We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Lende and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andrea, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I founded Beatitudes Publishing LLC to empower writers to publish their work independently and affordably. As an author, I am acutely aware of publishing challenges, such as the editing, graphics, and marketing required to complete a project. Empathizing with these struggles, I’ve assisted numerous writers, which led me to establish our company to support aspiring authors on their unique publishing journeys. Through our company and Amazon self-publishing, creators and writers can shape their writing brands, build their platforms, and craft their writing careers in alignment with their unique visions and aspirations.
My path as an author unfolded unexpectedly as I started journaling the Bible, filling up multitudes of composition books. One day during my study, I found a Bible verse that was ultimately life and heart-altering. In Psalm 5:3, King David wrote, “In the morning You hear my voice, O Lord; in the morning I prepare [a prayer, a sacrifice] for You and watch and wait [for You to speak to my heart].” I wondered if I could hear from God in the same profound way that King David did, so I started a prayer journey to discover the answer. Very quickly into this journey, I heard gentle whispers from the Lord and eventually began writing devotions to accompany the daily prayers. Motivated to share these reflections, I turned to various social media platforms.
New opportunities and connections emerged along the way, which furthered my writing career. I pursued an opportunity to intern with a best-selling author, immersing myself in all aspects of the writing and publishing industry. Simultaneously, I researched the Amazon self-publishing process and have successfully published ten books. Two are Amazon best-sellers, with numerous Amazon #1 New Releases since November 2020. Through my self-publishing endeavors, I forged relationships with editors, book formatters, and graphic designers to ensure quality design and a professional product, which we now pass on to our clients.
Along this journey, I stumbled upon another exciting business concept with Emily Moore, CEO of Lingows LLC. Emily was working on her memoir when her five-year-old daughter, Saige Moore, discovered a passion to write and publish her book. This unexpected spark ignited a business venture centered around empowering children to express their imagination and creativity through publishing. Bookworms Publishing LLC is dedicated to transforming children’s artwork and stories into cherished keepsakes.
What should our readers know about your business?
Beatitudes Publishing’s primary focus is listening to our client’s needs and desires, enabling us to tailor a program that aligns perfectly with their vision. We prioritize educating our writers to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to replicate the publishing process as often as they desire independently. We also facilitate the development of vital connections for their future endeavors. This comprehensive support empowers writers to publish as many books as their creativity and time allow. At Beatitudes Publishing, our commitment lies in fostering writer independence and success within a budget-friendly framework.
Each book we help writers publish is significant and brings us great joy. We are never prouder than on book release day! A profound sense of fulfillment accompanies the release of every new book. Witnessing the realization of a long-awaited dream come true fills our hearts to overflowing, knowing that we have played a part in bringing that dream to life.
The publishing journey is full of challenges. As writers, many of us battle the relentless imposter syndrome, questioning whether our message will genuinely resonate with even a single reader. Overcoming these insecurities is only the beginning, as we then face the arduous task of crafting our book, developing the project, and ultimately navigating the complex world of publishing.
The current market offers many publishing options, with new avenues constantly emerging. Since the publishing landscape can be overwhelming, with varying affordability and accessibility, Beatitudes Publishing desires to help writers navigate the publishing process easily and affordably.
The opportunity to be a best-selling published author fills me with immense gratitude. And I am genuinely blessed to assist other writers in fulfilling their aspirations of becoming published authors. I chose the name Beatitudes Publishing for our company name because the word Beatitudes means supreme blessings. Helping others publish their work brings supreme blessings to me and the writer. In addition, these blessings extend to the readers touched by the words. Ultimately, facilitating this process for others is an extraordinary privilege and an incomparable source of supreme blessings for all involved.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Some of the most fun things to do in Denver are the captivating tours that have enchanted us for decades. Two of my top recommendations are the Celestial Seasonings Tour and Hammonds Candy Tour, both offering unique experiences exclusive to the Denver region and free for you and your guests! Our family has treasured these tours and expanded our knowledge about tea and sweets!
