Cece In The City

Tag: blogs

  • Happy Wednesday from Cece in the City ❄️✨

    Happy Wednesday, friends! It’s midweek, it’s cold here in the South (yes, cold cold 😅), and I hope you’re bundled up, sipping something warm, and taking a breath. As January winds down—this is the last week of the month—I had a chance to get out, explore, and say yes to new things. And honestly? What a way to kick off 2026.

    January Adventures Around the City 🎭🍦🍽️

    This month was about trying places I’d heard about forever and finally saying, “Okay, let’s go.” From classic favorites to immersive experiences, Atlanta (and beyond) showed out:

    • Hooters – A throwback spot with its own place in history. Love it or side‑eye it, it’s definitely a piece of Americana.
    • Italian Pie – A classic pizza spot serving up New York–style slices with Italian roots. From hand-tossed dough to rich sauces, it’s comfort food that reflects generations of Italian-American food culture.
    • Medieval Times – Dinner and a show? Yes, please. Knights, jousting, and royal drama inspired by medieval European tournaments—it’s like stepping into a history book.
    • The Red Phone Booth – A hidden gem with a vintage London vibe that takes you back to the Prohibition-era speakeasy days. Classic, classy, and very Atlanta.
    • The Vortex – An Atlanta legend. Known for bold burgers and big personality, this spot has been holding it down since the ‘90s.
    • Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen – A beautiful celebration of Gullah Geechee culture, food, and history. This one hits deep—flavor with meaning.
    • Cirque du Soleil: Luzia – A stunning mix of acrobatics, art, and storytelling inspired by Mexican culture. Visually breathtaking and unforgettable.

    If you missed any of these adventures, make sure you check out the other blogs—I’ve got all the details waiting for you.

    📚 Cece’s Book of the Moment

    This month’s read was Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins‑Valdez, inspired by true events.

    Whew… this one was heavy but important. The story sheds light on painful history tied to a clinic in the 1970s and the injustices faced by young girls and their families. It’s one of those books that makes you pause, reflect, and pray for those who endured such tragedies.

    Sad? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely.

    ⭐ Cece’s Rating: 4 out of 5

    If you’re a reader who appreciates historical fiction that teaches while it moves you, this is worth your time.

    👉 Grab your copy here: https://amzn.to/49YbMUv

    🎬 Cece on the Scene: Movie Night

    Now this one is an older release, but I finally got around to watching Bob Marley: One Love.

    The film tells the story of Bob Marley’s life, music, and impact—and it was fascinating to see his journey on screen. I’ve visited Jamaica before and went to Bob Marley Park, so watching this felt personal. Bob Marley wasn’t just a musician; he was (and still is) a global symbol of peace, resilience, and Jamaican pride.

    Hearing songs I already love woven into his story made it even better.

    ⭐ Cece’s Rating: 4 out of 5

    If you haven’t seen it yet, add it to your watch list.

    🧇 Bonus Treat for the Family 👑

    👑🧇 Check out the Waffle Queen Coloring Book!
    Perfect for kids—and adults who love to color and relax.

    💛 Only $7.99
    👉 Grab yours at GlynisKitchen.com

    What’s Next for Wher it Begins & Cece in theCity? 💍✈️

    As we roll into February, I’m officially expanding deeper into the Wedding and Travel space with my blogs and Where It Begins magazine. New cities, new love stories, new experiences—and I can’t wait to share them with you.

    ✨ If you’re a vendor, business owner, wedding professional, or travel brand, definitely reach out. Let’s collaborate and create something beautiful.

    Until next time… stay warm, stay curious, and keep exploring.

    — Cece 💕

  • Midweek Magic: Movies, Books & Cece in the City

    Hey everyone! Happy Wednesday—midweek and we’re getting somewhere!
    January has been busy, a little chaotic, and definitely interesting, but that’s how we like it around here. So let’s jump right into Cece on the Scene 🎬📚

    🎬 Cece on the Scene: Sinners

    Now listen… this movie might be old news to some of y’all, but I’m just getting around to watching Sinners—and whew 😮‍💨. In case you didn’t know, this film comes with vampires and two Michael B. Jordans. Yes, TWO. History-making in its own right because honestly, one is already enough to cause a distraction.

    I don’t usually lean toward vampire or evil-themed movies, but Michael B. Jordan ate this role up. No crumbs left. I’m giving it a solid 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐. Beyond the action and dark energy, the message hit: sometimes the devil is after you, evil will try to creep in, and you’ve got to stay grounded so it doesn’t get the best of you.

