Happy Hunting viral collectibles store opens in Huntington with Labubus and more
Find Pop Mart's Labubu figures and more trending collectibles at Happy Hunting in Huntington. Credit: Happy Hunting Inc.
For four friends who each had their own collecting passions, opening a store together felt like a natural next step. That idea became reality over Memorial Day weekend when Happy Hunting debuted in Huntington.
Ashwin Taneja and Priyanka Lal, together with Muhammad Mir and Darcy Rothbard, each came to collecting in their own way, whether it was Pokémon cards or Sonny Angels figurines. What started as a personal pastime became a shared passion, and as the market for collectibles grew, so did their conversations about turning that hobby into something bigger.
From left, friends Ashwin Taneja, Priyanka Lal, Darcy Rothbard and Muhammad Mir opened Happy Hunting in Huntington. Credit: Happy Hunting INC
"We were all collectors of some kind and we all got to talking about how the market is going crazy," Taneja says. "One conversation led to the next and we were able to make it all happen."
Inside, shelves are stacked from floor to ceiling with colorful displays. The owners describe Happy Hunting as a "trending collectible store," relying on research and data analytics to keep up with what is going viral.
Pokémon, One Piece and Magic: The Gathering cards line the walls beside Pop Mart’s Labubu figures, Sonny Angels, Squishmallows and international stationery. Almost everything is officially licensed, from novelty key chains to premium collector boxes.
The store also includes a sensory-friendly section inspired by Lal’s work as an occupational therapist. The area is designed for children with sensory needs, an addition that the owners say reflects their goal of making the shop inclusive while still catering to serious collectors.
Since its opening, the store has attracted a diverse mix of customers. Teens are the most frequent visitors, but families with young children, seasoned collectors and older adults all stop in.
The store’s name originates from a familiar phrase among collectors, wishing each other luck in their search for rare finds.
Pokémon cards and figures line the shelves at Happy Hunting. Credit: Happy Hunting Inc.
"In this market, it is very, very hard to find any inventory on the shelves for a lot of these items that we have in our store," Taneja says.
Looking ahead, the owners want the shop to grow into a hub for the community. Plans include trade nights, kids’ events and other gatherings.
Prices range from $5 for imported pens, pencils and key chains to roughly $149 for the Pokémon Blooming Waters trading card set. Labubus, typically priced between $30 and $70, and Sonny Angels figures are among the shop's top sellers.
Happy Hunting, 304 Main St., Huntington, 631-995-0008, happyhuntingny.com.
