We can practically hear the hearts of style lovers across Ireland shattering as beloved fashion rental Happy Days has announced it’s closing its doors.
The small business, which operated out of Leopardstown, was founded in 2021 by savvy entrepreneur Rachel Hennessy, whose vision it was to offer rental fashion options for all sizes, ages, and backgrounds at an affordable rate.
And it was seemingly so far, so good for Happy Days, with everyone and their mother – including famous faces such as Amy Huberman and Rosanna Davison – availing of the service, but it’s now the end of the road for Rachel and her brand.
Rachel shared the news that after ‘four incredible years in business’, she had arrived at the difficult decision to close Happy Days.
In a statement, she wrote: ‘After almost four incredible years in business, I have made the decision to close Happy Days Dress Rental.
‘This decision wasn’t made lightly, but, sadly, having things going on in your personal life and trying to run and grow a start-up business just don’t mix well and at some point something’s got to give.’
‘I founded Happy Days with the mission to make dress rental the number one choice for occasionwear,’ Rachel continued.
‘I am so proud to say we’ve made a real impact – shifting customer habits, breaking fashion norms, and building a sustainable alternative in the fashion industry while bringing a gorgeous community of customers along with us for the ride.
‘The wonderful Kate has been with me for the majority of this journey, and I would not have gotten this far without her. She treated this business as if it was her own and went above and beyond for customers which, if you read our reviews, is truly evident. Thank you, Kate, for all of your support.’
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‘Over the last few years, we’ve served thousands of amazing customers, won multiple awards, hosted so many fun events and made incredible relationships,’ the entrepreneur wrote. ‘We have been part of a movement created around renting, not buying and were truly honoured to have been part of your most memorable moments. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
‘The rental industry is only just getting started and I’m excited to watch it continue to grow. I would love to see Happy Days continue to be a part of that journey so if anyone is considering getting involved in the rental market let’s chat.’
‘The doors of the store will close on the 11th of July. We will keep the website open and fulfil all orders until 31st of August. We hope you will support us and rent one last time before we say goodbye!
‘In the meantime, you will still find me promoting pre-loved, sustainable and Irish fashion, catch me on The Happy Days Podcast and you can follow me over at @rachel_hennessy_sheanon. Here’s to new beginnings and lots more happy days ahead. With love, Rachel,’ she signed off.
Support has poured in for Rachel from influencers and fashionistas across Ireland after she shared the difficult news.
Jennifer Rock penned: ‘You should be so proud of the impact you鈥檝e made and the norms you鈥檝e created for so many. Focus on you and look forward to seeing your next chapter.’
Stylist Corina Gaffey penned: ‘Well done on all your successes – sad to see Happy Days go but you did an incredible job and made such an impact.’
It’ll be a loss felt, we’re sad to see Happy Days shut its doors!