Hawai’i has always held a special place in the hearts and souls of the American people. From stunning shores to delicious fare to even more kind and beautiful people, Hawai’i and their culture have long been considered to be spiritually healing, and soulfully fulfilling. Even just hearing the word “Hawai’i” evokes stunning sights and sounds in our minds, and leaves us wanting more. Well, this weekend (April 26 – 28), New Yorkers are in for a rarified treat as Hawai’i-based Mana Up and Shopify partner to bring the best and brightest (also tastiest!) of the 50th state to the Big Apple in an event called Aloha Market!
That’s right…as Mana Up so eloquently put it on their website, this weekend, “Mana Up invites you to its first-ever NYC pop-up! During this three-day immersive shopping experience in Shopify NY’s SoHo space, browse Hawai’i’s unique, island-made products, meet the talented creators, taste some artisanal specialties, and enjoy fun, interactive events — and much more!”
And for those who are still saddened by the tragic fires in Maui in 2023, there is some great news. Mana Up will highlight Maui-based companies and products during the Aloha Market!
Having produced MANY of these cultural and state-oriented promotions and businesses over my marketing career, I can tell you what is being promised by Mana Up is the real deal. From what I can see across SoHo, and other parts of the city, the excitement is building for the Aloha Market this weekend. And what’s not to love? From tasty fare to cultural trinkets, Mother’s Day gifts and so much more, the Aloha Market pop-up looks to be an incredible immersion into all things Hawai’i.
If you are interested in learning more about Hawaiian culture and history, the Aloha Market Pop-Up also features some very interesting workshops and talk-back sessions throughout the weekend. Some of these include Aloha for Maui: How Hawaii's Small Businesses Welcome Guests in 2024, described as “Join four Maui-based entrepreneurs as they share their stories of resilience in the wake of the Lahaina fires, showcasing how their innovative small businesses are supporting the way in welcoming travelers and guests back to the island in 2024;” Hawaiian Scent & Beauty, described as “Experience Hawaiian scents with ua body, Jules & Gem Hawaii, and Hawaiian Rainforest Naturals. Hear stories behind handcrafted products and discover the artistry and care that goes into each item;” and Mai Tai Class with Kō Hana, described as Kyle Reutner of Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum will walk you through the ubiquitous Hawaiian cocktail from its history to the current iterations found throughout the island. Enjoy a snack of the finest macadamia nuts and see how they pair with the nutty deliciousness of a classic Mai Tai. These are only a few of the sessions being offered. To learn more, and to register for these sessions, please visit www.manauphawaii.com.
According to their website, “Mana Up is a statewide initiative to build up and support our ecosystem of entrepreneurs in Hawaiʻi, providing them with resources and tools to scale globally.
Many of the makers and artisans who participate in our program have been recognized internationally for their products and find their success in connection to home–from locally sourced ingredients to native culture, or an elevated sense of place and community. As these entrepreneurs continue to grow, they also help to sustain our local community through economic diversification, high-quality jobs, givebacks, investment, and a regenerative culture of entrepreneurship.” In other words, Mana Up knows exactly what they are doing, and why this event is going to truly deliver a taste and feel for the 50th state to our fair city.
In other words, Mana Up is here to promote the best and brightest from the Aloha State. And clearly they know exactly what they are doing, and why this event will deliver a taste and feel for such a beautiful, rich culture. Frankly, I could not think of a better way to spend a beautiful weekend in New York City right now.