Cece In The City

Tag: #BookClubReads

  • End-of-Year Energy: Action Movies, Manifesting & Atlanta Nights

    Hey hey everyone ✨

    I hope you’re having a beautiful December. With only a couple of weeks left before the new year, it’s that reflective, exciting space where we start thinking about goals, ideas, bucket lists, and what we want to carry (or leave) behind. So let me catch you up on a little of everything — movies, books, city vibes, and giving back — Cece style.

    🎬 Cece on the Scenes: Movie Night Catch-Up

    I finally watched The Marksman, an older movie but brand new to me — and honestly, it surprised me in the best way. Starring Liam Neeson, the film follows a quiet rancher who suddenly finds himself protecting a young boy from cartel assassins. What starts as a simple act of kindness turns into a gritty, high-stakes road trip across the Southwest.

    The action is steady, the tension is real, and it has that neo-Western feel that blends heart with hard choices. Since I’m always here for a movie with action, I’m giving this one a solid 3 out of 5 stars ⭐️.

    Even though it originally dropped in 2021, The Marksman recently found new life on streaming and hit #1 on Netflix, proving that some stories just need the right moment to shine. Definitely worth adding to your watch list.

    📖 Cece Book Club: Manifesting with Intention

    Next up — Cece Book Club ✨📚

    I finally finished How to Manifest: Make Your Dreams a Reality in 40 Days by Laura Chung. This one took me a little while to complete, but that was part of the process. The goal is one chapter a day for 40 days, and it really encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be intentional.

    Journaling and manifesting have truly become a part of my life, so this book showed up right on time. It’s not about rushing — it’s about alignment. If you’re focused on growth, clarity, and calling in the life you desire, this is definitely a great read to add to your list.

    🏙️ Cece in the City: Dancing, Downtown, & Me Time

    Now let’s talk Cece in the City 💃🏽✨

    I had the chance to step out for Old School Saturday, and while I hadn’t been in a while, it reminded me why those nights are always a vibe. Good music, good energy, and even better company. I love being around friends who actually dance, laugh, and enjoy the moment — not just sit around people-watching.

    The event was hosted at the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta, which is such a beautiful hotel and always adds to the experience.

    This weekend also gave me something just as important — me time. I took a day to relax, think, and journal. No rush, no noise — just space to reflect. Time is flying, and with 2026 on the horizon, it was exactly what my spirit needed.

    ❤️ Giving Back: The 6th Annual Giveback

    As we head into the holidays, giving back remains close to my heart.

    It’s that time of year again — The 6th Annual Giveback for the Unhoused Community, led by DJ Ms. Eclectic, who shows up every single year with love and purpose.

    On Christmas Day, essential bags will be distributed, including:

    • Wet wipes
    • Tissue
    • Hand warmers (Hot Hands)
    • Water
    • Socks
    • Feminine hygiene products
    • And so much more

    If you’d like to donate items or contribute financially, you can do so here: Cash App: $EclecticMusicEnt

    Thank you for being a blessing and helping spread love during the season that matters most.

    ✨ Stay tuned for more Cece in the City — more stories, more gems, and more moments worth sharing. And tell me… what are your goals or bucket-list ideas as we head into the new year?

  • 🍁 Goodbye October, Hello November — A Season of Thanks and Giving

    Hey everyone! As we say goodbye to October and welcome November, I can’t help but feel that cozy shift in the air. The leaves are changing, the temperatures are dropping, and soon our kitchens will be filled with the comforting aromas of soups, chili, and hot cocoa. This is the season for thanks — and for giving.

    🎶 ATL Soul Vibes x Nappy Roots — They are Celebrating 10 Years of Culture & Community.

    We kicked off the month celebrating ATL Soul Vibes with none other than Nappy Roots at DBS Sounds for their 10-year anniversary. The rain tried to stop us, but the vibes were too strong! Fans showed up, energy was high, and the night turned into something truly special — intimate, soulful, and full of connection.

    If you’re new to ATL Soul Vibes, let me give you the inside scoop: it’s Atlanta’s invite-only live music series featuring soulful artists, intimate vibes, and deep cultural roots — all filmed at DBS Sounds, where music and community meet.

    Huge shoutout to Nappy Roots for being our first group to hit the ATL Soul Vibes stage and absolutely rock it! Not only are they talented artists, but they’re humble, grounded, and deeply involved in the community. If you haven’t yet, check out their brewery, Atlantucky Brewing — another passion project born from creativity and culture.

    I’ll never forget when they graced the cover of my very third issue of Where It Begins Magazine — a full-circle moment that still fills me with gratitude.

