GORDON, Neb. - In small towns, a new business can make a big impact — especially one built on family tradition.

For Jana Goranson and her daughter, Lauren, opening their new store, good to be HOME in downtown Gordon, isn’t just about selling gifts and décor. It’s about continuing a creative legacy that began a generation ago.

“When my kids were young, I had a full-time job but missed having a creative outlet,” Jana said. “So my mom and I started a personalized gift basket business together.”

Now, years later, that spirit of creativity has come full circle. Jana is opening her own store — this time with her daughter by her side.

“This was a dream for about five years,” Jana said. “We want people to come in, take a big breath and enjoy the experience — whether they purchase something or not.”

“We’ve always shared a love for gifts, making people feel special, and finding that perfect gift for someone,” Lauren said.

Lauren said the store’s focus is on celebrating special moments throughout the year, from holidays to hometown events. The store at 229 North Main Street will hold a grand opening on November 14th and be open several other weekends before Christmas.

“The idea for our store is really around special moments, seasons, holidays, so right now we’re focused on Christmas. We’re going to be open for Christmas. We’re not going to be open every day. It’s going to be limited, special openings. Think Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day. We’d love to do an event for Homecoming,” Lauren said.

Each section of the shop will feature its own holiday tree and matching music.

“Give a shopping experience,” Jana said. “Our hope is to have placards with all of the songs and QR codes, so people can go around and listen to each theme music. We’ll also have it playing as well.”

Jana said she’s noticed how much has changed since opening her first business with her mom — from technology to style trends.

“All of the technology and the point of sale are different,” Jana said. “Another neat thing is obviously we’re from two different generations, so when we’re searching for things to purchase, Lauren has a totally different eye and appeals to a younger crowd than I would, so that’s a real strength of our store that we have two generations.”

But what hasn’t changed is their shared love for creating moments that bring people together.

“My mom and I have always been really close,” said Lauren.

“We try to put a smile on people’s faces,” said Jana.