MelissaRoseCooper on LTK

MelissaRoseCooper

Senegal gave me everything — adventure, peace, and that kind of glow you can’t fake.

I walked with lions, rode ATVs by a pink lake, ate dibi with my hands, and somehow… still felt like I was home.

This wasn’t my first time in Senegal, but each visit brings something new. From Ngor’s sunshine to Dakar’s hustle, this trip filled my spirit.

I’ll be adding some of my favorite travel looks and beauty staples soon — but for now, here’s a little inspiration for your next escape. ✨

#RunawayWithMel #LTKTravel #AfricaTravel #BlackTravelCreators #SenegalVibes

#LTKOver40 #LTKFindsUnder100 #LTKTravel

Senegal gave me everything — adventure, peace, and that kind of glow you can’t fake. I walked with lions, rode ATVs by a pink lake, ate dibi with my hands, and somehow… still felt like I was home. This wasn’t my first time in Senegal, but each visit brings something new. From Ngor’s sunshine to Dakar’s hustle, this trip filled my spirit. I’ll be adding some of my favorite travel looks and beauty staples soon — but for now, here’s a little inspiration for your next escape. ✨ RunawayWithMel LTKTravel AfricaTravel BlackTravelCreators SenegalVibes LTKOver40 LTKFindsUnder100 LTKTravel

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Hi, I’m Melissa! I’m a journalist, content creator, and storyteller who’s passionate about travel, beauty, and everyday finds that make life easier (and a little more fun).

I started my career in the newsroom, but my love for culture, storytelling, and discovering hidden gems has taken me all over the world—and now I get to share that journey with you here on LTK. From travel must-haves and beauty staples to lifestyle picks I actually use, everything I share is tried, true, and part of my real life.

Think of this space as a mix of storytelling and shopping—because I believe the things we use every day should reflect who we are and make us feel good.

💛 Thanks for being here! Follow along to shop my favorite finds and discover something new for yourself.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKSeasonal

Wi Bold & Beautiful was a whole vibe! A room full of powerhouse Caribbean women entrepreneurs, coming together to celebrate, connect, and uplift each other.

And let's talk about the setting — Pantora, a stunning woman-owned bridal shop in Brooklyn, set the perfect stage for the night.

The speakers? Dropping gems. The vendors? All women-owned. The energy? Unmatched. And the roses with affirmations? Yeah, I needed that!
One thing about Caribbean women — we don't just talk about it, we BE about it! Can't wait for the next one 🫶🏾
#womenentreprenuers #caribbeanwomen #womensupportingwomen #blackgirlmagic #melanin

This dress is amazing! I got it for work but it can be worn for so many occasions. It’s cute, stylish, and hugs the curves in all the right places yet still flattering on so many shapes ❤️

#LTKWorkwear #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50

This sunscreen from ⁠ is AMAZING! A friend put me on to it a few months back and l've been obsessed since. I love how the glow screen gives your face a nice look and it doesn't cause any issues for my problematic skin 🥰

#supergoop #sunscreen #glowingskin

For anyone wondering why your skin isn’t clearing up — check your towel 👀 These clean towels have been a lifesaver for my sensitive skin. I’ve been using them for months now and honestly can’t go back to regular towels. Shop them on my LTK 🫶🏾

#LTKBeauty #LTKHoliday #LTKSeasonal

You're not alone in feeling behind. The message is to give yourself permission to reset now. We can finish strong together. And I’m starting with this planner to help me stay on track 🥹

#LTKdayinmylife #LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday

Late nights in the lab but still make it cute 🥰 Thankful for this flat ring light too!

#LTKHoliday #LTKSeasonal #LTKGiftGuide

Still can’t believe how much this light instantly leveled up my video. Can’t wait to use it more! Best gift ever!

#LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKHoliday #LTKGiftGuide

The past week reminded me how important it is to celebrate your wins — even the quiet ones — and to always bet on yourself.

For the past couple of weeks, I’ve been really focused on sending out pitches. Most of them tend to be cold and usually go without a response. But last week, I got through with two — including one from a pitch I almost didn’t send.

Not gonna lie… I started to cry. I know I have a serious case of RBF but anyone who really knows me KNOWS how emotional I can be. But this time, the tears came from a feeling of pride, knowing that not giving up pays off. That taking a chance on yourself — even when it’s uncomfortable — always matters.

