09/01/2026
Where it all began šŗ
Some people come into your life and leave a little piece of aloha behind. And some help shape the path youāre meant to walk.
Years ago, Joey and I were sitting at her house while she was making a hula adornment for me. As I watched her work, she simply said, āWhy donāt I just teach you?ā
Those words changed everything.
That moment became the beginning of my journey into creating hula adornments and, eventually, Aloha Hula Girl Designs. What started with one lesson has grown into something I never could have imagined.
But Joeyās support didnāt stop there. Over the years, she also gave me opportunities to dance for her company Manutea Nui E several times, allowing me to share my love of hula in another way. She has continued to encourage, teach and support me throughout the years.
We met over 17 years ago when she came to teach a hula and Tahitian workshop, and Iām so grateful that all these years later, our friendship continues.
Mahalo nui loa, Joey, for sharing your manaāo, your creativity, your opportunities, and your friendship with me over the years. Iām forever grateful that you were one of the people who helped me start it all.
