LIHU‘E — Kukui Grove Center supports small businesses, Melissa McFerrin-Warrack, the center’s specialty leasing and marketing manager, said Friday.
She lost little time finding a new Missing Polynesia creation while welcoming the small business pop-up that is sandwiched between Jamba Juice and Genki Sushi.
“Missing Polynesia starts the rotation of small-business pop-ups through the holidays,” McFerrin-Warrack said.”
Missing Polynesia is no stranger to Kaua‘i, having been here since starting at the Kaua‘i County Farm Bureau Fair offering its line of Polynesian wear and accessories.
“This space is a lot better for customers,” said Richard Vae. “It’s comfortable, and even has air conditioning.”
Missing Polynesia will follow KGC hours until around 3 p.m. on Sunday, when it packs up to move back to Honolulu.
“We’re so happy to be back here,” said Mei Lin Vitale-Vae. “We haven’t been able to do anything with the COVID-19. It is such a pleasure to be back again.”
Following Missing Polynesia, the space across Vitamin World welcomes Henua Designs from Black Friday, the day following Thanksgiving, through Nov. 28.
Henua Designs becomes part of a busy retailing weekend, including Small Business Saturday, when KGC welcomes 20 vendors from the Kaua‘i Made program, including Lilee’s Collection, Rainbow Wave Art, ‘Aina Organics, Susan Carlisle, Mailelani’s, Pineapple Expressions, Coconut Hats by Cristian, Jules from Da ‘Aina, Salty Wahine, Wai Iti, Alohilani’s Creations, Kaila Kaua‘i, Flirty Hippie, Aunty Lilikoi, Swttreats, Clay in Mind, Hawaiian Checkers, Kaua‘i Kookie, JJ’s ‘Ohana and Kaua‘i Hemp Company.
“These 20 vendors will be spread throughout the shopping center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” McFerrin-Warrack said. “They’ll join the family of small businesses that are tenants of the shopping center in offering shoppers the perfect holiday gift on Small Business Saturday.”
Kukui Grove Center starts the Small Business Saturday push with the opening of Missing Polynesia.
“Robbie Melton of the Small Business Development Center will be at the Pau Hana Market Monday for the anniversary of the farmers’ market,” McFerrin-Warrack said. “This starts the Small Business Week. Farmers are small businesses too.”
Missing Polynesia also plans a return trip before the holidays.
“Yeah, this is only part of their new things,” McFerrin-Warrack said. “They’ve got more, and promise to bring them on their next visit.”
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
