Michelle Cole was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. As a Senior Estate and Trust Administration Paralegal at Carolina Family Estate Planning, she finds real purpose in guiding people through loss, transition, and the legal complexities that come with both, so families can focus on what matters most.
Her career has been, in her own words, a long journey of determination and perseverance. She believes the key to professional success is simple but not easy: be your own biggest fan, rather than your harshest critic. As she puts it, a beautiful garden can't grow in salted soil.
Michelle is married to Jonathan, her childhood friend and high school sweetheart. At home, they share their space with two cats: Luna, an opinionated tuxedo, and Jupiter, who is very orange and very loved.
Outside of work, she's a collector and a creator. She has over 20 Tamagotchi and countless curios; she draws, writes, and enjoys cozy video games like Stardew Valley, Animal Crossing, and Pokémon. She was the kid doodling all over her notes and sneaking books under her desk, and not much has changed. She's also a committed advocate for destigmatizing mental illness and supporting those who need it.
Friendly, creative, and empathetic: three words that describe her well, and exactly what her colleagues and the families she works with tend to find.