Today we’d like to introduce you to Verlese Pender.
Hi Verlese, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have loved art for as long as I can remember. As a child, the best gifts were always art supplies, and I could spend hours coloring and drawing. Throughout school, art classes were my favorite, and in high school, I took every type of art course I could fit into my schedule. For a few years, I stepped away from creating regularly, just drawing or painting here and there. But when I had my oldest son, I started making personalized things for him because I could not find exactly what I wanted in stores. That creative spark reignited, and it continued when I had my second son. After his birth, I experienced postpartum depression, and creativity became one of the tools that helped me navigate and heal during that time. In 2020, I launched Lovely Customs by Lese to share my creativity with others, starting with personalized t-shirts, party decor, home items, and more. I focused mostly on handmade crafts, and much of my painting during that time was done on denim.
In 2022, painting became my outlet as I navigated grief. In 2024, I introduced When Art Speaks, a creative wellness initiative designed to support emotional healing and mental health through intentional art experiences. My very first workshop under this initiative was held on a national level and catered to youth leaders, teaching them how to use art as a powerful tool to engage young people, promote mental wellness for all, and amplify youth voice. That workshop became a meaningful bridge between my years of work in children’s mental health initiatives, where I’ve long championed youth voice, and my deep passion for art. Since then, I have led creative wellness workshops virtually and in person for youth, youth leaders, professionals, schools, social service agencies, and community organizations. In 2025, I participated in my first gallery exhibit, and it was an incredible experience. I have also sold a few original pieces of artwork, and it has been so fulfilling to see others connect with and appreciate what I create.
This creative wellness journey has been deeply personal, but it is also what fuels the work I do with others. I truly believe that art speaks, if you are willing to give it a try. Alongside my creative wellness work and continued growth as an artist, I still take custom orders and love bringing people’s unique visions to life through personalized pieces.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but every challenge has helped shape me. For a long time, I created quietly, just for myself or my family. Opening up and letting others into that creative space took time, faith, and a lot of courage. When your creativity is tied to your healing, sharing it can feel incredibly vulnerable.
Balancing full-time work, motherhood, being a PhD candidate, and running a business definitely comes with its challenges. I wear many hats, and some days it’s hard to keep them all in motion. But through it all, my faith in God has been my foundation. I truly believe this vision was placed on my heart for a reason. Even when I don’t have all the answers, I hold tightly to Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
It’s all being worked out for something bigger than me to impact the lives of others. One of my mentors once told me, “Someone is waiting for you to share the gifts that God gave you.” That has always stuck with me. It’s a reminder that my creative journey isn’t just about me; it’s about using what’s been placed in my hands to bring healing, hope, and inspiration to others.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Lovely Customs by Lese, Inc. is a creative wellness brand rooted in the belief that art can be both a personal and powerful tool for healing, self-expression, and connection. What began as a way to make custom pieces for my own family has grown into a multi-faceted business that supports individuals, communities, and professionals through intentional art experiences.
At its core, Lovely Customs by Lese has two main branches: I offer creative wellness workshops through my initiative, When Art Speaks, and I continue to take custom orders for personalized goods. As an artist and facilitator, I specialize in creating safe, welcoming spaces both virtually and in person, where people can explore creativity as a way to process emotions, find calm, and connect more deeply with themselves and others.
What sets my brand apart is the intentionality behind every offering. Each workshop I facilitate is thoughtfully designed with mental wellness in mind. I’m not just teaching art, I’m using it as a bridge to help people feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether I’m working with youth in schools, mentoring groups, or professionals in leadership roles, I bring a trauma-informed approach, a passion for creative expression, and a heart for people.
One area I’m especially excited about is sharing this work through conference presentations. It’s a way to inspire others, especially youth professionals and mental health advocates, to integrate creativity into their programs and services. It also reminds adults that we need to care for ourselves, too, and that creativity can be a meaningful tool for reflection and renewal. I often hear, “I’ve never drawn anything, I don’t think I can do that.” But once someone opens up to the process, they often create something beautiful and gain the added confidence that comes from trying something new. Sometimes, they even discover a new way to refuel and reflect in their everyday lives. That’s the kind of impact When Art Speaks is designed to make.
I encourage readers to give art a try, even if you’ve never considered yourself to be an “artist” because it’s for anyone willing to explore, express, and grow. What I’m most proud of brand-wise is the reach and heart behind what I do. My work goes beyond creativity; it’s about helping people discover lasting ways to navigate mental wellness and advocacy through artistic expression. I’m honored to keep building something that empowers others to listen to their inner voice and let it speak through art.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
In the coming 5 to 10 years, creative wellness and art integration will continue to gain momentum and become increasingly valued, especially within schools and community agencies. More educators and leaders are recognizing how art supports emotional well-being, resilience, and deeper engagement
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lovelycustomsbylese.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelycustomsbylese
Image Credits
Profile Picture: John English IV, Native Eye Media
