News and reviews of made on Maui products and Maui-based companies and success stories. Also featuring island shopping guides

Posts tagged ‘Jewelry’

Maui Jewelry Designers Featured in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue 2014

maui jewelry sports illustrated swimsuit issue

As a first time subscriber to Sports Illustrated, (a gift for the hubby) I was so excited to get the Swimsuit Issue in the mail, and even more excited to get it while he was on a trip, so I could actually look at it for a while.  Upon his return, his comment after reviewing it for a while was the same as my own thought – “I didn’t see any bathing suits”.  So, let’s move on from the obvious, and head to the more important issue.  The jewelry.  As I flipped through the pages I saw lots of names that I recognized, and realized this next post had to be about the talented Maui-based jewelry designers who were featured in the latest Swimsuit Issue.

Laurie from Hula Hoops Maui is one of this year’s featured designers and shared with us how jewelry is picked for the shoots: “I received a request from the editors of Sports Illustrated Swim for certain pieces that corresponded to a theme for a particular shoot. I sent them styles that fit that theme and was fortunate enough to be featured in this year’s edition.”

(Maui Made Note: In the magazine, the sections are organized by model status “Rookie” or geographic location, included below to help you find them.) 

Hula Hoops Maui – Hula Hoops Maui’s Mini Bear Claw was clearly what the editors were looking for – it was modeled both by Rookie Marloes and Jessica in Madacascar.  Chrissy in the Cook Islands shows off the Mini Arrowhead Necklace 

Tiny Bikinis plus some delicate gold jewels
Hula Hoops Maui’s Mini Arrowhead Necklace in Gold
Hula Hoops Maui’s Mini Bear Claw Gold Necklace

Special COUPON CODE for MauiMadeBlog Readers: Enter code MAUI20 to get 20% off Hula Hoops Maui jewelry between today and March 7, 2014!  

Where to buy on Maui: Nuage Bleu in Paia, Hale Zen in Lahaina, Sand People in Kaanapali and the Four Seasons Spa in Wailea.

Samantha Howard for Wings Hawaii – Samantha’s delicate gold rings were a big hit – they were seen on Rookie Valerie, on Lily in the Cook Islands, and on Gigi on Jersey Shore.  The Wings crew has made it easy to shop the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue 2014 collection – click here  

Delicate but fun to wear as an ensemble.. Ti Rings by Wings Hawaii
Not that you are looking at the rings, but they are there…

Where to buy on Maui: Check out their flagship store at 69 Hana Hwy in Paia.

Sophie Grace Maui: A necklace by Sophie Grace Maui graces the neck of Irina in Madacascar, as does another on Chrissy in the Cook Islands.  (The one seen isn’t on the online shop but here’s another coral necklace by Sophie Grace Maui)

The sideways Coral Necklace by Sophie Grace Maui
Another Beautiful Coral Necklace by Sophie Grace

Where to buy on Maui: Visit Sophie Grace Maui’s flagship shop at 36 Baldwin Ave in Paia, Poolside at the Grand Wailea, or at the Spa at the Andaz Maui in Wailea

Rockabella Jewels: Rocking the Rockabella Jewels are Rookies Gigi and Lily, Emily in Switzerland, Jessica in Madacascar, and Valerie in Brazil.

rockabella jewels necklace magazine

Rockabella Jewels made one of these necklaces…

And since it’s the Swimsuit issue, might as well throw a bathing suit – how about this absolutely gorgeous one by Debbie Wilson for Maui Girl?  Debbie’s suits are handmade here on the Maui.  This one is being modeled by Kate Bock in Switzerland.

Maui Girl Swimwear in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

Maui Girl Swimwear in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

Check out Maui Girl at the fabulous bathing suit shop also on Paia’s Baldwin Avenue.

Category:

handmade, jewelry

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Maui-Inspired Christmas Presents – Part 1

holiday gift maui hawaii It’s that time of year again, where you have to rack your brain to find the perfect gift for everyone on your Christmas list.  Well, this year I’ve come up with some Maui-inspired gifts for even the pickiest grinch on your list.