    If you’re into thrillers with a deeper meaning and haven’t seen it yet, check it out—and let me know what you think.

    📚 Cece Reads: Summer in the City by Alex Aster

    Now let’s switch gears and get into Cece Reads 📖. I just finished Summer in the City by Alex Aster, and let me tell you—this one was right up my alley. I love books centered around journalists, writers, travel, and romance, and this story delivered all of that.

    Another 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ for me. The book reminds us that independence is powerful—go out, chase your dreams, build your success, and be proud of where you’re headed. But at the same time, don’t shut out the good people in your life just because of past experiences. Growth is about balance.

    If that sounds like your kind of read, check it out here:
    👉 https://amzn.to/4bhnaxj

    🎉 Birthday Love

    Before we wrap up, I have to give a belated birthday shout-out to my girl Edwina 🥳. Happy belated, sis! Hope you had an amazing day—know that you are awesome, and we definitely need to get out more this year.

    And just like that, we’re already coming to the end of January 😮. I hope you’re ready for February and even more adventures with Cece in the City. It’s cold out there, so bundle up, stay warm, and I’ll see you on the next adventure 💙❄️

  • Cece in the City: Plot Twists, Power Moves & Queen Energy

    Hey everyone!
    Hope you had an amazing week and weekend. Winter is definitely wintering right now ❄️—some places even got snow, while we just got that bone-chilling cold. But enough about the weather… let’s jump into Cece in the City!

    📚 Book Talk: People We Meet on Vacation

    So I officially finished People We Meet on Vacation, and fun fact—I watched the movie before finishing the book. Now listen… I’m usually that lady who says “the book is always better.” Like historically speaking, books have had the upper hand since, well… forever 📖😌.

    But THIS time? Plot twist of the century—the movie actually did it better for me. Shocking, I know! The pacing, the chemistry, the vibes… it worked. That doesn’t mean skip the book though—check out both and decide for yourself.

    👉 Grab the book here: https://amzn.to/4pKGEOk

    🎬 Cece on the Scene: THE RIP

    Now let’s talk movies. I watched THE RIP, starring a powerhouse cast:
    Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins, and Kyle Chandler.

    The story follows a team of Miami cops who discover millions of dollars hidden in a rundown stash house—and whew 😮‍💨, trust starts fraying real quick. When money enters the chat, loyalty starts exiting.

    Overall rating: 4 out of 5 ⭐
    The twists? Solid. The plot? Kept me locked in.
    Only note—I would’ve loved to see more of the women in action, but it was still a strong watch. Definitely add it to your list.

    👑 Women’s Group Outing: January Edition

    We also had our FIRST women’s group outing of the year, and let me tell you—it was everything ✨

    Theme: Animal Print / Leopard
    Because historically, leopard print has symbolized power, confidence, and royalty—and that’s exactly the energy we’re carrying into the new year.

    🐆 Bold
    🐆 Fearless
    🐆 Queen-like

    Every woman received a crown—because let’s be clear, you don’t find crowns… you ARE one 👑.

    We also did Letting Go Plates, a powerful little ritual where we wrote down everything we’re leaving behind and NOT bringing into 2026. (Yes, we’re clearing space early!)

    🍽️ Dinner Stop: Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar

    We headed to Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar, and for many of us, it was our first time. The reviews from the table?
    ✔️ Food was good
    ✔️ Vibes were strong
    ✔️ DJ was VERY raw 😅

    At times I was like “oh wow,” and other times I was definitely grooving 💃🏾. The place was packed, full of life, and our waiter stayed on point checking on us—which always earns bonus points.

    We did have a 2-hour limit, but we made it work, handled business, laughed, talked, and soaked it all in. It was a much-needed outing.

    💕 Passing the Torch

    One of my favorite parts? My daughters were inspired to start their own women’s group with their friends—same theme, their own section, their own energy. And yes… they had a GREAT time 🥹💖. Love to see it.

    ✨ Missed the Outing? No Worries

    You can still do your own Letting Go Plate at home:

    • Use a real plate and break it after
    • Or use a plastic plate—write on it, cut it up, or even keep it
      Totally your choice.

    📸 Be sure to take a picture and share it—I’ve included a photo for inspiration.

    Remember the theme:
    Bold. Fearless. Queen-like.
    Leopard energy is wild, focused, fierce, and confident… that’s the vibe 🐆👑

    💐 Weekly Thank You: Women Who Inspire

    One thing I love doing each week is giving flowers while they can still be smelled 🌸. This week, I want to send a big thank you to two women who continue to inspire, empower, and pour into me through their storytelling.

