1. Megan Thee Stallion: Normalizing Mental Health Conversations

Megan isn’t just the queen of Hot Girl Summer—she’s a mental health advocate. After experiencing personal losses and hardships, she’s been vocal about the importance of therapy. Through her initiative Bad Bitches Have Bad Days Too, she offers mental health resources specifically geared toward Black women, showing us that even the strongest need support.

2. Issa Rae: The Multi-Hyphenate Mogul

Issa Rae went from YouTube series creator to a Hollywood powerhouse. With hit shows like Insecure and a production deal with WarnerMedia, Issa is not just building her empire—she’s bringing others along for the ride. She also founded Raedio, a music label that helps underrepresented artists get noticed, proving that Black women can excel across industries.

3. Zendaya: Redefining Fashion and Representation

Zendaya doesn’t just serve on-screen excellence—she’s also a red carpet darling and an advocate for diversity in fashion. She’s known for her collaborations with designers to create inclusive campaigns, making sure marginalized voices are seen and celebrated. And every time she steps out, it’s a moment. Period.

4. Serena Williams: Championing Business and Equity

Serena’s retirement from tennis hasn’t slowed her down. She launched Serena Ventures, a venture capital firm focusing on startups led by women and people of color. Through her work, she’s proving that athletes can succeed far beyond their sport—and that the real win is financial empowerment.

5. Keke Palmer: The Ultimate Multi-Talent

Keke Palmer is the epitome of “booked and busy.” From acting to singing to becoming a new mom, she does it all with grace and humor. Her candid conversations about colorism and Black maternal health remind us why she’s a national treasure—and her latest projects keep us excited for what’s next.

These celebrities show us that being in the spotlight isn’t just about glitz and glam—it’s also about purpose. Whether it’s advocating for mental health or building wealth, they’re making moves we should all be talking about.

The post 5 Celebrities Who Are Doing the Absolute Most—in the Best Way Possible appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Meet the Designers Redefining the Game

Telfar Clemens: Known for the iconic Telfar Shopping Bag, or “Bushwick Birkin,” Clemens broke barriers by creating a luxury brand that’s accessible and inclusive. His pieces sell out within minutes of every release, proving that people are hungry for a new kind of fashion—one that doesn’t gatekeep style.

Kerby Jean-Raymond: As the founder of Pyer Moss, Jean-Raymond’s collections go beyond aesthetics. His runway shows are cultural moments, celebrating the Black experience and addressing issues like police brutality and systemic racism. He’s turning clothing into a conversation, giving fashion a deeper meaning.

Aurora James: With Brother Vellies, James creates stunning footwear and accessories while promoting ethical fashion. She’s also the powerhouse behind the “15 Percent Pledge,” challenging major retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses.

Why This Matters

This blending of streetwear with high fashion isn’t just a trend—it’s a cultural shift. Historically, the fashion industry excluded people of color from luxury spaces, limiting who could design, model, or afford high-end pieces. Today, designers like Clemens, Jean-Raymond, and James are forcing the industry to evolve.

These designers represent more than just style—they stand for inclusion, accessibility, and the celebration of Black culture. By flipping the narrative on what luxury can be, they’re showing that high fashion isn’t just for a privileged few. It’s for everyone. And honestly? It looks a lot better this way.

The post Streetwear Meets Luxury: How Black Designers Are Flipping the Fashion Industry appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Reject the Grind—Embrace Ease

For too long, we’ve been conditioned to equate success with overworking ourselves. But soft life teaches us that it’s okay to slow down. Success can still come when we take breaks, recharge, and focus on what truly matters. Hustle culture had its moment, but this is the era of intentional living.

Curate Your Inner Circle

Soft life means protecting your peace, and that includes evaluating your relationships. Are the people around you supportive and uplifting? If not, it might be time to create some distance. Your peace of mind should never be compromised for the sake of maintaining friendships or family ties that drain you.

Indulge Without Guilt

Living the soft life isn’t about reckless spending—it’s about intentional enjoyment. That can mean booking a solo vacation, splurging on self-care products, or just taking time off to binge-watch your favorite shows. It’s about doing what makes you feel good without feeling guilty about it.

Practice Financial Self-Care

A soft life includes financial wellness. Align your money habits with your values—whether that means saving for future experiences or investing in things that bring you joy now. Financial self-care can look like automating your savings or simply saying “no” to expenses that don’t serve you.

Set Boundaries Like a Boss

Creating boundaries is a form of self-love. It’s okay to say no to things that disrupt your peace. From turning off notifications at night to skipping events that feel like obligations, setting boundaries lets you reclaim your time and energy.

Soft life is more than just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle movement rooted in self-love and intention. It invites Black women to reclaim their joy and prioritize their well-being. And the best part? You get to define what your soft life looks like.

