First impressions often center around physical traits like eye color or height. Yet, some people, like Meleana Estes, draw you in with their warmth and curiosity. Her infectious passion for nature and her roots in Hawai’i shape her life and artistry.
Meleana believes that inspiration is everywhere, and it’s vital to recognize potential in all we encounter. This perspective fuels her work as a stylist, lei expert, and author of Lei Aloha: Celebrating the Vibrant Flowers and Lei of Hawai‘i.
Lei Aloha: Celebrating the Vibrant Flowers and Lei of Hawai’i by Meleana Estes
Shop Now“Lei Aloha” Copyright © 2023 by Meleana Estes with Jennifer Fiedler. Photographs copyright © 2023 by Tara Rock. Published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Random House.
Meleana Estes on the Rituals That Inspire Her Creativity
Her book is a tribute to lei making and the rich culture surrounding it. Meleana highlights that the beauty of lei transcends their physical form. Each flower carries stories of her tutu's generosity, reminding her of moments spent in celebration. As she explains, “it is woven into all parts of our lives.”
During our chat, Meleana explains how she nurtures her creativity by balancing work with surfing, swimming, and family moments. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature before diving into her projects, noting that recognizing “small beauties” is key to her artistic expression.
What’s your first morning ritual?
My day starts with cuddling my 10-year-old son. I always aim to wake up earlier to stretch and breathe, but he usually beats me to it. Those moments are precious and fleeting.
Describe a typical day as a designer.
Once my son heads to school, I enjoy a walk around Diamond Head, a beautiful coastal area near my home. If I'm making lei, I bring clippers to gather materials along the way. If the ocean looks inviting, I might take a quick surf before starting my work.
It's about balancing my to-do list with creative time, allowing me to appreciate the small wonders around me.
With my book, Lei Aloha, launching now, I have plenty of emails to tackle. However, I can’t stay at my computer too long without feeling overwhelmed, so I take breaks to let my creativity flow—whether it’s color coordinating or collecting items for projects. It’s essential to find harmony between tasks and creative pauses.
What do you hope readers will gain from Lei Aloha?
I’m thrilled for Lei Aloha to be shared with others. It features beautiful stories from the lei community in Hawai’i and stunning visuals celebrating our culture.
I want readers to feel the Aloha (love) that accompanies lei giving and receiving, integral to our lives. Lei celebrates births, contests, weddings, and even farewells. Sometimes, making a lei is inspired by a blooming plant or an urge to celebrate, leading to the perfect recipient appearing.
I hope people feel the Aloha (love) in which people in Hawai‘i share and receive lei, as it is woven into all parts of our lives.
Whether crafted personally or bought from a shop, giving a lei embodies Aloha. The well-being of this tradition depends on both our people and environment. If Hawai‘i faces overcrowding, we risk losing spaces to grow flowers. Lei Aloha highlights these challenges, shedding light on the beauty of lei while stressing the need to protect Hawai‘i’s resources.
How does lei making connect you to your family and Hawai‘i?
Growing up in Hawai‘i, I felt deeply connected to my roots, even while studying on the mainland. My tutu, a native Hawaiian and renowned lei maker, shared her love through lei, not just with family but with the entire community. After significant events like volleyball games, she always had lei ready for us.
Even when I lived away, she sent boxes of lei for my birthdays. Her legacy influences me deeply; she taught me music and encouraged our family traditions. My sister and I ensure that special guests receive head lei, continuing her spirit of generosity.
We are all, in our own way, carrying on her love of lei and sharing lei.
Tell us about your jewelry collection, HIE | Heirlooms of Hawai‘i.
My partner Noël and I grew up admiring the meaningful bracelets worn by the women in our families. HIE was created to revive this tradition, as many styles have faded over time. Our designs draw from the strength and beauty of those women, celebrating their legacy.
What’s a daily commitment for you?
Nearly every day, I immerse myself in the ocean. While I occasionally miss a day, whether it’s a quick dip after a walk or a surf session with my son, the water is essential for my well-being. My dad taught me this habit, as we would often go for quick swims to reset our minds.
How does your space reflect your goals?
The aesthetics of my workspace impact my creativity. I’m fortunate to have a cottage for storing my vibrant textiles and flower projects. I keep a wall dedicated to fabric swatches and a Hawaiian chant to express gratitude for our surroundings. This reminder grounds me during hectic moments.
What chores do you enjoy?
I love weeding plants! Clearing weeds allows my garden to thrive. Growing up in Kaua‘i, my family would come together for yard work followed by ocean dips and potluck dinners. Those memories make this task enjoyable.
What scent helps you unwind?
As a lei maker, floral scents are integral. The pua kenikeni flower calms me and connects me to memories of my tutu’s lei-making space. I keep extra flowers around my home to preserve that feeling of sharing lei.
Does music play a role in your life?
Music is a constant presence at home. I enjoy Hawaiian songs during dinner, as they evoke warm memories of family gatherings. The sounds of steel guitars bring back nostalgia.
How do you maintain energy throughout your day?
My days are busy, leaving little room to notice fatigue. I take breaks to stretch and snack throughout the day, enjoying cooking for my family. Small meals keep me fueled for our lovely sit-down dinners.
Where do you seek inspiration during creative blocks?
Creative blocks often stem from significant decisions I need to make. I enjoy flipping through vintage photos and books for inspiration, but I’ve realized that tackling decisions clears my mind for creativity. Addressing these challenges first allows me to focus on my art.
What’s your approach to health and wellness?
I’m grateful for a mom who encouraged active play while keeping an eye on us. My dad emphasized movement as crucial for mental health. I prioritize activities like walking, surfing, and yoga, but I also recognize the importance of stillness and breathing breaks.
What career advice has impacted you?
A close friend in fashion advised me, “Just start. Your perfectionism holds you back.” I realized I was my biggest obstacle, which is why I’m so proud of my book and HIE. They reflect ideas I've nurtured for over a decade, and I’m grateful for the support of my co-author and publishing team.
How would you describe your work-life balance?
My workload varies—intense photo shoots and deadlines can be followed by quieter periods. I couldn’t have completed my book without my husband’s support, stepping in during hectic days. Yet, I always prioritize family dinners to connect and unwind.
What’s your favorite spot in your home?
My back porch offers peaceful views of Diamond Head, framed by coconut trees. Watching the sunset turn the peak pink is incredibly calming.
Name one indispensable self-care item.
A pareu, or sarong, is essential. It serves as a beach cover-up, protection from the sun, and a versatile garment for casual outings.
How do you unwind after a long day?
I enjoy showering, dressing comfortably, and preparing dinner while enjoying a glass of wine. Sharing meals with my family and expressing gratitude is a grounding ritual for me.
What’s your favorite time of day?
Sunsets capture my heart. I love witnessing the sky transform as the day ends, whether at the beach or in my backyard. We always take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this transition.
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