It has been more than a year since I left my full-time job to choose me… and moments like this remind me why I did.

#motivation #focus #growth #betonyourself

Finally ditched my heavy backpack for this underseat-friendly weekender bag — comes with a toiletry kit + shoe compartment too 💼✨

Sometimes growth starts with just booking the flight ✈️

5 years ago, I took my first solo trip and it completely changed how I saw myself.

If you’ve ever been waiting for someone else to make a move — this one’s for you. 💛

#LTKTravel #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50

Took a 45-minute scenic train ride through the Catskills 🍂 The Delaware & Ulster Railroad runs right along the Delaware River, surrounded by peak fall colors — the perfect slow moment before the season slips away 🚂✨

Linked a few cozy fall travel essentials from my weekend getaway — everything you’ll want for your own fall escape 🍁

#LTKSeasonal #LTKTravel #LTKFindsUnder50

October came in with a full dose of fall energy — and I leaned right in 🍁 My first Catskills trip took me to Delaware County, where I was reminded just how much there is to explore in New York beyond the city.

Biking the Catskills Scenic Trail was such a highlight — but honestly, even the in-between moments like this made the weekend special. A little sunshine, a little color, and a comfy outfit to match the mood.

Linked some similar fall pieces that are perfect for a weekend escape — think cozy joggers, bright sneakers, and easy layers. 🍂

#LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKSeasonal #LTKActive

✨ A little piece of Paradise 🌴 My stay at The Royal Tower West in The Bahamas came with ocean-inspired design, the comfiest bed, and a balcony view overlooking Aquaventure.

Sharing some of my travel must-haves that made my trip smoother — from my go-to carry-on and packing cubes to the beauty essentials I never leave home without.

I can’t believe it’s already fall… and I’m still catching up on all the moments I haven’t shared yet!

Back in June, I was in Ibiza for the official launch of the Unexpected Hotel and it was AMAZING! From the stunning views to the incredible people I met, it reminded me how important it is to travel boldly and unapologetically.

I even got a chance to share a bit of my experience along with some other amazing Black women traveling to places where we’re often not seen but absolutely belong. And I love that we are finding spaces where we have the freedom to be ourselves.

Check out the article now on Essence.com and lookout for more content dropping soon:)

📍 @theunexpectedibizahotel
@ciicpr

#spain #ibiza #theunexpectedhotel #melissarosecooper #runawaywithmel #blacktravel #blackgirlmagic

My nightly routine isn’t just about cleansers and serums — even the towel I use plays a role. These clean facial towels have been a game-changer for keeping my skin clear and cared for. I use them after washing my face, to help remove makeup, and to keep bacteria away. Sharing them here because they’ve truly made a difference for me.

Hey everyone 👋🏾 Yes, I’m back from vacation… and back to reality.

Some of you might not even realize I still report the news. I’m no longer full-time, but I’m still out here doing what I do — telling real stories, holding the mic, and sometimes shooting it all myself.

Shoutout to powerful little cameras, like this one from @dji , that make it work. And shoutout to summer dresses that survive NYC heat and a full shoot day 😅

By the way… the tan? Courtesy of Africa. The glow? That’s all me 🙃

Ever tried filming a whole story on your own?

#melissarosecooper #reporterlife #teamnatural #mmj #news #nyc #dji #osmo

Nothing like a quick lipstick moment to pull everything together 🥰

#LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder100 #LTKBeauty

Wing run but still keeping it cute 👀🍗 Linked my PuffCuff (a must for this puff) plus similar gold hoops and other favs too

#LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKFallSale #LTKSeasonal

Chicken wings + casual fits 😌✨

Wearing a pink mock turtleneck, jeans, gold hoops, and my hair up with my signature PuffCuff. The perfect vibe for a perfect day!

Joy is self-care too 🫶🏾 Out on the water in Sint Maarten, rocking my natural curls in a high puff (secured with my go-to PuffCuff 🙌🏾), bold red frames, and a sleek two-piece under my vest. Linking my PuffCuff, swimwear, and vacay-ready finds so you can bring a little island joy to your own getaway ✨💕

Almost a year into my gut health journey, and I’m still amazed by the changes I’ve felt since adding Flora Biome to my routine. Consistency has never been my strong suit, but this has been different — and it’s made such a difference in my day-to-day life. 💛

Linked here so you can shop what I use daily.

