Meet Carson Fifer & Brandyn Toney | Joint Owners

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carson Fifer & Brandyn Toney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carson & Brandyn, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?

Carson

For Happy Rabbit Bar and Lounge that product is customer service, although having good cocktails doesn’t hurt either. It is called the hospitality industry for a reason, and we have strived to have a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Most of that comes through in the little things: making sure people are welcomed when they walk in, checked on and enjoying themselves as they hang out, making sure the bar is kept clean, even just making sure to clap after a karaoke song, it all adds up. We have also strived to make sure Happy Rabbit is a great place to work. Happy staff leads to great service which leads to happy guests which leads to a happy bar!

Brandyn

My success is rooted in the sacrifices and love of the women who raised me. I grew up with my mother and grandmother—two incredibly strong, selfless women who gave everything to make sure I had opportunities they never had. Their work ethic, resilience, and unconditional support shaped the foundation of who I am today.

As I’ve grown, my wife has been the driving force behind my continued success. Her own accomplishments, determination, and belief in me have pushed me to keep striving for more. She challenges me to be better, holds me accountable, and supports me in every step. I’m lucky to be surrounded by powerful women whose strength and love have fueled my journey.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

Carson

Carson comes from the hospitality industry. Getting here has been a joint effort to invest in our futures, experience and hard work are of course part of it, but making the decision to take the risk is a result of long conversations and the trust in one another. And no, no part of it has been particularly easy, but that’s not to say it hasn’t been fun.
A learned lesson or two in the world of commercial real estate has been a part of the story, but it is also nothing that hasn’t been overcome.
I would want the world to know that we are two friends who wanted to change where we were professionally and what we could provide for our families and decided to take that risk as a team.

Brandyn

I come from a background in sales, digital marketing, and advertising, with a strong passion for creativity and entrepreneurship. Throughout my career, I’ve always been drawn to building experiences that connect people—and that naturally evolved into creating a space where the community feels welcome and at home.

Opening a neighborhood bar where people can relax, connect, and feel safe was a no-brainer when I combined my background with Carson’s. We’ve been intentional about building something that reflects the community we love, and we’re excited to keep growing and evolving this journey together.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Carson

Downtown Culver and Palms neighborhood definitely come to mind first, wouldn’t be a touristy visit but it would be a slice of life, and great restaurants and bars.

Brandyn

Santa Monica is always at the top of my list when I have friends visiting. You’ve got the perfect mix of beach vibes, great restaurants, and walkable spots to explore. I’d recommend starting with a stroll along the beach or the iconic Santa Monica Pier—there’s nothing like catching a sunset there.

For shopping and people-watching, the 3rd Street Promenade has a great mix of boutiques, big brands, and street performers. And when it comes to food, Santa Monica doesn’t disappoint. Meat on Ocean is one of my go-to steakhouses, and there’s no shortage of great cafes and seafood spots tucked around Ocean Avenue. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back afternoon or a more upscale night out, Santa Monica really has something for everyone.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Carson

First and foremost our wives. It is not a small amount of time or risk that has gone into this venture and they have supported us every step of the way. Another major figure has been Steve of Boardwalk 11. Another small business owner, he has been there with advice and support every time we’ve needed him. It also helps that he’s most often awake for the middle of the night disasters!
We also have a great supportive network of non-LA based investors who have made this dream possible, we would not be here without them.

Brandyn

First and foremost, our wives. None of this would be possible without their support. It’s no small thing to take on a venture like this—the time, the energy, the ups and downs—and they’ve stood by us through it all. Their belief in us has been the foundation that keeps us going.

We’re also incredibly grateful for our close friends and family. They’ve been our cheerleaders, our sounding boards, and in many cases, they’ve rolled up their sleeves to help when we needed it most. This has truly been a community effort.

A special shoutout goes to Steve from Boardwalk 11. As a fellow small business owner, he’s been there with guidance, encouragement, and a lot of late-night advice. Having someone like him in our corner has made a huge difference.

Website: https://happyrabbitbarandlounge.com

Instagram: @happyrabbitbarandlounge

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560802231066&mibextid=wwXIfr

Yelp: https://yelp.to/oT5Cd3K6BG