Why Turning 50 Feels Like a Wild Girls’ Trip… Minus the Hangover

Let’s just start here: If someone had told me that inching toward 50 would feel like being the star of my own coming-of-age movie one where I actually like the main character I would’ve raised an eyebrow, clutched my coffee, and said, “Bless your little heart.”

But here I am. Officially a month out from turning 50, and guess what?

I’ve never felt more alive, honest, or deliciously dangerous in my entire life.

No, I’m not talking skydiving or selling everything to live in Bali (though, never say never). I’m talking about finally embracing that woman in the mirror. The one with laugh lines from real belly laughs. The one with stories to tell, some heartbreaks tucked under her belt, and a boldness that doesn’t ask for permission. A woman who’s finally figured out how to say: “No thanks, I’ve outgrown that.”

Here’s what I’ve learned lately and darling, pour a glass of rosé for this one:

1. Confidence Isn’t Loud. It’s Worn Like Perfume.

It’s the way you walk into a room knowing your worth without needing to shout it. It’s not second-guessing your outfit, your invite list, or your damn self. It’s ordering the pasta and dessert without guilt. It’s the glow-up that doesn’t come from makeup but from peace.

2. Friendships Matter More Than Ever.

At this age, if you’re not feeding my soul, adding joy to my life, or making me laugh until I snort respectfully, you can exit stage left. The women around me now? We’ve stopped competing and started celebrating. We show up in pajamas, we cry without filters, we dance in the kitchen. Find your people the ones who love you in sweatpants and sequins.

3. Romance Can Be Real (and Hotter Than Ever).

Yes, ladies it gets better. When love isn’t built on drama but on real healing, respect, and knowing your love language (mine is: “Tell me I’m pretty and bring me tacos”). Whether you’re single, newlywed, remarried, or just starting over there’s magic in knowing what you want this time around.

4. Healing Isn’t Pretty, But It’s Powerful.

I didn’t get here without scars. I’ve buried pain, outgrown people, and reparented myself through tears and therapy. But I came out softer, stronger, and with a grace that lets me keep my standards high and my circle tight. You can’t fake healed energy trust me, it enters the room before you do.

5. The Comeback Is Better Than the Fairy Tale.

Forget the glass slipper I built the whole damn closet. What I lost in my 30s (sanity, sleep, self-worth), I gained back in my 40s with interest. And now? My 50s are for freedom. For joy. For dancing barefoot in the kitchen with my love. For hosting dinner parties with pink candles and bold cheese boards. For saying, “I don’t chase anymore I attract.”

So, to every woman reading this whether you’re 25, 35, 45, or freshly 59 hear me when I say this:

Your best chapter isn’t behind you. It’s that next dinner invite, that next “yes” to yourself, that next bold outfit you wear with zero apologies.

This? This is the good part. This is where it gets fun.

Stay tuned, because here at Dinner at 45, we’re just getting started. And darling, the next course is always the best one.

Now pass the champagne and maybe the fries.

Love,

Laura Kelly