We had the pleasure of hosting an intimate dinner in Osaka, sharing a creative five-course meal with fellow Hawaiʻi brands and creatives in town for the Hankyu Hawaiʻi Fair this past July. Hosted in partnership with one of Japan’s leading department stores, the annual fair brings together Hawaiʻi businesses and Japanese customers for a celebration of the islands’ creativity, culture, and craftsmanship.
It was a beautiful night at the Patina Hotel, where we enjoyed flowing champagne and a stunning view of the majestic Osaka castle. Tables set with native fern and pink anthurium centerpieces truly made the space feel like a home away from home.
We were joined by a diverse array of Hawaiʻi attendees, from artists like JT Ojerio (Aloha de Mele) and Jaclynn "Jackie" Sabado-Eitel (Paradise Now Hawaiʻi) to community leaders like Jordan Lee of Keep It Kaimuki and Reiko Tokushige Rogers, who coordinated and promoted the Hankyu Fair in Hawaiʻi.
Others were clothing designers, like Summer Shiigi (Ten Tomorrow) and Eriko Trimble (at Dawn. Oʻahu). Not to mention Saori Suzuki of Gillia Clothing and bag designer Danielle "Dani G" Gosiaco of Ocean's End.
We also welcomed lei maker Yukio Otani of Umahana, who so kindly gifted our co-founder, Meleana, a beautiful lei po’o omiyage, wrapped in a pristine pū’olo.
Any chance we get to connect with other Hawaiʻi brands is an opportunity to feel closer to others who are creating within and contributing to our community. This dinner felt like the perfect extension of our HIE heirlooms and their purpose: to – wherever you travel – feel connected to your heritage, roots, and the people you hold most dear.
A warm mahalo to all the owners, founders, and leaders in Hawaiʻi who celebrated with us. It was a pleasure representing our islands together at the festival and sharing a slice of home with you all.
