for the big night—and beyond!
1. Start with Skincare Goals Your skin is the foundation of your glow, so give it some extra TLC before the new year. Start with a professional facial to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate. Treatments like dermaplaning or a chemical peel can leave your skin smooth and radiant. If you’re doing at-home maintenance, invest in a good exfoliator like Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial and follow up with a hydrating serum such as The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. These steps will ensure your makeup sits beautifully for all your holiday celebrations. Pro tip: If your skin is prone to dryness during the winter months, switch to a richer moisturizer, like Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, and don’t forget your SPF—even in December! 2. Hair Care Refresh Whether you’re rocking natural curls, a sleek bob, or protective styles like braids or twists, this is the perfect time to update your look or refresh your current style. Book a salon appointment for a trim or deep-conditioning treatment to keep your hair healthy and strong. For those sporting protective styles, ensure your edges are thriving. Thinking about a color change or a bold new cut? Now’s the time to experiment. A fresh look is a great way to step into the New Year with confidence. 3. Nail Your Nail Game Your hands will be doing a lot of cheers-ing, so make sure they’re photo-ready. Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure in festive shades like deep reds, metallic golds, or classic nudes. If you’re into nail art, consider a chic design to match your New Year’s Eve outfit. For at-home maintenance, use OPI Nail Lacquer and a nourishing cuticle oil like Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil to keep your nails in shape. 4. Lash & Brow Love Lashes and brows frame your face and give you that polished look. Book an appointment for a lash lift, extensions, or brow shaping to enhance your natural features. If you prefer a DIY approach, Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz and Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara are staples for bold, defined looks. 5. Don’t Forget Your Body Glowing skin isn’t just for your face. Exfoliate your body with a luxurious scrub like Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish, then lock in moisture with a rich body butter like Fenty Skin Butta Drop. Finish with a soft fragrance like Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede Cologne to leave a lasting impression. By taking the time to prioritize your beauty maintenance, you’ll not only look amazing but feel ready to take on 2025 with confidence and grace. Cheers to a beautiful New Year! The Importance of Heart Health for Black Women
Heart health is a critical yet often overlooked topic for Black women. As the backbone of our families and communities, we often prioritize others’ needs above our own. However, statistics show that heart disease is the leading cause of death for Black women, making it essential for us to take action to protect our health. The Black Women’s Health Movement powered by The Health Gap is a vital initiative addressing health disparities and empowering Black women to live longer, healthier lives. Why Heart Health Matters Black women face unique challenges regarding heart health. Factors like stress, lack of access to quality healthcare, and systemic inequalities contribute to an increased risk of hypertension, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Add to this a demanding lifestyle, and it’s easy to see why self-care often takes a back seat. But your heart health is non-negotiable—it’s a foundation for living your best life and showing up fully for the people you care about. Steps to Prioritize Heart Health
For years, I’ve proudly partnered with The Black Women’s Health Movement powered by The Health Gap. This initiative provides education, resources, and a supportive community for Black women to take charge of their health. From free fitness classes to health screenings, it equips us with the tools to prioritize our well-being. Heart health isn’t just about living longer—it’s about thriving. Take the first step by visiting closingthehealthgap.org for resources and information. Together, we can close the health gap and build a future where our wellness is at the forefront. Let’s protect our hearts and our power, one beat at a time. Living abroad has been an incredibly transformative experience for my mental health, especially after the unexpected loss of my dad. Losing him was one of the most challenging moments in my life, leaving a profound void that I struggled to fill. Navigating grief while adjusting to a new culture forced me to prioritize my well-being in ways I hadn’t done before.
In a foreign environment, I found the space to process my emotions without the usual distractions of daily life back home. This transition allowed me to confront my feelings head-on. Each day became an invitation to step out of my comfort zone, rediscover who I am, and rebuild my confidence. Whether it was trying new foods, meeting people from different walks of life, or exploring the vibrant culture around me, every experience contributed to my healing process. Being surrounded by new sights and sounds reminded me of the beauty of life, even amid loss. Immersing myself in a different culture offered me fresh perspectives, shifting my focus from grief to gratitude. The routine of daily life abroad became a grounding element, helping me maintain a sense of normalcy and stability. Engaging in self-care practices—like journaling, exercising, and practicing mindfulness—became integral to my journey. I learned to prioritize my mental health actively and to seek joy in the little things, like a beautiful sunset or a friendly smile from a stranger. Moreover, living abroad has emphasized the importance of community. I formed connections with people who understood the challenges of living in a new place, and many had their own stories of loss and resilience. These relationships created a supportive network that helped me feel less isolated in my grief. Sharing experiences and hearing others’ stories of overcoming adversity has been incredibly empowering and has reminded me that I am not alone. Over time, I discovered that exploring new surroundings and developing a different rhythm to my life helped me feel more connected to myself and the world around me. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been incredibly healing. It has reminded me that even in the face of loss, there is still beauty, growth, and hope to be found in the unknown. Embracing change has become a part of my healing process, encouraging me to honor my dad’s memory by living fully and authentically. For a chic Thanksgiving twist, here are three drink and lipstick pairings that will elevate your holiday vibe! Each pairing is inspired by the rich, warm tones and flavors of the season, creating a perfectly polished look to go with your favorite Thanksgiving cocktails.
