WHAT’S IN TATIANNA MERRITT’S BAG?
1 Studio Pointe Pilates Socks
2 Selora Sheer Nourishing Hair Oil
3 KIEHL’S Better Screen UV Serum
4 L’Occitane Shimmering Body Oil
5 The Tox Lymphatic Deodorant
6 Louis Vuitton Attrape-Rèves Perfume
7 The Lip Bar Botanical Lip Oil
8 Versed Brightening Eye Gel
9 Louis Vuitton Sunglasses
10 Jones Road Light Moisture Cream
NOTES
Photographed on location at Wabeek Country Club, Bloomfield Hills
Hair: Mystique Hair Studio, West Bloomfield Twp.; @MystiqueHairStudio
Makeup: DewyByDej, Royal Oak; @dewybydej
Nails: Nails By Harry, Utica; @nailsbyharry_
Outfit by Dolce Moda, Birmingham
Shoes by Christian Louboutin
Chanel Nylon Travel Tote
Jewelry by Tapper’s Jewelry, West Bloomfield
TATIANNA MERRITT
143K followers
@ttmerritt; tatiannamerritt.com
Bloomfield Hills wife, mom, pastor, content creator, author, encourager and woman of faith. Proudly born and raised in Detroit.
BIRMINGHAM CITY LIFESTYLE Tell me about your family?
TATIANNA MERRITT I’m married to my best friend, Jonathan Merritt, and we have four amazing children: Lillian, Cristina, Andrew II and Alexandria.
BCL What is your background?
TM My love for fashion led me to earn my degree in Fashion Merchandising from Wayne State University. From there, I stepped into television as a commentator and interviewer, and eventually transitioned into modeling. But even in the midst of all those accomplishments, I felt something was missing. That inner search for purpose led me into full-time ministry and content creation, which have become two of the most fulfilling areas of my life.
BCL How did you break into content creation?
TM I started sharing on social media consistently around 2019. It began as a simple outlet to inspire other women with encouragement and faith, but it grew quickly. My goal has always been to show women, especially mothers and wives, that they can live fully in their purpose without losing their sense of identity, style or faith. I never expected it to become what it is today, but I’m grateful for every step.
I’m a woman on a mission to serve God, love my family well and pour into the lives of women who need to know they’re not alone. Pastoring alongside my husband, mentoring women through our Purposeful Her ministry, raising my children and creating content that uplifts and inspires — all of that is a part of who I am. My most important endeavor is being obedient to the calling on my life.
BCL What type of content do you produce?
TM My content covers faith-filled encouragement, devotionals, fashion, beauty, fitness, wellness, marriage and motherhood. I like to call it ‘real-life inspiration.’
I think people connect with me because I’m honest. I’m not trying to be perfect or polished all the time. I talk about the hard days, the faith battles, the mom guilt and the glow-ups. I’ve found that staying true to God and to myself is what sets me apart, and my audience appreciates that.
BCL What does the church mean to you?
TM The church changed my life. My relationship with God gave me the peace, clarity and confidence I never had before. I serve alongside my husband as a pastor at Straight Gate International Church in Detroit, and ministry is at the heart of everything I do. The church isn’t just a building — it’s the community, the calling and the place where I found purpose.
BCL How do you measure the success of your content?
TM For me, success isn’t about likes or followers. It’s the DMs from women who say they were about to give up, but a post reminded them of their worth. It’s when someone reads one of my devotionals and feels seen. And when someone is encouraged to strengthen their relationship with God. That’s impact-and that’s success.
BCL What is your book about?
TM My book, Devotions of Love,is a 31-day-and-night heartfelt collection of prayers and encouragement designed to remind readers of God’s unwavering love. It was birthed out of a season of deep spiritual reflection and surrender. I also offer a collection of Purposeful Her merch that reflects themes of faith, femininity and purpose.
BCL Who have you collaborated with?
TM I’ve been blessed to collaborate with brands like GM, California Closets, Jluxlabel, World Vision, Tappers Jewelry, The Lip Bar and Dolce Moda, among others. I love working with brands that align with my values and speak to my audience.
BCL Anything new coming up?
TM Yes! I’m currently working on my second devotional and expanding Purposeful Her into new formats, including events, retreats and resources that equip women spiritually and emotionally.
BCL Where do you see yourself down the road?
TM In five years, I see myself continuing to grow Purposeful Her into a national platform, publishing more books and speaking at conferences that empower women in ministry and the marketplace. In 10 years, I hope to be mentoring the next generation of women leaders — still walking in purpose, still standing beside my husband and still parenting (probably one will be a college graduate!).
BCL Tell me about a few of your favorite products, brands and shops?
TM Dolce Moda [boutique in Birmingham] is a favorite for chic, elevated looks. I love anything by The Lip Bar [in Detroit] — it’s clean, bold and Black-owned. Also, SKIMS for everyday comfort and Alo Yoga for activewear that doubles as streetwear.
BCL Do you have a mentor or role model?
TM My mother has always been a spiritual anchor for me — her life’s journey has been such a faith-extender for me. I’m constantly inspired by women like Sarah Jakes Roberts and Nicole Crank, women who lead with both faith and influence.
BCL What’s a hidden talent you have that your followers might not know about?
TM I love interior styling and organizing. Give me a cluttered room and I’ll turn it into a peaceful, Pinterest-worthy space.
BCL What are you most excited about in your life right now?
TM I’m most excited about this new season of growth — spiritually, professionally and personally. I feel God stretching me in new ways, and I’m here for it.
If my story can remind even one woman that it’s not too late to pursue her purpose, then everything I’ve walked through has been worth it.
TATIANNA’S TOP 5 FAVE BEAUTY NECESSITIES
1. Tinted moisturizer with SPF, for that glow and protection
2. Brow pencil, because brows frame the face
3. Colored lip gloss, my go-to for a polished look
4. Concealer, for the under-eye lift
5. Lash extensions, because even on no-makeup days, I still want my eyes to pop