Over the summer of 2023, I worked under my mom, Shanette, who is the owner of Mohala Market; a local floral business. I was given the opportunity to gain knowledge of Hawaiian culture and its customs, experience communicating with customers, acquiring skills and the process to create the product. Forage. Prep, & Assemble.
Each week, we had the days scheduled. Day one consisted of planning floral designs and contacting companies to source products. The second day, we sought out to forage for plants and greenery. Foraging usually meant going around the whole island. so day three would be part two where we'd continue the foraging process and prep all the greenery and flowers. Day four and five consisted of the assembling and delivering the arrangements. My mentor and I would meet in Wailuku and forage from forest to beach areas, depending on the type of plant. I chose to do this internship to gain knowledge and experience on business. Along this, I gained a deeper appreciation for the traditions, history, and values of the 'aina. Flowers and the making of decoration is unappreciated, I experienced the labor that florist go through to make these products. Key takeaways is the value of Hawaiian customs and culture, business knowledge: supply and demand, pricing strategies, customer preferences, and importance of quality and presentation, and enabling skills of patience, creativity, and importance of attention to detail. |
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