After more than twenty years on Rye High Street, 2025 sees a big change for one of the town’s iconic shops. Ken White, one of the owners of Herald and Heart Hatters, takes up the story.
Herald and Heart Hatters, a cherished name in the headwear industry, enters a new chapter with a change of ownership.
Established in 1992, the company enjoyed enormous success with our millinery being sold in major department stores and exclusive boutiques around the world. Global recognition came after our hats were featured in the movie, Four Weddings and a Funeral.
The company moved to Rye in 2002 with the hat shop on the High Street quickly becoming a destination for occasion hats, men’s headwear and fashion accessories. Luring many of our old clientele from London and increasing a loyal customer-base locally, as well as internationally, the shop has helped increase the footfall on Rye High Street.
Along with my fellow owner Tracey Mogard, I decided to move to France in 2015 and since then the business has been managed and fronted by Emma Caister, who has been with Herald and Heart for the last 10 years. With retirement looming, it makes perfect sense to hand ownership over to Emma, who has been much more in charge of the business in recent years and responsible for the current look, style, and customer service of the company.
Millinery will still be supplied by Tracey Mogard from her studio in France, but Emma now has the freedom to buy accessories from many other suppliers and manufacturers, ensuring an eclectic range that reflects her own vision.
Emma, with her focus on innovation, quality and customer satisfaction, will ensure the shop continues to thrive on Rye High Street for years to come.
Image Credits: TraceyandEmmaHR .
Thrilled for Emma. I have happily bought many hats and accessories from Herald and Hearts Hatters ♥️ for many years. And shall continue to support this fabulous independent shop in Rye.