3 Ways to Bring Hawai‘i Home, Authentically

NOHO HOME by Jalene Kanani shares 3 Ways to Bring Hawai‘i Home, Authentically as part of a sponsored guest post.

Noho in Hawaiian language means to dwell or to live, so whether you’ve visited Hawai‘i or are dreaming of escaping to its tropical shores, we’ve compiled a few ways you can bring Hawaiʻi into your own home.

Hawaiʻi is known for its rich history and beautiful culture, but it’s easy to get lost in the waves of media-sensationalized Hawaiʻi. If you’re looking for ways to share your love of this magical place, we’ve put together a list of three ways to experience Hawaiʻi, authentically.

1. Straight to the Heart, Through the Stomach

Shared plates and eating communally is commonplace in Hawaiʻi — we like to sample all of the local flavors shared by the many cultures that have settled here in the islands over the years. Eating in this manner fosters conversation and connection as people comment over recipes and origin stories, as well as how ʻono or delicious the items are!

Kitchen textiles by NOHO HOME – NohoHomeHawaii.com

The next time you have a dinner party, impress guests with your best island-inspired NOHO HOME tableware, and set the stage for a memorable evening. Don’t forget to mention that the beautiful print was designed to highlight the Loulu, Hawaiʻi’s only native palm! Prepare your meal and serve it on Foundwood cutting boards. Sample island-caught Ahi tuna jerky from Kaimana Jerky and pair it with gluten-free options from Voyaging Foods and local beef sticks from Kunoa Cattle Co.

Looking for Vegan-friendly options? Serve guests Primo Popcorn in fun flavors like banana cream pie or pickled onions and for those who know their way around the kitchen, recreate your favorite island flavors with Manele Spices, Liko Lehua butters, and raw Mānoa Honey!

While it’s customary Hawaiian-style for guests to take home plates of food, save a little for you and your ʻOhana by storing leftovers with reusable beeswax food wrappers by Meli Wraps. Cover bowls, glasses and even create your own food-safe envelopes while feeling confident in your decision to fight the war on single-use plastics.

2. It’s Not a Paʻina (Party) Without Entertainment

In Hawai‘i, the beach and the backyard make ideal gathering places, perfect for any event. While we know not everyone is fortunate enough to experience the tropical sunshine and cool island breezes we enjoy, another way to invite island vibes into your homespace is to listen to Hawaiian music.

Music by Amy Hānaialiʻi

Classic Hawaiian musicians like Led Ka‘apana, Molokai singer Melveen Leed, and five-time Grammy nominated artist Amy Hānaiali‘i  are local favorites that many in Hawai‘i have grown up loving and listening to often. On the rise now are many new and talented artists like Kimié Miner, Kalani Pe‘a, and Josh Tatofi whose catchy rhythms and modern sound are taking the islands by storm!

Turn up the volume on these local jams and enjoy some well deserved relaxation time, or if you’re in the mood to learn a little ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), break out a deck of Kūkulu Hawaiian playing cards and enjoy a fun night in with friends.

3. Seeing is Believing

Are you a fashionista in search of authentic Hawaiian apparel? Dress for success with goods by Hawaiʻi designers Kahulaleʻa, Lex Breezy or Kini Zamora. And if you’re looking for something for younger keiki (children), swaddle them in buttery-soft baby goods from Coco Moon.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but an engaging and inspiring conversation is just as important! Check out prints and original work from contemporary island artists Lola Pilar or Nick Kuchar Art & Design Co. to keep the discussion going.

Home decor is also a conversation starter — it has the potential to build strong connections and leave lasting impressions. If you’re looking to fill your home with sophisticated Hawaiian-inspired decor, look no further than the folks over at NOHO HOME.

While beautiful to look at and luxurious to the touch, what really sets NOHO HOME apart is the fact that each product is thoughtfully designed with intention and holds a special Hawaiian moʻolelo (story) behind it. As a proud Native Hawaiian woman, designer Jalene Kanani pulls inspiration from her cultural roots and pairs it with her extensive design background to create authentic experiences that evoke style, with Aloha.

Maluhia Bed Set — NohoHomeHawaii.com

Now, it’s YOUR Turn!

Gather around the dinner table, and share local flavors and island cuisine with your loved ones. Kick back and listen to the melodious and nahenahe (soft, sweet) Hawaiian music with your friends. Surround yourself with beautiful and culture-conscious designs in your home, and bring a little Hawai‘i into your home –– authentically.