Etsy is a literal gold mine for jewelry lovers, the only hard part is separating the great stuff from the really great stuff. I know that taste in jewelry (as in a lot of things) is subjective, but to my eye (for anyone that has me on their Christmas list), this is really great stuff.
Lisa of Ke Aloha Jewelry describes her work as ‘modern and delicate, handmade on Maui with aloha’, and I couldn’t have said it any better myself. As two moms of little kids, we bonded over sleepless nights (and days!) via email, but we managed to discuss some work as well (thanks to caffeine).
A modern and delicate silver bar bracelet
Maui Made: How long have you been making jewelry?
Lisa: I’ve only been doing this for a little over a year and a half. I got into jewelry a couple years after my son was born. I needed something to do at home that would fuel my creative side, and that’s when making and designing jewelry came into the picture.
MM: Where can people buy your jewelry?
Lisa: Right now I sell exclusively online in my etsy store.
Mano (shark tooth) necklace – available in silver and gold
MM: What are your most popular pieces?
Lisa: The white Mano (shark tooth) and Mano Jr. necklaces have been consistent best sellers, but my new druzy post earrings are in high demand and sell out fast.
MM: You have well over 2,000 sales on Etsy, (congratulations) – Do you have any Etsy tips to share?
Lisa: I have to reiterate everything that has already been covered many times over – great photos, great customer service (be nice to everyone!), great packaging and branding, SEO, browse the forums, ask questions if you have any, promote outside of Etsy, and find your own style. Also, don’t be afraid to fail. I had an Etsy store back in 2008 which sold my photography. It was not a success, but its failure was essential. It allowed me to reevaluate what I really love and wanted to do. It led me to jewelry and I’m very thankful.
Hoaka Necklace – Druzy and Gold
MM: What’s next for Ke Aloha Jewelry?
I’m looking forward to growing my line and getting a few pieces in some local stores.
MM: Anything else you want to add?
Lisa: I love making jewelry. It really is a culmination of everything I love – from photography to designing to creating. And, most importantly, it allows me to make my own hours so I can be there for my son during his early years – which go by way too fast.
Mahalo to Lisa for the interview!
Check out her Etsy shop here
or follow her on:
FACEBOOK ➤PINTEREST ➤ INSTAGRAM ➤
Maui Made 
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