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

1. Know Your Numbers: Regular checkups are key. Understand your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, and work with your healthcare provider to manage them.
2. Move Your Body: Exercise doesn’t have to be intimidating. Activities like walking, dancing, or yoga can significantly improve heart health. The Black Women’s Health Movement hosts events and programs that encourage physical activity, making fitness accessible and fun.
3. Eat with Intention: Incorporate heart-healthy foods into your diet, such as leafy greens, berries, and lean proteins. Reducing sodium and processed foods is also a game-changer.

The Role of The Black Women’s Health Movement
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

• Drink: The Cranberry Mule takes the traditional Moscow Mule and adds a splash of tart cranberry juice, garnished with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a holiday feel.
• Lipstick: Pair this with a bold, deep cranberry lipstick for a look that’s both festive and classic. This color complements the rich berry tones of the drink and gives you a sophisticated yet seasonal pop of color.
• Why It Works: Both the drink and the lip color have that perfect balance of cool and warm undertones, making it universally flattering and perfect for a Thanksgiving look.

2. Pumpkin Spice Martini + Warm Nude Lipstick

• Drink: The Pumpkin Spice Martini combines vanilla vodka, cream liqueur, and a dash of pumpkin spice, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s basically fall in a glass!
• Lipstick: A warm nude lipstick with a hint of peachy undertone complements the creamy hues of the Pumpkin Spice Martini, providing a subtle yet glamorous look.
• Why It Works: The cozy, warm tones of this pairing evoke the essence of fall, allowing you to go bold with your eye makeup or keep it natural for an effortless, chic holiday look.

3. Apple Cider Mimosa + Classic Red Lipstick

• Drink: This Thanksgiving twist on a mimosa combines crisp apple cider with sparkling wine or champagne, garnished with a thin apple slice and cinnamon rim for a festive touch.
• Lipstick: A classic red lipstick adds a glamorous pop that contrasts beautifully with the drink’s golden hues, making it perfect for holiday photos and gatherings.
• Why It Works: The classic red lip is an iconic holiday look, and paired with the bubbly apple cider mimosa, it’s an instant pick-me-up that radiates confidence and warmth.

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!

What a dream day! I got to shop and get paid for it—honestly, does it get any better than that? Okay, story time! Back in the States, I had a campaign with Simon Malls, and they assigned me to the Fashion Mall in Indianapolis. This was back in early July. It’s about an hour and 45-minute drive from Cincinnati, so I made the trip to shoot my content. Since I was already there, I hit up my friend who’s a photographer to snag some shots at the mall and help me create more content. When you’re there, you might as well maximize the moment, right?


One of the things I love about the Fashion Mall is that they have a Saks Fifth Avenue. We lost our Saks in Cincinnati a few years ago, and I was heartbroken! Growing up, my mom and I would shop there, even before I fully understood just how glorious Saks really is. Later on, I lived downtown, right down the street from Saks, and I used to love window shopping, checking out all the beautiful bags, shoes, and clothes. Unfortunately, our store started to go downhill with fewer and fewer options. And when I heard Chanel was leaving, I knew it was over.


So, after I shot and submitted my content, they came back with some edit requests. By that time, though, I was already preparing to travel for Essence Fest and then to Toronto for five weeks. So I asked if I could shoot at the Toronto Premium Outlet instead (which is still Simon Malls' property). They said yes! Girl, I love that outlet, and the best part is that with my U.S. dollar being worth more here, I felt like I was getting designer deals for even less—hello, girl math!


After spending way too much time at the outlet (no regrets!), I headed back to my hotel to get ready for dinner. Shoutout to Tameika, a Toronto-based publicist who’s been putting me onto all the best things to do here. She connected me with Chambers Steakhouse, who wanted to host us in exchange for a review and content. When it comes to food, you don’t have to ask me twice!


The steakhouse was AMAZING. We didn’t even order off the menu—they gave us a full tasting menu, bringing out dish after dish. Everything from octopus, steak, bread, sides, and desserts was on point. If you’re ever in Toronto, this place is a must! The whole vibe is aesthetically pleasing, perfect for pictures. Whether you’re solo, with your girls, or on a romantic date, Chambers won’t disappoint.


After all that, I was DONE for the day. I went back to the hotel, rubbed my feet together, and called it a night.


Stay tuned for more adventures!

Today was a full-on self-care and maintenance kind of day—your girl needed it! I kicked things off with my usual morning workout at Sweat & Tonic. It’s basically my go-to spot whenever I’m in Toronto. After getting in a good sweat session, I grabbed my favorite post-workout fuel: a smoothie and avocado toast. You already know I’m all about that balance!