For the Law-Abiding Citizen –

Maui Watch Facebook hat Logo Gear

Maui Watch Hat – Wear it with Pride!

Brand new logo wear from MauiWatch – This Facebook phenomenon skyrocketed to success, literally overnight, as a fun page of spotting Maui’s infamous robo-cop, (who shall remain nameless, because you either know who he is or it doesn’t really matter) and sharing stories on their wall of shame. As the page morphed its identity, it’s become the island’s most reliable source of breaking news, from accidents to road closures to weather alerts. They recently launched a shop on their Facebook page, complete with hats and shirts, perfect the MauiWatch lover on your list.  This constructed hat is made in the USA.

For your Little Mermaid –

 A Custom Made Mermaid Tale – If there’s someone on your list who dreams of being a mermaid, her dreams are about to come true.  Maui Flippah will create a custom made mermaid tail, handmade on Maui, out of quality swimming grade materials and a durable monofin. Once the technique is mastered, these elegant and durable tails give swimmers remarkable speed and agility under water.

For your aspiring Pastry Chef –

These two sweet gifts will be treasures in any baker’s pantry.

Maui Vanilla Beans Grown Maui Maui Preserved’s Vanilla Beans –  A 5-pack of Maui Vanilla Beans, grown and cured on Maui, fresh and bursting with flavor.  The process of growing vanilla beans is one of patience and precision, with no room for error. Maui Preserved’s beans boast high moisture content and are some of the only beans grown in the United States.  Maui Preserved also offers jams and jellies, pickled vegetables, hot sauces, and the Sweet and Spicy Pineapple that was featured in Sunset Magazine.  Purchase online, click here to view their retail stores, or check out their Seasonal kiosk at Queen Kaahumanu Mall.

vanilla flavored sugar gift hawaii

Maui Culinary Academy’s Vanilla Mac Nut Sugar- Just a hint of vanilla and macadamia nuts to round out the flavors of your coffee, teas, or baked goods. Made by the students at Maui Culinary Academy, sugar proceeds from each sale go to support the education and scholarship programs at the school.  Purchase online from HelloMakana.com, which also features curated gift baskets and subscription gift packages!  

For your favorite nurse or doctor –

Nurse Gift Maui Hawaii Jewelry Silver CustomSterling Silver Heartbeat Bangle by Maui Ocean Jewelry –  This one is for all the nurses and doctors, or the one that makes your heart go pitter patter!  The custom pulse line bangle, with a heart charm and 3 tiny pukas (or your choice of additions!), has been soldered, hammered, tumbled and polished for extra shine! Also comes in  14K gold filled.  Buy on Etsy –

For your Maui-lover –

A subscription to Maui No Ka Oi Magazine –  I’m talking about the person on your list who loves the Valley Isle, but if you have a lover on Maui… well, they might like this too.  Maui No Ka Oi Magazine is having a great special, running through the end of the year – you can give a subscription as a gift, and get one for yourself for free!  Just use the code WHOL2013 to activate!

Maui Magazine Gift Idea Hawaii

Category:

Accessories, Gift Guide, jewelry, Kids, Shop Local

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Mauidivegirl Designs Makes a Splash with Unique Jewelry

maui dive girl necklace jewelry braceletEverybody loves a story.  Ten years ago, Chicago native Lisa Lappe was doing the corporate thing – working a desk job as a graphic designer.  She had dreams about warm weather, spending time under the sea and living a simpler life.  Then one day, she just up and moved to Maui.  Now that’s quite a story.  Lisa is now an avid SCUBA diver, and is living her own dream as a full time jewelry designer at Mauidivegirl Designs.  She shares with us her story:

glass bubble necklace diver gift

Lisa models her Breathe Bubble Necklace and Earrings, Inspired by her love of scuba diving.

Maui Made: How did you get into jewelry design?

