Today we’d like to introduce you to Angelina Jecel.
Hi Angelina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello, my name is Angelina Jecel, I go by Gina to friends. I am the creator of HTX journal junkies, a crafting and journaling community here in Houston. We meet monthly at Las perras Café in second ward. We are always open to collaborations with other cafés and small businesses! I am a student HCC and And soon the university of Houston! I study Art and cultural studies with a specialization in Chicano studies. I started off as an oil painter doing portraits. I took Classes at Glassell, and realized I was wanting community. I attended school during Covid, which made me a little antisocial and I didn’t realize how much I was craving real life connection and friendships and that is why I started my community! I wanted to create with like-minded friends and be outside more!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
At first it went really well. I had about six people show up to my first pop up and I couldn’t believe that anyone had showed up! With time Six Friends had turned into 12 friends and 12 friends had turned into 20 friends! It was super exciting and I was about ready
To leave my job and commit full-time but then I got into a really bad car accident that totaled my car. I Was beginning to think it was a sign that I was on the wrong path, but my community had showed up for me! I’m still creating and planning because of our community!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Htx journal junkies?
The journal junkies is a crafting community here in Houston. We tend to stay more towards Midtown and second ward, but I am open to other locations!
I have people that attend from Katy, League city, Baytown, Pasadena and even Galveston! I specialize in creating a community and special events for my friends. I’ve hosted a Y2K sleepover, a 2026 vision board for the new year, love Island event, karaoke, bingo, journaling And even a market. I believe what sets me apart from others is the locations, I don’t have a standalone store or warehouse even though that’s the dream! I stay local ,I like being in small businesses. I believe what I’m known for is being the club that meet up at Las Perras every month. I’m proud of me stepping out of my bubble. I am someone who used to be very shy and being a host, You have to be far from it. I would encourage anyone to make a club or meet up. You have no idea how many people are looking for new friends and community. You would be surprised how many people would turn up!
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I believe we are taught what success is from a money standpoint rather than an achievement that we can build up towards. I believe success is representing my community Well, I believe success is achieving something I never thought I would be able to.
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