Welcome to the Joyconomy – And Welcome to Gorey
“Joy isn’t a one-off campaign. It needs to imbue every corner of your brand experience... That’s the magic and power of a truly joyful experience.”
— Mary Portas, The Joy Economy
If anyone knows how retail works — really works — it’s Mary Portas. A former Creative Director at Harvey Nichols, Mary has long been the UK’s leading voice on the future of shopping. With a career that spans high-end fashion, government retail advisory roles, and her own consultancy business Portas Agency, she’s helped transform brands by focusing on meaning, not just margins.
Her latest focus? Joy.
In her brilliant piece The Joy Economy, she argues that in a world weighed down by stress and sameness, joy isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. You can watch her full message on joy here:
👉 Mary Portas – The Joy Economy (Facebook Reel)
(We’ll also share a link on www.weareportas.com when it's available.)
The Joyconomy Is Real – And It Lives in Gorey
Here in Gorey — the charming coastal town we’re lucky enough to call home — joy is everywhere. From beach walks and boutique cafés to independent shops bursting with personality, Gorey is not your typical town centre. It’s not one of those large shopping centres where everything looks the same and joy is swapped for sterile sameness. And while we love Kilkenny and Waterford, we like to think we’re offering something a little different. A little warmer. A little more… us.
We’re just an hour from all three — but a world apart in spirit.
Joy, the Lily Bloom Way
Every lamp, mirror, and faux orchid we sell is chosen to do more than just “match your wallpaper.” We want your home to feel like you — comfortable, characterful, and styled with love.
Whether it’s our cheeky product names, our in-store styling tips, or our team WhatsApping you back with options for your “dread zone” corner, we’re here to make interiors fun again.
Joy is not corporate. It’s not beige. It’s not about copying influencers or chasing trends. It’s about walking into your home and smiling, just because.
Gorey: Small Town, Big Charm
So next time you’re passing — whether you’re escaping the greyness of the M50 or coming from the city for some fresh sea air — make Gorey your stop.
We’re at 12 Esmonde Street, right in the heart of the action. Pop in. Stay a while. Rediscover how lovely shopping can feel when it’s done with heart, soul, and a little wink of joy.
Want help styling your space?
Send us a snap of your room or a video of your dread zone and we’ll help you pick the perfect piece to bring it to life.
📍 Lily Bloom, 12 Esmonde Street, Gorey, Y25K7R6.
📞 Call or WhatsApp 086 2225526
📧 hello@lilybloom.ie
Cover Image: When Ann the owner of Lily Bloom met Mary Portas at a Trade event in the UK - and yes she is as lovely as she is on TV!
Dorian Marks, May 16th 2025.