A 5-Star Birthday Staycation I’ll Never Forget. Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead | My 55th Birthday

My birthday was nothing short of magical.

With the whole weekend, weather scare in Georgia y’all already know I was not gonna settle for not having a good time , so I celebrated my 55th birthday with a staycation at the Waldorf Astoria in Buckhead, and when I say the experience was five stars across the board, I truly mean it. From the moment I arrived, every detail felt intentional, thoughtful, and full of warmth.

My arrival

The concierge, valet, bellhop, room service, restaurant and spa staff all delivered impeccable service, but what truly touched my heart was the kindness behind it all. My concierge surprised me with a room upgrade for my birthday and even arranged an early check-in, a gift I didn’t expect but deeply appreciated.

My concierge was Sukru and he was OUTSTANDING!

Me and my amazing concierge Sukru

When I walked into my room, I was greeted by my name displayed on the TV screen saying Welcome, balloons, and a mini birthday cake waiting just for me, along with a beautiful handwritten card. The bathtub? Deep, luxurious, and perfect for a long bubble bath that felt like pure selfcare.

But then came the moment that stopped me in my tracks.

The balloons were lavender, silver and white.

Lavender… one of my mom’s favorite colors. She loved purples, lavenders and blues.

I never told the staff that my mother had passed. I never shared her favorite colors. Yet there they were , lavender balloons, softly reminding me that she is still with me. I truly believe that was her way of wishing me a happy birthday. A gentle, loving sign that filled my heart with peace and gratitude.

This milestone birthday was about so much more than luxury. It’s about love, legacy, and gratitude. Gratitude for 55 years of life. Gratitude for having had such a wonderful mother who because of her love, prayers and sacrifice, I’m here. Gratitude for my amazing daughter and precious grandson, who fill my life with purpose and joy. Gratitude for my friends and loved ones who look out for me in so many amazing ways.

My daughter started my birthday morning with the sweetest surprise, beautiful balloon decorations, cake, candles, breakfast , and these gorgeous roses, and in that moment, I felt incredibly loved and celebrated.

So let’s get into it.

This staycation wasn’t just a getaway, it was a reminder to pause, reflect, and honor how far I’ve come and the people who walk with me, seen and unseen.

I arrived right at noon and was pleasantly surprised to be allowed to check in early. Since the normal check-in time is 3:00 p.m., this felt like a win and instantly set the tone for my staycation.

The very first thing on my agenda was room service. I’d already enjoyed a solid breakfast earlier at home, so I kept lunch light but indulgent. I ordered the honey butter lemon pepper buffalo wings with blue cheese dressing, along with deviled eggs, and let me tell you, it was so good. I slipped into my boss-lady robe and indulged like the queen I am. (Self Care)

Every time room service arrived, they brought in this adorable mini rolling table for me to eat on, which somehow made the whole experience feel extra luxurious. It was such a small detail, but it added to that “fancy hotel life” feeling I was fully leaning into.

After lunch, I made it a point to slow down and truly rest. I slipped into the bed, turned on the TV, and took the most peaceful nap. The bed was incredibly cozy, and lounging around in my robe, I couldn’t help but smile, feeling like the queen I am. Moments like that remind me just how blessed I am. My growth has been profound, and I give God all the glory. I know without Him, I wouldn’t have the mindset, discipline, focus, resources, or ability to prioritize self-care the way I do today. To look back and see how far He’s brought me means everything.

I could have easily stayed home, which I would’ve made the best of it considering the weather, but I was so glad I chose to do something special for myself. I’d already spent the morning celebrating with my beautiful daughter and grandson, which filled my heart completely. Still, it felt so good to pour into me. We give so much of ourselves to others, our families, our responsibilities, our circumstances, and sometimes we have to intentionally pause, invest a little extra, and give ourselves the love we deserve.