    Special thanks to my amazing partner DJ Ms. Eclectic — always full of fresh ideas, endless support, and good energy. Teamwork really does make the dream work! Much appreciation also goes to Gary for sound, Jermaine from When We Speak TV, and of course the entire DBS Sounds team for helping us make this vision come alive. Atlanta needs this energy — and trust me, there’s more to come. Stay tuned!

    there’s more to come. Stay tuned!

    💔 Remembering My Friend — Glenn Clifton Jr. (Young Bleed)

    This month also brought a heavy moment as I said goodbye to a dear friend, Glenn Clifton Jr., known to many as Young Bleed. I called him Mister Professor — and that’s exactly what he was: wise, humble, and always teaching through his words and actions.

    I’m so grateful I got to speak with him before and after Verzuz. He was full of life, ready to perform, and doing what he loved. The news of his passing still hurts, but I find comfort knowing he believed in God and is looking down, watching over us.

    If you ever listened to his music, keep it alive. Stream it, share it, celebrate it. Let’s give him his flowers here and beyond. I even had the joy of interviewing him and surprising him with his own book for signing — moments I’ll always cherish.

    Check it out:

    https://youtu.be/hvnwWpausI4?si=OfCBpxtgUVu7d-pE

    Also check this one out

    https://youtu.be/bXav5La5fcE?si=kpO8bq92rJMTMVsP

    Let this be a reminder: love your people while they’re here. Support your friends and give them their flowers now.

    📚 Cece’s Book Club Pick of the Month

    For November, our Cece Book Club pick is “Wish You Were Here” by Jodi Picoult. I’ve read her work before, and while opinions may vary, I always say — don’t let reviews decide for you. What’s not for one person might be perfect for another.

    Join us on Instagram and Facebook @CeceBookClub — I’d love to hear your thoughts as we dive into this story together.

    🌎 Sending Prayers & Gratitude

    Before I close, I want to send heartfelt prayers to Jamaica and everyone affected by the recent challenges there. I’ve checked in with my friends, but it’s a reminder that we must stay prayed up — this world needs love and faith more than ever.

    And speaking of gratitude — November 1st was National Author’s Day, and I can proudly say… I’m an author! 📖

    My poetry book, Poems of Passion & Purpose, was one of my biggest accomplishments this year. Every page holds a piece of my heart and journey. If you haven’t checked it out yet, grab your copy on Amazon — and remember, you can truly do anything you put your mind to.

    Get here:

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    So here’s to a month of gratitude, growth, and giving. Stay tuned — more adventures, stories, and soulful moments are on the way.

    With love & light,
    Cece ✨
    Cece in the City

  • Falling Into October: Journals, Candles & Cozy Vibes with Cece

    Hey everyone! 🍂✨ Welcome to October—the season of cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and colorful leaves drifting down. You can feel the shift in the air, and I’m here for all the fall vibes.

    This month, I’m kicking off something special: The Cece Journal Challenge. 📓🍁 It’s a reflection journey inspired by fall, where we’ll dive into self-care, gratitude, and growth. Want to join in? Drop a comment below and let’s journal together!

    Of course, fall wouldn’t be complete without candles. 🕯️ Here are three of my favorites to set the mood:

    • Benevolence LA Eucalyptus Orange Wood Wick Candle – soy, fresh, cozy, and perfect for home (45-hour burn) 👉 Grab it here
    • Yankee Candle French Vanilla – sweet, classic, and long-lasting (up to 150 hours burn) 👉 Get it here
    • Yankee Candle Autumn Wreath – the ultimate fall scent in a large jar 👉 Shop here

    And guess what? Cece on the Scenes is back! 🎬✨ I had the pleasure of watching Ruth & Boaz, starring powerhouses like Serayah McNeill, Tyler Lepley, Phylicia Rashad, and more. Let me just say—it’s a solid 5/5 in my book. 🌟

    This film is more than a love story—it’s a reminder that love is real, joy is worth waiting for, and dreams are worth chasing. 💕 Don’t settle, don’t give up, keep believing. Have you seen it yet? 🍿👀

    Over in Cece Book Club, I wanted to highlight one of Kennedy Ryan’s gems. She never fails to pull me in with her storytelling. This one gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 from me. 📚✨ Check it out 👉 Read here

    Finally, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💖—so let’s honor survivors, uplift warriors, and remember loved ones. Sending love and light to all.

    Oh, and I’ve got some travel plans brewing ✈️🌍 … stay tuned because I can’t wait to share where I’m headed next!

    Cheers to a beautiful October filled with cozy vibes, meaningful reflections, and new adventures. 🍁🕯️📚

  • ✨ Happy Sunday, everyone! ✨

    I hope y’all are doing amazing. We’re still rolling through my birthday month 🎉 (you know I celebrate the whole month!), and even though I haven’t done much, I’ve been preparing for a brand-new chapter and journey in my life. Let’s catch up on this week!