Lisa Lappe: I have a BFA in Graphic Design and worked in the corporate world for 15 years before moving to Maui. I enjoyed making jewelry as a hobby, but enjoyed it so much that I decided to try make it my full time job. Everything is handmade by me and it’s truly become my passion.

MM: Where do you get your inspiration?  

LL: My inspiration comes from the surrounding nature of the Hawaiian islands both above and below the sea with it’s life, texture, color and patterns. My designs combine natural shell, lava, coral, pearls, gemstones, sparkling crystals and story telling into island inspired, budget-friendly wearables, gifts, favors and keepsakes.

MM: What are your most popular designs? 

LL: The Aloha Wish Necklaces and Adjustable Cord Bracelets are the best sellers in the boutiques. Everyone loves a story and I try and incorporate my background as a graphic designer into jewelry designs with good packaging.

The best seller on Etsy is the Mother Daughter Necklace Set. It’s meaningful and people take the time to read the story online. I wanted to come up with something unique and meaningful for gift giving.  The Aloha script necklace is also a popular item.

Aloha Wish Necklace – When the silk cord breaks, your wish will come true!
A perfect gift for your Mother or Daughter
The Aloha Necklace – an Original Design

MM: Any Etsy tips for people just starting out?

LL: Be patient, sales don’t happen overnight, and also be active, listing new items, relisting, posting to Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter. And really good photography and descriptions are essential.

maui dive girl jewelry craft fair boothMM: What’s next for Maui Dive Girl?

LL: I’m hoping to keep expanding into other boutiques and locations. I’m currently on the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Japan, New York, and Canada. I will be at the Haleakala Waldorf Holiday Faire on December 7th, 2013 on Maui and World Whale Day Made on Maui Fair in Kihei, Saturday, February 15th, 2014.

Mahalo to Lisa for sharing her inspirational story!

For more on Mauidivegirl Designs, check out

 The Etsy Shop

Facebook

Twitter

or find Mauidivegirl Designs in these retailers:

MAUI:

The Enchantress Boutique, Wailea (at The Shops of Wailea)

Collections Boutique, Makawao

Neil Pryde, Kahului

Café@LaPlage, Kihei (in Dolphin Plaza)

Ono Gelato, Kihei (Azeka Shopping Center)

Ono Gelato, Lahaina (Front Street)

The Bikini Market, Kihei (Kukui Mall)

Hale Zen, Lahaina (Dickenson Street)

Whole Foods Market, Kahului (in Maui Mall)

Pacific Whale Foundation, Ma`alaea

Ma`alaea General Store and Café, Ma`alaea

Spa Moana at Hyatt Regency Maui, Ka`anapali

Maui Memories, Wailea (Wailea Gateway Center)

Paia Mercantile, Paia

Home Remedies Interior Design and Remodeling, Kihei

Maui Dreams Dive Co., Kihei

HAWAII:

Persimmon Boutique, Waikoloa (in Queen’s Marketplace)

OAHU:

Whole Foods Market, Honolulu (Kahala Mall)

Whole Foods Market, Kailua (Kailua Town Center)

NEW YORK:

Hanalei & Kula’s, Ocean Beach, NY

CANADA:

The Hyve Hair Studio, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan

JAPAN:

Moanalu Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan

Mango Green Project Japan

FIJI:

Pineapple Boutique, Nadi, Fiji Islands

maui dive girl jewelry design hawaii seashell

Category:

jewelry

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An Etsy Score – Ke Aloha Jewelry

Made on Maui Jewelry Druzy Gold Earrings Necklace Shark toothEtsy 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).

modern delicate silver bar bracelet

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.

shark tooth gold silver necklace hawaii

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.

druzy gold necklace

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

www.kealohajewelry.etsy.com

or follow her on:

