Allow Me To (re)Introduce Myself



Remember that first sip of coffee when the world is still quiet and hopeful? That’s the feeling I want visitors to carry away from this space.

I launched my original blog, My Moments of Whimsy, in the early days of the blogging era. It was a way to reclaim my identity. Somewhere while marrying, divorcing, and trying my best to raise my kids, I lost myself. In the years since that very first post, this space has grown alongside me.

At 51, I’m evolving once again. Life is different. I only have one kiddo at home, I’m now a grandmother, and I’m attempting to establish a career as a creative. So this space is changing too.

My original blog was safe, simple, and serviceable. But after losing my mother (my ultimate style muse) in 2020, I keep hearing her voice in my head cheering me on, encouraging me to try new things, be bold, and take up space. She bloomed in her 50s, and I’m determined to do the same. Courting Whimsy honors her spirit with unapologetic color, curiosity, and courage.

I say all this to say, please excuse the proverbial dust as this space undergoes a little bit of a renovation.

Whether you’re a new subscriber or an OG follower, in the words of Hova….allow me to (re)introduce myself!

Hi, I’m Courtnee!

  • Proud GenX wife, mom of five, and grandma (aka Grae)

  • Romance author (pen name Courtnee Chase) writing spicy, heart-heavy love stories for readers 40+

  • Maximalist at heart: dedicated to florals, polka dots, and the mixing of aesthetics

  • Planner nerd, bourbon lover, recovering night owl, and believer that small joys save lives

What You’ll Find Here

Style Outfit formulas, thrift-haul remixes, confidence tips for dressing for yourself in midlife

Home & DIY Colorful and eclectic deco, flower arranging, “15-minute glow-ups” for real-life schedules

Life & Story Vlogs, planner deep-dives, candid life chats, and behind-the-scenes of indie-authorship

My goal is simple: living authentically—without waiting for permission, perfect timing, or the elusive “someday.” You’ll leave each post or video with one of three things: practical inspiration, permission to play, or a hug in digital form.

How to Join the Fun

  1. Subscribe on YouTube for weekly videos.

  2. Sign up for the Whimsy Report newsletter—think pep talks, favorites, and first-look content.

  3. Say hello on Instagram (@courtneerae_)

Let’s curate wardrobes, spaces, and stories that feel like a wink to our younger selves and a high-five to our future ones.

With joy and whimsy, xoxo—Courtnee


Core Values Statement: At courting Whimsy, we believe in science, no one is illegal on stolen land, LBGTQ+ people have a right to live, love, and exist, black history is American history, and women’s rights are human rights.


Work of Art

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending Art In Bloom After Dark, a stunning event where art and florals make magic. Art In Bloom at The Cincinnati Art Museum allows the city to experience artwork in a fresh, vibrant way.

The concept was as lovely as it was creative, local florists selected pieces of art as their inspiration and then crafted floral arrangements to reflect their chosen works. Walking through the gallery, you could feel the dialogue between the paintings and their artists and the blooms and their artists.

One of my favorite moments was standing in front of Two Sisters, a painting by Kehinde Wiley, also known for her amazing portrait of President Barak Obama. The riot of color and textures of the tulips, snapdragons, and proteas bring the drama of the piece to life.

I couldn’t resist dressing up for the occasion. This skirt is one of the things I chose from my mom’s closet to remember her after her death in January 2020. I couldn’t think of a more perfect occasion to wear it. My love of flowers, fashion, and big, bold prints were inherited from her. I paired it with bright fuchsia heels that I know she would have loved!

Art In Bloom reminded me how powerfully art in all its forms — painting, sculpture, floristry, fashion — wakes you up and feeds your soul. It is one of my favorite spring events in the city. I’m already looking forward to it next year!

With Joy and Whimsy-

xo

Courtnee

I Think I'm in Love! 5 Reasons I Love My Ring Planner and Why I Think You Will Too!

Whether you’re a certified planner person or new to the world of planning, I hope that you will find a little inspiration in my set up for creative daily planning.

Read more