Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Morris.
Hi Jillian, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been a writer since I was a child, but life took me in a different direction. During the pandemic of 2020, I decided to starts writing again. Since then I have self published 6 books: 2 childrens books, 3 poetry books, and My debut novel, The Weight of Legacy. Since I waa publishing everything myself, I created Jillybean Publishing.
After my novel was released, I was looking for book festival for independent authors. Naturally I wanted to promote my own books. Looking at all the Book expo, and festivals I noticed that it was really expensive & they were really far away .
So,I thought to myself why not start a festival right here in Cameron. I’ve been a vendor at many festival & outdoor markets,and thought I can do this!
Not only is this a great opportunity for myself, but for the town of Cameron, and to all the local authors, Artisans, cottage bakers, and other vendors. I wanted to make this an affordable event for the vendors and free to the public.
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?
Well, when I started this adventure of pulling together and festival, I had no clue where to start, but once I got the ball rolling, everything seems to be falling into place, and becoming more than I ever imagined in the beginning.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Most of my life I’ve worked in all aspects of the restaurant industry up until recently. I’ve just accepted the position of General Manager & Director of Sales & Advertising at The Cameron Herald.
It’s what I do outside of my employment that has gotten me where I am. I’m also the event coordinator for the Milam Arts Society, & the Communications Lead for the Milam County. Those are the positions where I can give back to the community. That’s what I’m most proud of. My early adult life wasn’t the easiest. I’ve overcome domestic violence, addiction, and poverty, and my community helped me in ways most won’t understand. So I make it a point to always try to help anyone I can, when I can, with the abilities that God gave me.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I have determination, and lots of it! And a whole lot of faith!! Some days faith is what kept me alive, so now I live my live to the fullest, and look for ways to spread love back into the world, either through my writing or in creating a festival dedicated to the one thing that has always taken me on adventures when my world wasn’t the best….a book!
Pricing:
- Free to attend
- Vendors Spots $40
- Author spots $40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Jillianamorris.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Eo3bLRXnh/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@small.town.big.bo?_r=1&_t=ZP-93NIeLnZUDf
