Cece In The City

Tag: Books

  • 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 Reflections, Reviews & Celebrations

    Happy Wednesday, friends — we’ve officially made it to the halfway point of the week! 🎉

    January has already been full of celebrations — I don’t know about you, but it feels like Capricorn season came in strong this year. Capricorns have always been known as the “builders” of the zodiac — grounded, determined, and hardworking — so maybe that’s why the month already feels busy and full of momentum.

    And since Wednesdays are often called “hump day,” let’s add a little mid-week joy with books, movies, food, and a few birthday shout-outs from Cece in the City.

    📚 Cece’s Book Corner

    I Found You — Lisa Jewell

    Let me tell you — this one pulled me in fast.

    I finished I Found You in just two days because every chapter felt like another twist I had to uncover. Lisa Jewell has a way of peeling back layers slowly, reminding us that one choice can ripple through many lives and change everything.

    It’s suspenseful, emotional, and full of “wait… WHAT just happened?” moments.
    If you love stories with mystery, secrets, and characters you keep thinking about afterward — add this one to your reading list 👀

    Check it out here: https://amzn.to/4psyhqi

    Fun fact: psychological suspense as a genre really took off in the late 20th century — and authors like Lisa Jewell have carried that legacy by blending mystery with deep emotional storytelling. That’s probably why her books feel real… even when they’re chilling.

    🎬 Cece On The Scenes

    Finding Joy — A Tyler Perry Film

    Sometimes “finding joy” isn’t about laughter… it’s about facing what hurt you and choosing peace anyway.

    This film has those classic Tyler Perry layers — faith, family, healing, and personal growth. It’s reflective, emotional, and definitely one of those movies that makes you think about your own journey.

    Streaming now on Prime Video.

    My rating? 3 out of 5 —
    There were a few moments where I was like… “Okay now, really?” 🤦🏽‍♀️😂

    But it still delivers a meaningful message, so check it out if you’re in a reflective mood.

    A little history note: Tyler Perry built his film legacy right here in Georgia — turning an old military base into one of the largest film studios in the country. Atlanta really became a powerhouse in entertainment because of creators like him.

    🎉 Birthday Love & Gratitude

    This week was full of special birthdays, and I want to send some love:

    💙 Happy Birthday to my Uncle — he’s been going through a lot lately, so please keep him in your prayers as he continues to heal and grow stronger.

    🤍 Happy Heavenly Birthday to my Aunt — forever loved, forever missed.

    🎂 Happy Birthday to Ms. Juicy (Baby) — my long-time friend, my talking-trash buddy, and someone who can always make me laugh.

    🌄 And Happy Birthday to Anika — from mountains to trails to unforgettable adventures, thank you for all the memories we’ve shared.

    Each of them holds a special place in my heart — and I hope their birthdays were the best one yet.

    Birthdays have always been more than just another year — in many cultures, they’re seen as milestones of wisdom, growth, and celebration of life’s journey… and I love honoring that.

    🍽️ Cece Eats — Foodie Stop of the Week

    This week I stopped by Trend Urban Café in Stone Mountain — and listen… that Salmon Special with rice was EVERYTHING. 😋

    Big portions, great flavor, and the best part — they offer both vegan and non-vegan options, so everyone can enjoy something.

    If you’ve never been, add it to your must-try list — definitely a local gem worth visiting.

    That’s my mid-week update ✨
    I’ll be back on Sunday with more adventures, food finds, books, and Cece on the Scenes moments.

    Stay tuned — and thanks for rolling through life with me here at Cece in the City 💛

  • ✨Cece in the City: Night Lights, Books, and Holiday Vibes ✨

    Hey everyone! Finally, we’re getting some really nice weather this week, and it feels like the city is waking up from a long nap. There’s something so refreshing about stepping outside when the sun hits just right, the air has that crisp sparkle, and everything feels alive again. And you have to hear the best news—the Night Lights at the Botanical Garden are back!

