In 2018, the name of the game is leveling up.
Whether it's your love life, your social life, your finances, or your career, your intentions for the year should revolve around prioritizing yourself as an investment. As we cultivate our ultimate lives, the seeds that we plant in the soil now could very well predicate how lush and alive your garden is in the future.
When it comes to the pursuit of success, the road less traveled is sometimes exactly where you need to be. And while reading every book your favorite mentor in your head has recommended, and keeping those business podcasts on deck to listen to daily are great proactive first steps, it's important to do the work toward your dream job in other ways as well.
Some aspiring entrepreneurs might not see the value in conferences, but they are there. You are surrounded by like-minded people that give you the ability to network around you, you gain a wealth of knowledge from industry giants, and you can even rub elbows with some of the people you hope to have a seat at the table with down the line of your career trajectory.
The value is unquestionable.
Increase your network and your net worth and level up the right way by making room in the budget to attend retreats, summits, and of course, conferences. To get you started, click through the gallery below to learn more about our selections of the ten conferences you should invest in this year.
1.Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit
Women of Power Summit is a professional leadership conference designed for executive women of color. Its purpose is to empower women to maximize their professional potential and also achieve their life goals.
This year's Women of Power Summit takes place March 7-10, 2018 at Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts in Orlando, Florida. Regristration rates start at $1495. Click here for more information.
2.ColorComm
ColorComm is a membership organization of women of color in professions throughout the communications realm: public relations, journalism, media, entertainment, and more. Their organization is meant to connect women of similar professional backgrounds and build a strong network of leaders by creating strong business relationships, mentors relationships, and friendships.
Events occur throughout the year and in different cities, including luncheons, panel discussions, and recruitment events. ColorComm membership includes a one-time membership fee of $150 and an annual fee of $210. Click here for more info.
3.AfroTech
AfroTech is a conference for POC in tech, where the founders and employees of tech-startups present tactics and strategies they use to grow their businesses. This year's conference takes place in San Francisco, CA on November 8-11, 2018.
In 2018, Blavity is also adding a Detroit stop for the annual conference, but the dates are TBD. Tickets are not yet on sale for either conference, but keep visiting the site to keep abreast of any new information.
4.Black Women Talk Tech
Black Women Talk Tech is a collective of tech founders. Their mission is to help black women build the next billion dollar company. Because black women are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs, it's important to foster a community where they can be empowered to take the next big step into entrepreneurship and challenge themselves to billions.
For their second annual conference, the event will be called "Roadmap to Billions" and it's "focused on tearing down roadblocks and promoting #blackgirlmagic in the tech industry." The dates for the conference are February 28-March 1, 2018 and will take place in the NYC headquarters of their sponsor, Microsoft. Tickets are quite affordable and range from $35-$279. Click herefor more info.
5.Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit
Black Enterprise brings you all the resources you need to be a successful entrepreneur. Their 3-day summit, Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit, is where Black CEO's, business owners, and business experts gather to share knowledge and create lasting connections.
This year's summit takes place in Charlotte, NC at the Charlotte Convention Center. The dates are June 6-9, 2018. Click here for more info on how to register.
6.Black Women In Media Conference
Black Women In Media is an organization that's mission is to highlight black women in media and create more representation in the field of communications and media while building strong connections. Their conference is two days: one for the official conference of panelists and speakers, and the second is a BWIM Awards Ceremony, to commemorate those who have done excellent work in their fields.
This year's conference and awards ceremony take place on March 28-29, 2018 in New York. Click here for more info.
7.Happy Black Woman
Happy Black Woman is a global personal development company dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering black women to create their ideal lives. Their events range from mastermind groups in Greece to goal-setting conferences.
Coming up for the Happy Black Woman is a three-day live Launch Your Business boot camp event on April 6-8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. They also have a 2018 Happy Black Woman Mastermind Retreat on June 28-30, 2018. For more information on events and registration, click here.
8.MogulCon
MogulCon is the event where female corporate influencers and women-owned businesses come together to learn from one another and share tips on how to become a female entrepreneur and influencer. "For too long the women of corporate america and women-owned businesses have operated in separate spaces. MogulCon is bridging the gap and sharing lessons learned from women across the career spectrum."
MogulCon18 is a four-day event that takes place November 8-10, 2018 in Orlando at the Rosen Centre Hotel. Click herefor more info.
9.Summit21 (formerly EmpowerHer)
EmpowerHer is taking on a new name. Now called Summit21, the event is a 2-day conference created by the founders of Blavity. According to Morgan DeBaun, CEO of Blavity, Summit21 will encompass "2k Black Women entrepreneurs, makers, influencers and creators talking about , beauty, health and creativity. Masterclasses, workshops, free giveaways. June 2018 in #atl."
Summit21 will take place in Atlanta, Georgia on June 8-June 9, 2018. Tickets can be purchased here.
10.Forbes Women's Summit
"Forbes Women's Summit celebrates the doers and the doing; a source of inspiration and support that connects and empowers women around the world, helping them to realize their potential and reach new heights." The conference includes keynote discussions, panels, and engaging conversations that span the core pillars of: leadership, entrepreneurship, health, education, and philosophy. To attend is invite only, but once can sign up to be notified for registration.
This year's Forbes Women's Summit takes place June 18-19, 2018 in New York. Click here for more info.
Which conference(s) are you most excited about?
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert