Meet Galen Moorer Jr | Happy Day Dessert Factory

We had the good fortune of connecting with Galen Moorer Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Galen, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Hello let me start out by saying thank you for reaching out! Happy Day Dessert Factory owned and ran by me, Galen Moorer Jr. I first had the idea of opening my own ice cream shop when I was about 17-18 because my father used to own Rita’s Italian Ice on the Northside of Pittsburgh. I enjoyed making Italian ice and custard while I was there, but I knew working for somebody else just was not for me. I have always wanted to own my own business, but I did not know what I wanted to own. So during my years in college, I sat down and asked myself what are some things that I love and can make a living off of? Ice cream and clothing came into my mind because I love to look nice. A good looking outfit goes a long way. I did my research and decided that opening a clothing store is too much of a risk, so I eventually went with ice cream because I love ice cream and who doesn’t love ice cream. The name “Happy Day” came from my grandmother. She is a wonderful, bright and joyful person. She is always singing “Ohhh Happy Day” by Edwin Hawkins. I also want people to experience the good vibes and premium homemade ice cream and other treats we have to offer, so I named the business Happy Day Dessert Factory.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I had been working on opening Happy Day Dessert Factory for 2 years and when we were are finally able to open, the Corona Virus pandemic hit. Our Grand Opening was officially scheduled to be on March 28th, 2020. Our soft opening was to be March 16th, but my dreams were shot down when the president and governor ordered the 2 week quarantine in Pennsylvania. Due to the unforeseeable events of the Corona Virus, we were only able to provide takeout services for the majority of 2020. I had planned to open the store last summer but I faced numerous construction delays. The instant those hurdles were overcome I opened. It’s not how I wanted to start off, but we have made the best of a bad situation. I am just happy to say that we are open. Obviously with the current social climate we are not experiencing the level of business we had hoped or planned for but we have still received an extremely positive response! We will continue to remain open as long as we are legally able to and we can get our supplies necessary to make our product. The store is officially open for full service and now it is full speed ahead!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First we’re stopping at my ice cream shop Happy Day Dessert Factory for the best handmade homemade ice cream in the city. My favorite food is pizza, so I would take them to Fiori’s Pizza and show them why I think their pizza is one of the best in the city. We would also go to Nicki’s Thai Kitchen. They have great Thai food, friendly staff and hefty portions. I would also take us to Carmi’s, which is a black owned soul food restaurant. We also have great museums. The Heinz History Center was ranked the second best history museum in the country. We have a space company named Astrobotics that has a museum called The Moonshot Museum. They build satellites and other space equipment for NASA and other space companies. Museum of Illusions Pittsburgh recently opened up, so we would go there as well. I would take them to a Steelers game because the Steelers are my favorite team and can be exiting to watch. I love going to the movies, so we would go see some movies. The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is also home to some of the most beautiful and amazing animals I’ve ever seen. We would go go karting and Zone 28 for some bowling and some arcade games. For dinner, we’re going to Texas de Brazil which is a Brazilian steakhouse that serves all you can eat meats for a great price. Xia’s Restaurant, Lounge and Events is our next stop. It is another black owned restaurant that has great drinks and great food as well. Also we are going to River’s Casino for some gambling, drinks and food. I also love to workout, so I would workout with them as well.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for my father and the rest of my family. My father helps me with the business by working and helping me run the store. He is my mentor and role model.

Website: happydaydessertfactory.com

Instagram: @happydaydessertfactory

Linkedin: Galen Moorer Jr

Facebook: Happy Day Dessert Factory

Image Credits
Galen Moorer Jr Built Different Creative Sager McDill 1Hood