Daily Inspiration: Meet Jessica Endeman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Endeman.

Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Coletured Soul L.L.C. was born from a place of deep grief. It wasn’t part of a plan or lifelong dream—it was placed on my path as a bridge toward healing, peace, and personal growth.

On June 28, 2022, my husband, Frank—my high school sweetheart, best friend since age 14, and soulmate of eight years of marriage—passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack. He was only 39.

At the time, our son was 13 and about to start 8th grade. We had been living in Arizona for three years but had made few connections; we were “two peas in a pod,” perfectly content in each other’s company. Losing him felt like losing a piece of myself.

So much of the “me” I had grown to love was shaped by who I was when I was with him. I found myself asking, “Who am I without him?” I had always been strong, ambitious, optimistic, and confident—but I realized just how much those qualities were strengthened by his presence. He was my rock, my sounding board, my cheerleader—the God-sent companion who brought out the best in me.

As the loneliness and hopelessness sank in, so did self-doubt, anxiety, and negativity. I felt myself slipping into a place I didn’t recognize. But I knew I couldn’t stay there—I had a son who needed me, a full-time job that was now our sole income, and the responsibility of holding everything together.

Through it all, my faith remained constant. Returning to church helped quiet the chaos. On my first day back at work, August 29, 2022, I opened my daily devotional and read:

> “We have the assurance that we will not live one day less than we are supposed to live. If God has work for you to do, He will keep you alive to do it.”

In that moment, I knew I still had work to do—even if I didn’t yet know what it was.

I prayed, listened, and leaned on God. Then one morning, I remembered a pair of earrings Frank had given me—earrings that always made me feel radiant and confident. I thought, I could make something like this. That same day, I rushed to the craft store, gathered supplies, and created my first pair. And just like that, Coletured Soul was born.

Handcrafting earrings became my therapy. After work and on weekends, I poured my energy into creating pieces that brought me joy. In January 2024, Coletured Soul officially became an LLC. I spent the year building my brand, selling at expos and vendor markets, and by November, I launched my own website.

The name honors my husband, Franklin Coleman, my soulmate. It’s inspired by women of culture who may sometimes feel unseen or insignificant on their journey. I believe there’s beauty in everyone’s path, and it deserves to be celebrated.

Today, Coletured Soul represents the “new me”—a woman who has turned unimaginable grief into purpose. It’s a reminder that with God leading the way, even the heaviest burdens can transform into something beautiful.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road.
In the beginning, I spent countless hours researching materials, tools, and techniques—learning mostly through trial and error. Marketing was another challenge. Since many people prefer to buy earrings in person rather than online, I had to figure out creative ways to get my products in front of customers, from vendor markets to local expos. Building my own website was also a steep learning curve.

On top of the technical side, there was the personal challenge of putting myself out there—sharing something I had created for the world to see. That vulnerability comes with the risk of judgment, but I’ve learned to see it as part of the growth process. Every step, even the hard ones, has pushed me to keep moving forward.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a federal civilian employee with 21 years of service on a U.S. Air Force base. For 20 of those years, I worked with the Air Force Child and Youth Programs, serving military families and their children. I began as a classroom teacher and worked my way up to Flight Chief, overseeing the entire installation’s program.

After the loss of my husband, I made the decision to transition to a less demanding, non-supervisory role so I could focus on my son and my new business. For the past year, I’ve been a Community Readiness Consultant, supporting active duty military members and their families with resources, referrals, and consultations. I also have the privilege of assisting the Next of Kin of those who have lost an active duty service member—a responsibility that is deeply meaningful to me given my own personal journey through loss and grief.

In my work, I hold tightly to the value of Service Before Self. I’m proud that my faith and sense of stewardship carry over into my professional capacity whenever possible. I believe what sets me apart is a combination of compassion, lived experience, and creativity—qualities that allow me to connect deeply with those I serve.

Outside my federal role, I’m a certified personal trainer and group fitness coach. Staying active has been vital for my own physical and mental health, and it gives me another avenue to help others reach their goals and feel their best.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I grew up in a home with a rich blend of cultures—my mom is Jamaican, and my dad is Caucasian—which taught me early on to appreciate different traditions, perspectives, and ways of life. I loved school and was always eager to learn new things, especially anything connected to the arts, creativity, and physical health.

My dad, a Navy veteran who became an ornamental artist after learning to weld in the service, sparked my appreciation for craftsmanship and creativity. My mom, a cook on the Air Force base, introduced me to the world of federal service. In many ways, they planted the seeds for both my creative pursuits and my professional path.

Growing up, I loved drawing and creating things for myself and others. I was active in sports—playing basketball and competing in track and field (shot put and discus)—and also found ways to turn creativity into opportunity. In high school, I hand–spray-painted t-shirts for clubs and even earned money for my designs. I’ve always had an interest in fashion and a deep love for exploring all aspects of culture, and that curiosity has never left me.

Pricing:

• All earrings are priced under $30
• Affordable, handcrafted designs without compromising on quality or style

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Coleturedsoulllc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleturedsoul?igsh=b2FwZ2R4a3E1MGNy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19n6PjrTce/