    ✨ Elizabeth Gilbert
    Her book—and later the movie—Eat, Pray, Love truly left a mark on me. Historically, it became a cultural moment for women learning to choose themselves, explore the world, and heal out loud. The themes of self-discovery, courage, and starting over deeply resonated with me and still do. It reminded me that it’s okay to pause, wander, and find joy in unexpected places.

    ✨ ReShonda Tate
    As an author, ReShonda Tate keeps me entertained, engaged, and turning pages. Her storytelling feels real, relatable, and powerful. Every time I pick up one of her books, I know I’m in for a good read—she has a gift for pulling you in and keeping you there. Authors like her continue to remind me how important our stories are.

    To both of these women—thank you for inspiring me, empowering me, and reminding me of the power of words. Your work matters, and it continues to pour into so many of us 💫

    ✊🏾 Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

    This week, it’s also important to pause and honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—not just the name we hear every January, but the man, the mission, and the movement.

    I’m especially grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Museum here in Atlanta. Walking through the space, reading the exhibits, and learning more about his life gave me a deeper understanding of his courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to justice. It’s one thing to learn about him in books, but standing in a place filled with history makes it hit differently.

    Dr. King reminded us that change starts with courage, community, and love—even in the face of resistance. His legacy continues to inspire generations to speak up, stand firm, and lead with purpose.

    I’m thankful for the chance to learn, reflect, and carry those lessons forward ✨

    Stay tuned for the next Cece in the City—more books, more scenes, more vibes coming soon 💫

  • Midweek Moments: Cece in the City

    Happy Wednesday, everyone! Hope your week is going great so far 😊

    The temperatures dropped again—but hey, it is winter, so bundle up and stay cozy. A little fun history note: tomorrow, January 15, is National Hat Day! 🎩 Hats have been around for centuries—once worn to show social status, protect from the elements, or even represent professions. So tomorrow, rock your favorite hat and make it a vibe.

    🎬 Cece On The Scenes – Watch of the Week
    I watched People We Meet on Vacation and loved it! Definitely a 4 out of 5 for me. It was one of those feel-good, reflective stories that stays with you. I just grabbed the book too, so stay tuned—my full book review is coming soon!

    📚 Cece Reads
    Just finished Bridesmaid Undercover and whew—another 4 out of 5! Her books always take you through all the emotions: laughter, sadness, love—everything wrapped into one story. I truly enjoy her writing. If you’re looking for a fun, heartfelt read, check it out here:
    👉 https://amzn.to/4aUDjbH

    🍔 Weekly Adventures
    This week’s adventures were a vibe! I hit up The Vortex with one of my besties—OMG, such a different spot with the skull décor and edgy atmosphere. The food was good, the customer service was on point, and they’re definitely known for their burgers. If you haven’t been, add it to your list.

    🦕 We also went to Fernbank Museum—I’ve been many times (especially since I used to work there), but it was my bestie’s first visit, so we had to go. We checked out the IMAX film Wild Rescue, which focused on saving animals. It was sad and beautiful at the same time—very powerful. I’ll definitely be sending them a thank-you note for the amazing work they do to protect wildlife. If you haven’t been in a while, go check it out.

    As always, stay tuned to Cece in the City—more adventures, reads, and vibes coming your way. ✨🏙️

  • ✨ Welcome December — the Season to Be Jolly! ✨

    Here we are, stepping into the final chapter of 2025.

    December always feels like a fresh breath of magic — twinkling lights, cozy nights, and that little nudge reminding us to set new goals and draft new dreams. It’s the perfect time to start your next chapter, whatever that looks like for you.

    So grab a warm drink and let’s jump into Cece On the Scenes! 🎬✨

    I watched Ghosting: The Spirit of Christmas starring Aisha Dee, Kimiko Glenn, and a few other familiar faces. Let me tell you… it’s a quirky mix of friendship, love, and the afterlife. Cute in its own way, but for me, it lands at a 3 out of 5. Still, if you’re building your holiday movie list, add it in. It definitely gives you something to think about during these festive nights.

    Now, into the Cece Book Club Corner 📚🎄
    This month we read Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult. Whew! I’m giving it a 3 out of 5. It had twists that completely blindsided me — in a good way — but that ending… chile, I was hoping for more. Still, I can’t WAIT to talk it out with the book club this Sunday. If you’ve read it, you already know there’s so much to unpack!

    Let’s talk Atlanta gems ✨
    Have you ever been to the High Museum of Art? If you love creativity, culture, or just a fun day out, you’ll enjoy it. And the Atlanta Botanical Garden Lights? A MUST-SEE. Every year they transform the garden into a glowing wonderland — it’s basically the North Pole but make it Atlanta chic.

