Our Story

Circa 2009 – I sat in my apartment on Euclid Avenue, wrestling with a life-changing decision: should I take my sister up on her offer to move to Atlanta, GA? A flood of emotions overwhelmed me. Part of me craved the move—I longed for a fresh start, a new environment, and the excitement of the unknown. But the other part of me feared exactly that—the unknown. Moving meant leaving behind stability. I wouldn’t have a home of my own, a car, a job, or even the basic necessities. I was torn, confused, and uncertain.

So, I prayed. I remember going into my eldest son’s bedroom and asking God for clarity and peace. And in His faithfulness, He answered.

June 2009 – I took the leap and moved from Cleveland, Ohio, to Marietta, Georgia. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions of my life. As an artist and designer, I’m deeply influenced by my environment, and Marietta brought me peace in a way I had never known before. Despite having no car, no job, and no home of my own, I felt an unshakable sense of calm. That kind of peace can only come from the grace of God—because how else could I feel whole when so many pieces were missing? God was guiding me, step by step.

I always say that my leap of faith was rewarded. Within months, I had a job, a brand-new car, and a beautiful apartment. Within two years, I had more than I ever imagined. I also went back to school to pursue my passion—earning my Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and Design in 2013.

The Birth of a Purpose

While studying, I became more aware of children battling childhood cancer. This stood out to me, especially since I was pregnant with my second son at the time. Like many moms, I was excited to prepare for his arrival, stocking up on baby lotions, creams, and shampoos—products I believed were “great skincare.” But then I learned the harsh truth: many of these well-known brands contained cancer-causing agents.

That discovery led me to my kitchen, where I began crafting my own natural skincare. What started as a personal mission turned into something much greater—Handcrafted Herbal Body by Shelena Racquel.

In the years that followed:

• 2013 – I earned my Bachelor’s degree.

• 2014 – I welcomed my third son.

• 2015 – I launched Diary of Queen Esther.

Beyond the Surface

I always say, “Everyone has a story.”

On the outside, my life looked great. But internally, I felt incomplete—burdened by sadness, fear, confusion, and the weight of my past decisions. I mastered the art of smiling through pain, but inside, I was struggling. My constant prayer to God was simple:

“I just want to be happy.”

The mental and financial struggles had exhausted me. Even in my blessings, I couldn’t find joy. But little did I know, I was praying to the ultimate fixer of all messes. And when I say no mess is too big for God—I mean NO mess.

Today, I stand in a new season. I’m learning to manage the pains of my past. I no longer allow myself to be controlled by what I cannot control. Instead, I am inspired to inspire others—to remind them that life is what we make it. It can be beautiful, uplifting, and liberating. And even when life knocks us down, through Christ Jesus, we have the authority to LIVE, LOVE, and BECOME everything God created us to be.

Returning Home

In 2021, after much prayer and the leading of the Holy Spirit, I returned home to Cleveland, OH.

Like a true Esther, God continues to position me where He desires me to be—for such a time as this (Esther 4:14).

Today, I operate DOQE, my handcrafted herbal soap boutique, from the Shore Cultural Center in Euclid, OH. I also serve as a board member for the Euclid Chamber of Commerce, which led to me receiving the 2023 NOACC Award, representing the City of Euclid.

But beyond all the accolades, my greatest business accomplishment is knowing that God is using this faith-based business as ministry in the marketplace. DOQE is more than soap—it’s a mission, a purpose, and a testament to God’s faithfulness.

Shelena Racquel

Founder & Creator of DOQE