A Weekend to Remember: The 2024 Motivated Mom Retreat Takes Dallas by Storm

The Motivated Mom Retreat 2024 has officially wrapped up, and it was nothing short of spectacular! From September 20-22, moms from across the country gathered at the chic Virgin Hotel Dallas for a weekend filled with empowerment, celebration, and connection. Set against the stylish backdrop of Turtle Creek, this year’s retreat was a rejuvenating escape for all attendees—and the energy was electric from start to finish.

The event, captured in vibrant detail by photographer Ari Talton, was made possible thanks to the incredible support of sponsors like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Pfizer, Mielle, Luxury Mobile Experience, The Design Factory, Mar Howard, and the Reconciliation and Restoration Foundation. With a theme of “Embrace, Empower, Energize,” the retreat was designed to celebrate every mom in the room. It wasn’t just about being a mom—it was about embracing the powerful, unstoppable woman behind the title. Moms were encouraged to let go of the “mom guilt,” rediscover their passions, and celebrate their roles as mothers, professionals, and individuals.

This year marked a triumphant return for the Motivated Mom Retreat, as it was the first gathering since 2019. That year, Rose Rock—mother of Hollywood legend Chris Rock—was honored as the Motivated Mom of the Year. Fast forward to 2024, and Rose Rock returned in style, presenting the award that now bears her name. Her presence added a special touch to an already unforgettable event.

The retreat kicked off with an unforgettable bang on Friday night, starting with the glamorous Converse + Cocktail Dress Soiree. The energy was palpable as guests mingled and prepared for the weekend ahead. The star-studded highlight of the evening was the Celebrity Dads Panel, featuring Hollywood’s favorite brothers—Larenz, Larron, and Lahmard Tate. Moderated by actor and comedian Flex Alexander, the panel brought raw, real insights from fathers who are balancing the demands of parenthood and their high-profile careers. It was a heartfelt, powerful moment that resonated with both moms and dads alike.

The excitement didn’t stop there. The evening also featured the prestigious Motivated Mom of the Year Awards, which honors North Texas parents for their achievements in various fields. This year’s winners were none other than the incredibly talented Nicci Gilbert, best known as the lead vocalist of the iconic R&B group Brownstone, and Laterras R. Whitfield, the groundbreaking host of the viral relationship podcast Dear Future Wifey. Gilbert was named Motivated Mom of the Year, while Whitfield made history as the first-ever recipient of the Motivated Dad of the Year Award—taking the honor with grace and a smile.

Founder LaToyia Dennis, the mastermind behind The Motivated Mom, poured her heart into this event. Her goal was simple but powerful: to give motivated moms and dads the recognition they deserve for all they do, both in their personal and professional lives. And this year’s honorees did not disappoint.

Among the remarkable honorees were Dr. LaTanya Goffney, Superintendent of Aldine Independent School District and President-Elect of the National Alliance of Black School Educators, recognized as this year’s Motivated Mom in Education, alongside Dr. Michael Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College, who was honored as Motivated Dad in Education. In the philanthropy category, Thana Hickman, founder and CEO of Viola’s House, and Richard Miles, founder and CEO of Miles of Freedom, were named Motivated Mom and Dad in Philanthropy, respectively.

The retreat also shone a spotlight on community leaders, with Stephanie Carter, First Lady of Concord Church, honored as Motivated Mom in Ministry, and Pastor Chris Simmons, senior pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church, celebrated as Motivated Dad in Ministry. Lastly, in the business world, Sheena Payne, Director of Community Affairs at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, was recognized as Motivated Mom in Business, while Roland Parish, CEO of Parish McDonald’s Restaurants, took home the title of Motivated Dad in Business.

By the end of the weekend, the Motivated Mom Retreat had more than fulfilled its promise. Moms left with full hearts, a renewed sense of purpose, and a deeper connection to a community of supportive, driven women. This wasn’t just another event—it was a movement, an experience, and a powerful reminder that moms, with all their strength and resilience, are forces to be reckoned with.

The Motivated Mom Retreat 2024 wasn’t just an event—it was a celebration of the incredible power of motherhood, and a testament to the importance of taking time to recharge and refocus. The memories made this weekend will last a lifetime, and the bonds formed will continue to inspire and empower moms across the nation. This retreat proved that when motivated moms come together, there’s no limit to what they can achieve!