Jen Hayes Lee is an author, marketing executive, and proud New Orleans native whose work celebrates confidence, connection, and community. Her debut children’s book, The Golden Hoops (HarperCollins, September 2025), tells the story of a young girl discovering her inner magic through the rite of passage of receiving her first pair of hoops.
By day, Jen serves as Head of Marketing & Content at The Bump, where she leads storytelling and partnerships that empower parents through every stage of the journey. She is also the founder of Bestow Collection, a lifestyle brand that inspires people to create connection and treat everyday like a gift—because even small moments deserve to shine.
A graduate of Emory University’s Goizueta Business School and NYU Stern School of Business, Jen has been recognized by Essence, Worth, Black Enterprise, and Brand Innovators 40 Under 40 for her creativity and impact.
Through her book, her brand, and her example, Jen hopes to inspire families to embrace joy, nurture confidence, and build community. Now residing in South Orange, New Jersey, with her husband and three sons, returning home to the New Orleans Book Festival marks a full-circle moment—celebrating the place where her story first began.
