#SUPPORTLOCAL : NOMADS HAWAII BOUTIQUE
On June of 2014, I’ll celebrate my 4 year blog anniversary; since I’ve started blogging the most impressive thing, I’ve discovered is the sense of community between Hawaii business owners. I always imagined cut-throat competition between businesses, however, I’ve witnessed a large percentage of owners who openly support their neighbors. And this incredible generosity has been an influential factor in checking out local businesses within the area; thanks to Max Anton of Paradise Soccer Club for introducing me to one of your neighbors: Nomads Hawaii.
Nomads Hawaii is a global import gift boutique that carries a variety of cultural items and at least a third of their merchandise is fair trade. Nomads Hawaii located in Kailua (along Hekili Street), consists of Nandini Bhattacharjee, owner, buyer, and manager, alongside Scott Viola, owner, husband and contractor.
This husband and wife duo used to live a nomadic lifestyle before settling and developing roots in Hawaii. The opportunity to open Nomads Hawaii happened with luck and through a series of events; after Nandini graduated with her Masters Degree from HPU, she traveled to and from India to visit her ill father. During this time, Nandini worked at a similar store, and with her experience working in retail, she became inspired to open her own cultural gift boutique.
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Since Nomads Hawaii’s soft opening in April 2013, the business has streamlined their merchandise based on their customers’ taste, while continuing to raise awareness about the high quality of fair trade, vegan products. Nandini is passionate and proud to support non-profit organizations like SERRV, whose mission involves eliminating poverty while investing in artisans and farmers.
One of Nomads Hawaii’s long-term goals is being recognized as Hawaii’s ethically sourced, fair trade destination. Nomads Hawaii strives to achieve this goal by purchasing merchandise from companies that create a sustainable lifestyle for their workers in developing countries.
Please show your support and spread the word about this locally-owned, family boutique. Don’t forget to connect with Nomads Hawaii on your social networks to see photos of their newest products.
If you’re a local artist or designer interested in selling your product at Nomads Hawaii, please email Nandini.
**UPDATE: I’m sad to announce Nomads Hawaii is no longer in business.
Originally published March 1, 2014.