    🍔 First stop: Smashd Burgers and Bourbon
    Stone Mountain just got a new gem — Smashd Burgers and Bourbon! I had to check it out, and let me tell you… the French Toast Patty Melt was everything! Sweet, savory, and so good. The onion rings? Huge and crispy, just the way I like them. Definitely worth the visit if you’re in the area. Check them out 👉 www.smashdbb.com

    👩‍👧 Challenge Time with My Daughter
    Me and one of my daughters started our own little challenge — reading a manifesting book together 📖✨. That inspired us to take it further with a camo-style day (yes, we rocked camouflage fits!) and even made digital vision boards. Reminder: it’s never too late to create a vision for your life. I love challenges that bring positivity and creativity into the mix.

    🎬 Movie Night: Cece on the Scenes
    This week’s watch was Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing. The story tackled trafficking — such an important topic that definitely needs more conversation. I’ll be real, the quality gave more Tubi vibes than Netflix, but the message was powerful. I’d rate it 3 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐. Oh — and I spotted someone I actually know in the film (shoutout and congrats to him 👏).

    🕯️ Candlelight Conversations with Cece
    You know I set the vibe right during my journaling sessions. This week, I’ve been loving:

    • Candle-lite Creamy Vanilla Swirl (18 oz, up to 110 hrs burn time) – cozy, sweet, perfect for fall nights. 👉 Grab it here
    • M&SENSE Coffee Cappucina Candle (11.3 oz soy wax, 70 hrs burn time) – smells like a coffee shop and fuels my creativity. 👉 Get it here

    📚 Book Club Pick
    For September, Cece Book Club is diving into An Unlikely Story by Ali Rosen. Still time to join us if you want in! Grab your copy 👉 Amazon Link

    💻 Quick Plug
    Don’t forget — blog features are $100 and Where It Begins magazine covers are $500. Let’s make magic together ✨.

    That’s the rundown for now — but stay tuned. More fun, fashion, books, candles, and adventures coming this week and next.

  • Happy Sunday, Friends ✨

    It’s September — my favorite month (yes, my birthday month 🥳) — and I’m still riding the wave of excitement that comes with fresh beginnings and new vibes.

    Today, our Cece Book Club gathered to dive into These Tangled Vines. Let me just say, this book was so good — the kind that makes you pause and think about the lengths people go for love. 💕 A heartwarming yet tangled story of love, loss, and betrayal, it reminded me that love can be both healing and complicated. If you’re looking for a new read, check it out here: These Tangled Vines.

    A Throwback with a Twist 🎶🍹

    Guess what? Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre just dropped a new Gin & Juice! Talk about history coming back full circle. For those of us who remember vibing to Gin and Juice back in the day, this drink is nostalgia in a bottle. Now, it’s reimagined for a whole new generation. If you’re a drinker, you definitely want to check it out.

    And since it’s my birthday month, I’d love your support too — grab my poetry book on Amazon and celebrate with me: Get your copy here.

    Candlelight Conversations 🕯️💫

    We’re growing beautifully with Candlelight Conversations with Cece — a space for soul talk, reflection, and inspiration. You can tune in on:

    And because ambiance matters, here are some perfect candles to pair with your listening sessions:

    Cece on the Scene 🎬

    This weekend, I had a little movie marathon:

    • Escape Room (an oldie, but always makes you think twice about what you’d do in real life situations 👀).
    • Miracles from Heaven — such a heartfelt, true story that reminds us that miracles happen every day and God is always listening. 🙏

    Behind the Scenes with Where It Begins Magazine 🗞

    • Covers are now open for Sept–Dec — $500 secures your spot to tell your story in a BIG way. DM me to lock in your feature!
    • I’m also opening 50 spots for blog features (product/book reviews, highlights) for just $100. You’ll get featured on my blog and across socials. 🚀

    ✨ It’s September, it’s my birthday month, and it’s all about growth, storytelling, and celebrating love, creativity, and connection. Let’s make big moves together!

  • 📚 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 Friday, Friends!

    Whew—what a week it’s been! But here we are, standing strong at the end of it, and I’m grateful we made it. I’ve got a few things on my heart and mind today, so let’s dive in.

    Where It Begins Magazine – 7 Years of Stories

    Seven years ago, Where It Begins was just a dream—an idea sparked by my belief that everyone has a testimony worth sharing. I never imagined it would grow into seven years of media coverage, interviews, and highlighting voices from all walks of life. My motto has always been: “We all have a story to tell. It all begins with you.”

    To this day, the magazine continues to be a platform for business owners, artists, authors, and dreamers. If you’d like to promote your business, we have ad space available. If you’ve ever dreamed of being on the cover, now’s your chance—we’re running specials!And yes, we’re also offering discounted blog features. Your story matters, and I’d be honored to share it.

