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 inspiring and showcases the power of determination and creativity in building a business.
When they started their side hustle, Heather was 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. This led them to create multifunctional travel bags that protect belongings from spills, leaks, and splashes, catering to life’s everyday adventures.
The initial steps they took to get their side hustle off the ground involved bootstrapping 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 launching their product line and securing a manufacturer.
One of the biggest challenges they faced was sourcing materials and finding reliable manufacturers. Their motto of “If someone says no, figure out how to find a yes” helped them navigate setbacks and keep moving forward. It took them two years to see consistent monthly revenue, during which they reinvested every dollar back into the business. Once they experienced consistent growth, they were able to quit their day jobs and focus on ALOHA Collection full-time.
Today, ALOHA Collection has achieved remarkable success, expanding into over 2,000 U.S. retailers and 25 countries. They have seen significant revenue milestones, with steady growth year over year. Their commitment to company culture, attracting top talent, and unique goal-setting approach has fueled their expansion into new markets and retail locations.
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 while empowering customers to live active, adventurous lifestyles. The sense of purpose and connection to something bigger than themselves, coupled with the freedom to live and work on their terms, is incredibly fulfilling for them.
Their advice for others hoping to start successful side hustles or businesses is to remember that building a successful business is a marathon, not a sprint. They encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to explore different paths, trust their instincts, and not wait for everything to be perfect before starting. Embracing challenges as opportunities to learn and refine their approach, while staying true to their core vision, is key to success. Building a strong support system and seeking guidance from mentors or advisors can also help navigate the entrepreneurial journey.
In conclusion, the story of Rachael Leina’ala Soares and Heather Aiu’s journey with ALOHA Collection is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity in building a successful side hustle. Their commitment to their vision, dedication to quality, and focus on growth have propelled them to achieve remarkable milestones and create a thriving business that continues to expand and make a positive impact.
