Today we’d like to introduce you to Janel House.
Hi Janel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
What inspired me to start my business began during a season when my health required me to slow down and stay home. I had always been someone who was constantly moving and doing, so that pause was unfamiliar territory. Wanting to give me something creative to focus on while I figured out my next steps, my husband surprised me with a Cricut.
What started as a simple hobby quickly became a way to spread joy. I began making handmade greeting cards and mailing them to people who might need a smile. From there, I created cake toppers, banners, and small décor pieces for my neighbors’ children to help make their special days feel extra meaningful.
With encouragement from my neighbors and family, I realized this was more than just a hobby—it was something worth pursuing. That’s when CraftyNellieKC was born.
Around the same time, my granddaughter arrived, and I had the privilege of helping care for her while my daughter attended nursing school. Watching my daughter chase her education as a young mom filled me with immense pride. As my granddaughter grew, I noticed her always wanting to be part of the creative process—watching, touching, and “helping” whenever she could.
That curiosity sealed it for me. I wanted her to grow up knowing she can create, dream, and build something of her own. My business became a reflection of that belief. And the name? CraftyNellieKC comes from the sweetest inspiration of all—my granddaughter’s name for me: “Nellie.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wish I could say yes, but that would be a small fib!
I pride myself with keeping my family close and being present with them, so sometimes time management becomes an issue. I choose to be present with my granddaughter and when she comes over, my work stops, or I allow her to help me create. I have been known to work in the middle of the night just to make sure I don’t miss out on moments with my family.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I create custom party decor for life’s most special celebrations — birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings, and everything in between. I believe personal, individualized touches make people feel truly seen and celebrated, and I pour those details into every piece I create.
While big box stores offer convenience, what sets my work apart is meaning. Each design is thoughtfully crafted with custom elements that reflect the person at the center of the celebration.
The moments I treasure most are the first reactions — that instant spark of pure joy when someone sees their piece for the first time. There’s nothing like witnessing awe and wonder in someone’s eyes. That feeling is why I do what I do.
What are your plans for the future?
I always love working with other crafters, vendors, planners, to help create a cohesive event for the guests.
I am also working on more personalized options for the wedding industry and working with great event planners inspired me to push into this arena.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: CraftyNelliekc
- Facebook: CraftyNellieKC
