Something new: Hauoli Waikiki

The Hawaiian word hau’oli means happy, and seriously, as soon as I arrived at Hau‘oli Waikiki’s grand opening party Wednesday evening, Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” song popped into my head. The items are fun, the decor bright and friendly, and the prices — happily — are affordable. I was happy to see bracelets, hair ties and wristbands from Share Aloha, island-inspired intricately lined coin purses from mehawaii and yummy-smelling soaps by Maui Soap Company.

My favorite items were the Archie Grand themed blank books titled “Fashionistas I met and liked,” “Photographers I met and liked,” “Models I met and liked,” “Designers I met and liked” and so on. For omiyage seekers there’s a gift bar where you can choose from a variety of cute items and place them in a bag of your choice, and it’s ready to give or send to friends. That would make them super happy!