Why I Created This Group
Who We Are
A Personal Note from the Founder
I’m a 48-year-old Black woman who wears many hats—with pride and deep gratitude. I’m a mother to two amazing grown sons, “Coco” to two beautiful grandsons, and a nurse with a career that has spanned over 24 years. I’ve also shared over two decades of life in a long-term relationship and marriage.
These parts of my story are sacred to me—they reflect love, sacrifice, and resilience. But like so many women, especially Black women, I spent most of my adult life pouring into others: raising children, building a career, and showing up for everyone but myself.
Then life shifted.
After 22 years of marriage, I went through a divorce. I also had to walk away from parts of my career that no longer aligned with the woman I was becoming. I faced some incredibly difficult times—but I walked through them with my head held high, in grace and dignity, even when it hurt.
So many Black middle-aged women are doing the same—starting fresh, rediscovering themselves, learning how to be instead of just do. We’ve held families, relationships, and careers together. Now, it’s time to hold ourselves.
AND I MADE IT.
I healed. I started over. And I realized I’m not alone.
This travel group was born from that truth. It’s not just about vacations—it’s about freedom, healing, celebration, and luxury. It’s about stepping into this next chapter boldly, embracing joy without guilt, and reminding each other that we deserve the finer things in life.
We’ve earned this. Every bit of it.
With love and purpose,
Chiquita Kelly
Founder of Exquisite-Escape