FACEBOOK ➤PINTEREST ➤ INSTAGRAM ➤ 

Behind the Scenes of Ke Aloha Jewelry Studio
The beautiful packaging of Ke Aloha Jewelry sets it apart from the rest
triangle druzy earring studs in silver
Round druzy earring studs
Mano (shark tooth) necklace – available in silver and gold
gold shark tooth hoop earrings
Purple druzy studs
dramatic druzy necklaces

Category:

Etsy Tips, jewelry

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Wear a Piece of Maui with MauiOceanJewelry

If you read the recent post, you know that there are a lot of clothing and fashion designers on Maui.  Well, there are even more jewelry designers. I’ve spent a bit of time perusing the shops, the websites, and of course Etsy, and I’ve seen a lot of jewelry.  But one name kept popping up with cute pieces that I would ‘favorite’ or add to the Pinterest Jewelry board: MauiOceanJewelry.  When I decided it was time for profile on Shuana, the designer, I started checking out her Etsy shop and collecting my favorite pieces (pieces that were a bit different, and that I thought you readers – since you LOVE your jewelry- would love too!).  There were a lot…

Maui Gold Necklace by MauiOceanJewelry
Floating Star Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry
Gold Star Necklace with pearl, puka shell by MauiOceanJewelry
Gold-Filled Wave Hoop Earrings Made Hawaii

 

One of my favorite pieces is this one, the Heartbeat Bangle, that would be such a great gift for a nurse or doctor (pin this one!!). 

nurse gift heartbeat jewelry for nurses

Heartbeat Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry

 

Shuana Johnson answered some of our questions about what sets her jewelry apart…

“My jewelry is inspired by Maui’s beautiful beaches, and I try to have a piece of Maui in each of my designs.  I love Maui, and want to share the beauty of the island with those both near and far!! I handpick all of the shells and seaglass from Maui beaches, along with my family. Also, when I am making my Maui bangles and necklaces, my husband would constantly critique the shape to the point that I feel I have gotten it down quite well.  I also welcome custom orders, and all orders ship in 1-3 days!”

Maui Made: How did you get to Maui? 

SJ: I was born in South Africa, but grew up on Oahu. I met my husband here on Maui and we lived on the mainland for a bit, but I was pretty sure we would end up back on Maui because he was born and raised here.

sterling silver starfish bangle made on maui hawaii pearl sea glass puka shell jewelry

Sterling Silver Starfish Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry

MM: How did the jewelry making start? 

SJ: I started making jewelry a few years ago when a girlfriend with an art degree from UH Manoa came to me and suggested we do this as a hobby. She spoke to some acquaintances and had our line in a store in Paia. This lasted for about 3 months, then when she got too busy, I started on my own.  A few shops took my things on consignment, and for the first year sales were really slow, and my husband asked me if I was sure I should continue with this hobby. After about a year, I was fired from my job because my boss came back from a 3 week vacation and said he couldn’t afford to pay me. I decided to put all my energy into the jewelry thing, and took my things from Wailuku as they weren’t doing well, and went into new stores in Makawao, Paia and Wailea.  Then, the accessories buyer from Maui Clothing Company contact me after she saw my pieces on etsy. I’m now in two of their stores.

silver maui heart bracelet in the sand handmade

Maui Heart Bracelet Silver, Made by MauiOceanJewelry

Maui Ocean Jewelry can be found in 6 boutiques across the island of Maui:

Paia 

  • Love the Beach

Makawao 

  • Hurricane
  • Crush on Maui

Wailea

  • Maui Memories (Wailea Gateway Center)
  • Maui Clothing Company (The Shops at Wailea);

Kaanapali

  • Cruise Boutique (Whalers Village)

Want More? Check out MauiOceanJewelry’s Etsy Shop and follow on Facebook

Mahalo To Shuana for sharing her story!!!

