A few weeks ago, something unexpected and deeply touching happened at my DOQE handmade skincare boutique — the kind of moment that reminded me why I do what I do.
A customer who’s been ordering from me for a little over a year, who typically purchases our Whipped Lavender Body Butter every winter, was visiting from Virginia. While she and her husband were here visiting Ohio, they made it a priority to stop by my faith-based skincare shop in Euclid to stock up on their favorite natural body butters.
What she shared with me that day left me speechless.
She told me that when she has her grandbabies, she makes it a bedtime routine to lather them in the lavender shea butter. It’s part of her and her mother’s caretaking process, as she also helps her mom prepare for bedtime. Three generations of women using something I handcrafted as part of their daily rhythm — that alone was enough to bring tears to my eyes.
She also mentioned how much she loves the Frankincense Body Butter, another favorite for its warm, grounding scent and deeply moisturizing feel. She knew exactly what she came for. But what she didn’t know was that this visit would become a sacred moment for both of us.
As we chatted, she noticed the custom clothing I carry in the boutique — specifically, the Women of the Bible Peplum Jackets I designed. She immediately fell in love. When I explained the meaning behind each jacket — how every piece is named after a woman of faith like Esther or Ruth, and crafted with intention — something shifted. We weren’t just talking fashion. We were talking purpose, legacy, and calling.
We talked about our families. We shared stories. Her husband even chimed in as he patiently waited for her to select the jacket that suited her perfectly. For the first time, someone I’d mostly interacted with through online orders and messages became real. Flesh and bone. Spirit and soul.
When they left the DOQE office — walking down the hallway, hand in hand — I just stood there.
I was so touched by what I had just experienced — not just the beauty of a couple still so in love, but a couple who had filled my office with so much beauty, grace, and love.
It wasn’t just about what they bought. It was the experience of them.
Sometimes, as a small business owner — especially in what I call the “root phase” — you can feel like you’re constantly climbing uphill. You give, you create, you pour so much in… and wonder if it’s reaching anyone. You wonder if it matters.
But moments like these are God’s gentle reminder that it does matter.
That your labor is not in vain.
That the work of your hands — whether it’s a jar of whipped shea butter or a faith-inspired peplum jacket — is finding its way into people’s homes, hearts, and family traditions.
To that beautiful couple from Virginia — thank you. You reminded me that DOQE is more than a business. It’s a place of connection, healing, faith, and beauty. It’s about love — the kind that shows up, supports, and walks down the hallway holding hands.
You blessed me more than you know.
With a full heart,
Shelena
Founder, Diary of Queen Esther