The post Why “Soft Life” Is the New Manifestation—and How You Can Start Living It Now appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

This year, enjoy the festivities without having to worry about expenses. The Bold Maven invites you to savor the festivities with confidence, and most importantly, free from financial stress. Whether you’re planning gift shopping, travel, or hosting gatherings, our team has you covered with tips and tricks that allow you to enjoy every moment without overspending. 

By incorporating some of these budgeting hacks, stay smart and savvy with your spending while still embracing the holiday spirit. 

And I’m Sticking to It (The Budget,That Is) 

Before diving into gift shopping or travel plans, start by setting a realistic holiday budget. Decide how much you can afford to spend in total, then break it down into categories—gifts, travel, entertaining, and miscellaneous expenses like holiday decor. This clear framework will keep you accountable and make it easier to track your spending throughout the season. Many budgeting apps, like Mint and YNAB, are great for monitoring expenses and setting category limits. 

Check out CNBC Select’s top-rated budgeting apps—reviewed for their standout features, user ratings, and free trials to help you find the best fit for your holiday budgeting needs.

Plan and Prioritize

Gift-giving brings so much joy to the holiday season, but it can also add up fast. Start by making a list of everyone you’d like to shop for, then prioritize based on your budget. If money’s tight, focus on immediate family and close friends, and consider affordable, heartfelt gifts for others. Thoughtful options like DIY crafts, homemade treats, or framed photos can be just as meaningful without breaking the bank. Michelle Perry Higgins from Investopedia recommends using a budget template to track every holiday expense—food, gifts, travel, decor, and more—to help stay on track. By setting a spending limit upfront, you’ll find it much easier to avoid those tempting impulse buys

Swipe Right on Savings: Utilize Cash-Back and Discount Apps

Take advantage of cash-back apps like Rakuten, Honey, or Ibotta to earn a percentage back on your holiday purchases. These platforms partner with major retailers, allowing you to shop online and receive cash rewards directly into your account. Many of these apps also provide exclusive coupon codes and discounts, which can lead to substantial savings on your holiday shopping.

Travel Smart

If holiday travel is in your plans, try to book flights and accommodations as early as possible to snag the best rates. Use platforms like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner to compare prices and ensure you’re getting the most affordable option. If you’re hitting the road, fuel reward programs and apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas along your route. Flexibility with travel dates, especially around peak holiday times, can also lead to big savings—consider flying the week before or after the holiday to lower costs. 

According to Google Flights, the ideal window for booking holiday travel at the best prices is between Oct. 28 and Nov. 19, with 58 days before departure being the sweet spot for cheap fares. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are usually the most budget-friendly days to fly, and flights with layovers are often cheaper than direct ones. 

“You want to book before prices spike but not too far out,” travel expert Clint Henderson shared on Good Morning America. He advises booking Thanksgiving trips immediately and Christmas flights by Halloween, as prices are set to climb daily after that.

Score Big with Sales and Deals

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and pre-holiday sales offer great opportunities for saving, but approach them with a plan. Make a list of items you genuinely need, whether for gifts or personal use, and avoid impulse buys that can quickly eat into your budget. When shopping online, use price-tracking tools like Rakuten or Honey’s Droplist feature to monitor discounts and receive alerts when prices drop on specific items.

Limit Credit Card Usage

It’s easy to reach for your credit card during the holidays, but high-interest rates can quickly turn holiday cheer into New Year’s debt. To keep spending in check, try using cash or debit for purchases, or, if you’re using a credit card for rewards, make sure you have a plan to pay off the balance before interest kicks in. Setting aside a portion of each paycheck as a dedicated “holiday fund” can also keep you from relying entirely on credit.

Discover offers some key holiday credit card tips: create a spending plan so you know what you can afford for gifts and décor; consider credit cards that offer extra rewards like cash back; and regularly check your statements to catch any unauthorized activity early.

The holiday season is a time for celebration and fellowship. With a little planning, you can capture the season’s best moments without overspending. 

Follow these budgeting hacks to stay on track financially and make the most of your holidays—leaving you with more room to enjoy each and every special moment.

The post Try these 6 Budgeting Hacks to Save Money this Holiday Season appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

It boats serving “decolonized” food, meaning no wheat, butter, dairy, cane sugar, black pepper, chicken, beef, or pork—ingredients introduced during European arrival to the Americas. Instead, the menu is curated to include indigenous ingredients such as game meats, corn, and wild plants sourced from local and national indigenous food producers. 

The drink menu does deviate from the decolonized model a bit in that it serves coffee and alcohol from women-owned, black, indigenous, people of color producers, with primarily Indigenous-produced wine from California, Mexico, and Māori wines from New Zealand. 

The restaurant’s staff is comprised of a majority of people from Native nations such as Anishinaabe, Mdewakanton and Wahpeton Sisseton Dakota, Navajo, Northern Cheyenne, and Oglala Lakota and is now owned by the non-profit North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NATIFS), also founded by the head chef and original co-owner of Owamni, the Sioux Chef, Sean Sherman. 