The Maui Ulua Bangle
A selection of jewelry by MauiOceanJewelry heading to the shops…
Maui Ring in Sterling Silver by MauiOceanJewelry
Maui Love Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry
Custom Tahitian Pearl Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry
Floating Star Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry
Gold-Filled Wave Hoop Earrings Made Hawaii
Gold Star Necklace with pearl, puka shell by MauiOceanJewelry
Heartbeat Bangle by MauiOceanJewelry

Category:

jewelry

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New Bangle Bar Opens at Sophie Grace Maui

Bangle Shark Tooth Pearl Cone Shell

These days, everything is interactive and customizable.  If you like to put your own personal touch on everything, and you love trendy jewelry – you are in luck.  Sophie Grace Maui jewelry store in Paia has just opened up their brand new Bangle Bar, where you can be a jewelry designer for a day!

With the new Bangle Bar, you can select a silver or gold bangle, sized to your wrist, and pick your favorite charms and accessories.  According to Jamie Shepherd, the store’s owner and jewelry designer, the most popular combination is shell, cast shark tooth and pearl, but the possibilities are endless!  (The cast shark teeth are made by Maui’s own Rockabella Jewels and the pearls are from Pearl.Love.– also from Hawaii!)  People are also welcome to bring in their own shells, which can be drilled for them.  The bangles will have to be completed back in the jewelry studio, and can be mailed home to visitors.  For people buying the bangles as gifts, a cute postcard can be sent to your recipient to let them know their special creation is on its way!

The Bangle Bar joins the original Jewelry Bar, where customers can pick necklace style, length, and their own selection of charms for a one-of-a-kind creation.

There is also a Kid’s Jewelry corner, where kids can make their own necklace or bracelet with tons of fun, colorful options.  This would be a great rainy day activity, or small birthday party activity!

The Sophie Grace Maui Flagship Store is located in Paia at 36 Baldwin Avenue (just up the stairs a bit!) Its open Monday through Saturday, 10ish – 6ish.  They also have a poolside shop at the Grand Wailea, from 8:30am to 4pm, closed Mondays and Fridays.

In addition, they have a website that is just as beautiful as all of their designs and their shop, and – yes – features an online store!

Want More?  Follow Sophie Grace Maui on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram –

Category:

jewelry, Kids, Rain Day

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Kira Ferrer- Jewelry Inspired by Nature

When I started this journey of finding unique, quality made on Maui products and companies, Etsy was one of the first places that I would visit.  Each time I would type in ‘Made on Maui’ to search the site, this little guy would pop up:

(click on the jewelry pics to go to the Etsy listing)

kira.ferrer.bee

I had a feeling someday I would be writing about him (or her).  This sweet little bee is made by Kira Ferrer, who has a truly impressive selection of jewelry available in her Etsy shop.  Kira uses a variety of gemstones, Hawaiian sea glass and shells as well as environmentally-friendly recycled sterling silver, and most of her pieces are available for customization and made to order.

Maui Made: How did you get started with jewelry making? 

Kira Ferrer: I have always had a love for the arts, and have worked in variety of artistic mediums over the years. After working for many years as a painter and textile designer in the Bay Area, I fell in love and moved to Maui.  Working with metal and creating jewelry was a natural progression for me. The environment here is exquisite and I find endless inspiration for my craft. I’m especially inspired by the great blue expanse of the ocean, the gentle rustle of palm trees and the saturated colors of the tropics.

(MM Note: Check out the pics below from Kira’s Instagram feed – worth a follow, just for the beautiful pics alone!)

From Kira’s workbench, Baby Bangles with shells and sea glass charms
Soldering Jewelry in the workshop

MM: What kinds of materials do you work with, and how would you describe your style? 

KF: At this time I work mostly in sterling silver with some 14 karat gold accents.  I especially enjoy creating rings and use a variety of precious and semiprecious gemstones as well as Hawaiian sea glass and shells.  I use recycled sterling and gold whenever possible in an effort to minimize the effects of mining on our planet.  Recycled silver and gold are virtually identical to newly refined metals, and I feel good about being able to offer environmentally-friendly, handcrafted, heirloom quality jewelry.

MM: Are you doing this full time? 