Here are three festive Thanksgiving drink and lipstick pairings to bring some sparkle to your holiday look: 1. Cranberry Mule + Deep Cranberry Lipstick
2. Pumpkin Spice Martini + Warm Nude Lipstick
3. Apple Cider Mimosa + Classic Red Lipstick
These drink and lipstick pairings add style to your Thanksgiving celebration, bringing together seasonal flavors and shades that pop in holiday photos! Heart health is a crucial component of overall well-being, especially for Black women. As leaders in our families, communities, and careers, we carry a unique set of stressors that can take a toll on our cardiovascular health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Black women, but with intentional lifestyle changes and awareness, we can take proactive steps to protect our hearts.
1. Prioritize Physical Activity Moving your body regularly is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Activities like walking, dancing, or yoga not only strengthen your heart but also reduce stress levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. If you're looking for inspiration or a supportive community, consider programs through the Black Women’s Health Movement powered by The Health Gap. They offer fitness classes and events designed to empower Black women on their health journey. 2. Embrace Heart-Healthy Nutrition A balanced diet is key to heart health. Incorporate whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, are excellent for heart health. Limit sodium, sugar, and processed foods to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. For recipe ideas and tips, visit closingthehealthgap.org. 3. Manage Stress and Prioritize Self-Care Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health, so finding ways to manage stress is vital. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or spending time with loved ones, prioritize activities that bring you joy and peace. The Black Women’s Health Movement also emphasizes mental health as part of overall wellness, offering resources to help you find balance. Taking care of your heart means taking care of yourself. Explore more tips and tools to keep your heart healthy by visiting closingthehealthgap.org. Together, we can empower ourselves and each other to live healthier, happier lives. Traveling doesn’t mean you have to pause your fitness goals, especially as a Black woman participating in The Black Women’s Health Movement by The Health Gap—a powerful initiative encouraging us to prioritize our health despite the barriers we often face. I’ve been proud to partner with The Black Women’s Health Movement for years, advocating for wellness and empowering Black women to take charge of their physical and mental health. Balancing fitness and travel may seem challenging, but with the right approach, you can stay consistent and empowered wherever you go.
1. Pack Smart for Fitness The key to maintaining your workout routine while traveling is preparation. Pack versatile activewear that transitions from workouts to casual outings, lightweight sneakers, and resistance bands. Use fitness apps like Nike Training Club for quick, effective workouts you can do in your hotel room or Airbnb. These small investments in your fitness align with the mission of The Black Women’s Health Movement by The Health Gap. 2. Use What You Have No gym? No problem. Many cities have public parks or walking trails that let you combine fitness with exploring your destination. Use hotel furniture for tricep dips, step-ups, or core exercises. Near a beach or body of water? Try yoga or stretching with a scenic view to nurture both body and soul. 3. Make It Part of Your Itinerary Incorporate physical activity into your travel plans. Schedule walking tours, hikes, or even local dance classes that reflect the culture of your destination. Prioritizing movement helps address the health disparities that disproportionately affect Black women, such as heart disease and diabetes, and aligns with The Health Gap’s focus on creating healthier communities. The Black Women’s Health Movement by The Health Gap is about more than fitness—it’s about reclaiming our power, choosing ourselves, and making wellness an everyday priority. By staying active while traveling, we continue advocating for a healthier future—one city, one sweat session, and one step at a time. For more information about The Black Women’s Health Movement by The Health Gap, visit closingthehealthgap.org. Stay motivated and keep moving—you’ve got this!  Time is just flying by here in Toronto, and I can’t believe it’s already been 24 days! My Saturday kicked off with a Booty HIIT class at Sweat and Tonic, one of my favorite spots in the city. This place has become a sanctuary for me; the vibes, the energy, and the results are unmatched. I truly wish we had something like this back in the States because, honey, my body would be at 100000 if we did. After class, I grabbed my usual avocado toast and an S&T recovery smoothie. I almost tried something different today but decided to save that for Sunday.
After my workout, it was time to head back to the hotel for a quick shower, change, and get dressed for the day. I knew I needed to shoot some content, so I took my time doing my hair and makeup. Working out really makes my hair sweat out, but I’m okay with that because my body is my top priority right now. I don’t mind taking the extra time to dry my hair and re-curl it. Priorities, right? Next on my list was a trip to Holt Renfrew, which is just down the street from the hotel. This place is like Canada’s version of Saks or Neiman Marcus—it’s got all the designers you could dream of and more. I went in with a mission: to pick up a bodysuit from Skims. I’ve been thinking about incorporating more compression wear into my daily routine to keep everything tight and right. I’ve been avoiding Holt Renfrew for most of my stay here because I’m really trying to be more financially responsible. I’m only spending money on things I truly love or that are an investment in myself—and I’ve been doing really well with that! Now, that doesn’t mean I can’t window shop. There were some Dior slides I was eyeing, and let me tell you, it took all my willpower not to order them. I’m proud of myself for that, but I did allow myself a little bit of browsing. After all, what’s the harm in looking? They even had a cute cafe where the shoe department was so I stopped and got a healthy brunch. After leaving Holt Renfrew, I decided to walk back to the hotel instead of calling a Lyft—more cardio, of course! On the way, I stopped at Chipotle to grab a chicken bowl because I knew I had a lot of catching up to do on my writing. So, I put myself on a little “punishment” and stayed in my room until I made some significant progress on work. I had some plans for the evening, but let’s be real: Auntie was tired, and I ended up going to bed at 9:30 p.m. What a wild Saturday night, right? But you know what? I don’t even mind. Sometimes, the best nights are the ones where you get some extra rest. Stay tuned for more updates! |
About MorganMorgan Angelique Owens is the author of "Finding My Sparkle" and Founder & CEO of the MAO Brand, Professional Pretty, and Curvy Cardio, LLC. Archives
May 2025
Categories
All
Let's Work Together!
Email Me |
RSS Feed