Heyday

“Fun, great vibe, bursting with energy,” all describe a unique Abilene store aptly named Heyday.

The store, which opened in May 2025 at the corner of Albany and South 14th streets, is owned by Beth Joy. She had a vision for a space that feels joyful, welcoming and celebratory.

“It’s emblematic of celebration and joy,” she said.

The name and the store itself both exude that spirit, from the pastel color scheme to the thoughtfully curated merchandise. Shoppers can find home décor, party goods, bath and beauty products, baby gifts, books, jewelry and accessories—with a wedding section planned for the future.

Heyday also carries a complete line of Mahjong tiles, instruction booklets and playful accessories like cocktail napkins featuring phrases such as “Let’s Mahj Y’all,” accented with a cowboy hat. The Mahjong collection includes custom scoring cards designed with Abilene in mind, featuring headings like “T&P Railroad,” “Friendly Frontier” and “Storybook.”

Mahjong has become a meaningful part of the store’s community presence. Heyday hosts themed Mahjong game nights in partnership with the Abilene Mahjong Club, often welcoming around 40 guests at a time. The events transform the shop into a lively gathering space filled with laughter and connection.

“It’s definitely been popular,” Beth said.

In addition to Mahjong, Heyday has become a destination for needlepoint enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of needlepoint canvases and supplies. Beth also hosts needlepoint classes and private lessons, creating a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced stitchers to gather, learn and enjoy the craft.

Beth grew up in Breckenridge and earned a bachelor’s degree in art education from Hardin-Simmons University. She spent several years teaching art in public schools before working at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature.

Her passion for creativity continues through her work at Heyday, where she also operates Riley & Joy Creative Studio. Through Riley & Joy, Beth offers art camps, clubs and lessons, creating opportunities for children to explore and develop their artistic abilities.

Bringing Heyday to life required months of hands-on effort. Beth and her family moved into the space in January 2025 and spent countless hours cleaning, painting and transforming it. The shop is filled with a mix of meaningful pieces from home and carefully selected vintage finds, resulting in a space that feels both curated and personal.

The end result is a store designed to “bring joy to everyday life.”

Heyday especially resonates with young mothers—a natural connection, as Beth herself is a mom. She and her husband, Tanner Joy, have two children, Summer (5) and Sam (7).

With her background in art and design, Beth brings a distinctive creative vision to the shop, expressed through thoughtful displays and an inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to slow down and enjoy the experience.

In addition to the store, Heyday partners with local artists, including Straworth – makers of handmade baskets, and participates in pop-up events at venues like The Mill and Oak Street Shoppe. Shoppers can also look forward to a one-year anniversary celebration at Heyday this May.

As the store’s slogan says, “Have yourself a heyday!”

By Loretta Fulton