Rachael Leina’ala Soares and Heather Aiu, the co-founders of ALOHA Collection, have built a successful side hustle that offers versatile bags and pouches designed for everyday use. Their journey from roommates with different day jobs to successful entrepreneurs is an inspiring story of creativity, perseverance, and dedication.
When they first started their side hustle, Heather was working in real estate, looking for an opportunity to start her own business, while Rachael was an international flight attendant with a suitcase full of ideas. The inspiration for ALOHA Collection came from real-world problems they faced – Rachael’s wet bikini and Heather’s sweaty yoga gear. They envisioned creating multifunctional travel bags to protect belongings from spills, leaks, and splashes, and today, their splash-proof bags are the perfect solution for life’s everyday adventures.
The initial steps they took to get their side hustle off the ground were bootstrapping the business with a single prototype bag and $2,000 each. Their Kickstarter campaign not only funded their first production run but also validated the interest in their product. Attending trade shows and securing pre-orders were crucial in securing a manufacturer and launching their product line.
One of the biggest challenges they faced while building their side hustle was sourcing materials and finding reliable manufacturers. Their motto became “If someone says no, figure out how to find a yes,” and they navigated setbacks by focusing on moving forward. It took them two years to see consistent monthly revenue, and once they experienced growth, they quit their day jobs halfway through 2016.
ALOHA Collection has seen remarkable growth and revenue since its inception in 2014. They have a significant market share in Hawaii and have expanded into the continental U.S. Their retail footprint is rapidly growing, with plans for 20 locations within the next three years. The company has achieved impressive revenue milestones, showing consistent growth year over year.
The most rewarding aspect of running ALOHA Collection for Rachael and Heather is the multifaceted impact they create. They provide opportunities for their team’s growth and development, empower customers to live active, adventurous lifestyles, and build a global family united by a love for travel and adventure. Their advice for others hoping to start successful side hustles or businesses is to remember that it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and refine your approach, trust your gut, and build a strong support system.
In conclusion, the story of ALOHA Collection is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and dedication in building a successful side hustle. Rachael and Heather’s journey from roommates with different day jobs to successful entrepreneurs is an inspiring example of turning a simple idea into a thriving business. Their commitment to their vision, their team, and their customers has led to remarkable growth and success, making ALOHA Collection a brand to watch in the world of versatile bags and pouches.