Next, it was time to head over to Snatched TO and see my girl Nyat. For those of you who are new here, I’m a firm believer in doing whatever makes you feel good in your skin. I’ve been getting aesthetic treatments for over a decade, and I’m always super transparent about it. Whether it’s Botox or filler, I’ve talked about it, posted about it, and even written about it multiple times. It’s part of my self-care routine, and I’m all for people embracing what works for them.
I found Nyat last year when I was searching for an injector who not only understood my features as a woman of color but also wouldn’t overdo it. That’s SO important when it comes to treatments like this. I love how she really listens to me and gets the subtle enhancements I’m going for. For me, Botox and fillers are all about maintaining what I already have and adding a little extra juiciness where needed. It’s preventative maintenance more than anything. I know this approach isn’t for everyone, and that’s totally fine, but it’s what keeps me feeling like my best self.
Today’s visit was all about a quick lip touch-up. I’ve always had full lips, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed little lip lines creeping in, and I prefer to smooth those out with a bit of filler. Nothing drastic—just enough to keep everything looking fresh and plump.
After my appointment with Nyat, it was time for some real relaxation. I headed over to Mind Body Flow for a Brazilian lymphatic massage. If you haven’t tried one yet, you’re seriously missing out! This type of massage is great for reducing bloating, detoxing the body, and helping to keep everything tight and snatched. The amazing girl who worked on me, Ashley, was super sweet and really knowledgeable. She gave me some great tips on how to keep working toward my stomach goals. I love when my self-care day comes with a little extra advice on how to stay on track!
Once I was fully pampered, I grabbed a quick bite to eat and headed back to my cozy spot at the Hilton Canopy. I did a little bit of work—just to stay on top of things—but honestly, today was all about me, and I was more than okay with that. Sometimes you just need a day to pour into yourself and get back to feeling 100%.
Self-care days like these remind me that being a baddie is a full-time job, but trust me, it’s one I’m happy to do!
Stay tuned for more, because there’s always something next on the agenda!

Happy Hump Day, y'all! Today was one for the books—busy, productive, and just the right amount of extra. My friends at Easton Group, who I’ve been working with at the Hilton Canopy, reached out and asked if I could do a photoshoot for another stunning property of theirs, the Revery Hotel. If you’ve been keeping up with my blog, you might remember me mentioning this place during the Girls Night Out post. Naturally, I said yes—because why not lend a helping hand to my Toronto fam?

But first, let’s talk about the workout. I kicked off the morning with another intense Sweat & Tonic session, this time opting for a Lift HIIT class. Let me tell you, these classes are no walk in the park. Don’t let the cute, girly aesthetics of Sweat & Tonic fool you—these workouts mean business. Today’s session focused on HIIT training combined with weightlifting, and whew, it nearly took me out. I swear, I've never sweated this much in my life. But hey, that’s what I’m here for—pushing myself, getting stronger, and proving to myself that I can handle whatever comes my way.

After class, I made sure to thank the instructor, who was a gem, by the way. She helped me out a few times during the workout, and I really appreciated her support (and the ass-kicking). Of course, I couldn’t leave Sweat & Tonic without grabbing my usual smoothie and avocado toast. These have become my post-workout staples, and honestly, they’re life. I had to take them to go, though, because I needed to get back to the hotel and freshen up—hair, makeup, the whole nine yards. My hair was completely sweated out from the workout, so I had to redo everything before heading to the photoshoot.

Now, let’s get into the shoot. I packed my carry-on with everything I thought I’d need for the day. Since this shoot wasn’t planned in advance, I had to work with what I had, but I’m always up for a challenge. If you know me, you know I like to shoot in short increments—quick, efficient, and done. But today was different. This shoot was a full three hours, and let me tell you, it was a test of my stamina. To add to the challenge, I typically don’t eat much before a shoot, so I was running on just my smoothie and a handful of almonds. But you know what? I powered through.

The Revery Hotel is gorgeous, and they had me doing all the things—bathtub shots, bathroom shots, bed shots. It was a full-on content creation marathon, but it was also a reminder that this work, while glamorous on the surface, takes a lot of effort. You have to make sure your body is positioned just right, your facial expressions are on point, and your angles are top-tier. It’s not as easy as it looks, but that’s the beauty of it. When you see the final product, it all feels worth it.
After we wrapped up the shoot, the team treated me to dinner, and I was READY. TO. EAT. I’ve been pretty disciplined with my eating lately, so I made healthy choices for the most part, but when spinach and artichoke dip is on the menu? You already know I’m folding every time. No regrets!
​
By the time we finished, it was only 6:30 pm, but y'all, auntie was ready to crawl into bed. I made my way back to the Canopy, and you best believe I went straight to my room, got cozy, and rubbed my feet together under the covers. The perfect end to a hectic day.