One Bag at a Time, Saving the Planet

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Wendy Hee, Owner of Made In Manoa, located in Honolulu, HI, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Handmade, one-of-a-kind bags made primarily from vintage, reclaimed, and/or rescued materials. Our customers are lovers of vintage style and handcrafted, unique pieces.

Tell us about yourself

My day job is in the technology sector. After a short lifetime of working in the virtual world, I discovered that what brought me the most joy was working with my hands. I've always wanted to be in some way a part of the fashion world as I think it's one of the best ways we express ourselves as individuals. Slowly I worked on my hobby as a bag maker and eventually wanted to share my craft and style through my creations. And that is how Made In Manoa began. The name of the brand is a nod to my beloved home Manoa Valley in Oahu, Hawaii.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting a business, period. The most fearful thing that anyone can do is to "put themselves out there," and there are few things that are more exposed than starting a business that may or may not fail.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Growing organically. Getting brand recognition without heavy marketing investment is difficult.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Start. Most never even try.
Be true to yourself. Constantly catering to others is not a sustainable way to approach your own business.
Keep at it. Good things take time, and it's going to take time for your people to find you, so you'll want to be around until they do!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://madeinmanoa.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/made.in.manoa/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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