The Happy States of America was part of my vocabulary growing up. To me, it’s as familiar a brand as Nike or Coca-Cola. It was more than an idea–it was a presence in our home. Always percolating, buzzing, and brimming with possibility. Sometimes it would rest quietly for months or even years, but it was never forgotten.
My dad, Joe Seipel, dreamed up Happy States in the early 1980s, working with an illustrator to bring his cheerful vision to life, one happy state at a time. He’d often talk about what it could become –maybe a classroom tool, maybe a licensed brand, maybe something bigger. But between running an art school, maintaining his studio practice, and putting family first, the brand remained on the back burner - a bright idea waiting for its moment.
Now, I’m bringing it to the forefront - for him, for me, and for you. Reviving Happy States is my way of carrying forward his creative spirit, his optimism, and his belief that joy is worth sharing.
The world can always use more happiness, and that’s exactly why Happy States is here: To remind us, as my dad always did, of the good things all around us.
“Together they travel the country reminding us of the good things all around us.”
- Joe Seipel
The Heart Behind the Happy States
Joe Seipel
Founder & President
It makes perfect sense that Joe Seipel was the founder of Happy States. The brand’s signature phrase—“Smile and say, I’m in a happy state”—isn’t just a slogan, it was how he lived. Joy was his default setting, and he shared it freely with everyone around him.
From his humble beginnings in small-town Wisconsin to a remarkable 42-year career at VCU, where he ultimately served as Dean of VCU Arts, Joe spent his life immersed in creativity, love, and happiness. He was an artist, a mentor, a father, and a friend. Every day, in every way, he made the world a little brighter.
I can only hope to carry forward even a small part of his legacy.
See more of Joe’s art and accomplishments at www.joeseipel.com.
Chloe Seipel Callahan
Chief Happiness Officer
I’m Chloe, the proud daughter of Joe, founder of Happy States. I started this project as a way to honor my dad and the joyful legacy he left behind. Known for his ever-present smile, unwavering optimism, and his uncanny ability to find a party on an iceberg, he had a gift for bringing light wherever he went. Through Happy States, I hope to carry forward that same spirit, spreading joy, kindness, and a little bit of whimsy to everyone who stops by.
I’m a Virginia native but have lived in North Carolina, California, and now reside in the Happy State of Pennsylvania. I work at a technology company where I get to support STEM education organizations, which feels like a dream job most days. Outside of work, I’m usually chasing my two young boys, JR and Owen, around the house, and enjoying time with my husband, Mikey.
For me, Happy States is a tribute, a passion project, and a piece of my heart. I hope it brings you a little happiness too.