    Email: cecewibnet@gmail.com

    Book Spotlight – “Matriarch” by Tina Knowles

    I recently finished Matriarch by Tina Knowles, a book I’ve seen floating around in a few of my book clubs. I’ll admit—it started off a little slow for me, maybe because it goes all the way back to her childhood. But once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down.

    Through her words, I got a deeper look into her life: her marriages, her business ventures like owning salons, her health battles, and her role as a mother—not just to her famous daughters but to others she’s taken in and raised. Her resilience is inspiring. She’s faced so much yet continues to move forward with grace and strength. If you enjoy memoirs and women’s empowerment stories, definitely give this one a read.

    Link to buy

    https://amzn.to/45kGUv7

    Movie Review – “My Oxford Year” & A Personal Reflection

    Y’all know I love my Cece on the Scenes movie reviews, and this week I watched My Oxford Year. It’s a love story, but it’s not just hearts and flowers—it’s emotional and will hit you in the feels.

    The movie stirred something in me because lately, I’ve been seeing more and more people battling cancer. Some survive. Some don’t. My own mother fought cancer but sadly passed away in 2017. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of her—I even keep pictures in my room so she’s the first face I see in the morning, watching over me.

    This movie reminded me of the families, friends, and loved ones who are left behind. The way cancer changes everything. It’s been on my heart to do more for cancer patients and kids, in honor of my mom. If you’ve seen the movie, let me know your thoughts—and in the meantime, please check in on your loved ones.

    Life, the Economy, and Survival Mode

    Can we talk about the economy for a second? Because it feels like everything is going up—gas, groceries, bills—you name it. I’ve been talking to so many people lately who say, “Life is lifing!” And I feel that.

    Between bills, car issues, and family needs, I haven’t even been able to properly pamper myself in a while. These days, one income just doesn’t cut it—we have to create multiple streams. But if you’re reading this and you’re going through something, know you are not alone. My prayers are with you, and I truly believe better days are ahead.

    Candlelight Conversations with Cece

    On August 1, I launched Candlelight Conversations with Cece—a short, uplifting audio series that a friend described as “mini therapy sessions.” Each episode is designed to offer encouragement, reflection, and a little light in your day.

    You can listen on Spotify or watch on YouTube (links below). If you know someone who needs encouragement or loves journaling prompts, please share it with them.

    Spotify:

    https://open.spotify.com/show/5xRvifqSumeBJUbPwbqdro

    Youtube:

    https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=3EzVGNk8W1yyAg7V

    My 50 States Journey (and a Birthday Coming Up!)

    I’m starting fresh with my 50 states journey. So far, I’ve done Georgia and Tennessee. Next month is my birthday, and while I usually celebrate out of the country, this year I’m staying stateside—but I’ll be knocking out State 3 (and maybe State 4!)

    I also came across a fun “alphabet challenge” that I’m putting my own twist on, so stay tuned for that.

    If no one has told you today: You are special. You are loved.
    Enjoy your Friday, breathe in the weekend, and stay tuned for more.

  • Goodbye July, Hello August 🌻✨

    Whew, July was a mix of highs and lows, but I’m still standing — and for that, I’m grateful. Even in the ups and downs, I made space to get back to doing things I love. I got out more, took some beautiful nature walks, captured moments with my camera, and slowly started easing back into the media world. It felt good to reconnect with that side of me again.

    Now here we are in August — a fresh month filled with possibility. I always like to kick off each new month with a challenge, and this one is close to my heart:
    Candlelight Conversations with Cece has officially launched! 🕯️💬

    This new series is all about honest talks, healing, growth, and reflection. It’s a vibe. So light a candle, get cozy, and press play.

    🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:
    https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=n99E-MNEGk3TzFGL

    🎧 Follow on Spotify:
    https://open.spotify.com/episode/7bOf067loU4lmHrCgAu8BJ

    For Cece Book Club last month, we dived into Sisters with a Side of Greens, so grab your copy and join the discussion Sunday — I’m excited for this one!

    Buy here https://amzn.to/4mhB0ls

    I’m also still running a special on my blog: just $100 to highlight your book, product, or brand — this includes promotion on social media, an email blast, and a feature in the Cece in the City newsletter. Great opportunity for authors, creatives, and small business owners to shine! 🌟

    And speaking of shining — just a gentle reminder: You are enough. Don’t let anyone make you forget that.

    Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue my journey of visiting all 50 states. I’ve already covered Georgia and Tennessee, and next up is South Carolina! I shared highlights from both major cities and the charming little towns in between. If you want to follow along or join in on the journey, come along for the ride!

    There are more adventures on the way and other projects I’m working on — so definitely stay tuned and stay connected.