Carmen’s life has been a roller coaster ride that began in  Brooklyn, New York with loving parents Coleman (Steve) and Deborah (Debbie) Stevens, and 3 close siblings. At age 14, she was grieving the passing of her 41 year old mom. She later went on to win the title of Miss Black America, Staten Island, NY and the Miss Black New York USA Beauty Pageant during college. Years later she was grieving the death of her 55 year old dad. After marrying her high school sweetheart, she went on to perform with Roots Of Brazil Dance Company, and later,  helplessly watched her baby brother (Nate) 38,  big sister Darlene 60, and middle sister Pamela 63, pass on due to health related conditions.

When Carmen's brother, Nate died from a rare lung condition in 2003  she focused on her dream to help divert her grief. After months of hard work she and her husband opened A Scentimental Journey (bath body beauty & bliss shop) and Spirit Spa (day spa) in Staten Island, New York. As an Aromatherapist and herbalist Carmen was able to create most all of the products she sold at her shop.

Two years later her husband’s only brother passed away from a peanut allergy aggravated by diabetes and high blood pressure at the age of 39.

Stressful circumstances began to build, causing serious challenges in her marriage. In 2007 during the final weeks of completing her studies as an Esthetician (a skin care specialist ironically) a major turning point occurred.