A few weeks ago, I was writing in a journal I bought in Oklahoma City back in 2024. As I wrote, a thought surfaced as I’ve been thinking more about what else I want to do when I “grow up”:
The thing I’ve always loved are beautiful, meaningful gifts that encourage and inspire others. Maybe I could have my own little online shop. Like a collection of other brands. Even like this little journal…
I turned it over to check the back cover for a brand name, and there it was: jenessawait.com.
I immediately went to my computer to look it up — and was genuinely delighted by what I found. Jenessa is one of the pastors at Bethel Austin, the church we attend. She leads worship sometimes and is part of the leadership team for Revival Business Leaders. We’d even chatted briefly before about something we share in common: a Mexicasian family. She’s Hispanic; her husband Ben is Korean. (Just like us ;)
Around this same time, Don and I got to linger in conversation with Ben after a RBL meeting and learn more about what he and Jenessa are building together. They’re spread beautifully thin — multiple ventures, like her shop, podcast, her new book, Naava Retreat and three young kids. We shared a little about Culture Index, and Ben was immediately curious. He and Jenessa both took the survey, and then we all got to meet a couple weeks later at a local coffee shop to go through their results.
We sat outside in the Texas heat for over two hours — reviewing their inherent traits and job behaviors, sharing stories, getting to know each other. I was lucky enough to hold their baby, Rees, the whole time. He was absolute joy and peace.
As a thank-you for our afternoon together, Jenessa offered to let me choose something from her shop. I picked a big banner with a favorite verse (photo above) — a message of hope that Don and I have personally held onto for a few years now. She was so generous to offer it. Over the top, truly.
What’s had me in awe ever since is the layering of it all.
That same evening, as I was FaceTiming one of my favorite humans, Taylin in Nashville, I mentioned Jenessa and asked if she was familiar with her. Of course, she was!! In fact, the poster she had left us when she moved away from Breck a few years ago was from Jenessa’s shop. “Mightier than the waves of the sea is His Love for you.”
I stopped.
I had cherished that poster so much, but unfortunately, it had been destroyed during Isaac’s manic episode. And now, out of nowhere, I knew exactly where to find it again!
I just love how a simple, passing desire — wouldn’t it be lovely to have a little shop — unfolded into this beautiful story of overlapping connections, new friendship, and unexpected restoration. It really had me on a cloud of giddiness for a few days. These types of synchronicities just light me up. :)
Who knows? Maybe there’s still a chapter where her work ends up in a shop of our own someday. But until then: if you’re looking for something that encourages, uplifts, or makes a home feel like a sanctuary — please go show Jenessa some love. Her prints and home decor are genuinely inspiring.
Shop Jenessa Wait
I’m honored to be an affiliate now, and so you can use the link below for a special discount or just enter “sonya” at checkout for 15% off!!!
Follow on Instagram: @jenessawait
Last Meeting for Bethel Dinner for 8 hosted by Ben & Jenessa Wait.
Sonya Dalrymple 
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