Maui Entrepreneurs to Share ‘How I Did It’
By Maui Now Staff
Maui Business Brainstormers is kicking off its third year of “Masters of Retail Success on Maui” on Wednesday, June 10.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear “How I did it” from four retail business owners, who will share “the bad times and the good, embedding valuable insights and gems of advice,” said MBB volunteer co-organizer Grace Fung. “You will learn about the different challenges they faced in each stage of their business growth.”
The event will be at the Kahili Golf Course from 5 to 8:45 p.m.; dinner will be included.
The four speakers are the owners of Pāʻia Mercantile, Jobline X-press, The MauiMamma and Sweet Paradise Chocolatier (see “Guest Speakers” below). Their stories will include how they got inspired, how big mistakes led to new ideas for their businesses, fears they overcame and how they beat the odds and trends.
The entrepreneurs will also share what they have done to increase brand visibility and connect with customers, and how they reinvent themselves to stay abreast of the times.
“Masters of Retail Success on Maui” is intended to provide business knowledge and motivation.
“In this year’s event, attendees will also learn why the decision to scale down a growing business means success–not failure,” said Fung.
“The road to success for a business owner is tough–much work, sacrifice and risk,” said Fung. “These fascinating stories of success will empower those on the path or poised to start.”
MBB organizers John Hauʻoli Tomoso and David “Kahu” Kapaku will emcee and facilitate the event.
“MBB brings this special event to the Maui business community without making a profit from it,” said Fung. “The event’s focus is educational in doing and growing a business on Maui. Guest speakers are also donating their time and knowledge, and no book or service sales are involved.”
The presentation is preceded by an opportunity to meet others or network. At the end of the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to take home the door prize–a Microsoft Surface tablet.
MBB members (and their guests) pay $32. MBB membership is free. Non-MBB members pay $40. Self-parking is free.
For more information and to make reservations, go online.
Guest Speakers
Pāʻia Mercantile, Jonni Earl and Michelle Keys
A local boutique thriving on showcasing the treasures of Hawai‘i artists to both kama‘āina and visitors since 2007. Its owners, currently investing in an additional new business venture on Maui, have managed successfully other businesses before moving to Maui.
Jobline X-press, Johanna Amorin
A local business owned by a native of Hawai‘i whose successful entrepreneurial efforts since 1994 resulted in creating three different type of business. Jobline X-press serves job-seekers and employers in Maui and other Hawaiian Islands since 1998.
The MauiMama, Kate Griffths
A local resource guide founded in 2011 to support expecting mamas and parents of young children. In 2015, The Mauimama was nominated for the Mayor’s Exceptional Small Business Award and Kate was nominated for Young Businessperson of the Year Award.
Sweet Paradise Chocolatier, Melanie Boudar
Since 2006, Sweet Paradise has partnered with several local growers to produce a signature Hawaiian chocolate that has a complex flavor profile. Their exotic chocolate creations are artistically marketed in the company’s own boutique.