KF: Making handcrafted jewelry is my full time job.  Everything is hand crafted by me in my Maui studio and then packaged and shipped world wide.

MM: What’s your most popular item? 

KF: My stacking rings are quite popular at this time, especially my “Ocean Blue” set, inspired by the beautiful ocean surrounding Maui:

topaz aquamarine silver ring stacking custom

Ocean Blue Sterling Silver Stacking Rings with Topaz and Aquamarine Gemstones

MM: Any Etsy tips for people just starting out?  How long have you been selling on Etsy? 

KF: I’ve been selling on Etsy for almost 5 years.  To those just getting started at Etsy, I would say refine and hone your overall vision, and emphasize a clear design style that will be recognizable to your customers.  Customer service is key in running a small business. Do your best to answer inquiries and orders promptly and always go the extra mile to communicate with customers and show that you care in your interactions.  Also, when I first opened my shop on Etsy I spent a lot of time perusing the Etsy forums.  The forums provide a wealth of information and I always found other Etsy sellers generous and helpful with information and advice.

MM: Are you in any shops in Hawaii? 

KF: Etsy is my main platform for showcasing and selling my jewelry.  You can also find my work at: The Hui No’eau on Maui and, on Oahu: Cottage by the Sea:

Personalized Bangle with
Sea Urchin Pendant in Sterling Silver

MM: What do you like to do for fun? 

When I’m not in my studio making jewelry I’m out hiking and taking long walks by the ocean (collecting shells for my one of a kind pieces) soaking up the beauty of this island.  I also love reading, gardening, cooking wholesome, delicious meals for my loved ones, traveling, visiting museums, adventures with friends and spending time in nature.

I’m continuously expanding my craft with new techniques and designs. As of late, I am really excited about the new wax cast pieces that I’m working on. I’m continuously adding new pieces to the collection so stop by Etsy to see what i am up to in the studio.

Labradorite Silver Stacking Rings
Maui Sunset Stacking Rings with Garnet, Citrine and Carnelian

MM: Where can people see more?

I can be found on etsy, Facebook, Instagram, flickr: and pinterest:

Mahalo to Kira for sharing her story with us!  

Category:

Etsy Tips, jewelry

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Makawao – A Shop Local Guide

Makawao Boutique Storefront Signs (more…)

Category:

Accessories, Bath and Body, Clothing, Home Decor, jewelry, Kids, Shop Local

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Awesome Ocean Inspired Jewelry from Maui

Everywhere you look around Maui, you can find beautiful jewelry, with shells, sharks’ teeth, pearls and various ocean motifs.

It can almost be overwhelming, but here’s a selection of ocean-inspired jewelry to help in your search for the perfect piece.

GOld wave bangle by hana maui creations

Gold Wave Bangle by Hana Maui Creations

This gold wave bangle  by Hana Maui Creations (available on Etsy) is hammered, then polished to a beautiful shine.  Made to order in your size, with 14g. 14k gold fill wire. Also available in sterling silver.

Gold Coral Branch by Nina Kuna

Nina Kuna’s Coral Branch on a Turquoise Cord

This Nina Kuna creation (also available on Etsy) is a delicately detailed matte gold coral branch which hangs on a turquoise wax cord, finished with a lobster clasp and signature NINA KUNA charm.

Gold or Silver Cone Shell Bangle Bracelet by Hula Hoops Maui Made on Maui Hawaii Jewelry

Cone Shell Bangle by Hula Hoops Maui

A hammered stackable cone shell bangle by Hula Hoops Maui. Available in gold fill, sterling silver or 14k gold and a variety of sizes.

Shark Tooth Teeth Earrings Jewelry Silver Gold

Shark Tooth Stud Earrings by Rockabella Jewels

Dainty, delicate, and a bit dangerous.   These shark teeth studs from Rockabella Jewels are cast from fossils, available in 18k gold vermeil, sterling silver or solid gold.

