Hilo is known for many things, such as the laid back atmosphere and small town feel, the Merry Monarch Hula Festival, the wonderful farmer's market, and so much more, but now Hilo may be put on the map for something else as well. That something else is the tremendous talent of creative people selling their wares directly to the public via Etsy.com, an online marketplace for handmade and vintage goods, and craft supplies.
On June 10, 2011 there were meetups for Etsy sellers around the world, including our first local Hilo Etsy Meetup. Nine people showed up (two with their adorable daughters), and we were all welcome at the Old Hawaii Hotel. Walking up the steps under an arbor of Hapu'u ferns gracefully arching over you, it opened onto a bright and airy breezeway, instantly transporting you to a feeling of old time Hawaii.
Broke da Mouth, located right on the side of the staircase was serving up hot coffee, fresh baked goods and brunch fare. I had a delicious frittata and perfect blueberry scone. Soon, everyone introduced themselves and how they found out about Etsy, and what kinds of things they sold in their shop. Our group was so diverse in so many different ways, but we all felt the aloha and everyone was just so happy to be together--we can't wait to meetup again. Anyone living on the Big Island with an Etsy shop is welcome, but if you live in Kona, you may want to start your own group because of the long commute.
Please vist all of our Etsy shops:)
Manila Extract Finely crafted and unique handbags made from burlap Hawaiian coffee sacks
Redemption Art An eclectic collection of vintage goods
Stone & Bone Handmade tribal chic jewelry
Palm Tree Princess Fun and beautiful girl's clothing
Hilo Beads Beads for all of your jewelry making needs and unique handmade jewelry
Hoboville Cute rubberstamps made from original drawings
Smitten For You Romantic and enchanting handmade jewelry inspired by the beaches of Hawaii
MaiAloha Original handmade mosaic art
Double Brush Unique handmade soy wax and beeswax candles
Photographs courtesy of Tanya from Manila Extract
Broke da Mouth (339-1199), and D & S Bed & Breakfast at the Old Hawaii Hotel (934-9585) are both located at 150 Kilauea Ave in Hilo, Hawaii
It was great meeting other locals who also have Etsy shops ; )
www.palmtreeprincess.com
Posted by: Flyingdesires | June 15, 2011 at 11:44 PM
It was wonderful meeting everybody. Thank you for the nice post, Cheryl.
Maren of
http://hilobeads.etsy.com
Posted by: Maren Purves | June 16, 2011 at 12:46 AM
Mahalo Nui Loa, Cheryl, what a wonderful article, I truly appreciate it! Looking forward to our meet ups!
Aloha, Connie
Posted by: Connie | June 16, 2011 at 07:18 AM
Cheryl,
Really nice article, great job. I think we all make Hilo proud :).
Tanya
Posted by: Tanya Kearns | June 16, 2011 at 01:18 PM
Seems like you have had pretty memorable meeting. You all look so happy and smiling together!
Posted by: Storage Company | May 17, 2012 at 04:47 AM
i have never been to Hawaii,but i will to in some day.
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