They say New York is the city that never sleeps—so naturally, I had to take her out on a date. But this wasn’t just about cocktails and candlelight—it was about falling in love with yourself. I’m sharing the story behind my first NYC solo night out, the mindset that made it magical, and how you can plan your own unforgettable evening—no plus one required. Confidence, champagne, and a curated essentials list included.

Nine days, 49 hours of driving, one dog, and way too many Champagne Problems—this is the story of how I moved across the country with red lipstick, playlist power, and a little help from the Midwest. Buckle up.