Sunset Shell Earrings by Sophie Grace

Sunset Earrings by Sophie Grace

Sophie Grace’s Sunset Earrings are 14K Gold Filled hoops with seashells and Mystic Blue/Green Topaz

Which jewels are your fave?

Category:

Gift Guide, jewelry

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Maui Made Weddings – A ‘make your own’ Wedding Guide

As a popular location for destination weddings, Maui has no shortage of talented people who can help make your wedding a unique and memorable event.  Once you settle on the big stuff, the venue, caterers, photographers, the groom, here are some of the options available to put the icing on the proverbial wedding cake.

Gown with the Wind {The dress}:  If you arrive on Maui without the perfect dress, fear not, since Maui-based designer Tamara Catz has a beautiful shop in Paia with a selection of bridal gowns that would be ideal for a beach wedding.  The dresses are available online as well.

One of the gorgeous bridal gown options at Tamara Catz

One of the gorgeous bridal gown options at Tamara Catz

From Ear to Eternity {The jewels}: Looking for the perfect earrings, or a one-of-a-kind gift for your bridesmaids?  Jewelry designer Valerie Dunne has just launched a bridal collection and will create custom jewelry for the bride or bridal party, whether you are getting married on Maui, or she offers shipping and gift wrapping if not!   Valerie shared that this line was “inspired by the beach, and designed for brides who love the islands.  They would also make great anniversary gifts.”  These designs would be the perfect compliment for your tropical attire, or bring a touch of aloha to any mainland wedding.

Something Blue!
Custom Hoop Necklaces – Bridesmaid Gifts!
Heart and Pearl Necklace
Hoops for the Beach Bride
Gold wrapped Mother of Pearl

Something borrowed, something old {the props}: Perhaps we have Pinterest to thank for the current popularity of the wedding prop rentals industry. Maui is lucky enough to have Melissa Padilla, a talented event designer who happens to have an impressive collection of furniture and decor rentals for Maui weddings and photo shoots. Melissa’s new company Opihi Love offers a unique blend of Hawaiian, industrial, rustic, and vintage décor, with items ranging from local bottles and skeleton keys to steamer trunks and custom made floral living walls.

Opihi Love’s Driftwood Arch – Maui Wedding Rental from Opihi Love
Opihi Love’s Vintage Wedding Frame – Maui Wedding Rentals by Opihi Love

{and i know you are going to ask anyway: These amazing photos are by Tamiz Photography}

“All my tables are made on Maui,” stated Melissa, “the vintage items I find are all from estate sales and auctions on Maui, and I have collected a wide selection of Hawaiiana Treasures, including wooden dairy boxes from Puunene Dairy.  I try to bring one element to each wedding that is made on Maui even if I sneak in a Maui Soda bottle with some flowers for the powder room.” With Opihi Love at the helm of your décor, you’ll end up with your own Pinterest-worthy event!

A Touch of Glass {cake toppers, favors and gifts}: With all the ways to personalize a wedding, cake toppers are certainly no exception.  Kai Pua Gallery on Lahaina’s Front Street now offers custom made glass sculpted cake toppers.  Kai Pua also offers a wide variety of glass wine-stoppers, wine charms, and sculptures which would make unique gifts for wedding party, fun wedding décor, or memorable favors for your guests.

Custom Glass Wedding Cake Toppers by Kai Pua Gallery, Maui
Dolphin Glass Wedding Cake Topper by Kai Pua Gallery

{even more amazing photographs courtesy of Natalie Brown Photography}

The glass items can be customized for your wedding, incorporating personalized color options and more: “Let us know your theme and we can create something special for your big day!” shared Anna Keay and John Lindquist of Kai Pua Gallery.

Pretty as a Painting {portrait of your bouquet}: For something a little different than the typical photographs, Anna Keay can also create a custom oil painting of your bridal bouquet, just supply a picture!

Bridal Bouquet Painting, Commisison

A portrait of your bridal bouquet by Maui’s own Anna Keay

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Clothing, fine art, jewelry, Wedding

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