    If you’ve never been, let me paint you a picture: the garden transforms into a luminous wonderland, with sparkling lights reflecting off every leaf, pathway, and fountain. The displays are absolutely breathtaking—like walking through a dream where the trees themselves are dressed in glittering gowns. Did you know that botanical gardens have been around for centuries, originally created to study and showcase exotic plants from around the world? It’s amazing to think that while we stroll under these modern lights, gardens like these carry a long history of curiosity, learning, and beauty. Every turn has a new surprise, and I found myself stopping multiple times just to take it all in. My advice? Go when it’s just the right temperature— Not too cold, and the magic gets a little nipped by the wind, but just right, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. 🌟

    Speaking of stepping into new worlds, I just finished an incredible read: The Interruption of Everything by Terry McMillan. I’d give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. McMillan is a powerhouse in American literature, known for writing stories that celebrate women’s lives while highlighting the challenges we face. This novel tells the story of a woman juggling family, career, and personal growth—the kind of story that feels like it’s speaking directly to us as women. So often, we’re the ones holding everything together, sacrificing our dreams, and making sure everyone else is taken care of. And yet, sometimes it feels like our work goes unnoticed, our sacrifices unappreciated. McMillan’s story is a reminder that while we nurture and care for others, it’s just as important to nurture ourselves.

    This book made me pause, reflect, and appreciate not only the work we do but the lives we lead. If you want a read that’s honest, relatable, and deeply moving, you can grab your copy 📖

    https://amzn.to/4o3Wse8

    Now, let’s shift gears to some Cece on the Scenes updates! I recently watched Frankenstein, and let me tell you—it was fantastic. I’d rate it a 4 out of 5. Did you know that Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein when she was just 18 years old? The story was inspired by a famous 1816 “ghost story challenge” she did while staying in Switzerland with Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron. The novel has endured for over 200 years because it taps into timeless questions about ambition, humanity, and what it means to create life. Watching this adaptation reminded me of why classic stories endure—the suspense, the drama, and the exploration of what it means to be human.

    I highly recommend it if you’re looking for something engaging and thought-provoking to watch this week. 🎬

    And of course, don’t forget about my own creative work! My poetry book is out now, and it’s perfect for cozy evenings, reflective moments, or even as a holiday gift for someone you love. If you haven’t picked up your copy yet, you can grab it here✨

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    Have you been keeping up with Candlelight Conversations with Cece? If not, you’re missing out! These sessions are all about slowing down, reflecting, and connecting with your inner thoughts. You can catch them on YouTube and Spotify, and I’ve also curated August & September playlists to match the themes of each conversation. They’re perfect for journaling, relaxing, or just creating a little calm in your day. Speaking of journaling, I’ve been posting daily journal writing prompts for all my journal lovers—don’t miss out on this little dose of inspiration every day! 🕯️

    https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=dkcwXExe09afoYqM

    https://open.spotify.com/show/5xRvifqSumeBJUbPwbqdro?si=1cszZoJFS-K8NQUbvMWEaw

    And now, as we slowly drift toward the holidays, I want to take a moment to reflect. This season is more than just decorations and presents—it’s about gratitude, giving, and truly appreciating the people around us. Fun fact: the tradition of giving thanks and celebrating during this season can be traced back to harvest festivals in Europe, long before modern Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions were formalized. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and recognize the abundance in our lives. What are your holiday plans this year? Are you planning cozy nights at home, festive gatherings, or maybe a quiet walk under twinkling lights like the ones at the Botanical Garden? Whatever you do, remember to give thanks, give love, and give back. This is the season to celebrate the little things, the people who matter, and the moments that make life feel magical.

    So whether you’re catching the glow of the night lights, diving into a great book, watching a classic film, writing in your journal, or listening to Candlelight Conversations with Cece, make sure to pause, breathe, and savor these moments. Because in the end, it’s not just about what we do—it’s about what we feel, what we share, and how we connect.

    Stay magical, stay inspired, and as always—see you on the scenes. 💖

  • 🍁 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