The key is planning in advance and the moment I saw bad weather in the forecast. Instead of risking flight delays or travel issues, I chose peace and intention. Everything was reserved ahead of time, the room, the spa, the full experience, and honestly, I loved every part of this self-care filled 55th birthday celebration at the Waldorf Astoria in Buckhead. I highly recommend it.

Next stop, the spa, and wow. From the moment you walk in, the experience is breathtaking. The entrance, the signage, the soft music, the overall vibe, everything is elegant, calming, and beautifully curated. It’s the kind of place that makes you fall in love with yourself all over again, not in an arrogant way, but in a self-love, self-worth, freedom filled kind of way. A reminder that you deserve to be pampered.

One thing I loved is that you don’t even have to be a hotel guest to enjoy the spa. I met several people who were there simply for the amenities, the hot tub, steam room, sauna, massages, and it was good to know that option exists. I enjoyed the steam room and was even treated to a champagne toast in honor of my birthday, which was such a thoughtful touch . Thanks to Isarel for making sure I knew about and took advantage of it. His energy was phenomenal! The spa provided robes and slippers, and personal lockers and the entire experience was truly five star, top tier.

After enjoying the treatment, there was a beautiful relaxation area where you could sit, unwind, and enjoy teas, coffee, nuts, pretzels, and light snacks. Of course, I indulged, and everything was delicious.

Once I returned to my room, it was time for one more must do: a bubble bath in that deep, luxurious tub. There was no way I was leaving that hotel without using it, so rubba dub dub it was!

I may have gone a little wild with the bubbles, but it was worth it. I finally used a bubble bath a friend gifted me years ago, saving it for the perfect moment. And what better moment than my 55th birthday? Thanks Danielle! 🥰

After the bath, it was time to get ready for my boss-lady birthday dinner. I dressed up, did my makeup, bumped my hair, and stepped out in an outfit I had specifically saved for this moment. Dinner was at Brassica, the restaurant inside the hotel, and the experience was phenomenal. And as you can see, they even have a full bar fully loaded with yummy adult beverages.

A quick lobby photo shoot to show off the fit. This birthday look was inspired by one of my favorite people, Oprah Winfrey. We’re both Aquarians, and her birthday is January 29, so the connection already feels real. She’s an iconic journalist, talk show host, and thought leader, which I already know that’s my industry. I love it, and when I saw her wear a similar suit on The View, I knew it had to be my birthday look. And here it is.

The service was excellent, the food was delicious, and here’s what I ordered, for my appetizer I got the YELLOW CORN BISQUE, blackened shrimp, bacon, brioche croutor, OMG, of you ever visit you have to try it. I have never tasted anything like it and it was amazing!

For my main dish I got the ROASTED RACK OF SPRING LAMB , herb whipped potato, asparagus, blackberry & rosemary, it was superb! Chef’s kiss!

To top it all off, my waitress, Mya, surprised me with a mini birthday cake. They also have a beautiful full bar and an elegant, intimate atmosphere no loud crowds, just a refined space where you can truly enjoy the moment.

The next morning before checkout, you know your girl had to have a boss-girl breakfast. Belgian waffles and a fully loaded omelette with lobster meat, coffee, and apple juice and whew… it was so freaking good.

After that, it was time to check out, and of course the exit had to be top tier. The doorman came up to my room, grabbed my luggage, took it downstairs, pulled my car around, and honestly made me feel like we were dating and he was my bae! I mean, if that’s what it feels like being married to the right one then, I’ll take one of those please ! 😂

Shoutout to Cortez and Ron , y’all really know how to treat a lady! Spoiled me rotten just catering to me!

This entire experience was intentional, peaceful, and filled with gratitude. It was the perfect way to honor my 55 years and I wouldn’t change a thing.

Thank you, Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, for an unforgettable experience, and thank you, Mom, for still showing up in the most beautiful ways.

Here’s to 55 years… and to many more moments filled with love, comfort, and meaning. #Settlefree

Tinzley