Richfield Alum Launches Successful Llama Event Business

Hannah Olson, a 2008 graduate of Richfield High School, has found her passion in an unexpected field—llama events. Her business, Happy Jolly Llamas, brings joy to private parties, businesses and community events with the help of two special llamas named Dill and Pickle.

Based near her childhood home in Richfield, Hannah and her husband Nicholas enjoy spreading happiness through interactions with their llamas. "We will come to your events and spread the happiness and jolliness you feel interacting with llamas. They will make your day, and that's what I love about my business," said Hannah. "We get to bring smiles to others and be the highlight of their day."

Hannah’s best friend, RHS alum Christine Marston, organized a birthday surprise that allowed Hannah to spend time with llamas. “I was hooked,” said Hannah. “I've always loved animals and feel so full of joy when I can be around them.” She began volunteering and then working on a llama farm, finding that llamas were a key part of her self-care. These experiences inspired her to start Happy Jolly Llamas and share that joy with others.

Dill and Pickle, the two-year-old male llamas, are the stars of the business. Hannah explained, "I named them Dill and Pickle because you can't forget those names! They are friends and always together. Llamas are considered full-grown at five years old, so they still have some growing to do. They have personalities and can be goofy. Every event is an opportunity to expose them to new environments and build trust. So far, they have trusted me and have gone with the flow, including all the costumes I put them in. In a few months, I plan to get them tested and certified as official therapy animals."

After graduating from Richfield High School, Hannah attended college in Florida and returned to Richfield in 2012. She and her husband Nicholas purchased a home in Richfield just three minutes away from where Hannah grew up. Hannah has been working as a social worker for the past 12 years, providing services for adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses. She currently works on a mental health suicide crisis team.

"Working in mental health has taught me the importance of self-care, which llamas and my business provide me,” she said. “My business allows me to give back and hopefully brighten other people's days that may need some happiness. I am thrilled to see where it goes and the impact it can have."

Reflecting on her high school days, Hannah has fond memories of being involved in clubs and meeting lifelong friends. "I was happiest when I was in Student Government, planning events, dressing up for dances and spirit weeks, and coming together as a community to support others. These experiences confirm that what I am doing now with my business makes sense. I love hosting theme parties and events, dressing up in costumes and bringing people together."

Hannah's journey with Happy Jolly Llamas shows how following your passion can lead to exciting new opportunities. With Dill and Pickle by her side, the future looks bright for this RHS graduate turned llama entrepreneur.

You can find Happy Jolly Llamas online at www.happyjollyllamas.com, as well as on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @happyjollyllamas.