Moms Gather in South New Jersey for MomsGiving: A night of sisterhood and self-care.

You can hear the laughter of moms before you even enter the room. The emotion is palpable as the mamas from Growing Up Gorgeous Moms gather for an in-real-life event: MomsGiving in Beverly, New Jersey on November 5, 2022.

There is so much beauty entering the venue as mamas settle in. There are moms with curls, braids, locs, and sparkly heels clicking across the floor. These mamas did not come to play today, but there is so much more to admire. The warm embraces and smiles are the most beautiful things in the room. There is so much love at this event.

These moms are here to give back to one another, and MomsGiving: Grace and Gratitude is an event for so much more than just looking pretty. These women gathered together to practice self-care and connect.

If the walls of La Lus Vegan Cafe could talk, they would tell the story of moms pushing through their comfort zones and recognizing that they belong at the table. As the MC for the evening, Dina Verley-Christophe, gives out hugs and instructions, mamas floated around the room for an icebreaker: “What about motherhood are you most grateful for?”

For many moms, questions about gratitude can reset a weary heart. The new mom is grateful for her bundle of joy. The seasoned mom is grateful for the challenges her family has overcome. The grieving mom remembers those who have walked with her. The newly divorced mom is grateful for prayer and encouragement.

And on and on, the stories of these beautiful Brown Mamas begin to unfold.

There is joy and pain in each one. Everyone is simultaneously both healing and hurting.

Some unspoken. But all stories are woven together by a creator who cares enough to help us slow down and consider places of gratitude.

As moms begin to share, the hosts confer, "why are they not posting?" They laugh with delight as they realize it's because people are too busy sharing. People are connecting, and their phones are down. Seeing a room full of connected souls is breathtaking.

As melodies flow through the speakers, Narshonna Ahiekpor's beautiful voice reminds the group, "we are the best part…". The small words of encouragement brought a resounding "yassss…." from the ladies.

As the leader of Growing Up Gorgeous Moms, I am always amazed at how God puts the pieces of our events together to point back to Him. Before saying grace, I shared evidence of God's grace around us. I reminded the mamas that grace is not just unmerited favor; according to 2 Corinthians 12:9, God's grace also gives us the strength to keep going.

We need God's grace with all of our individual and collective stories. Can I get an Amen?

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV

2022 MomsGiving Sponsors:

As we enjoyed dinner, mamas also participated in raffle giveaways generously offered by our amazing sponsors. The gifts and games connected always bring joy and smiles to deserving mamas. Giveaways included:

An amazing Santa Christmas Mini-Session with Jackie from Stinsman Photography.
A Slate Electric Flosser Starter Kit given by Slate Dental, "the future of floss"!
A Postpartum Doula traditional medicine package, gifted by The Parentkind Center for Wellness in Cherry Hill, New Jersey
A natural hair and body self-care package gifted by Reclaim Your Crown and
All nominees were entered into an elf drawing from Macaroni Kid Cherry Hill.

Our delicious all-vegan meal from La Lus Vegan Cafe included slap-yo-mama food that is good for your soul—covering everything from Curry ChikN & Jasmine Rice to Southern Fried Un-Chicken Sliders. Delicious.

New Jersey Gorgeous Mama Award:

The highlight of the evening came after dinner with a heartfelt celebration of the Gorgeous Mama Award Nominees and the announcement of the 2022 Award Winner. Other mamas nominated these women for their outstanding contributions to their community. The list included included multiple educators, childbirth workers, professors, entrepreneurs, politicians, and more. Everyone is a phenomenal mother and a vital part of her community.

Each nominee that attended was recognized. And an announcement was made for the 2022 Gorgeous Mama Award Winner. This woman is more than a powerhouse in her community; she contributes her heart and soul to fight for Black maternal health in a broken and dysfunctional system. Sisters in our community can attest to her consistent love, vulnerability, and support to help moms survive and thrive.

In a flood of emotion, Porsche came up to receive her recognition. The award allowed Porsche to hear that her work matters and that she is seen and loved. Her response was beautiful:

Porsche Holland-Otunba Reclaim Black Motherhood

It was through my own pain and suffering. Not ideal birth experiences, not beautiful things. The Lord redeemed it all…I didn’t see my purpose. Something that I didn't want, and still struggle to accept this day, which is motherhood. He has shown me that I have purpose. And that I was supposed to be a mother, so that I can love on other people. -
Mrs. Porsche Holland-Otunba - Reclaim Black Motherhood

When the tears dried up, it was indeed time to party! Gift bags were given out full of goodies from Slate Dental, Sip & Scent Candle Bar, Ulta Beauty, and more.

Lots of appreciation bubbled over to celebrate the success of this gathering and the 2022 kick-off of the membership arm of the Growing Up Gorgeous community. Becoming a GUG Member means seeing sisters in real life that you have virtually connected with through prayer, Masterclasses, Book Studies, and open chats. As the music turned up and moms were encouraged to mingle, it was time for a little Beyonce', some dancing, and a lot of laughter.

It is something to be said about bringing women together "at the table." Community tables have always been the birthplace of movements. And this movement is no different. When Black Moms come together to release stress, they ultimately gain the energy to keep going.

Keep loving.

Keep praying.

Keep trusting.

There is so much beauty in the power of what God does through "us."

Be Well Mamas - Christina