January 18, 2026 Local Stories in and Around St. Joseph, Illinois

Vendor profile: Janeration


Tell me about your business and what inspired you to go into business?

What started as making hair bows for my daughter in 2020 (yes, I’m a part of the COVID crafters wave, ha ha!), turned into a continuous DIY cycle and evolution of the products I sell today.  My daughter has definitely been my biggest inspiration and challenger as I would often hear, “Mom, I like this. Can you make it for me?” To my surprise, I started producing items that were too cute not to share, plus I couldn’t keep them all! So, I picked the business name”Janeration”  (pronounced “Janer – ation”) after a childhood nickname – “Janer”-  given to me by my mom and started my vendor journey in August 2023. Happy one year to Janeration!  

What has been the most challenging part about being a business owner?

The last year has been so fun, but it hasn’t come without challenges. Being a small business owner you are EVERYTHING-  you are the designer, the creator, the social media manager, the accountant, the model, the representative, etc., etc. Balancing small business duties along with being a wife, a mother to two young children, and working a normal full time job isn’t always the easiest.  I’m so thankful for the amazing support system I have in my husband who has never discouraged me in my small business pursuit, helped at events, and has created woodworkings for displays and purchasing. My mother has also been a huge encouragement and you can often find her working events with me! 

    What is the best part about working festivals?

    The best part of any event is THE PEOPLE! It’s fun getting to know others and hearing their stories. I also love chatting with other vendors and have a high appreciation for the creativity they are putting out into the world. 

      What is your favorite carnival food?

      I cannot go to a carnival, fair, or festival without having a corndog! Funnel cakes and cotton candy are also my guilty pleasures. 

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