Having attended a presentation of his, Sherman’s vision is one where Indigenous people reconnect with their original food traditions, ways of cooking, and thus revive a part of their culture stripped away by colonization.

While the Owamni does accept walk-ins to be seated at the bar, it is recommended to book reservations weeks in advance for a place in the dining room. The experience and the view of course does not disappoint. 

In case there are issues getting a reservation, NATIFS does host another culinary endeavor in Minneapolis’s Midtown Global Market, the Indigenous Food Lab which acts as a “a professional kitchen and training center” following the vision of Sean Sherman , where you can get a delicious grain bowl or salad of decolonized food to whet your appetite for when you are able to dine at Owamni.

The post A Taste of Indigenous Cuisine in North America appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

From the sweetness of apples to the savory comfort of chili, these seven quick and easy fall recipes are sure to elevate your kitchen game. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these dishes will bring the flavors of fall to life.

Bacon Apple Grilled Cheese

A new twist on a classic! This grilled cheese features crispy bacon paired with sweet, tangy apples for a perfect blend of savory and fruity. The melty cheese holds everything together, creating a sandwich that’s a must-try for any fall meal. 

Check out the recipe on TikTok from @chizobacu for a step-by-step guide.

Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Twist

Nothing screams fall like pumpkin and chai spices! This indulgent pastry combines the two, delivering a warm and comforting treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Each bite is a delightful mix of cinnamon, chai, and the signature flavor of pumpkin. 

Watch the magic unfold with @chizobauwakwe on Instagram.

Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Give your carrots an upgrade with a sweet and tangy honey balsamic glaze. Roasted to perfection, these carrots are tender with a caramelized finish, making them the ideal side dish for any fall meal. 

The full recipe from @kalefornia_kravings is available on Instagram.

Lasagna Soup

If you love lasagna but want something lighter and cozier, this viral Lasagna Soup is your new go-to! It’s been blowing up on social media for being hearty, rich, and packed with all the flavors of traditional lasagna—just served in a bowl!

The comfort of soup meets the classic Italian dish in this satisfying recipe from @swishtrish on TikTok.

Apple Pie Cookies

Craving apple pie but don’t have time to make a full one? These Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect solution. They’re bite-sized, sweet, and filled with all the deliciousness of a traditional apple pie, in a cookie form.

Find the recipe from @purewowrecipes on Instagram.

Roasted Fall Vegetable Salad

A colorful medley of roasted fall vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and carrots, this salad is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the veggies, making this dish perfect for a healthy yet tasty fall meal. 

Learn how to make it on Instagram from @minimalistbaker.

Chipotle Chicken Chili with Cheddar Biscuit Topping

Warm, spicy, and topped with cheesy biscuits, this Chipotle Chicken Chili is a fall favorite. The smoky flavor of chipotle pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and beans, while the cheddar biscuits add a comforting, homemade touch. 

You can check out the recipe from @theshayspence on Instagram.

These seven fall recipes are like a big, cozy sweater for your taste buds—warm, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying! Whether you’re flipping grilled cheese like a pro or whipping up some spicy chili topped with cheesy biscuits, you’ll be bringing serious autumn vibes to your kitchen. 

So, grab your pumpkin spice, fire up the oven, and get ready to serve up some seasonal magic. Your kitchen (and stomach) are about to have the best fall ever!

The post Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice! appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

A simple venture to even parallel roads and avenues in the French Quarter will be enough to encounter its journey to reconcile so much of its complex past to its present. There will be shops selling voodoo dolls, vampire decor, oddities and curiosities among the many other gallery storefronts. Another intriguing find is the year-round ghost tours to its many haunted buildings such as the LaLaurie mansion and passing of New Orleans’s cemeteries featuring prominent figures including a Voodoo Queen. The Historic Voodoo Museum is of course a stop not to be missed in this exploration. Even if you don’t readily gravitate towards the macabre, but you want to just lightly dabble in some thrills, there are plenty of swamp tours offering a rush of suspense where one can see alligators in the wild, eating some chicken or the marshmallows the boat captain uses to draw them out. 

During spooky season, some of New Orleans’s locals put on a hearty display of the Halloween spirit by decorating their historic houses intricately. You can go on a walking tour to witness these Spanish moss-covered homes after eating brunch at a restaurant on the streetcar-lined Canal Street or on your way between eating the fresh shucked oysters at Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House and a beignet at Café du Monde. And if all this walking has got you hankering for more activities before inevitably conjuring the spirit of the green fairy at the Old Absinthe bar on Bourbon Street, you can hop on a steamboat tour on the Mississippi River for dinner. 

