Happy Camper Malas

Hi, I’m Janina, gemstone jewelry artisan and owner of Happy Camper Malas, based in the beautiful Kootenay region of British Columbia. I spent my childhood in Creston, surrounded by the natural beauty of the valley. Like many, I left after high school to pursue higher education. I explored careers in both Education and Health Care, and after 20 years away, I’ve returned home to raise my family and run my small business. There’s nowhere else I’d rather be—Creston’s small-town vibes and stunning scenery have my heart.

My journey into gemstone jewelry began while living in Ottawa. I started crafting malas—traditional necklaces made with 108 beads often used in yoga and meditation—as gifts for myself and loved ones. What began as a hobby gradually grew into a business, giving me a creative outlet and a way to connect with new people wherever I lived. I’ll never forget my first craft fair in Cold Lake, AB. (Spoiler Alert- I am a military spouse and we moved a lot!) I didn’t have much product, my displays were very basic, and I had my newborn daughter with me. Despite all of that, the support and encouragement I received kept me going and motivated me to expand my work.

Since those early days, Happy Camper Malas has evolved to include a wider range of jewelry and wellness products, such as gemstone earrings, bracelets, hair accessories, and smudging kits. I’ve also found joy in teaching workshops, collaborating with local businesses to host creative events in cafes, yoga studios, wineries, and art spaces. It’s amazing to see what happens when people come together and explore their creativity! I also offer private bookings for events like wedding showers, team-building sessions, or simply a fun evening in with friends.

Nature is my biggest source of inspiration. I often find myself designing new pieces after an evening walk through a wildflower meadow or a hike in the mountains. My daughter loves to tease me when I stop to take pictures of plants, saying, “I know, it’s for Happy Camper Malas!” Living in the Kootenays provides endless inspiration, from the clean air and rugged mountains to the lakes, rivers, and hiking trails that surround us.

Thanks for stopping by and taking a look!