    And speaking of treats… I’m in my comfort-food era. I had a craving for a baked potato, and if you’ve never been to Jason’s Deli, baby listen… their baked potatoes are a whole meal. Not a snack. A MEAL.

    So tell me — are you ready for the holidays? Any traditions that you look forward to every year?
    Before you finish reading this, do one thing for me: check on a friend or family member you haven’t talked to in a while. December is the season of giving, and sometimes the biggest gift is a simple “Hey, you good?”

    Stay tuned — more adventures are coming to Cece in the City. 🎄✨ Let’s finish 2025 with joy, gratitude, and a little sparkle.

  • 📚 Books, Candles & Birthday Vibes: Cece in the City

    Hey fam! Wheweeee… can we talk about how long August was? 😅 So much going on, and I don’t know about y’all, but I am definitely hoping September brings in brighter vibes — especially since it’s my birthday month! 🥳💖 You already know I love celebrating September big.

    Now, I know I haven’t been posting much about books lately (life has been lifing), but y’all know I’m a true bookworm. 📚 I just wrapped up Till Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn, and listen — this one gets a solid 4/5 stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ It had everything: hilarious moments, romance, and even a touch of therapy vibes. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for your next good read. 👉 Grab the book here.

    Speaking of therapy vibes, have you been tuning into Candlelight Conversations with Cece? ✨ If not, what are you waiting for? We’re spreading love, light, and uplifting energy — and we could all use a little more of that right now. 💕

    Catch me here:
    🎧 Spotify
    📺 YouTube

    And y’all know, no Candlelight Conversation is complete without the perfect candle glow. 🕯️ So, let me put you on to a few gems I’ve been loving lately:

    ✨ MELONY Massage Candle Oil – Smells like heaven (Bamboo Orchid 😍) and doubles as a moisturizing body oil when it melts. Perfect for self-care nights or couples’ massages. Get yours here.

    💕 Debossed Pink Bow Pillar Candle – This one is giving all the coquette vibes! So cute for home décor, journaling nights, or setting the mood without heavy scents. Check it out here.

    ♎️ Libra Gift Candle with Crystals – My September/October babies, this one’s for you! Beautiful, relaxing, and makes the perfect birthday gift (or treat for yourself). Grab it here.

    Let’s set the vibes, y’all — candles, good reads, and a whole lot of positive energy. 🌙✨

    Oh, and before I forget — if you’re looking to get your business promoted on the blog or even want to be featured on the cover of Where It Begins magazine, I’m still running specials:
    📝 Blogs: $100
    📸 Covers: $500

    Stay tuned, because September is about to be full of blessings, books, and birthday vibes. 💃🏽

    Until next time,
    💖 Cece in the City

  • 🌸 Happy Sunday, friends! 🌸

    It’s been a long week, but no complaints here—I’m staying focused on positivity. ✨ One thing that’s really been keeping me uplifted is Candlelight Conversations with Cece. If you haven’t checked it out yet, I’d love for you to join me! 💜

    🎥 YouTube: Candlelight Conversations with Cece
    🎧 Spotify: Listen here

    It’s all about starting or ending your day with good vibes, reflection, and a positive journal prompt. 🕯️📓 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs that little boost of encouragement!

    💼 Need exposure for your brand, book, or product?
    I’m currently running some specials:
    ✨ $100 – Business highlight, book review, or product review
    ✨ $500 – Be featured on the cover of Where It Begins magazine

    If you’ve been waiting to get your story or brand out there, this is the perfect time to jump on it! 🔥

    🔥 Kickstart Your Weight Loss Journey 🔥
    I’ve been checking out Toplux Keto Burn Pills – 1200mg of advanced support to help burn fat for fuel, boost energy, and keep you on track. Perfect for anyone on keto or just looking for a little extra push! 💪

    👉 Grab yours here

    🏡 Chic Storage + Style for Your Home 🏡
    Looking to add a little flair to your space? This Tribesigns 41.3″ Console Table is the perfect mix of industrial + modern design. With 4 tiers of shelves and a unique circle base, it’s a stylish way to organize and decorate your living room, hallway, or entryway.

    ✔️ Sleek gray finish
    ✔️ Perfect for small spaces
    ✔️ Functional + decorative

    👉 Check it out here

    I’ve got a lot on my plate this week, but I’m also excited to get out and enjoy some fun activities soon. 💃 Stay tuned—more positive vibes, adventures, and goodies are on the way!

