No Reservations 🎂

Beauty in Self-Celebration

"They fuckin’ forgot my birthday."

That line stuck with me from one of my favorite movies, Sixteen Candles —Molly Ringwald’s character Samantha Baker is feeling invisible, left out, and forgotten after her own family forgets it’s her 16th birthday. For a long time, I felt that way too—like I either took up too much space or not enough. But this birthday? This one was different. It wasn’t just about getting older. It was about realizing how much I’ve grown, how confident I’ve become, and how good it feels to finally accept myself.

A Night to Remember

My actual birthday was on Wednesday, the middle of the week. The night started at a cozy wine bar in Brooklyn. A few close friends came, and by the end of the night, we had taken over the back space, laughing, drinking, and having deep conversations. Cupcakes showed up, the owner stopped by to chat, and for the first time in a long time, I felt completely surrounded by love in the most effortless way.

And of course, no birthday of mine would be complete without a stop at my favorite dive bar. I walked into the back room, catching up with friends, feeling at ease in a way that used to feel impossible. A year ago, I would have overthought every little interaction. Now, I just am—without fear, without judgment, without worrying about who likes me. When I went to pay my tab at the end of the night, one of the bartenders just smiled and said, "What tab? It's your birthday." A small moment, but one that made me feel truly appreciated.

A Year of Growth

This past year has changed me. Writing this blog, joining a kickball league, talking to strangers, and pushing myself to try new things have helped me find confidence I never had before. It hasn’t been easy—I’ve lost people, friendships have changed, and I’ve had to let go of those who don’t see my worth. But I no longer waste energy proving myself to people who don’t appreciate me. If someone doesn’t see my value, that’s their loss.

This isn’t just about self-acceptance—it’s about self-celebration. I’m not just learning to exist in spaces anymore; I’m owning them—unapologetically, fearlessly, and surrounded by people who truly see me. That’s what this birthday meant to me. It wasn’t about waiting for reassurance. It was about knowing I already belong.

One of the most emotional moments of my birthday was reading a note from a friend who described me in a way that made me cry. For the first time, I felt truly seen. And the best part? The way they see me is exactly how I’m learning to see myself.

An 80s Dream

For the weekend, I went full 80s fantasy—the perfect outfit, a growing guest list, and zero anxiety about who would get along. We had dinner at my favorite Italian spot, followed by a night at a vinyl hi-fi bar with amazing cocktails. For the first time, I knew it would be a great night, and it was.

The Soundtrack of Growth

To close it all out, I’m sharing a playlist of songs about growing up—the ones that have been with me through every stage of self-discovery. The first track, If You Were Here from Sixteen Candles, feels especially perfect. That movie once reflected my biggest fear—being forgotten. But this birthday proved just how seen and loved I really am.

And honestly? That final scene where the car moves and Jake Ryan is just sitting there, waiting? That’s how my friendships feel now. They’ve been there all along, waiting for me to love myself the way they already do.

This playlist reflects that journey—nostalgia, self-acceptance, and the beauty of change. I hope it resonates with you as much as it does with me. Here’s to another year of growth, self-love, and celebrating without fear.

And honestly? Fuck being rational, give ‘em what they ask for. (Thank you Kendrick!) I’ve spent too much time overthinking, making myself smaller, and questioning my place. Not anymore. I’m here, I’m seen, and I’m giving myself exactly what I deserve—unapologetic joy, love, and a life that feels like mine.