Chelsea Meissner's Journey: From Dreading 40 to Embracing a Bright New Chapter in Life - lulu

After her recent birthday, Chelsea Meissner is now 40 years old, and she is not shying away from celebrating this brand new chapter of her life, even if she initially had some reservations about the milestone birthday. 

The Southern Charm alum and mom of one recently took to Instagram, where she said goodbye to her 30s and welcomed this new decade with open arms, and shared a series of photos taken over the past 10 years. In the photos, Chelsea can be seen hiking in the mountains, riding a one wheel, surfing on a wave, hugging her dog, embracing her pregnancy bump, holding a fish, practicing archery, drawing in front of the ocean, riding a horse, and posing alongside Andy Cohen at the Southern Charm Season 5 reunion.

But, she admitted in the emotional post that she wasn't looking forward to her birthday this year. "I'm not sure why I dreaded turning 40," she wrote. "I'm still healthy, capable, and maybe even ready to turn it up a notch. After some reflection, I realize it's not aging that scares me...it's watching my parents age. I know I'm not alone in that."

"So here's to this next chapter...one of celebration, gratitude, keeping family at the forefront, and continuing this grand adventure," she wrote.

Chelsea Meissner posts an image of herself to her Instagram on March 18, 2025.

Photo: Chelsea Meissner/Instagram

Chelsea Meissner shares new insight into her life

The post also included Chelsea sharing some new intel on her life. "Just a little love note to my 30s: You were wild, wonderful, and truly unforgettable," she wrote in the caption of the post. "I traveled the world, met some amazing people, explored new hobbies, gave birth to a beautiful little human, and spent lots of quality time with family. Best of all, I lived in a way a 90-year-old self would thank me for."

How Chelsea Meissner celebrated her 40th birthday

Chelsea wasn't alone in celebrating her birthday. When she turned 40 on June 13, her BFFs, Cameran Eubanks and Naomie Olindo, took to Instagram where they wished her a happy birthday.

Naomie took to her Instagram Story, where she posted a photo of her and Chelsea wearing sundresses and sunglasses. "Happy birthday to day to the coolest girl I know," she wrote in the caption of the post. "I love you with my whole heart!!!"

Cameran also took to her Instagram Story, where she posted a collage of photos of her and Chelsea, taken throughout the years. "Happy 40th Birthday to my ride or die, Podna 4 life, BFF [Chelsea]. You will forever be the coolest and hottest girl I know," she added.

A series of Naomie Olindo and Cameran Eubanks celebrating Chelsea Meissner's birthday.

Photo: Naomie Olindo/Instagram; Chelsea Meissner/Instagram

Inside Chelsea Meissner, Cameran Eubanks, and Naomie Olindo's current friendship

After a trip to Martha's Vineyard as a trio of friends last month, Chelsea took to Instagram, where she reflected on her friendships with Cameran and Naomie. "I don't get out much these days, but when I do I'm quickly reminded how important it is to connect with real friends," she noted.

"Put the phones down, have meaningful conversations, share advice, and laugh until your sides hurt (or someone slips a fart and you're reminded you are officially middle-aged)," she added. "Anyway, just a friendly nudge to make the time for what matters."

Learn more about Chelsea, Cameran, and Naomie's trip to Massachusetts.