Rediscovering Your Roots

 

As I embark upon my journey to create The Joy of J, a movement that inspires all women of any age to discover their passions and follow their dreams, I can’t help but think about what lead me to this fashion and lifestyle project, also organized to be a charitable venture.  

At the root, is my love of New York City. I was born in Manhattan and lived the first years of my life in the West Village.  My mom was a teacher and my dad worked as a buyer in the fashion industry. My mom took me to play in Abingdon Square Park and walked my stroller every day on Jane Street.

Jani Gerard, the joy of j, fashion blogger in New York city, passion, follow your dreams, young at heart, charity, give back, west village, Jane street,
 
 
The Joy of J by Jani Gerard a fashion blogger from New York City, Soho, passion, inspiration, follow your dreams, give back, charity, jacquemus, Gianviito Rossi, Paige jeans,
 

My parents named me after Jane Street, probably so that I would always have a link to this short period of my life. While I don’t have specific memories, to this day, whenever I am in the West Village, I feel so strongly connected to the cobblestone streets, old beautiful brownstones, cozy cafés and lovely parks and charming alleyways.

The Joy of J