In November of 1982, Doug and Sharon Britt opened Ola’s in Hanalei. Some 10 days later Hurricane Iwa hit and then-President Ronald Reagan declared Kaua‘i a disaster area. Owners Doug and Sharon Britt thought that Ola’s would be a short-lived
In November of 1982, Doug and Sharon Britt opened Ola’s in Hanalei. Some 10 days later Hurricane Iwa hit and then-President Ronald Reagan declared Kaua‘i a disaster area. Owners Doug and Sharon Britt thought that Ola’s would be a short-lived adventure.
“Hard to believe Ching Young Village wasn’t even there yet,” said Sharon Britt, who claims it was her youthful naiveté that led to such an ambitious venture. She’d worked in a gallery on Maui and had no idea what she was in for opening her own store.
Before she knew it, 25 years passed through her doors and thousands of people were inspired by her unique space.
“Our art is from all over Hawai‘i and the Mainland,” she said.
Ola’s carries hand-blown glass, wood, ceramics and just about anything that intrigues Britt’s cultured eye.
The Britts on Sunday have planned a little celebration from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Linny Morris, author of “Under the Hula Moon” has a second book out, “The Hawaiian House Now” and will be present for a book signing.
