Re-Envisioning Hawaii's Spirit—One Luxury Gift Set at a Time with Me Ke Aloha Founder, Gina Ho

When people think of Hawaii, it’s often the picture-perfect sunsets, hula dancers, and Mai Tais on the beach that come to mind. While these timeless images of Old Hawai’i will always hold a special place, a shift is happening, especially among younger, more conscientious travelers. “Trends on social media are driving new interests,’ says Gina Ho, founder of Me Ke Aloha, a luxury gift set company dedicated to supporting Hawaii’s small businesses and artisans.

“We’re noticing that younger travelers have different expectations—they want something more meaningful.”

While traditional images still have their place in tourism, Gina sees an exciting evolution in how Hawaii is being presented. Travelers today are looking for authentic experiences that honor the culture and reflect values like sustainability. Gina’s business embodies these values by weaving eco-friendly practices into every aspect of its operations. “The new generation really cares about the environment, and we want to be right there with them,” she shares. This commitment shows in the details—using soy-based ink for tissue paper, designing gift boxes that can be cherished as keepsakes, and sourcing recycled paper from FSC-certified suppliers. Me Ke Aloha is also considering offering more individual items, providing smaller, TSA-friendly options for added convenience.

As someone born and raised in Hawaii, Gina has witnessed the impact of economic growth on both the natural beauty of the islands and their resources. She feels a deep sense of responsibility to help preserve what makes Hawaii so special. “It’s the little things that count,” she says. “Bringing reusable coffee cups, cutting down on plastic, and repurposing single-use items—these small changes add up.”

For Gina, Me Ke Aloha is not just about selling products—it’s about building connections.

She is passionate about the stories behind each product and the people who make them, always seeking out those who pour their heart into their craft. When she curates a gift set, it’s not just about finding beautiful items—it’s about creating something meaningful. “I often envision the feeling or theme of a set, then find the perfect piece to complete it,” she explains.

What truly fuels Gina’s passion is the ability to create something that brings people together. Through Me Ke Aloha, she shares the rich stories of Hawaii's artisans and the deep connection to the land.

“It’s all about pilina—connection. The relationships I build with local businesses inspire me every day.”

Gina’s heart is set on offering a genuine experience of Hawaii, one that celebrates its diversity, craftsmanship, and the special bond people have with the islands.

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*BONUS—If you’re a creative entrepreneur dreaming of starting your own business, take a look at Gina's heartfelt advice below:

Mudra Love: Starting a new business can be challenging. What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own?

Gina Ho: Starting a new business requires significant investment—not just financially, but more importantly, in terms of time. If you're hesitant about working a 40-hour week, be prepared to put in even more as you build your business. You won’t just oversee one department; you'll wear all the hats—marketing, sales, accounting, HR, and CEO. It’s a journey that’s both exciting and overwhelming. The key is to stay passionate and committed, knowing that the hard work you put in now will lay the foundation for your future success.

ML: You transitioned from event planning to creating luxury gift sets. What advice would you offer to someone considering a career change?

GH: When considering a career change, be prepared for the tension between what brings in money and what truly fulfills you. I always loved event planning, but I reached a point where it no longer fulfilled me in the same way. Now, I still plan select events, but I focus on clients whose values align with my own. When you're ready to commit to a new path, do so wholeheartedly. You won't know if something can truly succeed unless you give it your all. Embrace the uncertainty, trust your instincts, and allow your passion to guide you toward a more fulfilling career.

ML: What is one crucial lesson you've learned since starting Me Ke Aloha?

GH: One of the most crucial lessons I’ve learned since starting Me Ke Aloha is the importance of being adaptable. Initially, I had a clear vision of who our audience and customers would be, but I quickly realized there’s a much larger market in Hawai’i—people who are passionate about supporting local businesses and value the unique service we offer. Another key lesson was understanding the distinct challenges between service-based and product-based businesses. I had to develop systems for product ordering, manage inventory effectively, and navigate the nuances of perishable goods and expiration dates. Flexibility and learning on the go have been essential to our growth and success.