You already know what Mondays mean over here — movie review time! 🎬🍿 And since we are officially in the week of love with Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I had to spotlight a sweet, feel-good romance that’s perfect for the season.
This week’s pick: An Unexpected Valentine 💌
Now let’s get into it…
Hallmark’s An Unexpected Valentine made its way to Netflix in January 2026 and quickly became one of the platform’s top-viewed films — and honestly, I see why. There’s something about a chance encounter on Valentine’s Day that just feels magical.
The story follows Hannah (played by Hallmark queen Lacey Chabert) and Finn (Robert Buckley), who meet by complete coincidence on the most romantic day of the year. What starts as a random moment turns into a city-wide mission when they team up to return a lost engagement ring somewhere in New York City. Yes — an engagement ring on Valentine’s Day. Talk about pressure! 💍✨
As they race against time to save someone else’s love story, something sweet begins to unfold between them. Between the charming streets of NYC, heartfelt conversations, and those little “almost” moments, their unexpected connection slowly blossoms into something more.
It’s classic Hallmark — warm, light, romantic — but with a fun adventure twist that keeps it moving. I loved the chemistry, the cozy vibes, and of course the reminder that sometimes love finds you when you’re busy helping someone else.
You can stream it now on Netflix or catch it on Hallmark+ if you’re a true Hallmark movie marathoner.
Cece On the Scenes rating? ✨ 4 out of 5 hearts.
Super cute. Easy watch. Perfect for date night, girls’ night, or if you’re just in your soft love era this week.
Have you seen it yet? And what’s your favorite Valentine’s movie? 💕🍿
It’s time for Cece On the Scenes, and if you didn’t know… the new episodes of Bridgerton are officially out on Netflix!
Now listen — I don’t watch a lot of series.+ But Bridgerton? Oh, I make time for this one. And with a little snow falling this weekend, it was the perfect excuse to grab a blanket, light a candle, and press play.
And baby… I loved it.
A Little Bridgerton History 👑
For those who may be new to the ton, Bridgerton premiered on Netflix in December 2020. Produced by Shonda Rhimes, the show is based on Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels and is set during the Regency era in early 1800s London. But this isn’t your typical period drama — it’s bold, diverse, dramatic, romantic, and full of modern twists wrapped in corsets and crowns.
Each season centers around a different Bridgerton sibling navigating love, scandal, and society’s expectations — all while the mysterious Lady Whistledown keeps the tea hot.
Love, Temptation & “What If” Moments 💌
Now let’s talk about this season.
Watching these new episodes during the month of love hits differently. It makes you think…
Have you ever been with someone you knew you probably shouldn’t be with — but the connection was so strong, the chemistry so real, that you were tempted to try anyway?
That’s what I love about Bridgerton. It doesn’t just give us pretty gowns and ballroom dances. It gives us longing. It gives us tension. It gives us those moments where your heart and your head are not on the same page.
And let’s be honest — we’ve all had at least one “forbidden” situation or a love that didn’t quite fit the rules.
That’s what makes it relatable, even though it’s set in the 1800s.
Cece’s Rating ⭐
For me, this season is a solid 4 out of 5. The storytelling keeps me locked in, the visuals are stunning, and the emotional build-up? Whew.
Now I’m just sitting here waiting on the next episode like the rest of the world.
Have you seen the new episodes yet? If not, check it out on Netflix. Perfect for a snowy weekend, date night, or a little self-care binge session.
Let me know your thoughts — are you here for the romance, the drama, or both?
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.
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 💫
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. ✨🏙️
Happy New Year, everyone! 🎉 Here’s to 2026 being your BEST and brightest year yet. Thank you so much for following my journey — I truly appreciate every one of you. Remember… you are amazing, capable, and deserving of all the good things coming your way. Now let’s jump into it!
✨ Cece On The Scenes
🎬 Watch of the Week:In Your Dreams on Netflix It’s a fun, light-hearted kid-style movie — but honestly still a great watch! I’d give it a 4 out of 5. I really enjoyed it — check it out and tell me what you think!
📚 Book of the Week:Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe by Heather Webber This one gets a 5 out of 5 from me — such a beautiful story about community, healing, and finding connection through life’s trials and past experiences. Definitely worth the read! Grab it here: https://amzn.to/49zyX8C — and let me know your thoughts!
🕯️ Need a little uplifting + inspiration? Follow Candlelight Conversations with Cece on YouTube & Spotify:
✍🏽 My Poetry Book Never thought I’d be an author — but I did it and I’m SO proud of this one! If you’d like to support or check it out, here it is: https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M 💕
📖 Where It Begins — New Issue Coming Soon! We have a very special woman gracing the upcoming cover — releasing at the end of the month and I cannot WAIT to share it!
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?
I hope this season fills your heart with peace, joy, and so much happiness. Today is a perfect reminder to slow down, breathe, and be thankful for where we are, what we’ve overcome, and what’s still on the way. 🙏✨
Now let’s slide over to Cece on the Scenes…
I got a chance to watch the Lisa Lisa documentary on Netflix. She was the first Latina artist to hit No. 1 on the R&B charts and the first Latina performer on Broadway with a major presence—truly a pioneer. I learned so much about her journey in the industry, her struggles, and her powerful fight through cancer. Sending all the prayers up for her continued healing and strength as she celebrates being cancer-free.
I’d give the documentary a 3 out of 5—informative, heartfelt, and a real reminder of how music shapes us. And yes… “I Wonder If I Take You Home” still sits pretty on my playlist today!
Before you go— Are you following me on YouTube and Spotify? That’s where all my adventures, stories, and behind-the-scenes magic live. Come join the journey:
2026 is peeking right around the corner— I hope you’re setting your intentions, mapping out your goals, preparing your heart, and making room for new blessings and new adventures.
Stay tuned… Cece in the City is just getting started. 🌆✨
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 📖
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✨
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! 🕯️
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. 💖
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.
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.
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.
Waving goodbye to rainy June and welcoming in sizzling July with open arms—and a neck fan on standby (yes, I ordered mine and I’m not ashamed!). Here is the link if you want to get one from amazon https://amzn.to/3I9t333 Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year?
Today is Independence Day, a time to celebrate freedom, fun, and fireworks! The 4th of July marks the day in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was adopted, officially breaking away from British rule. While I do have to work today (duty calls!), I’ll be clocking out in time to catch some fireworks—hooray for balance!
June Recap: Books, Movies & More
Our Cece Book Club pick for June was Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney, and whew—what a read! Twisty, suspenseful, and definitely discussion-worthy. We’ll be diving into it this Sunday, and if you’ve been thinking about joining our monthly chats, here’s your invite!https://bookclubz.com/clubs/8151/join/0cfb43/ or head over to our Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1033867936640433/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT
For my Cece on the Scenes movie spotlight, June’s pick was K.O—a solid 4 out of 5 stars in my book. If you love action with a punch (literally), this one’s worth the watch.
What’s New in July: Fire Up the Community Love
This month, I’m proud to launch the Fuel for Their Fire campaign—my special thank-you initiative for our amazing firefighters. From handwritten letters to care packages, every bit of appreciation counts. If you’d like to get involved and support our heroes, please email me at cecewibnet@gmail.com by July 26.
Still Running: Blog & Magazine Feature Specials
If you’re a business owner, author, or entrepreneur looking for exposure—don’t miss these deals:
🌟 Blog + Newsletter + Social Feature: $100
🌟 Cover feature in Where It Begins Magazine: $500
Let’s get your story out there in a bold and beautiful way!
So here’s to July—a month of heat, fireworks, reflection, and community love. Take time to love on yourself, breathe in some peace, and light up your world in the best way.