One thing is for sure that whenever you visit the city, there are plenty of activities to do whether you choose a spirited or spirit-filled experience and you just may run into the vampire community of New Orleans on your way, bringing your adventure full-circle. 

– – – – – – – – – – –

**This maybe not for the faint of heart, there are plantation tours which explore the sordid, chilling history of slavery to attempt to apologize and honor those caught in its horror. The reality of its legacy is still something that the predominantly Black population of New Orleans has to grapple with on the daily basis. 

The post The Crescent City – A Spirited Destination appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Here’s why traveling might be the answer to that quarter-life crisis you didn’t see coming.

1. You Discover Your Strength

Traveling solo, or even with friends, teaches you more about your own capabilities than you might imagine. From navigating new cities to managing unexpected changes, you learn to trust yourself in ways everyday life doesn’t challenge you to. When you step off a plane in a place where you don’t speak the language, it’s not just a trip—it’s a testament to your strength and adaptability.

2. It Expands Your Worldview

We all have our routines and daily lives, but there’s something powerful about seeing how others live. Travel shows us that the world is bigger than our immediate surroundings. You gain new perspectives on everything from culture to food to how people find joy. This expanded worldview can help you return home with fresh insights and inspiration for your own life.

3. You Connect With Yourself

There’s something about being in a new environment that forces you to pause and reflect. Travel offers a rare opportunity to connect with yourself away from the noise of daily life. Whether you’re walking along a quiet beach or exploring bustling city streets, you can tap into thoughts and emotions that often get buried in the busyness of life. It’s a reset button for your mind and soul.

4. Travel Sparks Creativity

Sometimes, the best way to break out of a rut is to change your scenery. Travel exposes you to new experiences, and with that comes fresh inspiration. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or just someone looking for that next big idea, a change of environment can spark the creativity you’ve been craving. 

If you’ve been dreaming of a trip but haven’t made the move yet, take this as your sign. You deserve to step out, explore, and come back feeling more empowered and connected with yourself than ever. Traveling isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey of becoming the best version of yourself.

The post How Travel Can Empower You to Rewrite Your Life appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Here’s why focusing on mental wellness is your biggest flex this year.

1. You Set Boundaries, Not Limits

Setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you’re a people-pleaser. But trust—boundaries are essential to maintaining your mental well-being. Whether it’s in friendships, family dynamics, or work, being clear about what’s acceptable protects your peace. And when you protect your peace, you’re giving yourself room to grow and thrive. 

2. It’s Self-Care, But Make It Mental

We talk a lot about self-care in terms of bubble baths and skincare routines, but the real tea is that mental self-care is where it’s at. Carving out time for yourself to meditate, journal, or even just sit with your thoughts is powerful. It’s not about escaping life’s challenges; it’s about equipping yourself to handle them with grace.

3. Therapy is The Ultimate Flex

Gone are the days when therapy was taboo. Now, therapy is a powerful tool in our mental wellness toolbox. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or simply need someone to talk to, therapy offers a safe space to process life. And let’s be honest, the stronger your mind, the stronger your glow.

4. You Attract What You Project

When your mental health is in check, you attract better energy into your life. Whether it’s manifesting that promotion or attracting healthier relationships, it all starts with you. People can feel when you’re at peace with yourself, and that kind of energy is magnetic.

In a world that often tells us to “grind” and “hustle,” the real flex is taking a step back, nurturing your mind, and choosing peace. Because when your mental health is thriving, everything else naturally falls into place.

The post Why Prioritizing Your Mental Health is the Biggest Glow-Up appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

1. Oversized Blazers: The Ultimate Power Move

Oversized blazers are no longer just for the boardroom. Pair them with high-waisted jeans and a turtleneck for a polished look, or layer them over a mini dress for that cool, off-duty vibe. The best part? These blazers are versatile enough to transition from day to night, giving you that “I’m the boss” energy everywhere you go. 

2. Luxe Leather: From Pants to Coats

Leather is the go-to fabric this fall, and it’s not just limited to jackets. Think leather skirts, pants, and even button-downs. The key to making this trend work? Keep it sleek and simple. A leather coat thrown over a knit sweater instantly elevates your look from casual to catwalk.

3. Chunky Boots: Stomp Into Fall

Chunky boots are here to stay, and we’re not mad about it. Whether you prefer them knee-high or ankle-length, these boots are a must for fall. Wear them with flowy dresses to toughen up a feminine look, or rock them with jeans and an oversized sweater for a laid-back, edgy outfit.

4. Statement Coats: Because Why Not?

This season, outerwear is getting bold with prints, colors, and textures. From faux fur to vibrant trench coats, fall is the time to make your coat the centerpiece of your look. A statement coat can make even the simplest outfit stand out.

Ready to embrace the season in style? The secret is all in the details—so go ahead, mix and match these trends, and make fall fashion your own.

The post Fall Fashion Trends You Need to Own This Season appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.