🎉 Cousin Marley Turns 16 — and She’s Got Business to Handle

Let’s talk about Cousin Marley, because she’s having a big week — and not just because she’s turning sweet sixteen on Monday, November 10.

Now, I’ve always said Marley has a cool birthday setup. Every year, she ends up out of school on, before, or right after her birthday — depending on where it falls in the week. This year, she actually has to go on her big day (boo), but she gets the next day off for Veterans Day, so it still kind of works out.

Her birthday plans? The mall.
(BOOOOORINNNNNGGGG, but hey — it’s her day, not mine.)

🛍️ From Sweet 16 to Small Business

The real celebration isn’t at the food court — it’s this weekend at Marley’s first solo vending event.

That’s right — my baby is officially out here representing herself. I’m trying to play it cool and just be a supportive parent, but I’m so proud I could burst.

I’ve been helping her prep like a one-person cheer squad:

• Got her magnets, stickers, and art prints made from her original work

• Set her up with a full table display — bags, easel, tripod, the works

• Helped her plan her layout and prices

• And of course, I’ll be anxiously refreshing my phone to hear how it’s going while pretending to “give her space”

Her dad’s even coming down from Maryland to be there.
That’s love — and honestly, it’s the kind of moment that reminds me how community and family show up for each other.

🎨 About the Event

It’s a celebration of entrepreneurship, creativity, and community — a perfect fit for Marley.

Here are just a few highlights from the event lineup:

• Hear how entrepreneurship opened doors for Harvey B. Gantt, Charlotte’s first African-American Mayor

• Cheer on the Youth Pitch Competition, where young entrepreneurs will pitch their business ideas for cash prizes

• Print your own conference t-shirt souvenir (yes, you know I love a good print moment)

• Grab an edible cookie photograph — because sugar and selfies are a combo we can all get behind

It’s the kind of event that reminds you why we invest in young people — they’re not just the future, they’re the now.

🖤 A Cookout Toast

So here’s to Cousin Marley — 16 years old, artist, entrepreneur, and all-around light.
You’re doing what a lot of adults still haven’t figured out how to do: betting on yourself.

We’re proud of you, we’re cheering for you, and we can’t wait to see your table sold out by noon.

Keep shining, keep creating, and remember — you’ve always got The Cookout in your corner.