#GutHealth #Probiotics #LTKWellness #LTKHealth #SupplementsForWomen

First impressions are in! 🌸 I tried SheaMoisture’s Alma & Kalahari lines on my hair (not a full wash day) and my curls already feel soft + moisturized. Excited to see how it holds up on a full wash day routine 👀✨ Stay tuned for that update!

#LTKBeauty #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50

Sometimes it’s the little things—fresh hair and a pop of lipstick can set the tone for the whole day. Linking my favs below 💕

#LTKFallSale #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50

Doing my makeup + sharing my experience with GLP-Activate 💚 It’s part of my routine now and I’m linking it here for anyone curious. Also slow clap for my fresh braid-out using SheaMoisture, and my matte lip is from The Lip Bar 💄✨ Linking those too so you can shop the full look.

#LTKFindsUnder100 #LTKBeauty #LTKSeasonal

Mirror check during my stay at the Renaissance Wind Curaçao Resort ✌🏾 Loving this comfy, casual look for exploring the island. I kept it simple with a bright orange ribbed tank top, high-waisted denim shorts with a drawstring waist, and easy travel accessories. Linking my outfit details + travel must-haves so you can shop the look and pack light for your next getaway. 🌴✨

#CuracaoTravel #VacationStyle #OOTD”

#LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKTravel #LTKSeasonal

I’ve tasted ice cream all over the world, but now I’m hunting for the best scoops close to home. 🍦 Along the way, I’ll share my favorites—and the little things that make each stop special. Think hidden gems, foodie finds, and sweet tools you’ll want at home too. Tap to shop my ice cream essentials and follow along as we build the ultimate ice cream trail together!

Room goals 🏝️✨ My stay at the Renaissance Wind Curaçao Resort was the perfect mix of comfort + Caribbean vibes. A comfy bed, oceanfront views, and all the little details that make a vacation feel special. Tap to shop my travel faves… like this cute bikini, orange sheer cover-up skirt, and sunglasses 🥰

✨ Goodbye August ✨

Closed out the month feeling vibrant and full of energy 🎶🌞 This easy summer outfit has been one of my go-tos — a classic white, sleeveless bodysuit, high-waisted denim shorts, and comfy sandals that work for everything from a festival look to a casual weekend style. Oh and the puff cuff for my hair… clutch!

I’ve linked a few similar pieces so you can shop this end-of-summer outfit idea and carry the vibe right into September or your next warm getaway 💛

#LTKTravel #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50

Trying out some new products from Shea Moisture on my dry, 4C hair. They are supposed to be really moisturizing so 🤞🏾

#LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKSeasonal #LTKBeauty

A lot of folks are always sending me DMs or commenting on my posts about what I’m wearing or other things featured. So I just wanted to let you know that you can find almost everything right here in my LTK store. Make sure you follow so you don’t miss out!!!

#LTKStyleTip #LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKOver40

Summer in Senegal is no joke! But I was glad these high-waisted denim shorts were cute and comfy during the heat. And the combat boots and sunglasses were clutch for the day’s activity along the sand 🙌🏾

#LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKTravel

This is seriously one of my fav lipsticks. I’ve always like a nice matte look but all the ones I’ve tried always had my lips looking DRY 😩 Then I stumbled upon this one from The Lip Bar and it changed my opinion on matte lipsticks. My lips stay moist and I don’t have to constantly reapply. And I always get compliments when I wear it 🥰

#LTKBeauty #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50

I finally went to my first U.S Open event EVER! I kept it casual and cute with this cheetah print shirt, black pants, cute glasses, and my red bag.

#LTKOver40 #LTKFindsUnder100 #LTKSeasonal

Having problematic skin is tough. But I’ve finally found some products that are really helping to make my acne prone skin flourish. This is my current morning routine 🫶🏾

#LTKOver40 #LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKBeauty

Absolutely love this flattering dress I got for work. There’s enough stretch in it to hug my curves just right. It comes in multiple colors as well. Good for any professional outing also.

#LTKOver40 #LTKWorkwear #LTKFindsUnder50