    💖 Wishing you a beautiful week ahead!

  • Hello, May! Let’s Make It Magical

    Welcome to the beautiful month of May—may it bring peace, happiness, and joy into your life! There’s something about May that feels like a fresh start, filled with blooming flowers, warmer days, and meaningful celebrations.

    We kicked off the month with our latest Cece Book Club discussion on Pretty Baby by Mary Kubica. I gave it a 3 out of 5 stars—definitely a slower burn compared to some of her other works, which I enjoyed more. But that’s the fun of book club—everyone has different takes! If you love psychological thrillers and want to join in on our monthly Zoom chats, come read with us!

    We also tried something new: Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate. The flavors we tested were Revel Berry and Bluephoria. A lot of folks enjoyed it for the energy boost, but I’ll be honest—it wasn’t my cup of tea (maybe because it’s organic?). Still, it might be your thing! I always say: you’ll never know until you try it.

    As for adventure, last week I hit the trails to Arabia Mountain—and this time, I made it to the top! The view was totally worth the climb. If you’re looking for a scenic hike and a peaceful moment with nature, add it to your list.

    This week is full of celebrations! Today is Cinco de Mayo, so if you’re into tacos and tequila, go all in! Mother’s Day is just around the corner—let’s honor all the amazing moms out there. And don’t forget Memorial Day at the end of the month, a time to remember and reflect.

    Oh—and I’m running specials this month! If you’re looking to promote your business, product, or blog, reach out to me. Let’s shine a spotlight on your brand!

    Here’s to making May marvelous!

  • Get Featured: Blog, Reels & Magazine Exposure for Your Brand

    Looking for a fresh way to promote your book, brand, or business?

    Let us spotlight you across Cece in the City and Where It Begins Magazine—two powerful platforms built to share stories, elevate brands, and reach thousands of engaged followers.

    Why Collaborate With Us?

    We’ve built an authentic community and strong reach to help YOU shine:

    • 10K+ Instagram followers (@cece.atl + @where_it_begin)
    • 5K+ Facebook audience
    • 120K+ total media reach across blogs, reels, social content & email blasts
    • Monthly email newsletters, magazine issues & blog features

    What We Offer

     Blog & Website Reviews
    Book or Product write-up on Cece in the City or Where It Begins blog

     Reels & Social Media Content
    IG Reels, TikToks, story shoutouts + tagged content

     Magazine Features
    Editorial spread or spotlight in Where It Begins Magazine – print + digital

    Our Packages

     Starter Feature – $150

    • Blog Post Review
    • 1 IG or FB Post
    • Story Shoutout

     Boost Bundle – $300

    • Blog Feature (SEO-optimized)
    • 1 Reel or TikTok
    • 1 IG Story
    • “Cece’s Monthly Picks” Feature
    • Optional Amazon/Goodreads Review

     Ultimate Exposure – $500

    • Full Blog Review + Reels & Stories
    • Magazine Feature in Where It Begins
    • Newsletter Inclusion
    • All-Platform Social Tagging

    Book Your Spot Now
    Complete the Booking Form

    Connect with Us

    Website: www.ceceinthecity.com
    Linktree: linktr.ee/whereitbegins
    Instagram: @cece.atl | @where_it_begin

    Let’s get your story seen and heard!

    With love & spotlight,
    Cece
    Blogger | Publisher | Creative Connector

  • Knocking Another One Off My Cece Atlanta Bucket List: College Football Hall of Fame

    St. Patrick’s Day in Atlanta called for something special, so what better way to celebrate than by knocking another adventure off my Cece Atlanta Bucket List? I had the chance to visit the College Football Hall of Fame, and of course, I had to show up in my green—not just for the holiday, but because it also happens to be my favorite color!

    Even though I’m more of an NFL girl, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to dive into the rich history of college football. From legendary players to iconic moments, the Hall of Fame is packed with interactive exhibits and memorabilia that bring the sport to life. One of my favorite moments? Seeing Deion Sanders on the Hall of Fame wall! Knowing how much of an impact he made in college before dominating the NFL made the experience even more exciting.

    What makes this place even cooler is the interactive experience. They use AI to create custom football-themed photos, making you feel like a real college football star. It’s a fun and unique way to capture memories from the visit!

    I had an amazing time exploring, learning, and celebrating St. Paddy’s Day in the best way possible—by experiencing a little bit of football history in my favorite city. If you’re ever in Atlanta, I highly recommend stopping by the College Football Hall of Fame. Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan or just love the game in general, it’s a great place to check out!