Celestial Seasonings is the largest tea manufacturer in North America, located in the stunning town of Boulder, Colorado; this tour offers a delightful escape where you can indulge in various teas and savor a day of peace and tranquility. We visited with our out-of-town guests, and all had a fabulous time. Even our perspective has changed when shopping for tea. We gravitate to Celestial Seasonings because we know it’s made locally and have some behind-the-scenes knowledge about how it’s made!
For an iconic Denver experience, don’t miss the Hammonds Candy Tour. In 1913, Hammonds Candy evolved into an esteemed international candy company. Witness the mesmerizing confection-churning machines, creating an abundance of candy canes for you and yours. It’s an adventure that adds a new dimension to your favorite holiday, particularly Christmas, that can be experienced every day of the year. Our crew always enjoys the candy cane gift store!
The Molly Brown House is a must-see for Titanic movie lovers! Touring her home offers a whole new perspective when watching the epoch movie.
Every downtown Denver excursion allows locals and visitors to indulge in its delectable delights. Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at Syrup for breakfast or brunch and the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. My twin sister used to work at Syrup, where we made fabulous memories over coffee and decadent pancake concoctions! Many special family occasions were enjoyed at the Cheesecake Factory. It’s always difficult to pick a new cheesecake flavor to savor!
Deep Roots Winery & Bistro and the Renaissance Hotel provide exceptional settings for those seeking relaxation and exquisite cuisine. Unwind, relish delectable food, and sip on a splendid glass of wine in these beautiful locations. We’ve also enjoyed the special music that accompanies our visits.
A day trip or overnight stay in Estes Park is also a must! We enjoy the culinary wonders of Mama Rose’s, a restaurant serving authentic homemade Italian cuisine. Family birthdays and anniversaries are often celebrated at Moma Rose’s! Then, visit the Patterson Glass Works Studio, where you can witness the artistry of glass blowing and even take home a small glass circle as a cherished memento. We still find these glass mementos around the house even though our children have grown and are out living their best lives. This glass-blowing outing promises cherished memories for all, young and old alike. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the scenic River Walk. And if you dare, stay overnight in the Stanley Hotel for a thrilling adventure! We haven’t dared yet, but I know plenty of folks who have loved it.
If you are an outdoor lover, Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs or Red Rocks in Morrison, Colorado, is a must! We frequent both to experience the splendor and majesty of our great state. Catch a show at Red Rocks, and you’ll never be the same!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I thank God for every moment and word of inspiration I receive, which generally turns into a book of inspiration for others. Nothing in my world is possible without the Lord continually depositing His Word into my heart.
A huge Shoutout and a heart full of gratitude goes to my family, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in my writing and author journey. They offer invaluable encouragement and belief in my craft. They also give me the time and space to hone my creative skill and create a company that extends a helping hand to others on their writing journeys. We celebrate every triumph together, and they are my pillars of strength during difficult seasons.
Billie Ortega of Shades of Divine LLC in Brighton, Colorado, has supported me, my ministry, and my publishing career since we first met. She has connected me to many other authors and created events to support us all. My and some of my client’s books are available through her store.
Emily Moore, the CEO of Lingows LLC, has a remarkable talent for creating stunning websites and has significantly enhanced my ministry and business endeavors. Additionally, she serves as a co-founder of Bookworms Publishing, bringing invaluable insights and expertise to our company. The websites she has developed for our companies include www.believinghim.com, www.baselfpub.com, and www.bookwormspublishing.com.
Gabriela Djurekovec, the talented photographer behind Gabriela G. Photography LLC, deserves special recognition for capturing me in the most flattering light. Her skill and artistry consistently elevate my appearance, making me look even better than I do in person!
Last, my gratitude extends to Lyneta Smith, an award-winning author and exceptionally talented editor. Lyneta’s remarkable abilities have elevated my and my client’s books. Her contributions have made each publication better than we could have imagined.
Words cannot adequately express how thankful I am for how these and others, too many to mention, have invested in my personal and professional life. Their unwavering support and contributions have shaped my career and achievements.
Website: www.baselfpub.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-lende-727160208
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/833034487770543/?ref=share_group_link
Image Credits
All photo credits go to: Gabriela Gjurekovec of Gabriela G Photography LLC